Chief Paulina Horse Camp operates seasonally from May 24 to September 27 within Deschutes National Forest. Located at 43.70° latitude and 121.25° longitude with a 5-star visitor rating, this established equestrian campground sits 30 miles southeast of Bend. The camp includes designated corrals for horses while maintaining primitive camping conditions with basic amenities.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: The area surrounding Chief Paulina Horse Camp features multiple riding routes through juniper forest terrain. One visitor noted the location is "extremely remote as you can get and still drive in," making it ideal for uninterrupted riding experiences.
Fishing at nearby reservoirs: Prineville Reservoir State Park offers productive fishing opportunities. "We had great luck catching many crappie here which made great fish tacos for our camp dinner," reports Kelly N. The park features "the best fishing dock and cleaning station that I have yet to see."
Star gazing sessions: The remote location of horse campgrounds near Brothers provides exceptional night sky viewing. Prineville Reservoir visitors benefit from its designation as a dark sky park. Amy B. explains: "This is also a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing."
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: The isolation of equestrian facilities near Brothers appeals to many visitors. According to Abe E. who visited Chief Paulina Horse Camp, it's "absolutely beautiful" and "extremely remote as you can get and still drive in."
Water recreation: Reynolds Pond Recreation Site provides water access for cooling off during hot days. "We jumped in the irrigation stream to cool off because the pond, even though good sized, looked a bit pondish," writes MeLinda W., who describes the location as "an oasis."
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds in the region offer structured learning activities. At Prineville Reservoir, Rayne C. found "the educational programs are outstanding! The amenities are well cared for and the surroundings are incredible!"
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas near Brothers lack basic amenities. Deschutes NF - HWY 31 offers primitive camping with "no facilities of any kind, and patchy cell service," according to Michael and Karen M. These spots can be suitable for short stays but require self-sufficiency.
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans frequently affect the region. William B. notes at Reynolds Pond: "Fire rings present, but current fire ban in effect so campfires not allowed." Similar restrictions apply throughout most horse campgrounds near Brothers during summer months.
Highway noise: Some accessible dispersed camping areas experience traffic disruption. Frank M. reports that Deschutes NF sites along Highway 31 have "some road noise during day" though the areas are "suitable for overnight or longer stay."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs across locations. At Reynolds Pond, Tombo T. found "good Verizon service," while Hali F. confirmed the area "has cell service (Verizon)." Other remote equestrian campgrounds may lack reliable signals.
Tips for camping with families
Structured swimming areas: Christmas Valley Camping and RV Park provides cost-effective access to nearby attractions. Amy Z. notes it's a "great spot for cost effective camping just a few minutes from Fort Rock," making it suitable for families exploring local landmarks.
Protected beach access: Prineville Reservoir features designated swimming zones for children. Lesa H. explains: "The swim area is marked and dogs are not allowed in that area so you don't have to worry about dog messes where your kiddos are walking barefoot and swimming."
Grass play areas: Some campgrounds include open spaces for children. Ashley B. notes Prineville Reservoir has "large grassy areas, big roped off swimming hole," though she warns "it can get blazing hot" and recommends "wear river shoes for swimming or at least getting there."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For RV campers at Aurora Outfitters NW, access drinking water, showers, and toilets while enjoying fires at designated sites with provided firewood. Most equestrian campgrounds near Brothers allow RVs but lack hookups.
Overnight stopover locations: Reynolds Pond serves well for short stays when traveling through the area. Shane B. reports: "Camped here for an overnight on the way from Portland down to Nevada. Looks like it would be a great spot to enjoy for a few days, but it was still perfect for an overnight rest with gorgeous mountain sunrise views in the morning."
Spacing between sites: At Reynolds Pond, Lorene H. notes: "This campground and small pond is spread out over what must be 20+ acres of scattered sage brush and Juniper trees and it's pretty much boondocking." This arrangement provides privacy even when multiple RVs are present.
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