Best Campgrounds near Madras, OR

Several good camping spots sit within easy reach of Madras, Oregon. Smith Rock State Park Campground, about 18 miles from town, draws many climbers and hikers to its walk-in tent sites. Campers looking for water activities head to Crooked River Campground at The Cove Palisades State Park, where fishing spots line the shoreline. Skull Hollow Campground works well for campers wanting fewer neighbors and simpler facilities - just pit toilets and fire rings here. Most campers in this area need to pack food in secure containers since wildlife comes through regularly. Camp hosts at most sites keep bathrooms clean and can point you toward good hiking trails nearby. Tumalo State Park Campground takes longer to reach but has better tree cover for summer shade. Weather changes dramatically between seasons - summer days often hit 90°F while winter nights drop below freezing. The Madras area works for both weekend trips and longer stays, with enough different camping areas to try something new each time.

Best Camping Sites Near Madras, Oregon (282)

    1. Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park

    25 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 546-3412

    "We followed our RV GPS and WAZE, which agreed until we got near the state park. We checked out the confirmation email, which stated to follow the signs."

    "Located in Culver, Oregon, this high desert gem is just above Lake Billy Chinook which lies at the confluence of the Crooked, Deschutes, and Metolius rivers."

    2. Deschutes River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park

    25 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 546-3412

    "Cove Palisades State Park is one of my favorite Central Oregon destinations.  Lake Billy Chinook is simply stunning, and there is a great hike, the Tam-A-Lau trail, that goes right from the campsite."

    "Again with most of our trip in Central Oregon, late August/early September, it was very smoky."

    3. Skull Hollow Campground

    34 Reviews
    Terrebonne, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 270-0094

    $10 - $20 / night

    "There are a lot of trails nearby! Hiking, Bike and atv trails. There is also access to the "road" that leads to the top of Grey Butte."

    "Great spot to camp with a quick drive to Smith Rock. We had fun hiking many of the trails within the area. Several TH right next to campground. Very quiet and peaceful campground."

    4. Smith Rock State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    Terrebonne, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 548-7501

    $8 / night

    "Day 4 - Pacific North Quest (South Sister)

    This classic Eastern Oregon gem is located just north of Bend on the Crooked River."

    "Smith Rock always surprises me- here you are, driving through the farmlands of Central Oregon and BAM. There is Smith, rising out of the ground."

    5. Redmond - Central Oregon KOA

    16 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 546-3046

    "Redmond/Central Oregon KOA is such a beautiful place to come and camp. The views are incredible, and is one of the reasons why I really enjoy this place."

    "I’ve never stayed at a KOA before but it was close to the rock ranch we were going to so it was really convenient."

    6. Lake Simtustus RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 475-1085

    $40 - $250 / night

    "About 5 miles off main highway, on the edge of Lake Simtustus, they have boat sliis, pontoon boats and kayaks to rent."

    "The ‘A’ sites at the lake side are very close together. The staff are all friendly and very helpful. Good WiFi and quiet at night."

    7. Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore)

    10 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 351-1182

    $20 - $75 / night

    "Nice campground right next to the reservoir. Easy access for boat launch. Decent fishing"

    "Such a beautiful campground, next to Haystack reservoir out among the junipers and sage brush. Lots of really nice campsites on a hillside. They have firewood for sale here."

    8. Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6640

    "Open grounds away from everything. There was a dirt square right off the dirt road we parked in. The only noise was the power-lines close by, which weren’t bad. Decent stargazing and had no issues."

    "Beautiful surroundings, incredible stars, super peaceful"

    9. Jefferson County Fairgrounds RV Park - DURING EVENTS ONLY

    4 Reviews
    Madras, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 325-5050

    "Camp host was nice, easy access to sites. Showers/bathrooms clean but dated."

    "Rght next to Fair-when it is in town!"

    10. Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground

    17 Reviews
    Terrebonne, OR
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6700

    "There were a few camp spots, they’re kinda close to each other but enough distance for some privacy."

    "Overall amazing location and access to stores nearby while also feeling submersed in nature. Only have access to a bathroom."

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Recent Reviews near Madras, OR

1220 Reviews of 282 Madras Campgrounds



Guide to Madras

Camping near Madras, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Skull Hollow Campground stated, "Nice, scenic campground nearby Smith Rock SP. Clean pit toilets, friendly camp host."
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many enjoy the welcoming vibe at campgrounds. A visitor at Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort shared, "The campground was very well maintained. Everyone was friendly."
  • Space and Privacy: Campers often mention the spacious sites. One review for Crooked River Campground highlighted, "Our site had plenty of space to spread out along with shade in the hotter point of the day."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Deschute County Expo RV Park noted, "Spaces are very close together and the ones with large gravel 'lawns' between them smell strongly of animal urine."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A review for Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground mentioned, "There aren't a ton of free camping options near Redmond."
  • Reservations Recommended: During busy seasons, it's wise to book ahead. A visitor at Three Sisters Overnight Park said, "The hosts were very hospitable and the campsites were very clean."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. One reviewer at Cove Palisades State Park mentioned, "There’s a playground, a fenced-in dog park, trail heads, showers, and a cute little camp store."
  • Quiet Hours: Be mindful of quiet hours to keep the peace. A camper at Deschutes River Campground noted, "When quiet time started at 10pm, it was quiet."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A family at Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort enjoyed the "outdoor gathering place and a general store."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Redmond - Central Oregon KOA said, "Many pull-through spaces with full hookups and fire pit."
  • WiFi Availability: Be aware that WiFi can be spotty. One camper at Deschute County Expo RV Park mentioned, "The Internet speed was average."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A reviewer at Skull Hollow Campground shared, "Great spot to camp with a quick drive to Smith Rock."

Camping near Madras, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Madras, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, Madras, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 282 campgrounds and RV parks near Madras, OR and 56 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Madras, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Madras, OR is Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Madras, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 56 free dispersed camping spots near Madras, OR.

What parks are near Madras, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Madras, OR that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.