Christmas Valley camping spots provide access to unique geological features and recreational areas within Oregon's high desert. Located at approximately 4,300 feet elevation, the region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping below 50°F. Most camping areas sit on sandy or volcanic soil, requiring campers to prepare for limited natural shade.
What to do
Explore the dunes: Sand dunes near Lost Forest/Dunes/Fossil ACEC offer off-highway vehicle recreation and hiking across vast sand formations. "Incredibly spacious and beautiful views! Very few established campfire rings or sites but plenty of space to pick your own parking! Terrain is solely sand and dirt with uneven driving but very worth it for the dunes and views," notes Ronald N.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Duncan Reservoir Campground provides bank fishing opportunities just steps from campsites. "Such a lovely unexpected find. Travel down a gravel road for approx 5 miles mostly smooth a few wash out spot but easy to navigate around to arrive to a sparkling oasis," reports Mama J. The reservoir contains fish and turtles according to multiple reviewers.
Geological formations: Volcanic features provide educational day trips from most camping locations. The Crack-in-the-Ground formation sits approximately 5 miles from Green Mountain Campground. "This is a down and back trail through the crack, where it is nearly 30 degrees cooler. Quite nice on a 100 degree day," explains Nicolaus N.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location creates minimal light pollution, allowing for exceptional night sky viewing. At Green Mountain Campground, Craig S. notes it's "an uber-basic free campground with a nice view of a large Pleistocene lava field to the north and easy access to Crack-in-the-Ground to the south."
Wildlife observation: Several camping areas provide chances to view desert wildlife. At Ana Reservoir RV Park, Anne P. mentions "Lots of little quail were hanging out in the park on my recent visit," while other reviewers report waterfowl sightings at Duncan Reservoir.
Uncrowded weekday camping: Many campgrounds report minimal visitors during weekdays. "We were the only ones there, so peaceful. The views up top were incredible. Sites are good size and bathroom was clean," reports Jessica about Green Mountain Campground. Similarly, at Duncan Reservoir, Liona L. found it "dead on a Tuesday in July."
What you should know
Access road challenges: Most camping areas require travel on unpaved roads with varying conditions. "The road up to the site is washboard, so be prepared for a bumpy drive," notes Richard M. about Green Mountain. For BLM near Summer Lake, Shane K. reports, "Dirt road has potholes but we pulled 24 ft MH with tow no problem."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping lacks amenities. Fred S. describes BLM Christmas Valley Sand Dunes as having "One porta-potty for the whole area; pretty nasty, so best to bring your own toilet system. No designated campsites; set up camp anywhere."
Noise considerations: OHV activity creates significant noise in some locations. According to S at Green Mountain Campground: "I guess everyone else here lucked out and did not get kept up by guns and dune buggies and wake up after being kept up most of the night by their dog having a panic attack to more guns at 9 the next morning."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Christmas Valley Camping and RV Park provides a playground for children. Ana Reservoir RV Park also offers a "little playground for kids," according to Anne P., who also notes "a warm, clean bathroom with showers" available on-site.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can observe wildlife from safe distances at several camping areas. "The most peaceful reservoir full of fish and turtles and cows across the way and birds," says Liona L. about Duncan Reservoir, making it suitable for nature education.
Grocery accessibility: For families needing supplies, options exist despite the remote location. Anne P. notes when camping at Ana Reservoir, "If you need supplies, head over to the Summer Lake store, which has a very friendly owner. Otherwise the nearest real grocery store is about 72 miles away."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. At Duncan Reservoir Campground, Fred S. advises, "We were in a pull-thru site along the reservoir. Not level, but okay," indicating RVers should bring leveling blocks.
Utility availability: Outback Retirement offers hookups but has maintenance concerns. Robert D. notes, "According to Jim the RV park, Restaurant and other out buildings were just purchased by a new owner who is supposed to make many improvements to the park."
RV size limitations: While some areas accommodate larger rigs, many require careful navigation. Duncan Reservoir Campground "has about 9 sites, 3 are pull thru," according to Jessie L., providing options for different RV sizes.
