RV camping near Paisley, Oregon provides access to the Oregon Outback with elevations ranging from 4,300 to 6,000 feet across the region's high desert terrain. Summer temperatures can reach above 95°F during peak season, with cool evenings even in July. Cell service becomes increasingly limited as travelers venture east of Paisley into more remote camping areas.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The area around Paisley is part of Oregon's Dark Sky Sanctuary, offering exceptional night viewing. At Oregon Outback RV Park, one camper noted, "We wanted to visit the Oregon Dark Sky Sanctuary and found this incredible RV park! They have Starlink so we even had WiFi!" Another camper described the experience: "Small little rv park. Owner is very friendly and accommodating. Amazing night sky."
Fishing access: Several camping areas provide convenient fishing opportunities within walking distance. At Ana Reservoir RV Park, a visitor mentioned, "Very close to fishing you can walk to. Cute little town." Another camper noted, "They seem to cater to fishermen. Not much privacy between sites but large enough to accommodate larger RVs."
Hot springs soaking: Natural mineral waters offer relaxation after exploring the area. A camper at Summer Lake Hot Springs shared, "The hot springs were WONDERFUL, with both indoor (bathhouse) and outdoor pools. If I recall, clothing optional after 9pm." Another visitor explained, "Hot springs are clothing optional after 9pm, which is a huge plus for us as nudists who hate cold, soggy bathing suits."
What campers like
Dark skies for astronomy: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional viewing conditions. A visitor to Junipers Reservoir RV Resort shared, "You drive down a gravel road right through a 6,000 acre working cattle ranch... We were there during a Blue moon with no light pollution and it felt like you could grab it out of the sky."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned positives. One camper noted about Oregon Outback RV Park: "The laundry room and bathroom/showers are super nice and clean. The owner met us at check in and was so friendly!" Another mentioned, "Owners were friendly and willing to help us with whatever needed, including giving good directions to some of the beautiful local scenic sites."
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer ample room between campsites. A camper at Junipers Reservoir RV Resort said, "Very nice out of the way stop. Very friendly camp hosts and good directions in and out. Facilities are older but well maintained. Some full time residents, but lot's of available spots when we stopped by early in the season."
What you should know
Limited groceries: Plan food supplies carefully before arriving. A camper at Summer Lake Hot Springs advised, "Bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley. The water is hard enough to stand on therefore bring your own."
Weather extremes: The high desert experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "It's open, and hot. It would uncomfortable without air conditioning," noted one Summer Lake Hot Springs visitor about summer conditions.
Remote locations: Many campgrounds require driving on gravel roads. At Christmas Valley Camping and RV Park, a visitor shared, "Great spot for cost effective camping just a few minutes from fort rock."
Dump station fees: Some campgrounds charge additional fees for dumping. At Lake County Fairgrounds, "It costs $5.00 to dump if you don't pay for full or just need to stop and dump," a camper reported.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. Ana Reservoir RV Park has "a little playground for kids, as well as a warm, clean bathroom with showers," according to one visitor.
Family-friendly activities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to family gatherings. A camper at Wild Goose Meadows RV Park shared, "A really fun RV park with good shade. The owners were extremely nice and helpful. We could see Oregon's only geyser erupt from our site!"
Group camping options: Some locations can accommodate family reunions. "We recently had the pleasure of hosting our family reunion here, and I can't say enough about how perfect it was. The owners went above and beyond by reserving the entire park exclusively for our family," wrote one visitor about Oregon Outback RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Water quality considerations: Water at some campgrounds has high mineral content. A Summer Lake Hot Springs visitor advised, "The water is hard enough to stand on therefore bring your own (you don't want coffee made with the water, but I wouldn't turn it down if I were farther from civilization)."
Wind protection: The open high desert experiences strong winds. "It can get very windy here. A totally calm day is rare," mentioned a Summer Lake Hot Springs camper.
Level sites: Most RV parks provide level parking areas. A visitor to Junipers Reservoir RV Resort noted, "All pull-thru level sites. Clean bathrooms/showers/laundry. Large grassy area with volleyball, horseshoes, and cornhole. Lots of hiking trails and even a lake with fishing."
Winter accessibility: Some campgrounds remain open year-round. A visitor to Wild Goose Meadows RV Park shared, "After a long day of driving in various weather conditions, we found this gem of a spot. Called ahead and the host had everything waiting for us in the afternoon-hours check-in spot."
