Best Tent Camping near Madras, OR

Tent campsites near Madras, Oregon range from established campgrounds at Smith Rock State Park to more primitive options on public lands. Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground offers free tent camping with several walk-in sites along the Deschutes River canyon. Henderson Flat Staging Area and Rimrock Springs Trailhead provide additional tent camping options in the high desert terrain, though they have minimal amenities compared to developed sites.

Most tent sites in the Madras region are situated on hard-packed dirt or desert soil with juniper trees providing limited shade. Steelhead Falls has approximately 8-10 designated tent camping spots along a quarter-mile stretch of dirt road, with the most scenic sites requiring a short walk from parking areas. Vault toilets are available at the trailhead but no drinking water. A camper wrote, "If you want to camp by the cliff to see the river, you won't be able to drive to the spot. You'll have to carry your stuff to the spot which there's parking nearby so it's not a far distance." Fire restrictions are common during summer months due to the dry conditions, and campers should bring all necessary water.

The tent camping experience in the high desert around Madras offers stunning views and access to natural features. The walk-in tent sites along the canyon rim at Steelhead Falls provide more privacy and superior scenery compared to drive-in spots. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "There's a view point at about half way with a great view of the wetlands" at Rimrock Springs Trail, making it worth exploring even for day use. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with minimal shade available at most sites. First-come, first-served availability is the norm at dispersed camping areas, with weekends becoming increasingly busy during peak season. The proximity to the Deschutes River offers swimming opportunities at certain access points, providing welcome relief from summer heat.

Best Tent Sites Near Madras, Oregon (71)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Madras, OR

1116 Reviews of 71 Madras Campgrounds


  • Mavrick S.
    Oct. 5, 2019

    Scott Lake Campground

    Stunning!

    So when I first found this campground I wasn't sure what to expect being as reviews and info were sparse so I'll do me best to sum it up. Things to know that arent stated. It is free may require NW forest pass. It's a drive, hike, bike and walk in. I didn't see any spots big enough for RV but there is space to park that isn't officially a site.

    Location: Beautiful sits about 5,000 feet right off McKenzie Pass Road (closed from November to June)

    Sites: I saw 6 drive in with fire ring, picnic table also 2 vault toilets.... There's more walk/ hike in but we had to much gear to do that.

    Directions: Very easy to find spots all along lake and Google maps took us right to spots.

    Activities: Great! Had a kayak/boat launch also had the Scott Mountain TH right there within 1/4 walking distance on dirt road. It seems that a forest fire was pretty recent ontop but the grounds seemed kind of untouched

    Warnings: This was my first time up this pass. Elevation is very high which means incremental weather. Aka woke up in October with snow which happened to us.

    Overall 5 stars must visit. We will be coming back next year when less snow and road reopens

  • CJ S.
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Meditation Point Campground

    Beautiful, Private, Remote

    Stayed just one night in site 1, which was the only one available. It’s very private being far from the trail and has good access to the shore but is very shady at all times, although also sheltered from the wind. There was a fire ring (although no fires allowed) and a table. Several viable tent spots on the site. The toilets were closed and, unfortunately, previous campers weren’t so great at “leave no trace” because we found a bunch of dog and human feces around.

  • Thomas B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Handy Stopping Point

    We kind of stumbled into this free spot while heading to a more formal campground near Pelton Dam. As the daylight faded I spotted a pullout/turnaround area which then led to a rather private loop with a great view of the Deschutes River and Lake Simtustus. I had to confirm with the Dyrt BLM map overlay, but I was glad to find myself on public land. It’s not really a place I’d choose to spend more than one night, since it doesn’t really connect to any trails or walking areas, but it was a handy en-route overnight spot, complete with a nice view and bright sunset. It’s only a few miles off Rt. 26, following signs to Pelton Dam. There was plenty of room to turn around my 26’ skoolie. However, I didn’t really see a good place for a tent, but I didn’t look very hard. There were signs of previous users, including a fire ring (which I didn’t use). Since it was the eve of Earth Day, I did collect a bagful of empty cans and trash. Leave no trace, people!

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 17, 2023

    Justesen Ranches - Lower Twin Lakes

    Camping in a High Desert Oasis!

    Ashley here with The Dyrt! We want to welcome this property owner to our platform. "Camp beside a private spring fed lake. You’ll have this high desert oasis all to yourselves. This is a leave no trace camp site, pack it in pack it out. Fishing is NOT included in your stay. You can inquire about fly fishing rates." Book your stay today and leave them some love!

  • Kimberly C.
    Aug. 29, 2019

    Ice Cap Campground

    Perfect basecamp

    Friendly and knowledgeable camp hosts. Vault toilet, mix of tent sites including some walk-ins that are up against the reservoir- you can hear the peaceful running water all day and night. Brand new picnic tables, brand new fencing, and excellent trails. Perfect mix of sun and shade for many of the sites. We stayed at 15 and I can’t wait to go back. Very spacious sites can hold multiple tents of all sizes. Beautiful drive to and from campgrounds- the McKenzie River area is definitely worth exploring!

  • Kelly N.
    Sep. 30, 2018

    Whispering Falls Campground

    Camp above the Santiam riverbank

    Camp above the Santiam riverbank and enjoy a night of peace and rest listening to the water flow. This site has access to vault toilets, potable water. The sites are large enough for rv or tent sites with vehicle pull through. The sites have enough old forest growth to provide privacy for the family. If you camp near the river you cannot hear the road, even though you are only a skip away. I do not recommend camping in the sites near the road if you have kids/pets with you or if you are a light sleeper. The roads are paved which can be great for family cars or for little ones wanting to ride their bike or scooter around camp. The site that we stopped at would have been great for fishing trout or salmon. Don’t forget your fishing license!

