Best Camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland, OR. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland, OR (339)

    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground

    1. Tumalo State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    173 Photos
    615 Saves
    Bend, Oregon

    Nestled in the heart of sunny central Oregon, Tumalo rests along Oregon's spectacular Deschutes River. The campground is simultaneously close enough to the town of Bend to make an quick jaunt to the grocery store, but far enough away to escape the commotion. Its location makes it an ideal stepping stone for any type of outdoor activity you could possibly dream of: lush green golf courses, clear blue-ribbon trout steams, pristine alpine lakes, miles upon miles of challenging yet scenic hiking and mountain bike trails, and of course the Cascade Mountains are all within easy reach.

    Campground info:

    Approximately 23 full-hookup sites More than 50 tent campsites Seven yurts (two pet-friendly) Two seasonal group camping area Two seasonal group picnic areas Seasonal hiker/biker camp Showers and flush toilets Firewood and ice sales (in season) Universal Access Four campsites and one yurt are accessible to campers with disabilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $21 - $61 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground

    2. LaPine State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    100 Photos
    100 Saves
    La Pine, Oregon

    The park's south loop and cabins remains open year-round. Book reservations up to 6 months in advance at oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Reservations are required for cabin stays.

    82 full-hookup sites
    47 electrical sites with water
    5 rustic log cabins (2 pet-friendly; see our Pets in Parks FAQ for more info)
    5 deluxe log cabins (3 pet-friendly; see our Pets in Parks FAQ for more info)
    Hot showers and flush toilets
    Firewood for sale
    RV dump station (water turned off Oct 1- May 1)
    A fenced, off-leash pet exercise area is a short walk from the campground
    Universal Access: All of the deluxe cabins and one rustic cabin are accessible to campers with disabilities (winter accessibility varies)

    The South Loop Campers Clubhouse is open first-come, first-served from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. This rustic 18' x 24' long building is equipped with kitchen sink, counters, tables, chairs, and a refrigerator/freezer. Heating is available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver

    3. Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver

    26 Reviews
    48 Photos
    140 Saves
    Sunriver, Oregon

    Central Oregon is where the east face of the Cascade Range meets the high desert, among a landscape of towering volcanoes, sprawling forests, and vast lava fields. The area is considered an outdoor recreation mecca for its year-round opportunities to stay and play. A good place to begin is the High Desert Museum, which provides information and interpretive displays about the diverse landscape and wildlife found in the area. Nearby attractions include the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Lava River Cave, and Paulina Lake. Central to the area is the town of Bend, which has become notable for its assortment of craft breweries, as well as its flavorful bistros, art galleries, and local arts and crafts shops. A popular summer activity is floating down the Deschutes River, which flows right through the middle of town. The Bend–Sunriver RV Campground is situated alongside the Little Deschutes River, and located approximately 20 miles south of Bend. Visitors have access to more than 300 shady, wooded RV and tent campsites, all equipped with picnic tables and fire rings; many sites are ADA accessible. Back-in RV sites can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 40 feet. A limited number of sites have electrical hookups, and a dump station is available onsite. The resort also features a selection of cottages, cabins and yurts. Campground amenities include water faucets, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, Wifi service, a small store and a restaurant. Pets are welcome, and the resort features a dog park. Campsites are $34–$57/night; other accommodations are $84–$169/night; reservations available. There’s plenty to inside the campground as there is outside. Onsite activities include picnic areas, a kids’ playground, game room, sports courts, mini golf, disc golf, and hiking and biking trails. There’s also a large, outdoor pool, spa, and hot tub. Fishing for salmon, whitefish, and rainbow trout can be enjoyed on the river nearby. Outside of the campground, the activity options are practically endless. Summer offers access to 100s of miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails in the Deschutes National Forest and Three Sisters Wilderness. There’s also rock climbing at Smith Rock State Park, sunning, swimming, floating, paddling, rafting and fishing on the Deschutes and Metolius Rivers, and bird and wildlife watching in several locations. Winter offers skiing and snowboarding on Mount Bachelor, in addition to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and more on local trails.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Smith Rock State Park Campground

    4. Smith Rock State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    170 Photos
    435 Saves
    Terrebonne, Oregon

