McKenzie River
Cascade Mountains
Feel the exhilarating tingle of fresh air and rushing water as you journey into the Cascade Mountains along the McKenzie River. Revel in the solitude among sun-soaked old-growth forests, then find camaraderie in the half-dozen riverside communities.
The Wild & Scenic McKenzie River is known for its world-class white water rafting, fishing and waterfall hikes. The McKenzie River Trail (MRT) edges the banks of the river for outstanding hiking, trail running and mountain biking. With many trail segments leading to shady fishing holes, sparkling pools and lush campgrounds, this pristine recreational trail system is a gem!
Artisan enclaves host festivals, markets and cultural experiences in this natural wonderland. Tour historic covered bridges, golf with snowcapped mountain views, soak in hot springs, admire local art and explore miles of obsidian lava flows.
Top Things to Do
Where to Eat
Dining options along the highway corridor are often seasonal and spread out. It is best to plan ahead, but you can rely on Blue Sky Market (Rainbow) and McKenzie General Store (McKenzie Bridge) to fuel up on provisions. There are delicious sit-down meal options at the Obsidian Grill at McKenzie General Store (and sometimes evening entertainment) and at family-friendly Takoda's in Rainbow. Smaller roadside cafes and food trucks may be open in the summer.
Meet the McKenzie River Communities
Originally the McKenzie River corridor was traversed by the Molalla and Kalapuya Native Americans as…
McKenzie River Foodshed Tour
Follow the McKenzie River from the Willamette Valley into the Cascade Mountains and discover a…
Ride in the McKenzie River Region
The McKenzie River region is a surprisingly robust mountain biking destination — and…
Cool Off on the McKenzie River This Summer
When the Willamette Valley heats up, head for the cold, clear waters of the McKenzie River in the…
Road Trip: McKenzie River
As the snow melts and winter withdraws further up the mountainsides, scouting the McKenzie River for…
A Two-Day Getaway Along the McKenzie River
Enjoy a retreat in the mountains with outdoor recreation and relaxing immersion in nature. Here is a…
Fishing the McKenzie River
Fishing on the McKenzie River is a glorious experience. Twenty-two native fish and more than seven…
McKenzie River Guides
McKenzie River Events
The McKenzie River communities host some very special events every spring and summer. The Wooden Boat Festival takes place in the spring at Eagle Rock Lodge on the banks of the McKenzie River. The festival also includes the Wooden Drift Boat Parade on the "wild and scenic" designated river.
In the summer, smell the sweet scents of the Lavender Festival at the McKenzie River Lavender farm. The region is also host to the McKenzie River Solstice Arts Festival where wood carvers create intricate masterpieces using chainsaws. In the winter, the scenic covered bridges glow with holiday light displays.
McKenzie River Lodging & Campgrounds
Belknap Hot Springs Resort & Camp Yale
A jewel on the banks of the McKenzie River, nestled in the Willamette National Forest! Belknap Hot Springs Resort offers…
Caddisfly Resort LLC
The Caddisfly Resort offers three warm, cozy, fully equipped cottages on the McKenzie River at the entrance to the…
Eagle Rock Lodge
This unique lodge has 400 feet of McKenzie River frontage and over four acres of gardens. Nine rooms — all with a private…
Harbick's Country Inn
Harbick's Country Inn is a beautiful McKenzie River hotel accommodation that is undeniably charming. Relax in…
Horse Creek Lodge & Outfitters
Nestled in the old growth tress of the Willamette National Forest, Horse Creek Cabins and Campground are ideal lodging…
Knollhaven McKenzie River Cabin
Take fun and relaxation to a whole new level in this charming, cozy cabin retreat built in 1928 on the Banks of the Upper…
Loloma Lodge
Nestled in the woods along the McKenzie River, Loloma Lodge provides breathtaking lodging options. Built in 1932, the…
McKenzie River Mountain Resort
Former Ranger Station next to Blue River offers vacation homes and bike shuttles to nearby by bike trails and scenic road…
McKenzie River Resort
While you’re adventuring along the McKenzie River, stay at the McKenzie River Resort to rest or to extend the fun. This…
McKenzie Riverside Cottages
McKenzie Riverside Cottages is a collection of historic cottages and lodge suites nestled along the gorgeous McKenzie…
Wayfarer Resort
The Wayfarer Resort offers a relaxing setting with a private lake, amenities and cabins nestled on the beautiful McKenzie…
Cougar Crossing Campgound
The 11 RV and tent-friendly sites of Cougar Crossing are located at the confluence of the South Fork of the McKenzie…
French Pete Campground
Seventeen tent and RV campsites are shaded by native Douglas firs and vine maple. Access French Pete Creek and the South…
Frissel Crossing Campground
A quiet campground with only the sound of the rapids to lull you to sleep in one of 12 tent or RV sites. Hand-pumped…
Limberlost Campground
Secluded, 12-site campground with vaulted toilets, garbage service, fire rings and picnic tables for tent and RV campers…
Lookout Campground
Lookout Campground is located on the northeast shore of Blue River Reservoir. This campground includes an inviting open…
McKenzie Bridge Campground
Situated on the banks of the McKenzie River, this campground offers 13 shaded tent and RV sites in a relaxing atmosphere…
Mona Campground
Mona campground lies on the northwest shore of Blue River Reservoir, making it an excellent place to play in the water…
Paradise Campground
A camper’s paradise right on the banks of the McKenzie River. Listen to the whitewater of the river flow by as you fall…
Slide Creek Campground
Camp on the east bank of Cougar Reservoir in a wooded setting. Both the campground and day-use area have drinking water…
Sunnyside Campground
Sunnyside Campground is located along the southeast side of Cougar Reservoir at 1,700 feet in elevation. The campground…
Spectacular Riverfront Lodging on the McKenzie River
Stay right on the river in a well-situated McKenzie River lodge or cabin. Throughout the autumn into winter, the forests are thick with bright fall leaves set against the dark evergreens…
About McKenzie River
The famous Wild & Scenic McKenzie River is named for Scottish explorer Donald Mackenzie who enthusiastically traversed this watershed in the early 1800s. The Oregon Trail brought settlers to the region starting in 1843. Gold was found, but lumber and livestock later became the primary industries.
In the 1870s the McKenzie River's hot springs and fishing lodges started to draw tourists, and this increased when the road was paved in the 1900s. Cruising the scenic routes became a popular pastime, and in the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corps built the Dee Wright Observatory along a former 1860 wagon route over the lava beds (Hwy 242).
McKenzie River
Known for its cold, crystal clear waters the Class II-III McKenzie River hosts whitewater thrill seekers…
McKenzie River Drift Boat
This highly maneuverable boat was crafted specifically for navigating the McKenzie River in the 20s. For an authentic Northwest boating experience, several river guides offer fishing excursions using the McKenzie River drift boat.