Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Discover great camping spots near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, reviewed by campers like you.
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
$10 - $20 / night
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$8 / night
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.
$37 / night
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.
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.
$21 - $61 / night
Welcome to Ochoco Lake County Park, a charming spot for camping with a view. Nestled on a little hill overlooking a serene lake, this campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites. If you're into stargazing, you'll appreciate the clear skies here, perfect for catching a glimpse of the stars.
The campground is known for its clean facilities. The bathrooms are well-maintained and require a code for access, ensuring they're reserved for campers. Showers are hot, and there's a sanitary dump station available. While there are no electric or sewer hookups, water is accessible, though you might need to bring a longer hose for your RV.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember to keep them on a leash. Campfires are allowed, and you can purchase firewood on-site, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening by the fire.
For those who love water activities, the lake offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The views of the lake are stunning, and you can find picnic tables scattered around for a relaxing meal with a view. Some tent sites are right by the water, giving you easy access to the lake.
The campground is conveniently located near Prineville, making it a great base for exploring the area. Whether you're here for a quiet retreat or an active adventure, Ochoco Lake County Park has something to offer. Just be prepared for some highway noise and the occasional generator hum from RVs. Enjoy your stay!
$10 - $25 / night
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
$50 / night
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.__
$60 - $100 / night
Welcome to Crooked River Campground at The Cove Palisades State Park! This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. The campground is open from February 16 to December 15, offering a long season to explore its beauty.
One of the standout features here is the stunning scenery. Visitors rave about the jaw-dropping views of the mountains and canyon. If you're into hiking, you'll love the trails, though keep in mind there are only a couple of main ones. The Tamalau Trail is a must-do, especially if you can catch it on a cool day. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from the top are worth every step.
For those who love water activities, this place is heaven. Lake Billy Chinook, fed by the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius rivers, is perfect for boating, jet-skiing, and fishing. You can even rent a boat from the marina to hit the best fishing spots. Just be prepared for some noise from the boats during busy times.
The campground itself is well-equipped. You'll find full hookups for RVs, clean bathrooms, and hot showers. There's also a fenced dog park, which is a hit with pet owners. If you need supplies, Madras is just a 15-minute drive away.
Families will appreciate the playground and the communal vibe. It’s not the place for seclusion, but if you enjoy a friendly, neighborhood feel, you’ll fit right in. Plus, the park rangers are super helpful and always around to offer tips and ensure everything runs smoothly.
So, whether you're here for the hiking, the water sports, or just to relax and take in the views, Crooked River Campground has something for everyone. Enjoy your stay!
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
$10 - $20 / night
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$8 / night
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.
$37 / night
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.
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.
$21 - $61 / night
Welcome to Ochoco Lake County Park, a charming spot for camping with a view. Nestled on a little hill overlooking a serene lake, this campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites. If you're into stargazing, you'll appreciate the clear skies here, perfect for catching a glimpse of the stars.
The campground is known for its clean facilities. The bathrooms are well-maintained and require a code for access, ensuring they're reserved for campers. Showers are hot, and there's a sanitary dump station available. While there are no electric or sewer hookups, water is accessible, though you might need to bring a longer hose for your RV.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember to keep them on a leash. Campfires are allowed, and you can purchase firewood on-site, making it easy to enjoy a cozy evening by the fire.
For those who love water activities, the lake offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The views of the lake are stunning, and you can find picnic tables scattered around for a relaxing meal with a view. Some tent sites are right by the water, giving you easy access to the lake.
The campground is conveniently located near Prineville, making it a great base for exploring the area. Whether you're here for a quiet retreat or an active adventure, Ochoco Lake County Park has something to offer. Just be prepared for some highway noise and the occasional generator hum from RVs. Enjoy your stay!
$10 - $25 / night
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
$50 / night
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 164 campgrounds and RV parks near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland and 36 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 36 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 21 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.