    2021: Open with capacity limit due to COVID-19. If you enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you. There are several thousand climbs in the park. More than a thousand are bolted routes. We also offer miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Along your trip through the canyon, you might see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otter and beaver. Note: Some climbing areas are closed or have limited access from about Jan. 15 to Aug. 1 to protect nesting raptors. Drones are also not allowed during this period. Check the park advisories on this page for exact dates and affected areas. Due to the uniqueness and fragile aspect of the park, park rangers enforce the animal leash law and ask all park users to stay on trails. Bivouac Camping Camping is open early spring through late fall, as weather allows. Walk-in bivouac area for tents (No reservations) Showers (overnight guests only) RV camping, sleeping in vehicles and open fires are not allowed

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Crater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Crater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Crater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Crater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Crater Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Crater Campground

    5. Little Crater Campground

    21 Reviews
    82 Photos
    266 Saves
    La Pine, Oregon

    Overview

    Situated on the edge of the beautiful Paulina Lake, Little Crater Campground is conveniently located within Newberry National Monument. Visitors to this area are taken aback by the incredible views this area has to offer, highlighting volcanic landscapes intermixed with diverse forests, typical of central Oregon. Popular for both its geological significance and multitude of recreational activities, Little Crater Campground is ideal for individual and family camping excursions. If you are visiting Oregon with the aim of getting the best camping experience, this might be it. Offering campsites next to Paulina Lake, activities available at this campground include hiking, bird watching, bicycling, sightseeing and access to nearby trails. For more information about the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, please visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=66159

    Recreation

    The unique location of Little Crater Campground offers visitors opportunities to hike shoreline trails and alpine vistas. Visitors can also take advantage of time on the lake, boating, kayaking, swimming and fishing. For anglers, this lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Spanning a surface area of 1,531 acres, the lake supports rainbow trout, brown trout and Kokanee salmon. In September, the outlet of Paulina Lake may be choked with Kokanee moving to spawn in Paulina Creek.

    Natural Features

    Paulina Lake is located within the collapsed calder of Newberry Volcano. Nearly five miles in diameter, this caldera encircles the basins of Paulina Lake and its twin, East Lake. Neither lake receives water from an inlet or stream - instead both rely on rain, snowmelt and hot springs for water. Paulina Creek flows from the lake and has chiseled a narrow gorge through the caldera's west wall creating a remarkable twin waterfall. Thermal vents and hot springs along the lake's northeast edge help create a highly productive ecosystem. The surrounding undeveloped wilderness, clean streams and diverse forests support a variety of wildlife, including porcupine, bighorn sheep, deer, bats native fish, migratory birds and even the occasional black bear.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, is a great starting point for visitors to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits. Visitors can explore the Lava River Cave, also located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. At 5,211 feet (1,588 m) in length, the northwest section of the cave is the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (541) 323-1746.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $18 - $29 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Crown Villa RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Crown Villa RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Crown Villa RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Crown Villa RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Crown Villa RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Crown Villa RV Resort

    6. Crown Villa RV Resort

    14 Reviews
    21 Photos
    84 Saves
    Bend, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $59 - $160 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lava Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lava Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lava Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lava Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lava Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lava Lake Campground

    7. Lava Lake Campground

    17 Reviews
    47 Photos
    280 Saves
    Sunriver, Oregon

    Overview

    Lava Lake Campground is located along the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway within the heart of Central Oregon's Cascade Range.

    Recreation

    Lava Lake Campground offers access to hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing and scenic driving.

    Natural Features

    Lava Lake is located on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range at an elevation of 4,740 feet surrounded by mature pine forests with bull rushes and lava outcroppings lining its shores..

    Nearby Attractions

    Visitors can explore wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, lakes and reservoirs and approximately 1,600 miles of trails within the Deschutes National Forest. Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, and the unique geological landscape of Newberry National Volcanic Monument draw visitors to the region as well.Visitors will also enjoy traveling the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway which climbs into the Cascades from Central Oregon's high desert valley over a 66-mile drive weaving through snow-capped peaks and alongside alpine lakes.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 - $52 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park

    8. Creekside Sisters City Park

    21 Reviews
    40 Photos
    77 Saves
    Sisters, Oregon

    Creekside Campground is a municipal park which offers a total of 60 camp sites including 27 full hook-up sites. Each site is equipped with a fire pit and a picnic table. The campground has restrooms and coin operated showers as well as an automated sewer discharge site.

