Best Camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, OR (163)

    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Skull Hollow Campground

    1. Skull Hollow Campground

    33 Reviews
    46 Photos
    266 Saves
    Terrebonne, Oregon

    As of10/5/2020 *** There is a Closure Order prohibiting dispersed camping outside of the Skull Hollow campground. View a map of the closure area here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd507382.pdf.

    This closure is designed to help protect natural resources around the trailhead from overuse and to prevent conflict between campers and day users. Please observe the closure order and use the campground for camping in the vicinity of Skull Hollow trailhead. AMENITIES: NO DRINKING WATER 28 standard campsites No hook-ups or dumping facilities 1 wooden picnic table and 1 combination fire ring/grill per campsite 2 vault outhouses for the campground 1 informational signboard On-site campground host NEARBY ACTIVITIES: Horseback Riding Hiking Mountain Biking Rock climbing (Smith Rock State Park) Hunting

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 - $20 / night

    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

    2. 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 Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park

    3. Prineville Reservoir Campground — Prineville Reservoir State Park

    25 Reviews
    56 Photos
    128 Saves
    Prineville, Oregon

    Located partway along the Crooked River’s 125-mile journey from the Ochoco Mountains to its confluence with the Deschutes River, the Prineville Reservoir is a vast blue pool filling a colorful canyon of volcanic rock, sagebrush and juniper. The reservoir was created in the 1960s with the construction of the Bowman Dam. The state park was established shortly after to provide campers, anglers and water lovers an opportunity to enjoy the natural area—and a chance to beat Central Oregon’s summer heat. The park lies adjacent to the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area, which preserves the habitat of a wide variety of mammals, waterfowl, songbirds and raptors.

    Prineville Reservoir State Park is located just 15 miles south of the town of Prineville, and 50 miles east of Bend. The park’s Main Campground features 67 sites, including full- and partial-hookup RV sites and primitive tent sites. The Jasper Point Campground features 28 partial-hookup sites. Both locations provide drinking water, flush and vault toilets, hot showers, and recycling stations; a dump station is located at the Jasper Point site. There are also a few camping cabins for rent. The park hosts interpretive programs at an outdoor amphitheater, and onsite amenities include sports courts, hiking trails, a dog park, and a fishing pier. The park host sells ice and firewood. Dogs are welcome, but must remain leashed. Seasonal campsites are $21–$33/night; cabins are $89–$99/night; reservations recommended.

    For enjoying some on-the-water fun time, boaters can launch watercraft from the ramp at the day-use area, which has plenty of parking for vehicles and trailers. Nearby, sunbathers and swimmers can enjoy some beach time at the designated swim area. Picnic tables are available for packing lunches and refreshments to enjoy by the water. For paddling around the shoreline, kayaks and SUPs can be put in from either the boat launch or the beach. Anglers can cast for trout, catfish, bass and black crappie, then take their catches back and prep them for dinner at the park’s fish cleaning station. Another boat ramp, beach and parking area is located west of the state park at Powder House Cove, near the Bowman Dam.

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

    $37 / night

    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

    4. 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 Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Lake County Park

    5. Ochoco Lake County Park

    12 Reviews
    25 Photos
    107 Saves
    Prineville, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $10 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Ochoco Divide Group Site

    6. Ochoco Divide Group Site

    11 Reviews
    43 Photos
    51 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Overview

    The Ochoco Divide Group Site is a convenient place to camp while traveling across scenic State Highway 26 by bicycle or car. Resting at the top of the Ochoco Divide at an elevation of 4,700 ft., the group site is set on a hill away from the road as an extension of the general campground. Summertime in the Ochoco National Forest brings pleasant temperatures; the campground is closed during winter.

    Recreation

    The group site of the Ochoco Divide Campground is mainly used by touring cyclists. It is also a good place to take a relaxing stroll through the woods. There are opportunities for hunting, mountain biking and hiking in the national forest surrounding the facility. Several trailheads begin at the Bandit Springs rest stop about one mile from the campground on Highway 26.

    Natural Features

    The scenery surrounding the campground alternates between thick Ponderosa pine forests and grassy meadows, though shortly beyond the campground the road descends into lower-elevation, arid canyon lands. One of the most unique geologic features of the Ochoco National Forest is the 'thunder egg,' Oregon's official state rock. Thunder eggs are small, colorful, round volcanic rocks similar to geodes that have been exposed over time. The U.S. Forest Service has designated specific sites for rock hounding.

