Indigo Springs

## Overview Indigo Springs is a beautiful natural spring nestled in a Douglas-fir forest approximately 31 miles southeast of Oakridge, Oregon, in Lane County. The spring is the namesake of the small Indigo Springs Campground, a quiet three-site, tent-only campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Willamette National Forest. Visitors have long enjoyed the water here, which has been reported to taste clean and refreshing — a welcome reward after the scenic drive along Forest Road 21. The area carries rich historical significance. The historic Oregon Central Military Wagon Road passes right near the campground, and interpretive signs along the trail provide fascinating context about this 19th-century route, which was one of the key military and emigrant roads carved through the Cascade Range. Additional signage highlights the ecological importance of the Bull trout in the local Middle Fork Willamette River watershed — a threatened species that plays a vital role in the region's aquatic ecosystem. With its remote setting, old-growth forest atmosphere, and easy access to the Middle Fork Trail, Indigo Springs is a rewarding destination for anyone seeking pristine water, solitude, and a taste of Oregon's frontier history. ## Directions Indigo Springs is located along Forest Road 21, southeast of Oakridge, Oregon. Here's how to get there: 1. In Oakridge, find the intersection of **Crestview Street** and **Oregon State Highway 58** — this is the only traffic light on Highway 58 in Oakridge. 2. Head **east on Highway 58** for approximately **2 miles** until you reach **Hills Creek Road / Kitson Springs Road**. 3. Turn **left** onto Hills Creek Road and continue for about **0.5 mile** until it becomes **Forest Road 21**. 4. Follow **Forest Road 21 south** for approximately **28.5 miles**. 5. The campground and spring will be on your **right**. *Note: Forest Road 21 is a paved but winding mountain road. Allow extra time for the drive, especially in wet or winter conditions. The road is also popular with hikers, off-road bikers, and equestrians accessing the Middle Fork Trail.* ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll find a small, peaceful campground with just three tent-only sites set among towering Douglas-fir trees. A short **500-foot round-trip loop trail** leads from the campground to the springs themselves. The trail is easy and well-suited for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Along the loop, interpretive signs offer insights into the Oregon Central Military Wagon Road and the Bull trout's role in the local watershed, making the short walk both scenic and educational. The spring water has been reported to be delicious and is a highlight of the visit. Camping here is limited to the three sites, so availability is first-come, first-served — plan accordingly, especially during summer weekends. Forest Road 21 also provides convenient access to the **Middle Fork Trail**, a popular multi-use path for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians that follows the Middle Fork of the Willamette River through some of the most scenic terrain in the Cascades. If you have extra time, exploring this trail is highly recommended. The area is remote and services are limited, so be sure to bring everything you need for your visit. Cell service may be unreliable along Forest Road 21.