RV parks near Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests sit at elevations between 3,200 and 4,150 feet, experiencing dramatic temperature swings even in summer months when nighttime lows can drop to the 40s. The area features a mix of high desert plateaus and forested terrain, with campgrounds positioned strategically near both natural attractions and towns. Many RV facilities in this region operate seasonally due to winter snowfall.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Across from Crook County RV Park in Prineville, families can take advantage of a dedicated children's fishing pond stocked with rainbow trout. "Across the street is a family park with a children's fishing pond that is stocked with rainbow trout for anyone 17 and under," notes a visitor to Crook County RV Park.
Pump track activities: The Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver location offers multiple recreation options on-site. "The bathrooms were always clean and the kids (mostly teens) found plenty to do with the pool, putt putt, pump track, etc." One reviewer commented that it's "close to Sunriver (~10 min) and Bend (~20 min) making an afternoon in town, a river float, or snagging groceries easy."
Canyon hiking trails: Scenic trails accessible directly from campgrounds provide varying challenge levels. At Crooked River Ranch, a camper reports: "There's a nice walking trail (Matt's Trail) that takes you around the campground along the canyon edge (level: easy). There's also a BLM trail (Crooked River Trail) you can access from the campground that takes you down to the water (level: moderate to hard)."
Frisbee golf courses: Several parks maintain dedicated disc golf areas. "Across the street from Rimrock Park with an elaborate frisbee golf course," writes one reviewer about the amenities near Crook County RV Park.
What campers like
Unique in-town accommodations: The Camp provides an urban camping experience within walking distance to Bend attractions. "They have RV pads that you can bring your own trailer to, or you can rent one of their beautifully restored vintage trailers or tiny homes that they have on site," explains one reviewer. Another added: "Walk to anything. Walk to everything. A whole pod of Food trucks less than a mile away, breweries, outdoor adventures."
Dog-friendly amenities: Many RV parks feature specialized pet facilities. At Bend RV Resort, one camper appreciated the "fenced in dog area on your campsite" calling it a "game changer for me!" They explained that "each campsite has their own outside garbage can, WiFi (towers throughout resort) 'paw patio' if you choose a site with one."
Canyon views: Certain parks position RVs strategically for scenic vistas. "RV's back up against the canyon rim and have a beautiful backdrop," notes a reviewer at Crooked River Ranch. Several campers mentioned adjusting their parking direction: "A lot of campers pull-in the opposite direction so their back window faces the picturesque mountains."
Free morning beverages: Some parks offer unexpected perks. At Crown Villa RV Park, a reviewer mentioned they provide "a free coffee bar" among their amenities.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Some parks have complex internal road systems or difficult access routes. "Very easy to get lost," warns one camper about Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver, noting "there are too many one way roads in the campground." Reviewers advise using official directions rather than GPS: "Follow the camps directions, NOT Apple or Google (low bridge)."
Seasonal maintenance issues: Facilities may have limited services during certain periods. "The pools were under construction so the kiddos were disappointed. The women's shower closest to the F section was out of order as well as several of the washers and dryers," reported one visitor to Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver.
Wildlife awareness: Natural hazards exist at some locations. For Matt's Trail at Crooked River Ranch, a camper notes: "This trail is hike at your own risk as it does go near the cliffs plus they state rattle snakes but we did not see any."
Laundry facilities: Plan ahead for laundry needs. "Bring quarters if you plan to wash laundry because they don't take debit cards and there isn't a change machine," advises a visitor to Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver.
Tips for camping with families
Free activities: Multiple parks offer recreation without additional fees. "My kids are helping us out with reviews for parks. Kids loved Sunriver-Bend Thousand Trails because there is bunnies, bullfrogs, mini-golf, a great little river to float on or swim in, ladderball, bingo, movies outside, and some pretty great pools!" shared one family at Bend-Sunriver RV Campground.
Spacious play areas: Some campgrounds provide ample room for outdoor games. A visitor to Crooked River Ranch mentioned: "Although it's in the middle of the desert, this campground has amazingly soft parade grounds for tons of outdoor games."
On-site fishing: Stocked ponds at certain parks offer fishing without leaving the property. At Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort, a reviewer enjoyed "catch and release fishing at the on-site pond for trout the size of steelhead."
Site selection tips: Strategic site booking enhances family camping. "Our biggest downside was that we weren't able to select sites when we booked and because the campground is so large we ended up easily being at least 1/3 mile each way from our friends," noted a family at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver.
Tips from RVers
Site layout considerations: Check hookup placement before selecting a site. One RVer at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver mentioned: "The hookup plugs were really far away though from the spot itself," which required extra connection equipment.
Premium site tiers: Many parks offer varying quality levels based on price. A reviewer at Crown Villa warned: "We felt very confident when we selected the bronze area in Crown Villa Bend RV Resort because we've stayed in Sun RV Resorts in California before and they were well maintained. Unfortunately, Crown Villa bronze category was extremely disappointing. Now if you paid extra for platinum or gold, the spaces were absolutely gorgeous and well maintained."
Road noise awareness: Highway proximity affects some parks. At Bend RV Resort, a reviewer advised: "There is a lot of road noise from Murphy Road and Hwy 97. If you want quiet, then I suggest getting one of the sites in the middle and away from Murphy Road."
Shower costs: Some facilities charge for shower use. At Crooked River Ranch, a camper noted: "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."
