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Willamette National Forest McKenzie/Blue River District McKenzie River Area |
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THE MCKENZIE RIVER AREA
is found further toward the summit of the
Santiam
Pass than the South Fork
Area, as you travel from the Willamette Valley
along Hwy 126. These campgrounds are mostly found on the McKenzie River
or close by. All of the campgrounds are well shaded under the shadow of
giant Douglas Firs. This area is not only great for its access to the
McKenzie River and its natural beauty under the canopy of the trees and
the giant Three Sisters Mountains (Faith, Hope, and Charity), but it
also is close to one of the best public golf courses in the country. (Tokatee
Golf Course) This area is best in the heat of the summer, however it is
really serene year around if you don’t mind the rain in the spring and
fall. There are great side trips to take up the scenic old McKenzie Hwy.
which usually is open around the end of June through the end of October.
There are also great views to be gained from driving south out of the
town of McKenzie Bridge. In this town there are a couple stores that
cater to the camper and several restaurants that range from the rustic
family gathering place to the historic, quality dinner, log cabin
(burned down in 2006). The
campgrounds are near the McKenzie Bridge USFS District Office about an
hour east of Eugene/Springfield. This building has been recently
remodeled. It is worthwhile to stop in to pick up some brochures and
check out the relief map of the area in the front lobby. If you need
showers, laundry or an RV dump for a fee stop at Hoodoo's Patio RV park
located between Blue River and McKenzie Bridge right near Tokatee Golf
Course. The host there will be able to help you.
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