About Yellowbottom Recreation Site
Overview Yellowbottom Recreation Site is closed to camping indefinitely. Visitor safety is our top priority. The nearby Old Miner's Meadow group campsite can be reserved on recreation.gov. Other camping may be available in surrounding national forest and county areas. Yellowbottom day use area remains open for use.Recreation Yellowbottom offers a one-mile hiking trail, access to Quartzville Creek Wild and Scenic River, and a take off point to explore nearby recreation trails. Facilities This small campground contains campsites to accommodate single campsites for tents or small trailers. Not recommended for large RVs or trailers due to the one lane site road and tight turning radius. Natural Features Yellowbottom offers a beautiful swimming hole and a one-mile trail that will lead to old-growth trees. Discover a landscape of old-growth and maturing forests, accented by rock outcropping, wildflowers and vivid fall colors. Nearby Attractions Multiple Forest Service trails into the Middle Santiam Wilderness Drive the Quartzville National Back Country Byway, past the emerald depths of Green Peter Reservoir and along the meandering waters of the Wild and Scenic Quartzville Creek. Enjoy a day of hiking and exploring, or spend the day fishing, swimming, and gold panning on the serene Quartzville River. Charges & Cancellations Standard fees apply and are non-refundable. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.
How to Get There
From Sweet Home: Drive east 5 miles on US-20 E/Main St toward 22nd Ave. Turn left on to Quartzville Road, continue on Quartzville Road for 18 miles. From Sisters: Drive west 26 miles on US-20 W/W Cascade Ave., continue on US-20 W for another 42 miles. Turn right on Quartzville Road; continue on Quartzville Road for 18 miles.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Yellowbottom Recreation Site
Heading to Yellowbottom Recreation Site? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Yellowbottom Recreation Site?
No central reservation system listed for Yellowbottom Recreation Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/274721) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Yellowbottom Recreation Site?
From Sweet Home: Drive east 5 miles on US-20 E/Main St toward 22nd Ave. Turn left on to Quartzville Road, continue on Quartzville Road for 18 miles. From Sisters: Drive west 26 miles on US-20 W/W Cascade Ave., continue on US-20 W for another 42 miles. Turn right on Quartzville Road; continue on Quartzville Road for 18 miles.
How do I contact Yellowbottom Recreation Site?
You can reach the park at phone: 503-375-5646 or email: BLM_OR_NO_Mail@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
