Scattered between Bend and Sisters, pet friendly camping near Cloverdale, Oregon offers diverse terrain from juniper-dotted high desert to ponderosa pine forests. The area sits at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet where summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 85°F, but evenings cool significantly. During fire season (typically June-September), many campgrounds enforce seasonal restrictions on campfires and cooking equipment.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground provides access to the Deschutes River where "You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water" according to Braden M. The half-mile trail leads to a scenic waterfall popular with anglers.
Hiking trails: The area around Smith Rock State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems for all ability levels. "The hiking is fantastic and the climbing is world-renown," notes Kristin G. Many trails connect directly from campgrounds to major landmarks.
Mountain biking: The dispersed camping areas near Sisters contain numerous trail systems. Sarah S. reports that "Because this is right in a mountain biking area there are tons of trails to go explore - either hiking or biking. Some really pretty views!"
Rock climbing: Smith Rock State Park is internationally recognized for climbing. "Smith is awesome for climbing, hiking, slacklining, and generally enjoying being outside," writes Katie L. The park has routes suitable for beginners through experts, including a practice wall.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Tumalo State Park Campground receives praise for its well-maintained amenities. Miguel C. describes it as "a sophisticated camping experience. Heated individual showers, clean bathrooms, and quick access to firewood are a big step up from the usual camping basics."
Night sky viewing: The high desert location provides minimal light pollution. At the Sisters dispersed camping area, Gillian P. noted it "Smelt amazing with only the pines" and other campers frequently mention excellent stargazing opportunities.
Proximity to towns: Creekside Sisters City Park offers urban convenience. Phillip C. describes it as "Walking distance to town, quiet and restful. A little road noise but very tolerable." This accessibility makes it easy to restock supplies.
Wildlife encounters: Tumalo State Park offers opportunities to observe local fauna. Vanesa W. observed that "We camped next to a field that was home to a mom cat and her kittens" while other campers report deer, raptors, and smaller wildlife throughout the area.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: During peak summer months, fire bans are common. At Skull Hollow Campground, Christopher C. notes it's "Hot and dry, no water and is kinda expensive." Always check current fire regulations before arrival.
Limited water access: Most dispersed camping areas have no potable water. Laura M. advises "There are zero amenities while camping on forest service dispersed sites so pack in and pack out all trash and waste."
Temperature fluctuations: The high desert experiences significant day-to-night temperature swings. Amber D. warns that "If you're camping, bring extra blankets" as nighttime temperatures can drop dramatically even in summer.
Cell service reliability: Most areas maintain reasonable connectivity. In dispersed camping near Sisters, Geoff P. reports "Super quiet with no one around but me. Close to tons of great MTN biking and hiking. I have decent cell service with Google Fi."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Deschutes River Campground at The Cove Palisades State Park provides water recreation opportunities. Troy B. notes "There were multiple day use areas to swim at just a two minute drive from there" though "they don't allow dogs at the 'beaches.'"
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured programming. Jill T. mentions Crooked River Campground has "a swing-set, a couple of nice horseshoe pits, an animal exercise area, and a volleyball pit" plus "a neat outdoor amphitheater."
Playgrounds and games: Some facilities include recreational areas specifically designed for children. Lee O. describes the Deschute County Expo RV Park as having "over a hundred concrete spaces, each with a grill, picnic table, water, sewer, and electric" creating a comfortable base for families.
Quiet enforcement: For families needing consistent sleep schedules, Sara R. notes that at Tumalo State Park, "The camp hosts take 'quiet time' very seriously" ensuring reasonable noise levels after hours.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Most RV sites in the area require minimal adjustment. At Deschute County Expo RV Park, Dave B. found "paved roads and concrete level pads with full hookups" making setup straightforward.
Water conservation: Due to the arid climate, water management is important. Multiple reviewers recommend bringing extra water containers when staying at sites without hookups.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste management. Leonard H. at Tumalo State Park warns "If have tent site, nearest dump station is CampingWorld... only a few miles away at north side of Bend. Dump station list provided at entry gate is outdated."
Site selection strategies: Book early for prime locations. Mark W. advises when staying at Steelhead Falls: "There are only 2 spots and the end loop where a trailer will fit, have a backup plan if you have a trailer just in case they are taken."
