RV camping near Culver, Oregon offers excellent access to the Deschutes River and Cascade Mountain views with elevations ranging from 2,300 to 3,000 feet. Most RV sites in the region remain open year-round with seasonal temperature variations including hot, dry summers reaching 90°F and winter nights frequently dropping below freezing. Unlike the more crowded Bend area campgrounds, Culver vicinity camping provides quieter alternatives with varied terrain options.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Smith Rock State Park is just a short drive from Crooked River Ranch RV Park, making it a popular base for hikers. "The Terrebonne area provides a ton of hiking activities. Smith Rock State Park is just down the road," notes Kelsey G. The park also offers its own trails, including "Matt's Trail that goes around the park. CRR does not provide a map of Matt's trail that includes an observatory over the canyon."
Fishing opportunities: The Metolius River provides excellent trout fishing just minutes from Cold Springs Resort. "This river is the perfect habitat for Trout, so bring your fishing gear," according to Ashley F. Some campgrounds offer fishing right on-site, with one visitor noting, "Good fishing off dock and near the campground" at Lake Simtustus.
Family recreation: Several campgrounds feature recreational facilities beyond water activities. "Pool for the kids. Golf for Mom and Dad. Restaurants on site as well," writes John B. about Crooked River Ranch. For mini-golf enthusiasts, Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort offers an on-site course along with additional amenities like "a store, pool, and hot tub."
What campers like
Canyon views: The dramatic landscape around Crooked River Ranch RV Park draws consistent praise from visitors. "RV's back up against the canyon rim and have a beautiful backdrop," notes Kelsey G., while another camper mentions how "a lot of campers pull-in the opposite direction so their back window faces the picturesque mountains."
Fishing access: Lake Simtustus RV Park receives high marks for its water accessibility. "About 5 miles off main highway, on the edge of Lake Simtustus, they have boat slips, pontoon boats and kayaks to rent," reports Paul Y. The campground layout includes sections organized by terrain, with one visitor explaining, "D is best for shade and A is down on the water."
Cleanliness and facilities: Campground maintenance receives frequent mentions in reviews. At Deschute County Expo RV Park, visitors appreciate the "clean bathrooms and showers" and note that "all of the pads are paved, and each spot has a picnic table." Another camper highlights how the park is "immaculately clean" with "no evidence of long-term campers."
What you should know
Site selection tips: At Crooked River Ranch, visitors recommend bringing equipment for uneven terrain. "Some of the sites have a decent slope to them, so I recommend bringing blocks for your stabilizers," notes Darren N. Site placement varies significantly, with MickandKarla W. observing, "Loop sites throughout this park vary greatly on space between sites, so your neighbors could be nearby to very close."
Shower facilities: Coin-operated showers are common in the region and require preparation. At Crooked River Ranch, Sarah R. cautions, "My only issue was the bathrooms were clean and great but you needed quarters to take a shower. I don't carry quarters and usually only use them for laundry but add the shower fee to that it was easily 6-8$ in quarters and no one would give me that."
Off-season considerations: While many parks advertise year-round operation, services may be limited in cooler months. At Bend/Sisters Garden area, campgrounds typically reduce staffing between November and March. Some facilities may operate with restricted hours or close certain amenities completely during the winter season.
Tips for camping with families
Access to swimming pools: Several RV parks feature pools that provide welcome relief during hot summer days. "The pool is 10/10. The hot tub 8/10 for needing better ventilation and better hand rail design," shares Marty T. about Mountain View RV Park. Families report that pool facilities are typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Playground availability: Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort offers family-friendly amenities including a playground. "Very well kept and popular RV park in-between bend and sisters. Asphalt pads for RVs, a little close together to my liking, but excellent bathrooms, showers, playground, putt putt golf course," notes Brian C.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Crook County RV Park offers special fishing opportunities specifically designed for young anglers. "Across the street is a family park with a children's fishing pond that is stocked with rainbow trout for anyone 17 and under," reports Tessa W., making this a good option for introducing children to fishing.
Tips from RVers
Electric service details: Most RV parks near Culver offer 50-amp service, with visitors noting reliable connections. "Full hook up. 16 miles from Bend so good place to explore from," shares Charles A. about Deschute County Expo RV Park. The consistent power supply is particularly important during summer months when air conditioning becomes necessary.
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require additional equipment for stabilization. "If you are bringing an RV or travel trailer, I recommend bringing blocks for your stabilizers as some of the sites have a decent slope to them," advises a visitor to Crooked River Ranch. Uneven terrain is common throughout the area due to the volcanic landscape.
Golf cart assistance: For campgrounds with significant elevation changes, some offer transportation help. At Lake Simtustus, Paul Y. appreciates that they "provide golf carts at no extra charge to go up and down the hill" noting the "200 foot drop from office to lakeside," which makes accessing the water much easier for those with mobility challenges.
