Established Camping
Macks Canyon Recreation Site
Macks Canyon Recreation Site, near Grass Valley, Oregon, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still enjoying some essential amenities. With designated sites and a laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for tent camping or glamping under the stars.
The campground is known for its spaciousness and cleanliness, with plenty of room to spread out. Visitors have enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, often sharing the space with just a few fellow campers, mainly fishermen or overlanders. One camper noted, “The campground is clean, and hardly anyone here,” which adds to the charm of this off-the-beaten-path location.
You’ll find a picnic table at your site, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors, and fires are allowed, so you can roast marshmallows and share stories around the campfire. Just keep in mind that there’s no drinking water or electric hookups, so come prepared. The area is also known for its stunning views of the river and canyon, with opportunities for hiking along the old railway line nearby.
While the access road can be a bit bumpy, the journey is worth it for the serene surroundings. Just be ready for some wind in the evenings, as it can pick up quite a bit. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat with beautiful scenery and a chance to connect with nature, Macks Canyon is definitely worth checking out.
Description
Bureau of Land Management
The Macks Canyon archaeological site is a large, prehistoric village locale overlooking the Deschutes River in north-central Oregon. The site is characterized by shallow, circular, semi-subterranean house depressions, surface artifacts, and riverine shell deposits. Limited excavations conducted in the late 1960's indicate that the site was the location of a winter village occupied by Sahaptin-speaking people of the Columbia Plateau. Although the main period of occupation appears to have occurred within the last 2,000 years, the site may have been occupied as early as 5,000 BC. A campground and boat ramp are situated at the end of the Access Road along the east bank of the Lower Deschutes River. The area is popular with boaters and fishermen. The route to Macks Canyon is also a National Back Country Byway. ADA Access: The archaeological site itself does not have accessible facilities. However, the nearby campground has an accessible campsite, vault toilets and parking.
Fee Info
No fees at the archeological site. Camping: $8.00/night fee applies Sunday through Thursday nights, Friday and Saturday night fee is $12.00/night, Group Sites are $25.00/night Sunday through Thursday nights, Friday and Saturday night fee is $35.00/night. May 15th September 15th. There is a $2.00 charge per extra vehicle (tow vehicles excluded).
Reservation Info
First come, first serve
Location
Macks Canyon Recreation Site is located in Oregon
Directions
From Maupin City Park in Maupin, Oregon, proceed a short distance north to the junction of Bakeoven Road and the BLM Access Road.Turn left onto BLM Access Road and drive 7.0 miles.Continue onto Deschutes River Road for one mile. Turn right onto OR-216 E (signs for Grass Valley) and proceed for 0.5 mile. Turn left onto BLM Access Road and drive 17.4 miles to the road’s end.
Coordinates
45.3913277 N
120.8787514 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