    Nearby Attractions

    John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is less than an hour away. Hike amongst the Painted Hills and famed fossils, take a journey through time at the museum at Sheep Rock or picnic beneath the beautiful mountain scenery. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

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

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed

    7. Painted Hills Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    88 Photos
    724 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Dispersed camping is allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service (USFS) lands without a permit, but it is recommended that campers obtain a map that shows current property boundaries. Please contact the BLM , (541) 573-4400 or (541) 416-6700, or the USFS, (541) 575-3000 or (541) 416-6500, for more information. While camping is not allowed within the three units of the monument, there are many nearby campgrounds. Some have full service amenities, some are quiet and remote, some are in the forest, and some are right on the John Day River.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole
    Camper-submitted photo from BLM John Day River - Priest Hole

    8. BLM John Day River - Priest Hole

    20 Reviews
    69 Photos
    288 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    For a rustic overnight stay deep in eastern Oregon, let your tires roll past the Painted Hills-one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders-and drive deep into John Day River Territory to the Priest Hole Recreation Site. Although primitive, camping here lands you in the middle of the Wild and Scenic John Day River, designated for scenery, recreation, fish, wildlife, and geologic values. Camping is allowed everywhere, including on the gravel bar northeast of Priest Hole, where you sleep to the gurgle of the river and stepping out of your tent or trailer lands your foot in the water. Know Before You Go: Open YEAR ROUND but the rough road can make access difficult in winter. ACCESSIBILITY is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities. NO FEES for camping or floating the one-mile section around Priest Hole. There is one toilet; NO potable water, trash cans or campsite amenities. PETS ARE ALLOWED under owner control. Watch for rattlesnakes. HUNTING/FISHING LICENSES ARE REQUIRED. Fire restrictions run June 1 – September 30 (liquid gas or propane only). Point of Interest: Priest Hole is a local favorite for fishing and swimming. Stopping here is a natural part of a visit to the Painted Hills, Sutton Mountain Back Country Byway and eastern Oregon! Priest Hole Brochure Explore Oregon Recreation: Priest Hole ADA Access: Priest Hole Recreation Site is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Walton Lake

    9. Walton Lake

    8 Reviews
    51 Photos
    85 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Overview

    Walton Lake Campground may be the best-known location in the Ochoco National Forest, offering a serene setting among old-growth Ponderosa pine and mountain meadows. Most sites offer sweeping lake views.

    Recreation

    Visitors can choose to spend their vacation relaxing by fishing on the shore of Walton Lake, or swimming and paddling in the water. There is a swimming beach, fishing pier and boat ramp for small self powered craft, and the lake is stocked with rainbow trout.There are also many trails nearby for those who would like to explore on foot or mountain bike. This includes the 7.5-mile multi-use Round Mountain Trail as well as the 1-mile Walton Lake Trail, which offers many scenic views around the lake.

    Natural Features

    Walton Lake is a blue sparkling jewel hidden within the dense forest. A small dam impounds spring-fed water that seeps from surrounding sloped meadows. Fishing is a favorite activity while hiking is very popular as is simply enjoying a picnic at the lake.Aspen and tall willows add habitat diversity to make this place especially attractive to wildlife. This is a place to find white-headed woodpecker, belted kingfisher, spotted sandpiper, cinnamon teal, American coot, Steller's jay, yellow-headed blackbird and Brewer's blackbird.

    Nearby Attractions

    For visitors seeking a bit of civilization, the city of Prineville is nearby. There are opportunities to shop, dine out, golf, attend events and visit the localmuseum. For those wanting to explore the Ochoco National Forest, Lookout Mt and Round Mt are great places to hike and Mt bike. Wild flowers are abundant at the Big Summit Prairie where occasional antelope, elk and deer are sometimes seen.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $60 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park
Showing results 1-10 of 163 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

Recent Reviews in Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

708 Reviews of 163 Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Campgrounds


  • 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!

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Not ideal spot for car parking

    Its a big lot area with a view of the river close to the dam. Theres a day use area and resort campground down the road which I asked the hosts there about the dispersed camping and they gave me an attitude saying that because its a state site that the sheriff may come check to ask me to leave. I told that that made no sense as its on usa owned land but they insisted not to park there. I believe they were just jealous because almost noone was at their campground. The day use area is small and watch for the tire strips. The parking area up the hill (at these coordinates) is a bit trashy but its a good spot for walk or bike.

