154 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Brothers, Oregon encompass a variety of established and dispersed camping options throughout the high desert landscape of Central Oregon. Pine Mountain Campground sits at approximately 5,000 feet elevation and offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets and water hookups. The nearby Oregon Badlands Dispersed camping area provides more primitive options for those seeking solitude, while Prineville Reservoir State Park offers more developed facilities including cabins, yurts, and glamping opportunities with electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations.
The high desert region experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations, with hot summer days often followed by cool nights. Most campgrounds remain accessible from late spring through early fall, though winter camping is possible at some locations like Tumalo State Park which operates year-round. "Sand Springs Campground is in a remote part of Central Oregon. Despite being right next to OHV trails, we were the only ones there," noted one camper, highlighting the potential for solitude in this region. Fire restrictions are common during summer months due to dry conditions, and some areas have limited or no cell phone coverage. Visitors should check road conditions before traveling, as some access routes require high-clearance vehicles, particularly those leading to dispersed camping areas.
Campers frequently mention the stark beauty of the high desert landscape and proximity to outdoor recreation as highlights of the area. Several campgrounds provide access to hiking, biking, and OHV trails, with Pine Mountain offering panoramic views overlooking the Badlands. Most established campgrounds in the region maintain a balance between tent and RV sites, though amenities vary significantly from basic vault toilets at primitive sites to full hookups at developed locations. Water access is limited in this arid region, making Prineville Reservoir particularly popular for those seeking waterfront camping. During peak summer weekends, the more developed campgrounds with water access tend to fill quickly, while the more remote dispersed camping areas generally offer more availability and solitude.
"This is another Oregon state park gem... best to visit offseason if you are not a boater, jet skier or love motor noise. I go every spring and get a spot overlooking the lake/reservoir. "
"It's a very popular Oregon State Park and I'm sure summer requires advance planning. The weekend we were there was pretty full and our site was at the top of the B loop. "
from $26 - $152 / night
Check Availability"My wife thought it wanted our small dog, but I think maybe it was looking for those chickadees that kept coming around. The night sky was beautiful."
"Excellent star views from your hammock or up on top of the mountain next to the radio towers lol."
"Pretty standard dispersed camping within the Oregon badlands."
"Enjoyed exploring the badlands steps from our camp site. Convenient to many trails. Very quiet and relaxing. Views from camp site were beautiful and the sunsets are breathtaking."
"This is one of our favorite campgrounds in Oregon. We did have a harder time backing in our 35ft trailer due to the more narrow road but over all wasn’t that bad."
"Very solid, typical Oregon state campground."
from $32 - $128 / night
Check Availability"Good campground in a remote part of Central Oregon. Despite being right next to OHV trails, we were the only ones there. Just me, the boys, and the flies."
"The best place to get potable water and dump is the Crook County RV Park just 20 minutes down the road on the outskirts of Prineville. "
"There is a trail that goes to the base of the dam for the Prineville Reservoir from the Campground. "
"Overlooking the reservoir, near the water pump & clean vault toilet, this was a perfect, off-grid, spot!! Only a few other RVers present, and far enough that we didn’t hear their generator."
"This is about 20 minutes east of Bend Oregon. You have a number of options here. Right off the road there is a lot where I saw an RV camped. I’m sure there would be some road noise there."
"Basically a gravel/dirt lot about 20 minutes outside of Bend. There's a chance I needed to drive further down the road to find better options. Stayed for two nights - no complaints."
"Each campsite has a fire pit, a picnic table, and it's right next to the river. There are no services, so no electricity or water; you have to bring in everything you need."
"Right on the river with beautiful canyons surrounding you."
GuideWe stayed here in July in a camper van and had a good experience. It's a classic state park campground with nice bathroom and shower ameninities. The river access and proximity to Bend made it a great place for us to start exploration of Central Oregon. Sites are relatively close together (we did not get a spot with hookups), but it worked for a short stay to ease into the area.
TravelerWith all the amenities and close but not too close to bend this is a great campground. Quiet and well managed/maintained.
TravelerThis campground is on a river with a waterfall. The sites are very large and most are right on the little river. Hot during the day and cool/cold at night. We loved it. Saw a bunch of women on horses which was fun and it seems to be a popular spot for day hikers.
GuideThis site is well maintained with a host on-site. Bathrooms were clean and trash was removed regularly. Sites are tightly spaced, but with decent separation. Will visit again.
GuideThis is a lovely state park that is well manicured. We have a Transit van, but boon dock. There were not RV sites available so we got a tent site. The site was very tidy. The bathrooms were immaculate. We only stayed the night. Rangers do patrol the area routinely (about every 30 minutes). The park was a very calm place to be while we were there (1 day). Definitely would return. If you use satellite, some sites have trees while others have a bit more clear sky. Also, the bathrooms are very walk-able from many of the tent sites as the site is compact. Would definitely camp here again.
RangerAdding a more balanced take after staying here overnight.
We’ve seen a few very positive reviews of this area, but our experience landed somewhere more in the middle — honestly leaning a bit rough around the edges.
The site felt somewhat grungy and under-maintained in places, with scattered belongings that made it seem like a few long-term or semi-permanent campers may be using it. There was also enough trash that I ended up picking some up just out of respect for the area.
In terms of layout and access:
We were in the off-season, and even then there were still several people dispersed throughout the area. Driving through, we also noticed multiple pullouts near the road and closer to the Lava Lands Visitor Center that looked like people were camping in informally — though I’m not sure what the actual rules are there when the visitor center is open vs. closed seasonally.
