Dispersed camping options abound in the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 7,200 feet creating varied camping experiences. Many sites sit beneath ponderosa pines, with summer daytime temperatures often exceeding 85°F while nights cool to the 40s even in July. Seasonal road conditions affect accessibility, with higher elevation forest roads typically open from late May through October.
What to do
Hiking at Steins Pillar: Access trails directly from Wildcat Campground & Day Use Area, where campers find multiple hiking options. "Wild cat sits right on the edge of the Wildcat wilderness area, a beautiful and rugged piece of nature," notes Christopher C. The campground offers access to Twin Pillars Trail with "miles of hiking with TH right at the campground," according to Ann W.
Fishing for trout: The 15-mile drive to Ochoco Lake County Park rewards anglers with productive waters. Christopher C. describes it as "one of my most favorite places to visit. It has opportunity for hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and slower boating." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with Brad E. noting, "Lake is pretty when full."
Rock climbing: The world-famous climbing routes at Smith Rock State Park Campground draw climbers year-round. Kristin G. mentions "The hiking is fantastic and the climbing is world-renown." The walk-in campground setup creates "a nice outdoorsy kind of communal vibe but it's still private, depends on where you pitch your tent," says Makena B.
What campers like
Solitude in spring and fall: Late season camping in the Ochoco National Forest provides better chances for isolation. At Ochoco Lake, Mike W. advises it's "Better in Off Season. This is located just out of Prineville and can get a lot of local traffic in the summer months." October and early May typically offer fewer crowds and moderate temperatures.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote nature of camping in this area creates exceptional night viewing opportunities. At Prineville Reservoir Main Campground, Ashley B. notes it offers "beautiful full sky view for star gazing." Amy B. adds it's "a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing."
Forest camping without reservation stress: First-come sites provide flexibility for last-minute trips. Kevin R. describes Ochoco Divide Group Site as "very clean and the vault toilets well looked after and not stinky!" Karla B. adds it has "nice campground host. Lots of area between campsites. Fire pits, picnic tables. Paved campground road, graded gravel sites."
What you should know
Limited water access at dispersed sites: Many camping areas in Ochoco National Forest require self-sufficiency. Lisa H. notes at Ochoco Divide, "there is no water available, so you need to bring all you need." At Smith Rock, the amenities are minimal but include "real bathrooms with running water, charging stations, showers, and a sink for dishes," according to Katie L.
High elevation temperature swings: Pack for both warm days and cold nights, especially at higher elevations. Jeff C. reports Ochoco Divide sits at "Altitude: 4730 ft" with "Days sunny low 80's nights upper 50's." Kevin R. adds, "Camp ground is high up over 4700 feet so even in the summer it tends to get a little chilly at night."
Dust and wind challenges: Open sites can become dusty and windy. At Skull Hollow Campground, Patrick D. warns "The sites can be effected by wind and most certainly the sun." Matt T. shares that temperatures can get "quit cold at night, around freezing when I was there despite being in the 70's during the day."
Tips for camping with families
Quiet water activities: Look for calm waters suited to beginners. Ochoco Lake offers "easy access to the water" according to Lyneine C., while Abby F. notes "10 walk up tent sites, most are right along the water" providing convenient shore access for children.
Well-maintained bathroom facilities: Family camping goes smoother with clean facilities. At Painted Hills Dispersed, campers appreciate the basic amenities near natural attractions. Laura M. advises "No amenities here, please pack out your trash and human and dog waste," making it important to prepare accordingly.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience for children. Ann W. at Wildcat Campground mentions "A very friendly deer kept visiting us during our stay," while Amanda B. describes the "deer, one of those baby deer in my pictures was running and fell and slid, it was crazy. Then ran to mama to nurse."
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Plan for power limitations at many campgrounds. Mark W. at Ochoco Lake notes "Since there are no RV services be prepared to hear some generators running occasionally. Quiet hours 10PM-7AM. Water is available but may not be close enough for a hose to your RV."
Level site availability: Some campgrounds offer better options for larger vehicles. At Prineville Reservoir, Kelly N. notes they have "boat access and cabins" along with hookup sites, though she warns to "look at a map before headed out because Gps will take you on a dirt road adventure to your campsite." Jeff C. adds that at Ochoco Divide their "28 ft travel trailer easily fit with room to spare. Easily circled campground once to find a space."
Access road conditions: Road quality varies significantly throughout the forest. Laura M. found at dispersed sites "the roads were too pot holed and rough for us in our 26ft class c" but notes "Great little spot for the night or even a few nights. Peaceful and beautiful and lots of paths to walk along. Easy access from the main road too."