  • 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.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mayfield Pond Recreation Area
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Mayfield Pond Recreation Area

    Parking spot for a night for me

    Coordinates get to entrance with signs, lots of rocks on this sandy rd. Kinda a wastelandish area for offroading and target practice. A good spot for app like Regrid, as half the pond on NW side is state property. Theres some creepy private property sign but that prob means no boating. Prob better to get here from other side from Bend Rd like at 44.085493,-121.126358 if you have a bike or want to hike in. Some cool rock features to climb. Mainly seems like a place for partying.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Badlands Rock Camping

    Cool sandy area with many spots

    A good open area with lots of nice smelling juniper. Theres parking at the few trailheads or off the road. The best spot, with some nice features such as lava rocks, is the 3rd right from the main road. Some folks may be particular about their "spot". No toilet, trash nor water but good trails. About 20 mins into town. Didnt see any snakes but was checking just in case. Prob best for RV or car camping. High desert gets to 40s at night this time of year.

  • Zoe G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from BEND FS 4610 Dispersed
    Sep. 17, 2024

    BEND FS 4610 Dispersed

    Super easy

    This spot was close enough to town that we could call an Uber to Hayden Homes after we set up, then Uber back when the concert finished. The main red dirt road is gorgeous with various pull offs spaced decently far apart. I saw one or two neighbors to the left and right of our spot but it was far enough that our spot felt private. Really quiet and felt remote while still accessible to town and had cell service.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Simtustus RV Park
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Lake Simtustus RV Park

    Lovely RV Resort

    I’ve stayed here three times. The site I stayed in the first two times is no longer available for RV’s. I stayed in D2 this time and had plenty of room and privacy. I will say that if the hookup was on the other side of the site I’d have had a much better view. 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.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deschute County Expo RV Park
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Deschute County Expo RV Park

    Good place to stay

    We stayed here twice with a short gap between our 2 times. Comfortable park, very clean. Big rig friendly especially in the center areas without trees. If you're using Starlink this would be a good choice. Able to do laundry both times we stayed (credit card instead of quarters!). Full hook ups (we paid $50 per night).  Good location for visiting Redmond and Bend.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Redmond - Central Oregon KOA
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Redmond - Central Oregon KOA

    Adequate for short stay

    We were only there one night. We had a pull through which was nice. Sites were gravel and there was grass in the park, also nice trees. Sites were fairly close together. Nicely stocked shop available. Pool looked nice but we didn't use it. We could smell cigarette smoke which was unpleasant so the park must not be smoke free. Part of why we only give it 3 stars. We felt like it was on the spendy side but park was easy to get to and camp staff seemed pleasant.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NFD-4604 Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 8, 2024

    NFD-4604 Dispersed Camping

    NFD-4604 camping

    Found this small spot after searching entire area for a last minute campsite. Multiple fires around south of City Of Bend so not many choices tonight. Very quiet spot, only one camper close by but can't see them from thus site. There is a fire ring built by rock but no open fires allowed. Great last minute spot.

  • Darren N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River Ranch
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Crooked River Ranch

    Amazing grounds for the price!

    Although it's in the middle of the desert, this campground has amazingly soft parade grounds for for tons of outdoor games. The trails around the golf course and the views of the canyon and river are amazing. There is local restaurants and taphouses within a few minutes drive. There is a pool available to you for your stay that has a snack bar directly adjacent to it. If you are bringing an RV or travel trailer, I recommend bringing blocks for your stabilizers as some of the sites have a decent slope to them.

  • Tia A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Terrebonne West Camp Dispersed
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Terrebonne West Camp Dispersed

    Nice and Peaceful

    EDIT: We had a park ranger stop by and inform us that this location is closed to passenger vehicles. No passenger vehicles are allowed past the boulders. We are currently parked at the one and only camp slot that passenger vehicles are allowed, so this is a 99% dispersed camping location that you have to walk to your camp site location. The Park Ranger also reminded me that all BLM land is a 14-day stay for recreational camping only, and if you are living out of your RV, you are liable to be harassed more often then others.

    Original Review: We parked in a space close to the main road. Minus the sounds from it, the place is very peaceful. There's lots of sage bushes, and trees are plenty but not clustered. There is a lot of wildlife in the area if the animal bones are anything to judge by. There are a lot of ant colonies and other burrowing creatures in the area as well. If you choose to walk off designated paths, watch your step, or you might end up in a shallow hole like I did. Some spots are more solar friendly than others, but none of the trees are overbearingly tall to completely block out the ability for it. Flies aren't too bad compared to other places, and honestly, I'm not sure if the ones we are dealing with are from here or left over from our 1 night stay at another location. The river is only a shortish walk away, and field mice do live in some of the boulders in the area.

