Best Camping near Central Oregon

Central Oregon is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Central Oregon and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Central Oregon, OR (123)

    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park

    1. Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park

    25 Reviews
    56 Photos
    130 Saves
    Prineville, Oregon

    Located partway along the Crooked River’s 125-mile journey from the Ochoco Mountains to its confluence with the Deschutes River, the Prineville Reservoir is a vast blue pool filling a colorful canyon of volcanic rock, sagebrush and juniper. The reservoir was created in the 1960s with the construction of the Bowman Dam. The state park was established shortly after to provide campers, anglers and water lovers an opportunity to enjoy the natural area—and a chance to beat Central Oregon’s summer heat. The park lies adjacent to the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area, which preserves the habitat of a wide variety of mammals, waterfowl, songbirds and raptors.

    Prineville Reservoir State Park is located just 15 miles south of the town of Prineville, and 50 miles east of Bend. The park’s Main Campground features 67 sites, including full- and partial-hookup RV sites and primitive tent sites. The Jasper Point Campground features 28 partial-hookup sites. Both locations provide drinking water, flush and vault toilets, hot showers, and recycling stations; a dump station is located at the Jasper Point site. There are also a few camping cabins for rent. The park hosts interpretive programs at an outdoor amphitheater, and onsite amenities include sports courts, hiking trails, a dog park, and a fishing pier. The park host sells ice and firewood. Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed. Seasonal campsites are $21–$33/night; cabins are $89–$99/night; reservations recommended.

    For enjoying some on-the-water fun time, boaters can launch watercraft from the ramp at the day-use area, which has plenty of parking for vehicles and trailers. Nearby, sunbathers and swimmers can enjoy some beach time at the designated swim area. Picnic tables are available for packing lunches and refreshments to enjoy by the water. For paddling around the shoreline, kayaks and SUPs can be put in from either the boat launch or the beach. Anglers can cast for trout, catfish, bass and black crappie, then take their catches back and prep them for dinner at the park’s fish cleaning station. Another boat ramp, beach and parking area is located west of the state park at Powder House Cove, near the Bowman Dam.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $37 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site

    2. Ochoco Divide Group Site

    11 Reviews
    43 Photos
    51 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Overview

    The Ochoco Divide Group Site is a convenient place to camp while traveling across scenic State Highway 26 by bicycle or car. Resting at the top of the Ochoco Divide at an elevation of 4,700 ft., the group site is set on a hill away from the road as an extension of the general campground. Summertime in the Ochoco National Forest brings pleasant temperatures; the campground is closed during winter.

    Recreation

    The group site of the Ochoco Divide Campground is mainly used by touring cyclists. It is also a good place to take a relaxing stroll through the woods. There are opportunities for hunting, mountain biking and hiking in the national forest surrounding the facility. Several trailheads begin at the Bandit Springs rest stop about one mile from the campground on Highway 26.

    Natural Features

    The scenery surrounding the campground alternates between thick Ponderosa pine forests and grassy meadows, though shortly beyond the campground the road descends into lower-elevation, arid canyon lands. One of the most unique geologic features of the Ochoco National Forest is the 'thunder egg,' Oregon's official state rock. Thunder eggs are small, colorful, round volcanic rocks similar to geodes that have been exposed over time. The U.S. Forest Service has designated specific sites for rock hounding.

    Nearby Attractions

    John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is less than an hour away. Hike amongst the Painted Hills and famed fossils, take a journey through time at the museum at Sheep Rock or picnic beneath the beautiful mountain scenery. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake

    3. Walton Lake

    8 Reviews
    51 Photos
    85 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Overview

    Walton Lake Campground may be the best-known location in the Ochoco National Forest, offering a serene setting among old-growth Ponderosa pine and mountain meadows. Most sites offer sweeping lake views.

    Recreation

    Visitors can choose to spend their vacation relaxing by fishing on the shore of Walton Lake, or swimming and paddling in the water. There is a swimming beach, fishing pier and boat ramp for small self powered craft, and the lake is stocked with rainbow trout.There are also many trails nearby for those who would like to explore on foot or mountain bike. This includes the 7.5-mile multi-use Round Mountain Trail as well as the 1-mile Walton Lake Trail, which offers many scenic views around the lake.

