Camping near 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.