Tent camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam offers access to Oregon's semi-arid high desert environment where temperatures can fluctuate by 30+ degrees between day and night. The region averages less than 15 inches of rainfall annually, creating conditions where summer fire restrictions are common and water conservation is essential. Many campsites sit at elevations between 1,200-2,500 feet in this transitional zone between Mt. Hood's forests and central Oregon's desert.
What to do
Bike packing along Deschutes River: Pedal the dirt and gravel Lower Deschutes Access Road for wilderness exploration. One camper at Hike in from Lower Deschutes State Rec Area reported, "The biking was amazing and the camping was true freedom. Clear skies and twenty miles of golden wheat blowing in the wind. The entire dirt road hugged the winding river."
Trout fishing access points: Multiple fishing spots located along the river with boat-in or wade-in options. At Oak Springs Campground, visitors note "Easy access to the river for fishing" and sites "located all along the BLM road and are marked."
Hike abandoned railway trails: Access miles of relatively flat hiking on old railroad grades. Near Macks Canyon, "From the end of the Lower Deschutes Access Road just above the campground, you can hike along the old railway line. Again, amazing views of the Deschutes and the canyon. We did about 5 miles road trip but you could go further."
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk viewing opportunities for deer and native birds. At Pebble Ford Campground, campers experience wildlife encounters right in camp: "Had some deer walk right through our camp spot while we sat by the fire."
What campers like
Remote seclusion despite proximity: Many sites offer isolation while remaining accessible. A camper at Macks Canyon Recreation Site shared, "Really good spot to get off the grid while still having most amenities. Stayed here for a few days and loved it. About 20 miles of gravel road will take you here."
Stream and river sounds: Water features create natural ambient noise for sleeping. At Bonney Crossing, campers appreciate "Hear and see the water from half the sites" and another notes, "The campsite is clean with no over growth. Sleeping next to the water is calming and the hikes are top notch."
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution in most camping areas allows for excellent night sky viewing. One camper described Lockit Campsite: "Night sky was unreal. Feels like no one is around for miles. Can't say enough."
Generously spaced sites: Many campgrounds feature well-separated sites for privacy. At Pebble Ford Campground, visitors note "Small… we're talkin' 3-4 sites… but each site is HUGE! Refreshing to see, and how cool to get here and take over all three with a party."
What you should know
Severe road conditions: Access routes often require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Macks Canyon warned, "I have never experienced a washboard road as bad as this was for 6-7 miles. I thought the doors were going to blow off the truck. Not an exaggeration. Usually you can adjust speed to plane the wash. Not this time."
Water scarcity planning: Most areas lack potable water sources and require bringing all water needed. At Lockit Campsite, "No drinking water or hookups of any kind. No fires. Must bring everything."
Wind hazards in river canyons: Tent campers should prepare for sudden strong gusts. At Macks Canyon Recreation Site, visitors report "The only negative is that it can get super windy. At one point we were frantically trying to get our awning down from the Cricket and things were flying everywhere. The wind lasted about an hour and then things calmed down again."
Train noise disruptions: Railroad lines run parallel to many camping areas. One camper notes about Lockit Campsite, "Beware of the train that rolls in every 4hrs or so" while another mentioned, "A train will pass by at least a couple times over the course of a night, but it's kind of a fun sight as long as it doesn't come by in the middle of the night."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration opportunities: Shallow water access points offer safe water play for children. A camper at Bonney Crossing shared, "Kids loved spending time exploring the creek and cooling off in it."
Open spaces for free play: Many sites provide room for activities away from hazards. At Carbon Farm Yard, "The camping area is spacious and quiet. There is tons and tons of land to explore and lots of animals and wildlife to view. Lots of space for kids to run around and safely explore."
Wildlife viewing routes: Short hikes offer opportunities to spot animals. A visitor described, "There are several different loops you can hike or walk around the farm. When we were there there was a port-a-potty on the property, but this may have been replaced with a more permanent structure."
Limited services preparation: Families should plan for self-sufficiency. At Bonney Crossing, campers note the campground is "'primitive' so you must bring your own potable water. Site does have an accessible pit toilet."
Tips from RVers
Limited campground size: Most sites near Cheatham Lock and Dam accommodate smaller RVs only. At Trout Creek, campers note "Road to the campground can be a bit rough, but most cars should be fine" indicating larger RVs may have access challenges.
Road hazard awareness: Gravel roads with washboard sections require careful navigation. A visitor to Macks Canyon noted, "About 20 miles of gravel road will take you here and some small Rockwall to semi-worry about."
Seasonal access limitations: Road conditions deteriorate significantly during wet seasons. Campers often report that campgrounds in the area "Closes with first snow," limiting RV access to summer and early fall months in most locations.
Wind precautions: Canyon conditions create unpredictable gusts requiring secure awnings and outdoor equipment. One camper at Macks Canyon observed, "As before the wind kicks up (strong) around 7:30p to 8:30p."