    Natural Features

    Walton Lake is a blue sparkling jewel hidden within the dense forest. A small dam impounds spring-fed water that seeps from surrounding sloped meadows. Fishing is a favorite activity while hiking is very popular as is simply enjoying a picnic at the lake.Aspen and tall willows add habitat diversity to make this place especially attractive to wildlife. This is a place to find white-headed woodpecker, belted kingfisher, spotted sandpiper, cinnamon teal, American coot, Steller's jay, yellow-headed blackbird and Brewer's blackbird.

    Nearby Attractions

    For visitors seeking a bit of civilization, the city of Prineville is nearby. There are opportunities to shop, dine out, golf, attend events and visit the localmuseum. For those wanting to explore the Ochoco National Forest, Lookout Mt and Round Mt are great places to hike and Mt bike. Wild flowers are abundant at the Big Summit Prairie where occasional antelope, elk and deer are sometimes seen.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $60 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed

    4. Painted Hills Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    88 Photos
    724 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Dispersed camping is allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service (USFS) lands without a permit, but it is recommended that campers obtain a map that shows current property boundaries. Please contact the BLM , (541) 573-4400 or (541) 416-6700, or the USFS, (541) 575-3000 or (541) 416-6500, for more information. While camping is not allowed within the three units of the monument, there are many nearby campgrounds. Some have full service amenities, some are quiet and remote, some are in the forest, and some are right on the John Day River.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park

    5. Ochoco Lake County Park

    12 Reviews
    25 Photos
    107 Saves
    Prineville, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $10 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole

    6. BLM John Day River - Priest Hole

    20 Reviews
    69 Photos
    288 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    For a rustic overnight stay deep in eastern Oregon, let your tires roll past the Painted Hills-one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders-and drive deep into John Day River Territory to the Priest Hole Recreation Site. Although primitive, camping here lands you in the middle of the Wild and Scenic John Day River, designated for scenery, recreation, fish, wildlife, and geologic values. Camping is allowed everywhere, including on the gravel bar northeast of Priest Hole, where you sleep to the gurgle of the river and stepping out of your tent or trailer lands your foot in the water. Know Before You Go: Open YEAR ROUND but the rough road can make access difficult in winter. ACCESSIBILITY is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities. NO FEES for camping or floating the one-mile section around Priest Hole. There is one toilet; NO potable water, trash cans or campsite amenities. PETS ARE ALLOWED under owner control. Watch for rattlesnakes. HUNTING/FISHING LICENSES ARE REQUIRED. Fire restrictions run June 1 – September 30 (liquid gas or propane only). Point of Interest: Priest Hole is a local favorite for fishing and swimming. Stopping here is a natural part of a visit to the Painted Hills, Sutton Mountain Back Country Byway and eastern Oregon! Priest Hole Brochure Explore Oregon Recreation: Priest Hole ADA Access: Priest Hole Recreation Site is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground

    7. Skull Hollow Campground

    33 Reviews
    46 Photos
    266 Saves
    Terrebonne, Oregon

    As of10/5/2020 *** There is a Closure Order prohibiting dispersed camping outside of the Skull Hollow campground. View a map of the closure area here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd507382.pdf.

    This closure is designed to help protect natural resources around the trailhead from overuse and to prevent conflict between campers and day users. Please observe the closure order and use the campground for camping in the vicinity of Skull Hollow trailhead. AMENITIES: NO DRINKING WATER 28 standard campsites No hook-ups or dumping facilities 1 wooden picnic table and 1 combination fire ring/grill per campsite 2 vault outhouses for the campground 1 informational signboard On-site campground host NEARBY ACTIVITIES: Horseback Riding Hiking Mountain Biking Rock climbing (Smith Rock State Park) Hunting

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground

    8. Barnhouse Campground

    8 Reviews
    11 Photos
    135 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    This campground is surprisingly quiet and serene as it sits nestled among some large ponderosa pine trees just a few miles from the main highway. It also hosts the trailhead for Barnhouse Trail (#813) located in the northwest corner of the campground.