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Pine Mountain Campground
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Pine Mountain Campground

    Quiet place to stay

    Was by myself on motorcycle. Clear directions, plenty of tables, leveled spaces for tent. Gets cold at night. 

    Road here was a graded packed dirt, so a but bumpy but 2WD would make it no problem. Enjoyed my stay

  • Mike The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore)
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore)

    Nice campground. Central to a lot of stuff.

    We enjoyed our stay here. We had a nice space with decent trees for shade and putting up some lights. We could easily drive in to Madras...or to the Crooked River Canyon to go bungee jumping!!!!  We also took a nice drive out east in the hills. Firewood was a bit steep, at $8/bundle.

  • Kevin W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mecca Flat Campground
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Mecca Flat Campground

    Mecca Flats Campground

    While staying here in August 2024: -Dog friendly -No hookups -2 bars on Verizon -No shade -Madras, OR only 10 minutes away. -1 acres fenced in dog park in Madras OR (15 min. drive) -Used my credit card at the automated self pay station (super convenient). -fairly clean bathroom (toilet only). -From travel trailers to Teslas, they all have made down the road and plenty of room.

    Situated on the banks of the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River, Mecca Flat Campground is located just a mile and a half from Oregon State HIghway 26 near Warm Springs. The site features 13 individual campsites and one group use area. The southern terminus of the 7-mile long Trout Creek Trail can be accessed directly from the campground.

    Know Before You Go:

    All campsites, including the group use area are open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis; no potable water is available. The 1.6 mile Mecca Flat Road is narrow with few pullouts; use caution particularly when pulling a trailer. Access the nearby non-motorized Trout Creek Trail which fronts the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River for 7 miles where it terminates at Trout Creek Campground. Cell phone service is not available in the campground. Goathead, also known as puncturevine, is present in the area; protect your pets and bicycle tires Point of Interest:

    The Deschutes Railroad ran on portions of the nearby Trout Creek trail and Mecca Flat Road for several decades, competing with the Oregon Trunk Railroad before abandonment in the early 20th century. Look for the historic, now-abandoned tunnel near Highway 26 - but stay clear of this degrading and unstable structure.



Guide to Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

Camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're into hiking, climbing, or just soaking in the views, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the trails at Smith Rock State Park Campground, which is just a short drive away. One reviewer mentioned, "Perfect place to stay if you need a spot to crash after spending the day in the park."
  • Climbing: If you're into rock climbing, Smith Rock is a world-renowned spot. A visitor noted, "Can get a little crowded in peak months, but you can't beat the price, and great amenities."
  • Fishing and Boating: Prineville Reservoir Campground is great for fishing and boating. One camper shared, "The lake was actually mostly full and the views were beautiful."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. One said, "Many of the sites had a magical view of Smith Rock," while another mentioned, "The views are also stunning both at night and in the sunlight!"
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Skull Hollow Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A reviewer stated, "Clean pit toilets, friendly camp host."
  • Affordable Rates: Campers appreciate the low costs. A visitor at Smith Rock State Park Campground noted, "For $8 a month that’s amazing."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Skull Hollow Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "No electricity, no water, no dump station but very quiet."
  • Crowded in Peak Season: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One reviewer noted, "Drove down for a while and all sites had been taken."
  • No Reservations: Many campgrounds, such as Smith Rock State Park Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper shared, "You can always find a spot because you're just pitching your tent wherever there's room."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities like playgrounds. Crooked River Campground has a nice dog park and trails, making it great for families. One camper said, "Cove Palisades state park is pretty rad, especially if you’ve got a family!"
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A reviewer at Prineville Reservoir Campground mentioned, "The campground is beautiful, we have deer and squirrels and lizards every day."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. One camper noted, "The roads are paved, and the sites are as well with fire pits and picnic tables."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Crooked River Campground mentioned, "We had no problem backing into our site, and the pad was just long enough for our 40’ fifth wheel."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A camper at Deschute County Expo RV Park said, "The Internet speed was average."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds lack stores nearby. A visitor at Skull Hollow Campground noted, "No market, pets allowed, picnic table."

Camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, Oregon, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a bit of planning, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful region.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland offers a wide range of camping options, with 163 campgrounds and RV parks near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland and 37 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland is Skull Hollow Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 33 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 37 free dispersed camping spots near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland.

  • What parks are near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 23 parks near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland that allow camping, notably Central Oregon and Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland.