GORGE CAMPGROUND

Bring your pooch to camp at the foot of Black Butte, a cone volcano that sits in the Deschutes National Forest of Oregon. Right up against the Metolius River, you'll find Gorge Campground, a quaint little facility that lets explorers from all over discover the wonders of this forest for themselves.

There are only 18 campsites at the grounds, which are only open during warmer months. Each site comes with a picnic table and a fire ring (complete with grill), but no hookups are offered at Gorge Campground. Be sure to bring along lots of drinking water for you and your pooch, as the park doesn't provide drinking water, either. Prices are $16 per night for any of the sites and you are permitted to reserve ahead of time if you'd like. 

The beautiful surroundings of the forest, river, and volcanic mountain make this tiny campground special. Anglers will love casting their lines into the Metolius River, which is full of salmon, whitefish, and various types of trout. Portions of the Metolius-Windigo Trail are accessible near the campground, so be sure to take some time trekking through the woods if hiking is one of your favorite pastimes. Nearby, the Lava River Cave lets visitors explore the wonders under the ground as well.

Doggos may join their humans at Gorge Campground, though the rules set out for them are unclear. We recommend that you keep your dog leashed or at least at your side during all points of your trip, not only for the comfort of other campers but also to protect your woofer from being spotted by the coyotes and cougars that call this forest home. Keep this facility beautiful by always cleaning up after your pooch and disposing of all waste correctly.

If you'd like to get off the beaten path for your next adventure, check out Gorge Campground!