Sheep Springs Horse Camp
Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens May 2, 2026 through October 19, 2026. Water system operates May through September 30 depending on weather conditions. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order.
West Bend Area Trail Closures
We are restoring the forest adjacent to the City of Bend to improve forest health, create a diversity of plant and wildlife habitat and to protect our communities and quality of life.
Deschutes 14-Day Camping Order
Deschutes 14-Day Camping Order (Effective November 14, 2024, Order #06-01-25-01)Describes the prohibition of camping or otherwise occupying a single location for a period longer than 14 consecutive c
Wilderness Permit, Camping & Fire Restrictions Order
Wilderness Permit, Camping, and Fire Restrictions Order (Effective May 1, 2024, Order #06-01-24-01)Describes the special restrictions and prohibitions for Wilderness areas on the Deschutes and Willamette Natio
Blue-Green Algae Information
The Deschutes National Forest encourages people recreating on the national forest to be aware of potential blue-green algae blooms on lakes and reservoirs as the weather warms. Not all algae in lakes and reservoirs is blue-green algae.
Recreating in the Cedar Creek Fire Burned Area
Please use caution when recreating in areas that were impacted by the 2022 Cedar Creek Fire. A burned landscape presents a number of safety hazards that either did not exist prior to the fire or have been exacerbated by the effects of the fire.
Camping & Campfire Forest Order
Camping and Campfire Forest Order (Effective April 6, 2021, Order #06-01-21-01)Describes where camping and campfires are prohibited on the Deschutes National Forest.This Order becomes effect
Cave Resource Protection Forest Order
Cave Resource Protection Forest Order (Effective April 1, 2021 Order #06-01-21-02)Describes the prohibitions for entering or exploring caves or areas near caves on the Deschutes National Forest.This O
About
Sheep Springs Horse Camp sits in the spectacular Metolius River Basin area of Deschutes National Forest, designed specifically to accommodate horseback riders who need to corral their horses. The campground provides direct access to the Metolius-Windigo Trail, a long-distance trail spanning over 100 miles from the Metolius River headwaters south to Windigo Pass near Crescent Lake. The trail is open to horseback riders, hikers, and bicyclists, and maintains snow-free conditions longer than nearby trails due to its lower elevation. Located at approximately 3,200 feet elevation, campsites are nestled among a towering canopy of old-growth Ponderosa pine mixed with spruce and fir. The clear, cold Metolius River flows nearby, originating from Metolius Springs at the base of Black Butte, a 3,076-foot cinder cone. The surrounding landscape showcases volcanic features and diverse coniferous forests that support abundant wildlife including mule deer, coyote, cougar, migratory birds, and native fish. The campground is intended for equestrian camping and provides corrals for horses. Campers must use certified weed-seed-free hay, and horses must be kept in provided stalls rather than tethered or picketed outside. The nearby town of Camp Sherman offers basic supplies and restaurants.
Directions
From Sisters, Oregon, travel 12.4 miles northwest on Highway 20, then 7.0 miles north on Forest Road 12, then 1.1 miles west on Forest Road 1260, and then 1 mile north on Forest Road 1260-200. Sheep Springs will be on the right.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (541) 549-7700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!