    You can reserve this site through Linn County Parks & Rec: 1-877-444-6777 - And like most sites in the Willamette National Forest dogs are allowed as long as they are on leashes and check out time is 1pm.

  • E
    Nov. 8, 2022

    Marion Forks Campground

    Quiet campground

    Located off Hwy 22, past the fish hatchery, far enough that you can’t hear road noise. Less than 20 sites total, all first come first serve, $12 a night or $6 with interagency pass. Mostly full on a Friday night. Clean vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, trash, but no water. Nearby trail leads to Marion creek.

  • Eric H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2023

    Olallie Meadow Campground

    No cell service nor much else

    What a beautiful view! Luscious meadow filled with wildlife and mosquitos. No joke, they were able to bite through 3 layers in swarms.

    It was cloudy, 80° in the day, with very little wind and campsite #4 was bone dry. The soft ground was kind to the tent spikes and surrounding trees buffered the breeze, hence the mosquitos.

    NOTE: come in from the North, not the first road from the south (Detroit). Impassible without off road vehicle (Subaru Crosstrek didn't cut it)

  • Amber M.
    Dec. 7, 2018

    Clear Lake Campground

    Peaceful place, great sites

    Have been to this place a couple of times and love it! There is a campground you can reserve sites at which are large and we'll spaced. You can also stay for free on the BLM land surrounding the lake. (If you do this please leave no trace!)

    Hiking around the Clear Lake takes longer than in looks because of all the fingers so allow a couple of leisurely hours.

    Its a hauntingly beautiful, chill place. A must visit for fans of mountain lakes!


Guide to Madras

Tent campers near Madras, Oregon find high desert conditions with elevation ranging from 2,200 to 3,500 feet across most camping areas. Summer daytime temperatures regularly reach 85-95°F with nighttime lows dipping to 45-55°F, creating dramatic temperature swings. The juniper woodland terrain is characterized by volcanic soil and rocky outcroppings that require careful tent placement and sturdy stakes.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Steelhead Falls offers prime fishing spots along the Deschutes River. According to a visitor at Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, "You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water," making this a versatile recreation spot for families.

Short hiking trails: The best tent camping near Madras includes sites with accessible hiking options. At Rimrock Springs Trailhead, "This little loop is very beautiful and worth a quick stop to walk the 1 1/4 mile loop," with viewpoints showcasing the surrounding wetlands.

Climbing adventures: For climbers seeking top-rated camping near Madras, Smith Rock State Park provides world-class opportunities. A camper noted that Smith Rock State Park Campground is "world-famous for being a rock climbing mecca. There's even a practice wall here!"

What campers like

Dark night skies: The Madras area offers excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. At Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, campers appreciate the natural darkness, with one reporting, "Hot and dry during the day but cooled off at night and had great view of the night sky."

Free camping options: Budget-conscious tent campers can find no-cost sites near Madras. "We could not believe this beautiful and well kept park was completely free! We can't wait to go back," wrote one visitor about Steelhead Falls.

Cleanliness of facilities: At Smith Rock, visitors consistently mention the well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms are unbelievably clean and you can take a shower for $2. Alongside the outer wall of the bathrooms, there's a giant sink and dish washing area," making extended stays more comfortable.

What you should know

Limited water access: Most dispersed camping areas near Madras require self-sufficiency. A camper at Cove Palisades Lookout Dispersed warned about access challenges: "Once you are past the gate, the road becomes very rough. Do not pass the gate if your vehicle doesn't have 4WD."

Rough terrain considerations: The volcanic soil and rocky landscape demand preparation. "All of the campsites on the rt hand side of the road (all the good ones) are permanently blocked off," reported one Steelhead Falls camper, indicating changing site availability.

Extreme seasonal conditions: The Madras area experiences both heat and occasional fire restrictions. "Dry and dusty" conditions are mentioned repeatedly in reviews, with one camper at Harrington Loop noting, "It can get pretty dusty though when the wind picks up."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly attractions: When tent camping near Madras with children, consider educational opportunities. At Marion Forks Campground, "The adjoining fish hatchery is interesting," and "sometimes the staff will give you a tour," making it particularly engaging for younger campers.

Safe swimming areas: Identify swimming spots before your trip. One Steelhead Falls visitor shared, "Trail is not too long to a waterfall. You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water," providing a welcome activity during hot summer days.

Contained camping areas: Some sites offer natural boundaries helpful for families with young children. At Marion Forks, "There are logs fences around each campsite, which you are required to stay inside of," which can help parents keep track of children.

Tips from RVers

Site length limitations: RV campers should verify access before arrival. One visitor to Harrington Loop Rd - Dispersed noted, "Plenty of room for a larger 5th wheel as well," making it a good option for larger rigs seeking dispersed camping.

Road condition alerts: Access roads to many sites require consideration. At Steelhead Falls, "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)."

Limited hookup options: Most camping near Madras is primitive. A Smith Rock visitor explained, "Those with RVs will find ample parking," but noted the absence of hookups, requiring self-contained operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Madras, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Madras, OR is Smith Rock State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 36 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Madras, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 71 tent camping locations near Madras, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.