Camping sites near Tygh Valley, Oregon range from primitive riverside locations to full-service facilities with RV hookups. The area sits at the transition zone between Mount Hood National Forest's dense forests and central Oregon's high desert, creating diverse microclimates across a small geographic area. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during peak camping months, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions with occasional precipitation.
What to do
Fishing at riverside sites: Access prime fishing spots directly from Oasis BLM Campground along the Deschutes River. "Small and Simple, Right on the Deschutes River. No reservations, self pay, no host, though a ranger did drive through daily," notes one visitor who appreciated the easy river access.
Rafting excursions: Imperial River Co. offers camping adjacent to professional rafting operations. "Imperial River RV park is a full service campground along the Deschutes River. We went rafting with Imperial Rafting and had a great time!" reports a camper who enjoyed the convenience of on-site adventure options.
Hiking forest trails: The Badger Creek Trail near Bonney Crossing provides diverse terrain options. "The campsite is clean with no over growth. Sleeping next to the water is calming and the hikes are top notch," writes one visitor who found the trails accessible directly from camp.
What campers like
Quick lake access: Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort offers immediate water recreation opportunities. "Just grab a tent and a cooler because this place has everything you need. There is a small store, arcade, restaurant with great pub food, ice cream, and a Bar Lounge with pool table. Rent a paddle boat or even a pontoon!" shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Night sky viewing: The lack of light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. "Beautiful views, especially the night sky. We stayed during the busy Memorial Day weekend and we were lucky to grab a spot, albeit in full sun. The evenings cooled down quite a bit and the night sky was amazing," reports a camper at Beavertail Campground.
Off-grid solitude: Campers appreciate the remote feeling at many sites. "Out of the way, near a river, off-season perfection. We were there for 2 nights and didn't see any other people. The campsites are all well spaced out parallel to a nice clean looking river," notes a Bonney Crossing visitor who enjoyed the seclusion.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Multiple riverside campgrounds experience train traffic. "Tracks are very close and trains pass every couple hours throughout the night. If I had known I would've gone elsewhere," cautions one visitor about Maupin City Park, while others find the sounds atmospheric.
Summer heat management: Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in July and August with minimal shade at many sites. "It was pretty hot, but we cooled off in the water, which was a quick walk away. Some of the sites are huge, some shady, and a few back right up to the river," explains a Beavertail Campground reviewer.
Variable road conditions: Access to several campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. "Last half mile into camp are rocky and bumpy. Low clearance cars/motos, use caution," warns a Beavertail visitor, reflecting conditions common to several area campgrounds during dry months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Hunt Park at the Wasco County Fairgrounds offers developed recreation areas. "Great power sites, even though we were in our Motorcycle tent trailer. Open area sites, but also some with trees. Beautiful areas to explore close by," mentions a family-oriented reviewer.
Cabin alternatives: Multiple campgrounds offer cabin rentals for families seeking shelter options. "Sweet little campground. Mostly close together, family oriented sites. Early September there was still plenty of water in the reservoir and they were still renting kayaks and boats," notes a Pine Hollow Lakeside Resort visitor.
Creek exploration: Children particularly enjoy shallow water features. "Kids loved spending time exploring the creek and cooling off in it. Campsites are first come first serve and only has 7 established sites," shares a Bonney Crossing camper who found the natural water features perfect for family activities.
Tips from RVers
Self-registration procedures: Most RV-friendly sites use self-registration systems. "This is a county fair grounds with lots of RV space for all sizes. Self register at the gate and find your spot. Nice rest room and showers," explains a Hunt Park visitor who appreciated the straightforward process.
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have size restrictions or challenging approach roads. "We stayed in an 18 foot trailer. The sites are a little tight for ginormous 36 foot trailers with multiple slideouts. We fit just fine," reports a camper about Maupin City Park's limitations.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are concentrated in specific areas. "Beautiful. Right on the river, clean and cell service is great. WiFi works great. Full hook up's and showers," notes an Imperial River Co. visitor about the amenities that distinguish this location from more primitive options in the area.
