Tent camping opportunities near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland span across high desert terrain between 3,000-7,000 feet elevation. The region experiences dramatic temperature swings with summer days often exceeding 90°F while nights drop to 40°F. Most dispersed camping areas remain accessible from late April through October, though higher elevation sites may have lingering snow into June.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Take the Chimney Rock Trail for a moderate 2.8-mile loop with 300 feet of elevation gain that rewards with panoramic views of the Crooked River canyon. "It's a wonderful day trip or multi day campground. Right across from the hiking trail that leads up the canyon to Chimney Rock. It also sits right on the crooked river," notes a camper at Chimney Rock Campground.
Rock climbing: Smith Rock State Park offers world-class climbing routes suitable for beginners to experts. "Smith Rock is in Terrebonne and is world-famous for being a rock climbing mecca. There's even a practice wall here! There's a balk-in bivouac area for tents, which means no reservations necessary," explains one visitor at Smith Rock State Park Campground.
Stargazing: The area's minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Fantastic star gazing and nice quiet spot after the day traffic along the main road visiting the park have left," reports a camper at Burnt Ranch Road near the Painted Hills.
What campers like
Creek access: Many tent sites position campers near flowing water. "Grassy area next to creek with some dispersed fire rings," notes a visitor at Burnt Ranch Road/Bridge Creek, adding it's a "great spot just outside the Painted Hills National Monument park."
Communal amenities: Smith Rock's bivouac camping area offers unique features. "In the center of parking, there are a bunch of picnic tables for the communal eating area. You're not allowed to cook food at the Bivouac, so all meals must be made in the center of the parking lot," explains one camper.
Fishing opportunities: The Crooked River provides productive fishing spots directly accessible from campsites. "Right on the crooked river and near chimney rock trail. Perfect get away location for fishing," shares a visitor at Chimney Rock Campground.
What you should know
Weather patterns: Afternoon winds are common throughout the region. "It gets really windy at dusk and dawn. An animal got into our kitchen during the night and stole a soft cooler with dogfood," warns a camper at Palisades Campground.
Water availability: Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water. "The only potable water is at the most southern campground, Big Bend campground, the first below the dam. During our visit, only the hand pump had water. You cannot use this to fill your RV, unless you have a bucket and like pumping for an hour," reports a Palisades visitor.
Campfire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season. "No campfires because of previous forest fires. Sleep, then get out and enjoy the hike or climbing," notes a Smith Rock camper about their strict fire ban policy.
Tips for camping with families
Clean facilities: Some areas maintain exceptionally clean restrooms. "This is the best campground I've ever stayed at. Many of the sites had a magical view of Smith Rock, the bathrooms and showers were nice and clean (the showers were free too!), there's a dishwashing station," shares a visitor at Smith Rock State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe native animals. "We camped in tents (and a hammock) in spot #1, and we loved it! There is so much evidence of Beavers! We saw a marten and waterfowl," notes a camper at Palisades Campground.
Budget-friendly options: The best tent camping near Ochoco National Forest includes affordable established sites. "Smith is awesome for climbing, hiking, slacklining, and generally enjoying being outside. The bivy site has real bathrooms with running water, charging stations, showers, and a sink for dishes," reports a visitor about Smith Rock's $8/person/night fee.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have size limitations. "Took a 24' RV to campsite #5. Little rough for that rig, cars and trucks no problem," explains a visitor at Palisades Campground, providing important context for the best tent camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland.
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. "Many are pull through, a few back in. I camped before Memorial Day, so it was very quiet. The road is very near all the campsites, but we counted maybe one car an hour," notes a camper at Ochoco Forest Camp.
Leveling requirements: Most sites need minimal adjustment. "They have good spacing and require very little leveling," explains an RVer about Palisades Campground, adding "The pit toilet was very clean and serviced daily."
