Mecca Flat Campground, near Prineville, Oregon, is a unique spot right along the banks of the Deschutes River, surrounded by stunning canyon walls and rugged basalt formations. This place is perfect for those who appreciate a more primitive camping experience, with sites that offer a wild, open landscape.

The campground is popular among anglers, especially during the salmon fly hatch, and visitors often rave about the scenic views and the sound of the river. One camper described it as feeling like they were in a classic western film, which adds a bit of charm to your stay. While there aren’t many trees for shade or privacy, the spacious sites allow for a comfortable setup, and a canopy can help with that sun exposure.

Accessing the campground can be a bit of an adventure, as the road is narrow and bumpy, but it’s manageable with a little care. There’s a boat ramp for those looking to launch their watercraft, and a trail leads to Trout Creek for some additional exploration. Just keep in mind that this place doesn’t have many amenities, so come prepared. 

Whether you’re casting a line or just soaking in the natural beauty, Mecca Flat Campground offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

Situated on the banks of the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River, Mecca Flat Campground is located just a mile and a half from Oregon State HIghway 26 near Warm Springs. The site features 13 individual campsites and one group use area. The southern terminus of the 7-mile long Trout Creek Trail can be accessed directly from the campground. Know Before You Go: All campsites, including the group use area are open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis; no potable water is available. The 1.6 mile Mecca Flat Road is narrow with few pullouts; use caution particularly when pulling a trailer. Access the nearby non-motorized [Trout Creek Trail][1] which fronts the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River for 7 miles where it terminates at [Trout Creek Campground][2]. Cell phone service is not available in the campground. Goathead, also known as puncturevine, is present in the area; protect your pets and bicycle tires Point of Interest: The Deschutes Railroad ran on portions of the nearby Trout Creek trail and Mecca Flat Road for several decades, competing with the Oregon Trunk Railroad before abandonment in the early 20th century. Look for the historic, now-abandoned tunnel near Highway 26 - but stay clear of this degrading and unstable structure. ADA Access: Vault toilet is accessible. 

[1]: https://www.blm.gov/visit/trout-creek-trail
[2]: https://www.blm.gov/visit/trout-creek-campground

Mecca Flat Campground

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This is a nice campground right on the banks of the Deschutes River, surrounded by high canyon walls and basalt outcroppings. The road is pretty bumpy and narrow, but it’s flat and there are several wide spots for passing. You can see pretty far ahead so you’ll know if other vehicles are coming well in advance. The sites are decent size, but there aren’t many trees so privacy is minimal. A canopy is a good thing to have. There is a boat ramp for arriving or launching. There’s also a trail down to Trout Creek, about 7 miles away. Only one other site was taken mid-week in late April, but it probably gets busy on weekends. No reservations are taken.

Right by the river

This is exposed (mostly treeless) site on the Deschutes River about 2 miles of highway 26. No shade and exposed sites.  Is in narrow valley with grassland.  
  
The dirt road in single lane and rough.  

  

There were open sites (off season) but popular with fly fishermen.

Fisherman campsite on Deschutes River

Spent two nights here during the salmon fly hatch.  Stay in site 12.  Primitive but the landscape is wild.  Felt like I was in a western film from the 1950’s.

Great little spot

Love this place been by the river is amazing I really enjoy this place I highly recommend it 

Excelente 

While staying here in August 2024:
-Dog friendly 
-No hookups
-2 bars on Verizon
-No shade
-Madras, OR only 10 minutes away. 
-1 acres fenced in dog park in Madras OR (15 min. drive)
-Used my credit card at the automated self pay station (super convenient). 
-fairly clean bathroom (toilet only). 
-From travel trailers to Teslas, they all have made down the road and plenty of room. 


Situated on the banks of the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River, Mecca Flat Campground is located just a mile and a half from Oregon State HIghway 26 near Warm Springs. The site features 13 individual campsites and one group use area. The southern terminus of the 7-mile long Trout Creek Trail can be accessed directly from the campground.

Know Before You Go:

All campsites, including the group use area are open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis; no potable water is available.
The 1.6 mile Mecca Flat Road is narrow with few pullouts; use caution particularly when pulling a trailer.
Access the nearby non-motorized Trout Creek Trail which fronts the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River for 7 miles where it terminates at Trout Creek Campground.
Cell phone service is not available in the campground.
Goathead, also known as puncturevine, is present in the area; protect your pets and bicycle tires
Point of Interest:

The Deschutes Railroad ran on portions of the nearby Trout Creek trail and Mecca Flat Road for several decades, competing with the Oregon Trunk Railroad before abandonment in the early 20th century. Look for the historic, now-abandoned tunnel near Highway 26 - but stay clear of this degrading and unstable structure.


Photos of Mecca Flat Campground

Real photos from real campers