    Creekside Campground is situated along Whychus Creek and within walking distance of downtown. A covered foot bridge spans the creek and leads to Creekside Park. The campground is open from April through October. Campground info line: 541-323-5218.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paulina Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paulina Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paulina Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paulina Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paulina Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paulina Lake Campground

    9. Paulina Lake Campground

    19 Reviews
    93 Photos
    162 Saves
    La Pine, Oregon

    Overview

    Paulina Lake Campground is located 6,350 ft. above sea level in the caldera of Newberry Volcano, on the edge of the beautiful Paulina Lake. Conveniently located within Newberry National Monument, visitors to this area are taken aback by the incredible views this has to offer, highlighting volcanic landscapes intermixed with diverse forests, typical of central Oregon. Popular for both its geological significance and multitude of recreational activities, Paulina Lake Campground is ideal for individual and family camping excursions. For more information about the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, please visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=66159

    Recreation

    The unique location of Paulina Lake Campground offers visitors opportunities to hike shoreline trails and alpine vistas. Visitors can also take advantage of time on the lake, boating, kayaking and fishing.For anglers, this lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Spanning a surface area of 1,531 acres, the lake supports rainbow trout, brown trout and Kokanee salmon. In September, the outlet of Paulina Lake may be choked with Kokanee moving to spawn in Paulina Creek.

    Natural Features

    Paulina Lake is located within the collapsed crater, or "caldera" of Newberry Volcano. Nearly five miles in diameter, this caldera encircles the basins of Paulina Lake, and its twin, East Lake. Neither lake receives water from an inlet stream, but instead, rely on rain, snowmelt and hot springs for water. Paulina Creek drains the lake and has chiseled a narrow gorge through the caldera's west wall creating a remarkable twin waterfall. Thermal vents and hot springs along the lake's northeast edge help create a highly productive ecosystem. Wetlands, diverse forests, and rocky slopes near the campground provide a necessary habitat for shorebirds, porcupine, deer, bats and the occasional black bear.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (541) 323-1746.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, is a great starting point for visitors to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits. Visitors can explore the Lava River Cave, also located in the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. At 5,211 feet (1,588 m) in length, the northwest section of the cave is the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon. A rustic lodge near the campground, operating under a special use permit from the Deschutes National Forest, offers visitors lodging, last minute essentials and a cafe.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $27 - $29 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    10. Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    50 Photos
    414 Saves
    Bend, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 339 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland

Recent Reviews in Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland

1380 Reviews of 339 Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland Campgrounds


  • Rachel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort

    Bend/Sisters area

    This is a beautiful RV park. Very well kept, friendly people, close to Bend area. Our site was #7. Pull through, FHU, had a small brick patio area with picnic table and fireplace. Camp store was well stocked. Laundry on site which was very reasonable. Site was level. As an RV park the sites are close together. We did a waterfall hike, went to Bend a couple times, went for dinner and drinks at the Barn in Sisters which is a food truck park. Sisters was a great small town.

  • Bosn E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Creekside Sisters City Park
    Nov. 1, 2024

    Creekside Sisters City Park

    Nice and Convenient!

    The best thing this park has going for it, is also a negative. The campground is in Sisters, OR., which is a great little town in Central Oregon, a jumping off location for lots of outdoor activities. Sisters also is yupped up with several cafes, bistros, art galleries, breweries, and tap houses too numerous to list here. It's also the home of Preston Thompson Guitars! The negative is that US Hwy 20, a main East/ West artery and vein for Oregon runs right through the middle of Sisters, and within just a few yards from this campground. So, you do get a lot of highway noise. However, the speed is low there and so that helps. 

    The campground manager was the friendliest manager that I've ever met. She makes it feel like home for you and genuinely wants you to like the park as much as she does. Mind you, she is probably a city employee as the the campground is part of Creekside City Park. But, she treats it as hers, and she wants you to come back. We had a FHU unit which rocks after spending several nights on the Oregon Coast in State Parks w/o FHUs. 

    The sites are close to one another, and the road around to the sites serpentines throughout the campground. Be mindful if you pull off in your rig in front of the office, as that gravel parking lot also serves as a drive out for the dump station. You very well could block off someone who wants to leave the dump station. I had an altercation with such a RVer because a Class A pulled right behind me, blocking the guy in, while we were getting directions from the manager. But, he saw it all as my fault and that is where the rub was. He wasn't very nice about being blocked in, even if it was for about a minute, and certainly ruined my day.

