Central Oregon's high desert offers diverse campsite options near Powell Butte, Oregon, with terrain ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 feet elevation. Summer camping presents temperature swings from daytime highs near 90°F to nighttime lows in the 40s. Spring and fall camping provide more moderate temperatures but require preparation for potential frost.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 0.5 miles from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground to see the falls. "Half mile easy hike to the waterfall but the trail keeps going another Half-ish mile for a slightly longer walk. Lots of fishermen and folks walking the trail in the morning," notes a visitor.
Astronomy viewing: Take advantage of dark skies at Prineville Reservoir Main Campground. "This is also a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing. There is a hike you can take along the shore of the reservoir - 4 miles out and back," reports one camper.
Rock climbing: Access world-class climbing at Smith Rock State Park. "The hiking is fantastic and the climbing is world-renown," notes a visitor. The campground has "charging stations, showers, and a sink for dishes."
Frisbee golf: Play a round across from Crook County RV Park. "Across the street from the Crooked River and Rimrock Park with an elaborate frisbee golf course," writes a reviewer who enjoyed the recreational options.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Showers at Tumalo State Park Campground receive consistent praise. "Heated individual showers, clean bathrooms, and quick access to firewood are a big step up from the usual camping basics," says one camper. The park offers tent sites, RV hookups, yurts, and cabins.
Food options: Nearby dining receives mention from Tumalo State Park visitors. "Great place to eat less than a mile away is The Bite…about 6-7 amazing food trucks and great local Beer! We will return," recommends one reviewer.
Riverside sites: Palisades Campground offers river access sites. "Sites are well spaced, many with excellent access and views of the river a few feet away. Cleanest vault toilets I've ever seen. Can barely hear the few cars that do go by," writes a satisfied visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Beavers and other wildlife frequent Palisades Campground. "There is so much evidence of Beavers! We saw a marten and waterfowl. The river is flowing and shallow with rocky shores; great for Fly fishing, kayaking, or floating," reports one nature enthusiast.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Plan ahead for Smith Rock State Park Campground, especially on weekends. "Smith has gotten way more popular over the last few years, so the campsites and parking often max out on weekends, holidays, and great weather days."
Water access: Limited water availability exists at several sites. At Steelhead Falls, "There is no water nearby. Closest place we found was Smith Rock day use area. Pay the day use fee and fill water jugs there."
Site spacing: Site proximity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Tumalo State Park, "Sites are a little too close together for my tastes," while at Skull Hollow "sites are well spaced and require very little leveling."
Fire restrictions: Fire rules change seasonally and by location. "We were there in mid June 2022 with our 19' camp trailer... No amenities - You carry it in, You carry it out," reports a Reynolds Pond visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Children's fishing: Ochoco Lake County Park offers youth fishing opportunities. "Ochoco Lake is one of my most favorite places to visit. It has opportunity for hiking, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and slower boating," explains one regular visitor.
Swimming areas: Look for designated swim zones at Prineville Reservoir. "The swim area is marked and dogs are not allowed in that area so you don't have to worry about dog messes where your kiddos are walking barefoot and swimming."
Educational programs: Prineville Reservoir provides learning opportunities. "The educational programs are outstanding! The amenities are well cared for and the surroundings are incredible!" notes one family.
Wildlife encounters: Some sites experience nighttime visitors. "An animal got into our kitchen during the night and stole a soft cooler with dogfood," warns a Palisades camper, suggesting secure food storage.
Tips from RVers
RV park amenities: Reliable hookups at Deschute County Expo RV Park provide full services. "It has paved roads and concrete level pads with full hookups. Close to the town of Redmond and Bend. No trees or grass and sites are fairly close. Clean bathrooms and showers. Big rig friendly."
Generator policies: Check noise restrictions and generator rules. "Since there are no RV services be prepared to hear some generators running occasionally. Quiet hours 10PM-7AM," notes an Ochoco Lake camper.
Site selection: Consider privacy needs when choosing sites. At Skull Hollow, "We pulled up on a Saturday afternoon to find a plentiful selection of sites! It is a nice quiet campsite and easy to get to with a camper."
Laundry facilities: Some campgrounds offer laundry. "Bathrooms and showers are squeaky clean. Nice laundry and recreation room. Very handy to town," reports a Crook County RV Park visitor.
