Want to go dispersed camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland's most popular destinations.
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.
Welcome to Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground in Oregon. This spot is a gem for those who love a bit of rugged charm. Nestled near the Deschutes River, it's a prime location for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle and get back to nature.
This area is all about simplicity and natural beauty. It's a dispersed camping area, so don't expect the usual campground amenities. There's no drinking water, electric hookups, or showers, but you will find a toilet. The lack of amenities means you need to come prepared, but the payoff is worth it. The views are stunning, especially if you snag one of the spots near the river cliff. Just be ready to carry your gear a bit if you want those prime spots.
Visitors have mentioned that the area is great for a quick overnight stay in your vehicle or a more extended camping trip. The waterfall is a highlight, just a short half-mile hike away, and it's a perfect spot for a refreshing swim. The landscape is open and can get a bit dusty, especially in the dry months, but the scenery more than makes up for it.
Pets are welcome, and there's no fee to camp here, which is a big plus. It's also conveniently close to Smith Rock, making it a great base camp for climbers. Just remember, no fires are allowed, so plan your meals accordingly.
Overall, Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground offers a raw, unfiltered camping experience with some of the best natural beauty Oregon has to offer. Whether you're here for a night or a weekend, you'll leave feeling refreshed and connected to the great outdoors.
This trailhead is the northern access point for Green Mountain OHV Trail (#831) , which happens to be the only OHV trail in the Ochoco National Forest at this time. The parking area is small and cannot accommodate many or large vehicles, so please plan accordingly when you come.
In 1992 this high desert horse camp was constructed with the help of volunteers amidst the remnants of an old homestead and orchard just a short distance from Haystack Reservoir. The facility is available for horse camping, standard camping, and RV camping opportunities. View a vicinity map here. Learn about Leave No Trace principles for horse camping AMENITIES: Stock water is available seasonally 5 standard campsites 8 corrals 2 hitching racks 1 water trough 1 manure pit 1 wooden picnic table and 1 combination fire ring/grill per campsite 1 vault outhouse for the campground 1 informational signboard. Please Note: Stock water may or may not be available in the future. Please call the Crooked River National Grasslands Office (541) 416-6640 or Ochoco National Forest Office (541) 416-6500 for verification. Nearby recreation opportunities include: Horseback Riding Trails Hiking Trails Mountain Biking Trails Hunting
Along the Chimney Rock segment of Central Oregon's Crooked Wild and Scenic River, Chimney Rock campground offers a relaxing woodland setting amongst Western Juniper trees and beneath massive Columbia River rock formations. Fly-fishing and hiking on the nearby Chimney Rock trail offer day-long recreational fun. Enjoy plenty of easy river access along the adjacent Crooked River Back Country Byway, State Highway 27.
Chimney Rock Campground is open year-round and is equipped with 16 campsites and vault toilets. No reservations are accepted; site is first-come, first-served only. Water is available in the campground and an accessible fishing platform is located near the campground entrance. When recreating on public lands, practice Leave-No-Trace Principles. Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination.
Check out the campground's namesake butte located prominently above highway 27 opposite the campground. Access to the trailhead is across the highway at the Chimney Rock Trailhead. For a different view, visitors can ride the 18-mile Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway from Prineville to Big Bend Campground. Designated in 2018, this moderate route takes riders from picturesque farms to towering cliffs.ADA Access: Fishing platform and vault toilets are accessible.
*** 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.
There is a 14 day stay limit on all National Grassland and US Forest Service land including but not limited to campgrounds and other developed facilities. Additionally, the general area outside Skull Hollow campground is CLOSED to camping and fires within a ¼ mile of the road from the junction of FS 5710 and Lone Pine Road to the junction of FS 5710 and FS 5720.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland is Painted Hills Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 15 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?
TheDyrt.com has all 36 dispersed camping locations near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, with real photos and reviews from campers.