  • Kelsey H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort
    Oct. 20, 2024

    Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort

    Great Location and Amenities

    Great location and the amenities were those of a full service RV resort. Bathrooms & showers, pet area, trash service, fire pit rings, and more. Big pull through spots. Right off the road so there was a bit of road boise but still overall great.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sisters, Oregon - Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Sisters, Oregon - Dispersed Camping

    Easy, beautiful, free

    Maybe 15min outside bend, a little hard to see the turn off in the dark, but once we did it was easy to find a spot and set up camp! We only stayed one night and were car camping so it was perfect!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Whiskey Jack Dispersed Campsite
    Oct. 12, 2024

    Whiskey Jack Dispersed Campsite

    Close to traveled road, dusty!

    Ok site. Not especially scenic, but good outdoor space with lots of owl and bug noise at night.

    Right next to road. Cars come by somewhat regularly, at some speed, kicking up dust.

    There is an open spot suitable for solar and starlink.

  • Nick J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sister Mountains Viewpoint on Harrington Loop
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Sister Mountains Viewpoint on Harrington Loop

    No Amenities but Close to Town

    I have stayed here a couple times on motorcycle trips around Oregon. There are lots of sites that have been used and it's a great place to spend a night or two. It's close to Sisters so you can grab what you need.

    You're close to the Rodeo grounds so you can hear what's going on if there are any events there. Overall, great free place to camp if you're in the Sisters, OR area.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Rock Quary
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Dispersed Rock Quary

    Rock quarry = shooting range

    This is an active shooting range, so if you're looking for peace and quiet or a spot that is not littered with pulls of trash, you've come to the wing place.

    On the upside, when there is not shooting, the quarry is an ok view (if you can get past the litter), and there is endless space and open skies for solar or starlink. It's also easy to reach and rig friendly, but not far from main highway for access.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed wikiup camping
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Dispersed wikiup camping

    Dusty and featureless, but flat

    Only about 70 yards from main road. Super fine dust, everything will be dirty.

    Tall trees so no good vantage point for starlink or solar.

    No water features right at site.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sparks Lake Recreation Area
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Sparks Lake Recreation Area

    Perfection!

    Amazing views. Access to water. Gorgeous sunsets. Not far from toilet if you're up for a walk, or have wheels. Firepits. This site has it all.

    Room to back in 15' trailer to camp or of.

    Early October, 70 f during day 30 f at night.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Reynolds Pond Recreation Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Reynolds Pond Recreation Site

    Quiet stop over

    Friday night rest stop boondocking. All to ourselves. One jeep came out after we set up and 2 trucks went past us in at 20:30. Lovely sunset nice place to let dog run.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sparks Lake Recreation Area
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Sparks Lake Recreation Area

    Nice spots near Spark Lake

    There are several spots off of the road to the Spark Lake Day Use area. The road is very rough, but taken slow does not require a 4wd.

  • Guru K.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Smiling River Campground
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Smiling River Campground

    Beautiful Riverside Campground, Maintenance Could Be Improved

    We went as a group of 8+ families, booking a number of different campsites in two groupings, one on the riverfront, one on the backside of the loop.  The campground layout is a large loop with a road down the center, so was great for kids riding bikes around and playing.

    The riverside sites were beautiful but ours was very close to an outhouse that was extremely full and smelled very bad.  It really needed to be cleaned out and clearly hadn't in a long time.

    Also the river was super cold and very fast moving, which at times was a little scary with a ton of young kids running around.

    Camp Sherman was only a mile away and has fresh donuts in the morning.  I was able to ride over on my electric skateboard and it was a beautiful enjoyable ride.

    There was also a small bridge 7-10ft above the river that folks jumped off of which was fun.

    We didn't have any major problems with bees or mosquitos as some other folks mentioned that they had in previous reviews.

    We had one morning evening where fog was rolling across the river and it was uniquely beautiful.  Overall it's a great spot, but would have been perfect if the maintenance had been better and the outhouse smell wasn't so bad.

  • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 29, 2024

    Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping

    Solitude and wide open space

    Love this dispersed campsite! So much wife open space. We were the only campers here last night. So quiet that you can hear a pin drop. Oh, the 360 views are fantastic! A little bumpy ride for regular cars as it is in a dirt road; an AWD preferred.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Tumalo State Park Campground
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Tumalo State Park Campground

    Like camping at an apartment complex

    Never again, hovering campground hosts kept the place clean but they made us feel like we were on the watch list. Campers left the campsite and no joke, the hosts were in raking the dirt as the people were vacating.