Location-wise, it’s basically right off the highway. That means:
For us, it worked as a simple overnight stop, but it didn’t feel like a place to settle in. I wouldn’t choose it for a campfire evening or anything slow-paced. With a kid, it also didn’t quite feel like the most comfortable or secure environment for lingering beyond a night’s sleep.
Good for transit. Not really a destination.
ScoutThis site is right by Newberry Volcanic National Monument, South of Bend . It is easily accessed from northbound 97. If you are southbound, you’ll have to double back. It is a pine-wooded area with lots of pretty level sites. Dirt road is in relatively good shape.
GuideNot overcrowded, I was alone almost the whole week. However it’s not as clean as some reviews say. Seems to be a bit of a dumping ground. I had to clean up my campsite from previous campers.
GuideElk Horn is really beautiful place to camp at. Camp sites are very clean and the camp host is on top of everything. They only have toilets no showers. It’s a first come first serve. There is no reservations. The river is really nice and cold. And what’s really cool is that area has extremely large rocks where people can jump off of. It’s pretty deep. Just need to be safe about it. I recommend everyone to go check that campground out also. Me and my family love camping. But we also love to free camp a lot better. Elkhorn has really great prices for there sites. I recommend that everyone come and check this little peace of paradise out.
Dispersed camping options near Brothers, Oregon range from desert landscapes to mountain elevations with temperatures fluctuating between 85°F daytime highs and 40°F overnight lows. The area sits at an ecological transition zone between the high desert and forested mountains, with juniper-dotted terrain characterizing much of the landscape around camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: The Crooked River offers productive fly fishing spots at Palisades Campground, where anglers can wade into shallow waters. "Great for Fly fishing, kayaking, or floating. Four stars because there was a lot of glass, dog poo, and random debris to be cleaned up," notes camper Bess N.
Stargazing sessions: Take advantage of minimal light pollution at Pine Mountain Campground, located at 6,000 feet elevation. "Excellent star views from your hammock or up on top of the mountain next to the radio towers," reports Emily L., highlighting the elevation's benefits for night sky viewing.
Wildlife observation: Many campsites feature active wildlife, particularly in early morning or evening hours. "We saw a marten and waterfowl. The river is flowing and shallow with rocky shores," writes a Palisades Campground visitor, while Pine Mountain campers frequently report ground squirrel activity throughout the campground area.
Geological features: The dramatic rock formations near campsites provide visual interest and exploration opportunities. At Badlands Rock Camping, "it was sagebrush and desert landscape, sagebrush, etc, with some hills and it was quite beautiful," according to Liesje B., who also mentioned being awakened by nearby coyotes howling.
Water access: Several campgrounds feature riverside locations with easy water entry points. "Some of the campsites have really nice shade, while others have stunning views over the lake," explains Christian about Prineville Reservoir Main Campground, which includes a designated swimming area and boat access.
Solitude potential: Off-season camping or weekday arrivals often result in having entire campgrounds to yourself. "Good campground in a remote part of Central Oregon. Despite being right next to OHV trails, we were the only ones there. Just me, the boys, and the flies," reports Eric M. about his experience at Sand Springs Campground.
Road conditions: Many campsite access roads require caution. "The road is really nice and car worthy. I was on my motorcycle and went off the back south side which I would not recommend for a family car," advises Todd R. about Pine Mountain Campground's access routes.
Water availability: Potable water sources are limited throughout the area. At Big Bend Campground, "The water came from a hand pump, something you cannot use to fill an RV as it spurts and sputters like any well pump and you cannot fit a hose to the wide nozzle," explains Bill T., recommending alternative water sources.
Wind considerations: Several campgrounds experience significant wind, particularly at dusk and dawn. "It gets really windy at dusk and dawn," warns a Palisades Campground reviewer, while Jennifer R. notes about Oregon Badlands Dispersed camping: "The only drawback was the dust and wind. I was sure equipment was being ripped off the top of our RV roof much of the night."
Swimming locations: Prineville Reservoir offers designated swimming areas suitable for children. "Large grassy areas, big roped off swimming hole... There is a boat marina plenty of parking for trailers," writes Ashley B., adding a practical tip: "wear river shoes for swimming or at least getting there" due to stickers along shoreline areas.
Educational programs: Some campgrounds feature ranger-led activities for children during peak season. "The educational programs are outstanding! The amenities are well cared for and the surroundings are incredible!" reports Rayne C. about Prineville Reservoir State Park's offerings.
Animal encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound but require supervision. "My 12 year old son loved the hikes here, as did we parents. Wonderful scenery!!!" shares Heather B. about Pine Mountain Campground, where children can observe small mammals and birds throughout the area.
Space considerations: Most dispersed camping areas have limitations on RV size or maneuverability. "Took a 24' RV to campsite #5. Little rough for that rig, cars and trucks no problem," shares David about Palisades Campground, indicating the need to research site dimensions before arrival.
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully as facilities are limited. "The best place to get potable water and dump is the Crook County RV Park just 20 minutes down the road on the outskirts of Prineville. Very nice site, dump fee $10 by credit card, potable water $5 (free with dump)," advises Bill T. from his stay at Big Bend Campground.
Leveling requirements: Many campsites near Brothers require minimal leveling for comfortable setup. "They have good spacing and require very little leveling. Many are pull through, a few back in," notes a visitor to Palisades Campground, indicating that most sites accommodate RVs with minimal preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Brothers, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Brothers, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 154 campgrounds and RV parks near Brothers, OR and 32 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Brothers, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Brothers, OR is Prineville Reservoir Main Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 24 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Brothers, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 free dispersed camping spots near Brothers, OR.
What parks are near Brothers, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Brothers, OR that allow camping, notably Central Oregon and Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland.
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