    Coyotes and owls can be heard most summer evenings and occasionally local ranchers will graze their cattle nearby, which can make for some interesting serenades in the evening hours.

    Size & number of trailer sites are limited (no dump station). No RV's over 25 feet. There is a 14 day stay limit on all National Grassland and US Forest Service land including but not limited to campgrounds and other developed facilities.

    This campground has 6 campsites that each have a picnic table and combination fire pit/grill. Parking spurs vary in size so any site can accommodate tent camping, but some may not be able to accommodate RV camping.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground

    9. Smith Rock State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    170 Photos
    434 Saves
    Terrebonne, Oregon

    2021: Open with capacity limit due to COVID-19. If you enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you. There are several thousand climbs in the park. More than a thousand are bolted routes. We also offer miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Along your trip through the canyon, you might see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otter and beaver. Note: Some climbing areas are closed or have limited access from about Jan. 15 to Aug. 1 to protect nesting raptors. Drones are also not allowed during this period. Check the park advisories on this page for exact dates and affected areas. Due to the uniqueness and fragile aspect of the park, park rangers enforce the animal leash law and ask all park users to stay on trails. Bivouac Camping Camping is open early spring through late fall, as weather allows. Walk-in bivouac area for tents (No reservations) Showers (overnight guests only) RV camping, sleeping in vehicles and open fires are not allowed

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Big Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Bend Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Bend Campground

    10. Big Bend Campground

    10 Reviews
    32 Photos
    50 Saves
    Prineville, Oregon

    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.

    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
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Showing results 1-10 of 123 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Central Oregon

Recent Reviews in Central Oregon

373 Reviews of 123 Central Oregon Campgrounds


  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Nov. 25, 2024

    Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    This was a great place to be nude

    I was nude here for a week in July last year.  Great place to stay and not far from town.  Wasn't too crowded and my neighbors didn't seem to mind.  I had a great time hiking nude on some of the trails as they weren't too crowded.  I'll definitely be back again.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Reynolds Pond Recreation Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Reynolds Pond Recreation Site

    Quiet stop over

    Friday night rest stop boondocking. All to ourselves. One jeep came out after we set up and 2 trucks went past us in at 20:30. Lovely sunset nice place to let dog run.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mayfield Pond Recreation Area
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Mayfield Pond Recreation Area

    Parking spot for a night for me

    Coordinates get to entrance with signs, lots of rocks on this sandy rd. Kinda a wastelandish area for offroading and target practice. A good spot for app like Regrid, as half the pond on NW side is state property. Theres some creepy private property sign but that prob means no boating. Prob better to get here from other side from Bend Rd like at 44.085493,-121.126358 if you have a bike or want to hike in. Some cool rock features to climb. Mainly seems like a place for partying.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Badlands Rock Camping

    Cool sandy area with many spots

    A good open area with lots of nice smelling juniper. Theres parking at the few trailheads or off the road. The best spot, with some nice features such as lava rocks, is the 3rd right from the main road. Some folks may be particular about their "spot". No toilet, trash nor water but good trails. About 20 mins into town. Didnt see any snakes but was checking just in case. Prob best for RV or car camping. High desert gets to 40s at night this time of year.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deschute County Expo RV Park
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Deschute County Expo RV Park

    Good place to stay

    We stayed here twice with a short gap between our 2 times. Comfortable park, very clean. Big rig friendly especially in the center areas without trees. If you're using Starlink this would be a good choice. Able to do laundry both times we stayed (credit card instead of quarters!). Full hook ups (we paid $50 per night).  Good location for visiting Redmond and Bend.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Pine Mountain Campground

    Quiet place to stay

    Was by myself on motorcycle. Clear directions, plenty of tables, leveled spaces for tent. Gets cold at night. 

    Road here was a graded packed dirt, so a but bumpy but 2WD would make it no problem. Enjoyed my stay

  • Mike The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore)
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore)

    Nice campground. Central to a lot of stuff.

