After nine years of closure, Carmen-Smith Reservoir, Trail Bridge Reservoir and Trail Bridge Campground (collectively the Carmen-Smith recreation sites) on the Upper McKenzie River will reopen on May 1, welcoming campers back to a stretch of river that has quietly been resetting itself.
This isn’t about a single “must-see” destination. It’s about adding another great option to experience the McKenzie River the way it’s meant to be experienced, unhurried, outdoors, and close to the water.
A Campground Worth the Wait ⛺
At the center of the reopening is Trail Bridge Campground, now updated and ready for a new season of visitors.
Reservations open April 1, with first stays beginning May 14.
For travelers who prefer cabins, lodges, or vacation rentals, nearby communities like McKenzie Bridge and Blue River, just a short drive away, offer a range of comfortable lodging options. Camping here becomes part of a broader stay, not the only way to experience the area.
Fishing That’s Been Nine Years in the Making 🎣
Here’s something you don’t see often.
Carmen-Smith Reservoir sits just above Trail Bridge Campground and Trail Bridge Reservoir. Because this section of water has been closed for nearly a decade, fishing at Carmen-Smith Reservoir is expected to be exceptional this season. Fish populations have had years to grow with little to no pressure.
For anglers, that creates a rare window:
- Less-pressured waters
- Potential for larger, more abundant fish
- A chance to experience the lake at its most productive
If you’ve been looking for a reason to bring your rod back to the McKenzie, this might be it.
Close to the Blue Pool, Without the Crowds 💎
The campground’s proximity to Tamolitch Blue Pool is a clear advantage for campers.
It offers a convenient base for those who want to:
- Hike to the Blue Pool early in the day
- Avoid peak parking congestion
- Return to a quieter setting along the river
It’s not the only way to visit the Blue Pool, but for campers, it’s a practical and appealing option.
A Great Fit for Family-Friendly Riding 🚴♂️
Trail Bridge Campground also sits along the renowned McKenzie River Trail, one of Oregon’s most celebrated mountain biking routes.
From a rider’s perspective, this location is especially appealing for those looking for a more approachable experience.
The trail naturally breaks into two personalities:
- A more technical, advanced upper section
- A smoother, more accessible lower section
Starting near Trail Bridge Campground gives riders easy access to the lower portion, making it a strong choice for:
- Families
- Intermediate riders
- Anyone looking for a shorter or less technical ride
For trail details, maps, and ride planning, visitors can explore McKenzieRiverTrail.com.
Photo by Chris LaVoie
Part of a Bigger McKenzie River Experience 🌄
Carmen-Smith isn’t meant to carry the whole trip. It’s one piece of a much larger experience.
Staying nearby in McKenzie Bridge or elsewhere along the river allows visitors to:
- Enjoy comfortable lodging
- Explore multiple recreation sites
- Mix hiking, biking, fishing, and scenic drives
Camping here becomes an option within that mix, not the centerpiece.
A Welcome Return
The reopening of Trail Bridge Campground and Carmen-Smith Reservoir adds back something that’s been missing, access to a quiet, scenic stretch of the Upper McKenzie River with real recreational value.
For campers, anglers, and riders, it’s a chance to rediscover an area that’s had time to rest and recharge.
And for visitors planning a McKenzie River trip, it’s one more reason to stay a little longer and explore a little deeper.