Allen Springs is located on the lower Metolius River. The Metolius river is a real gem. Crystal clear and ice cold, the Metolius flows full bore from beneath Black Butte. Within just feet from the springs the river is full and begins its journey North to Lake Billy Chinook. Ponderosa Pine and scrub grasses dominate the landscape. The upper river is in a park like setting with the small gentle river quitely whispering to you as you fall asleep. The lower river is a powerful river with strong rapids dispersed between classic runs. This is Central Oregon at its finest. Cold snowy winters and hot dry summers are the rule. This is hot dusty camping in the summer, with cool nights. Some find the environment pristine and ideal, while others prefer the greener Oregon to the West. You can decide for yourself. The upper river flows through Camp Sherman. Numerous cabins and resorts surround Camp Sherman. The Camp Sherman store is a historic site and offers a fine selection for campers and includes a well stocked selection of fly fishing goods. The Metolius River is a mecca for fly fisherman. The river is very challenging, but the views are next to none. Getting skunked on the river is typical but people don't seem to mind. Above Bridge 99 the river is catch and release, fly fishing only, and open all year up to Alingham Bridge. The catch is rainbow trout and whitefish in the upper river and the same in the lower river with the addition of Bull trout. From Sisters, travel 9.6 miles northwest on Hwy 20, then 11.1 miles north on Forest Road 14.