    We enjoyed our stay here. We had a nice space with decent trees for shade and putting up some lights. We could easily drive in to Madras...or to the Crooked River Canyon to go bungee jumping!!!!  We also took a nice drive out east in the hills. Firewood was a bit steep, at $8/bundle.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deschute County Expo RV Park
    Aug. 9, 2024

    Deschute County Expo RV Park

    Nice Fairground Campground

    Our GPS and Waze wanted to take us to the Fair& Expo main gate, but we followed the website instructions to the RV park portion of the fairgrounds adjacent to the Juniper Golf Course. Check-in was quick and easy. We proceeded to pull through site B-1 with FHUs for our two-night stay. The fairgrounds have nice cement sites to include a spot to park your tow vehicle or toad. Utilities are placed in the back center of the pad. The water pressure was good at about 50 psi. We got 4 bars on Verizon and the Wifi was above average for a park this size, i.e. you can check email and surf but not stream. There are no trees around the sites, so no issues with satellite. The sites in the B loop and this CG in general are close together. It was a pleasant surprise to find that they have a laundry, which is located in the office building where you register. There are also restrooms and showers there as well. As we were in site B-1 near the RV park entrance, we took our dog for walks to the left where there were trails into the adjacent state land(identified by a sign on a tree). The site had a picnic table and nice little standup grill. We enjoyed our stay at this CG.

  • Kelda C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Cyrus Horse Camp

    Nice but Rough Road

    Great secluded dispersed camping. It was obviously meant for folks with horses, but I was the only one there, so there were no horses in sight. The road getting there entailed about 5 miles of bumpy, windy dirt roads. Not totally worth it for a one night stay in a van, but might be for a 4wd car.

    GPS: 44.448114, -121.102884

  • Ann W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Wildcat Campground & Day Use Area
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Wildcat Campground & Day Use Area

    Peaceful Retreat

    Nice small quite campground. Enjoyed the miles of hiking with TH right at the campground. A very friendly deer kept visiting us during our stay. Enjoyed cooling off in the small creek that runs through the edge of campground.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Badlands Rock Camping

    NO ACCESS as of July 2024 -Completely blocked off to motor vehicles

    Tried to drive in but all entrances were blocked by large rocks and signs that say no motor vehicle access.

    Same with the other entrance a couple miles down the road.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Sand Springs Campground
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Sand Springs Campground

    Nice Place

    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.

  • Kelda C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Badlands Rock Camping

    Good Option Near Bend

    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. Near the road but quiet enough. A solid option for a short stay.

  • Soph W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deschute County Expo RV Park
    Jun. 28, 2024

    Deschute County Expo RV Park

    Highly Recommend

    A nice place to stay! Everything was clean. The washers and dryers use cards, no coins. I didn't get good WiFi. My TV couldn't connect. Although my laptop connected fine in the laundry room. The Internet speed was average. I enjoyed my stay here. As a woman solo traveler, I felt safe and secure. Even pulling in at 1AM. I highly recommend it.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Post Pile Campground
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Post Pile Campground

    Beautiful spot on the Crooked River

    One of several BLM (fee) campgrounds along the Crooked River. Post Pile is one of the smaller sites. Only 7 designated spots. I stayed here one Saturday night in June, to connect with someone cycling north along the Oregon Outback route. This area is a good place for cyclists doing that ride to camp (night 3 if you do the full ride in 5 days, Klamath Falls to Biggs Junction).

    These campgrounds were full of trailer campers, most who were there for multiple days. Rocky Canyon, and the Crooked River below Prineville Reservoir and the Bowman Dam is very popular being about an hour from Bend. Because of that camp sites are hard to come by.

