Established Camping
Big Bend Campground
Big Bend Campground, near Prineville, Oregon, is a scenic retreat right alongside the Crooked River, perfect for those looking to unwind in nature. With a handful of sites right on the riverbank, it’s a prime location for fishing and enjoying the peaceful sounds of flowing water.
The campground offers basic amenities, including pit toilets and drinking water from hand pumps, though some visitors have noted that the water spigots can be a bit finicky. Many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere, with one reviewer mentioning, “Great campsite, camping right on the river was beautiful.” Just keep in mind that it can get hot during the summer, so be sure to bring plenty of water and maybe a few tubes for floating in the river.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are trails nearby that lead to the base of the dam at Prineville Reservoir, adding a bit of adventure to your stay. While the sites are relatively small and lack shade, the stunning views and the chance to connect with nature make Big Bend a worthwhile destination for a weekend getaway. Just remember to arrive early, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
Crooked Wild and Scenic River
Located south of Prineville, Oregon, this campground offers year-round camping and Crooked Wild and Scenic River access along the Lower Crooked Back Country Byway. Cooperatively managed in partnership with the Bureau of Reclamation and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, this campground's facilities include 13 campsites, one group use area and a day-use area with access to the Crooked Wild and Scenic River.
Know Before You Go:
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are accepted. Potable water is available during the warmer spring and summer months. Cell phone service is not available in the campground. Watch for bicyclists: the section of State Highway 27 between Prineville and Bowman Dam is designated as the Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway.
Point of Interest:
Looming 240 feet above the campground, the mighty Arthur R. Bowman Dam retains the waters of the 3,030-acre Prineville Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing and other water-based activities. At 1.6 miles away from Big Bend Campground, the boat ramp at Powderhouse Cove provides the nearest reservoir access.
Fee Info
$8 per night; $2 per extra vehicle (tow vehicles excluded) with a maximum of two vehicles allowed per site. Group-use site is $16 per night.
Location
Big Bend Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
From Prineville, Oregon: Drive 19.2 miles south on State Highway 27; the campground will be on your right.
Address
Prineville District Office
3050 NE 3rd Street
Prineville, OR 97754
Coordinates
44.11304 N
120.793586 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