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big River Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    Big River Campground

    Big River FS

    This is across river from Big River Group campground. Only about 10 sites. Most of the Sites are small. Pit toilets. Fire pit. Picnic table. Close to road. Somewhat on the dirty side. Some sites back to Deschutes River.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from LaPine State Park Campground
    Sep. 24, 2024

    LaPine State Park Campground

    Typical State Campground

    Stayed in one of the cabins, it was clean and made a nice getaway for a couple days.

    Bathrooms are a long walk in the middle of the night so I should have chosen a cabin with a bathroom, my mistake. 

    Campground sites are tightly packed and lack privacy. If you like to take nice long walks there are hiking paths as well as the paved roads in the campground.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lambertiana Road
    Sep. 23, 2024

    Lambertiana Road

    Good spot not in mountain area

    A good spot closer to main rd so seems to be a few degrees difference in temp so got to about low 40s instead of 30s at night. Need to go down road a half mile or so for an open flat spot but with an RV may need to take the first big open spot on the left not too far from main road. There may be other campers there. A good parking spot. Not much else there. If driving from north then need to take a turn around or u-turn to get to the road.

  • rick A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Craig Lake
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Craig Lake

    More pond than lake

    Very small maybe 4 spots. Definitely not worth the drive. Small pond not really a lake.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Pumice Butte Road
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Pumice Butte Road

    Road closed due to fire warning

    Went to top of paulinas peak and the small fires looked to be over 30 miles away. At least there is a public laundry and shower coin operated.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ten Mile Sno-Park
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Ten Mile Sno-Park

    Not a good spot for camping

    Got restrictions here, although its good if you want to bike or atv. Theres toilets and picknick table with fire pit, but no water source. Requires a permit to park and no camping outside of parking lot.



Guide to Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland

Camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland, Oregon, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor fun and beautiful scenery. Whether you're into hiking, fishing, or just chilling by the campfire, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Smith Rock State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Can get a little crowded in peak months, but you can't beat the price, and great amenities."
  • Fishing: Head to Paulina Lake Campground for some great fishing opportunities. A visitor mentioned, "The lake is great for fishing, hiking, and has amazing hot springs on one side."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Skull Hollow Campground, you might spot deer and other wildlife. One happy camper shared, "The cattle in the morning will sing to you at their feeding time from their nearby ranch."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the clean restrooms and showers at LaPine State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The showers and bathrooms were clean. People were quiet for the most part."
  • Scenic Views: Many love the stunning views at Prineville Reservoir Campground. One visitor said, "The campground is beautiful, we have deer and squirrels and lizards every day."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe at Tumalo State Park Campground. A reviewer stated, "Everyone was friendly. I would 100% stay again!"

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds, like Three Sisters Overnight Park, can be noisy due to their proximity to highways. A camper mentioned, "It's an urban campground and very tightly packed and a lot of road noise."
  • Limited Amenities: At Smith Rock State Park Campground, there are no electric hookups or fires allowed. One visitor pointed out, "You can't beat the price, and great amenities."
  • Crowded in Peak Season: Popular spots like LaPine State Park Campground can fill up quickly during summer. A reviewer advised, "It's a little crowded but no one was too loud."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Tumalo State Park Campground is great for families, with clean bathrooms and friendly staff. One parent said, "The bathrooms were clean and awesome."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities like hiking and fishing to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Paulina Lake Campground mentioned, "We had a great hike just off the campground to the top of the ridge."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids while exploring. A visitor at LaPine State Park Campground noted, "The space had water and electricity."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver offers good power and water, but one reviewer mentioned, "The only reason I did not give this park 5 stars is the lack of sewer."
  • Space Between Sites: Look for campgrounds with spacious sites like Skull Hollow Campground. A camper shared, "Our site had plenty of space to spread out along with shade."
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for some noise, especially in busier campgrounds. A visitor at Prineville Reservoir Campground noted, "There is definitely truck traffic through the campground."

Camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland, Oregon, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. With a little planning, you can have a fantastic time!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland offers a wide range of camping options, with 339 campgrounds and RV parks near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland and 55 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland is Tumalo State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 75 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 55 free dispersed camping spots near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland.

  • What parks are near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland that allow camping, notably Deschutes National Forest and Willamette National Forest.