  • Shelby S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Jun. 15, 2024

    Painted Hills Dispersed

    Perfect ✨️

    I arrived midday, so I spent the hottest part of the day in my shade tent reading and then in the evening watched the fire under the stars in my hammock. very peaceful, only saw one car drive by the whole time

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mitchell City Park
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Mitchell City Park

    NICE SPOT IN A CITY PARK

    Not sure what some people are complaining about. This small four site RV “Park” located in a public park in the town of Mitchell, Oregon is perfect if wanting to visit John Day National Monument. Very close to the painted hills and the road to Fossil. For only $25 with electric and water, it's a steal, especially after boon-docking for a few days. Close to a small store that carries a lot of stuff. Plus the Tiger Town Brewing—all any camper needs. Right ? Would definitely stay here again.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Jun. 5, 2024

    Painted Hills Dispersed

    It’s what you’d expect

    Stayed here one night. Very windy and very desolate. We were the only ones here. The coordinates take you to a parking lot that does not allow overnight, but you go right past it and across a cattle grade and the campsite is on your right.

  • Clayton S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    May. 29, 2024

    Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    Not much more than a turnout

    The dirt road that used to be popular, which can be seen on satellite, is now blocked with a sign that says "no vehicle access". That leaves a turnout for the trailhead and a small turnout near the formerly accessible gravel lot. So, expect close neighbors.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    May. 28, 2024

    Priest Hole Recreation Area

    We have gone here the past 3 years!

    Mostly gravel road, high clearance is not necessary but there are some pretty big holes in the road, made it in a Toyota Corolla just fine but have gone in larger vehicles and tends to be a little less risky.

    Not a ton of camping spots near the water but plenty of open spaces elsewhere. Pretty spaced out if you choose the right spot.

  • Rob’t H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Campground
    May. 18, 2024

    Ochoco Divide Campground

    Pleasant Campground

    The sites are tucked in among Ponderosa pines & some sites are spacious. There’s occasional highway noise during the day, but fairly quiet at night. Verizon was available at times with a booster.



Guide to Central Oregon

Camping near Central Oregon offers a mix of stunning landscapes, outdoor activities, and unique campgrounds. Whether you're into fishing, hiking, or just soaking in the views, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Head to Prineville Reservoir Campground for great fishing opportunities. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is full, and the fishing is good. I have seen ospreys diving into the lake hunting."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Ochoco Lake County Park. A visitor shared, "This campground is well-maintained. The bathrooms are clean. The showers are hot and the host was friendly and helpful."
  • Wildlife Watching: At BLM John Day River - Priest Hole, you can enjoy the sights of deer and other wildlife. One camper noted, "We have deer and squirrels and lizards every day. It was so fun to watch the squirrels play."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful scenery at Painted Hills Dispersed. One review states, "The Painted Hills are so beautiful. The hikes and trails are so well thought out and maintained."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities at Ochoco Lake County Park. A visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms are clean. The showers are hot and the host was friendly and helpful."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness at Palisades Campground. One reviewer said, "It was very quiet. The pit toilet was very clean and serviced daily."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: At Priest Hole Recreation Site, be prepared for a more primitive experience. A camper noted, "There is one bathroom available, but we didn’t use it."
  • Road Conditions: Accessing some campgrounds can be tricky. One reviewer at Painted Hills Dispersed warned, "The road to the campground goes through private ranch lands then up into the forest."
  • Crowded in Peak Season: Popular spots like Prineville Reservoir Campground can fill up quickly. A visitor mentioned, "It's a very popular Oregon State Park and I'm sure summer requires advance planning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Ochoco Lake County Park is a great option. One camper said, "Tent sites by the lake's edge. Very Clean bathrooms with code for campers."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A family at Walton Lake enjoyed, "We enjoyed kayaking and fishing our days away!"
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. One camper at Big Bend Campground mentioned, "Great campsite, camping right on the river was beautiful."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Ochoco Divide Group Site noted, "The grounds and facilities are well kept with vault toilets and spigots with running water."
  • Be Ready for Generators: Some campgrounds allow generators. One camper at Walton Lake said, "Some of their sites, you can’t actually park at the site, cause they’re on a hill."
  • Plan for Water Access: Not all campgrounds have water hookups. A visitor at Palisades Campground mentioned, "The only potable water is at the most southern campground, Big Bend campground."

Camping near Central Oregon, Oregon, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakes to rugged trails. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground, and you'll have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions