Tent camping near Culver, Oregon offers campers high desert conditions with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F and nighttime lows dropping into the 40s even in summer months. The landscape sits at approximately 2,600 feet elevation with juniper and sagebrush dominating the terrain. Volcanic features characterize much of the surrounding area, with basalt canyon walls and river gorges creating dramatic camping backdrops.
What to do
Climbing opportunities: Smith Rock State Park Campground provides world-class rock climbing access just 15 miles from Culver. "Smith is awesome for climbing, hiking, slacklining, and generally enjoying being outside," notes Katie L., who highlights additional amenities that benefit climbers: "The bivy site has real bathrooms with running water, charging stations, showers, and a sink for dishes."
Waterfall exploration: At Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, campers can take a short hike to see the falls. "Only half a mile to see the steelhead waterfall," reports Isabella M., who found the camping experience pleasant despite minimal facilities. Tristan S. adds that the area has "clean pit bathroom and clean sites. Little to no trash on the trails to the falls themselves."
Fishing access: Palisades Campground offers prime fishing locations along the Crooked River. "Right on the river with beautiful canyons surrounding you," reports Cynthia W., who considers this her "go-to spot for a quick weekend getaway" with "usually good fishing!" The riverside sites provide direct water access from camp.
What campers like
Communal facilities: At Smith Rock State Park Campground, tent campers appreciate the thoughtful amenities. "The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean (the showers were free too!), there's a dishwashing station, and a charging station," reports Makena B. Michael Y. notes the campground is "usually full of climbers/dirt baggers" and reminds visitors that "no campfires [are allowed] because of previous forest fires."
Riverside camping: Campers at Palisades Campground enjoy the proximity to water. "Sites are well spaced, many with excellent access and views of the river a few feet away," writes David, who was particularly impressed with the "cleanest vault toilets I've ever seen." Bess N. mentions the wildlife viewing opportunities: "There is so much evidence of Beavers! We saw a marten and waterfowl."
Secluded settings: Several tent campers near Culver seek out less developed spots for more privacy. At Round Lake, Matthew F. describes finding "several campsites available and all are primitive" with "a fantastic view of Three Fingered Jack." The lake itself offers versatile recreation: "great for swimming and floating," according to Liam.
What you should know
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary significantly by location and season. At Smith Rock, fires are completely prohibited year-round. Michael Y. reminds campers to "sleep, then get out and enjoy the hike or climbing" since no evening campfires are permitted. Meanwhile, at Steelhead Falls, Aaron notes that "when we went, fires were allowed, and there was a residence on the road in (clearly marked) selling firewood. And they took Venmo!"
Weather considerations: The area experiences extreme temperature fluctuations. "It gets really windy at dusk and dawn," warns Bess N. about riverside camping. Aaron at Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground advises bringing "shade. A canopy or whatever is reasonable for your group. It also gets hot and it's dry, so assume that fire ban will be in affect the minute you leave home and plan your meals accordingly."
Water access: Potable water is limited throughout tent camping areas near Culver. Aaron notes: "There is no water nearby. Closest place we found was Smith Rock day use area. Pay the day use fee and fill water jugs there." Bill T. adds that at some campgrounds "the only potable water is at the most southern campground, Big Bend campground, the first below the dam."
Tips for camping with families
Lookout cabins: For families wanting more amenities than tent camping provides, Cove Palisades Lookout Dispersed offers cabin options. "There are 3 cabins just above the boat docks that have the most beautiful view to wake up to in the morning," shares Darla G., who appreciated that "each had their own private bathrooms also so no walking in the dark to the bathrooms at midnight."
Site spacing: Families should consider privacy between campsites. At Smith Rock, Katie L. points out that the "communal cooking area near the parking and scattered tent sites make for a great way to meet other campers but less ideal for large groups hoping to stick together." For more privacy, Braden M. suggests alternatives to designated sites: "We stayed one night at the designated camp site but ended driving about 10 minutes down a dirt road next to the campground entrance that is actual dispersed camping."
Safety considerations: Families should be aware of natural hazards. At Steelhead Falls, Aaron warns that sites "are a stones throw from cliffs overlooking the Deschutes River canyon." Similarly, Cassidy E. cautions about Cove Palisades Lookout: "Once you reach the camping area (no marked sites) the views are beautiful, but be very careful and aware of the cliff."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many tent camping areas near Culver have restricted RV access. At Steelhead Falls, Mark W. notes: "There is a sign in the way in indicating 30ft length max, but there is no mention on the BLM site. They must mean trailer length since we had no issues with our 22' trailer and rig (40ft total)." He adds that "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."
Road conditions: Several tent camping areas require navigating rough roads. At Palisades Campground, Bill T. describes the access as manageable: "They have good spacing and require very little leveling. Many are pull through, a few back in." For dispersed areas, Cassidy E. warns: "Once you are past the gate, the road becomes very rough. Do not pass the gate if your vehicle doesn't have 4WD."
Amenities for extended stays: RVers looking for longer stays should note available facilities. Bill T. suggests: "Best bet for dumping and getting fresh water is the Crook County RV park, just 15 minutes north on the road in Prineville. Very nice setup, dump $10, fresh water fill $5 (or free with dump)." Most primitive tent camping areas around Culver lack hookups or dump stations.
