Reynolds Pond Recreation Site near Powell Butte offers dispersed camping in a high desert environment at approximately 3,500 feet elevation. The landscape features scattered sage brush and juniper trees across 20+ acres, creating widely separated camping areas with natural fire rings. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-90°F with cool nights year-round.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Reynolds Pond Recreation Site allows fishing in the small pond with no motorized boats permitted. "One other camper was staying in a tent on the bank of the pond," notes Jessica M., who visited in late June when thunderstorms were developing in the area.
Mountain biking access: Trails near Chipmunk Mountain Basecamp connect to larger systems. "The PRT trail system is close by, Three Creeks and the 3 Sister. We only ever see hikers and bikers," reports Huey W., who appreciates the privacy despite being close enough to walk into town.
Kayaking and paddling: The shallow waters at Three Creeks Lake provide calm paddling conditions. "The lake is very shallow so it was kid friendly," mentions Aaron S. about Driftwood Campground, adding that their site "had plenty of privacy and lake front access."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The open skies at Reynolds Pond offer excellent night viewing. "This is also a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing," shares Amy B. about nearby Prineville Reservoir, noting that spring visits avoid the noise of summer boating season.
Wildlife encounters: Early morning and evening wildlife viewing rewards patient campers. "A great horned owl visited the tree next to my site at 1:00 am and hooted away," reports Amy B., highlighting the natural experiences available in the area.
Private campsites: Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp offers secluded sites despite being near other recreation areas. "I didn't hear or see a single person the entire night even though there were other people in the area!" shares Josie M., who enjoyed the peaceful creek setting.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "The road to this camp site is just as bad if not worse. Take it slow if you have a big rig or don't have 4 wheel drive," warns Daisee Mae S. about Driftwood Campground, though mentioning that rangers regularly patrol the area.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites have no services. "No amenities - You carry it in, You carry it out," explains Lorene H. about camping at Reynolds Pond, describing the area as "pretty much boondocking."
Cell service variability: Coverage differs between campgrounds. "Great Verizon service. No trash cans, or bathrooms. Bring a flashlight it gets pitch black," advises Tombo T. about overnight stays at Reynolds Pond, while Three Creeks Meadow has "No cell service," according to William B.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow swimming areas: Big Lake Campground offers family-friendly water access. "Huge sites and fairly remote," notes Rayne C., while Mackenzie C. adds, "We headed out from Portland late Friday, not really knowing what to expect. The campground was clean and easy to find... put our kayaks in the lake after."
Educational programs: State parks often provide structured activities. "The educational programs are outstanding! The amenities are well cared for and the surroundings are incredible!" shares Rayne C. about Prineville Reservoir, which also features "a roped off swimming hole" according to Ashley B.
Playground access: Some facilities include recreation areas for children. "Very well kept and popular RV park in-between bend and sisters. Asphalt pads for RVs... excellent bathrooms, showers, playground, putt putt golf course," reports Brian C. about Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at national forest sites. "Check site length to your needs and bring leveling blocks in case!" recommends Becky K. about Big Lake Campground, adding that "not all sites are leveled for every parking."
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides better site selection. "We were RV park virgins and this intro will set a high bar for our future travels!" shares Amy D. about Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort, appreciating the "heated floors, huge showers" in the bath facilities.
Horse-friendly options: Several equestrian campgrounds near Powell Butte, Oregon provide specialized facilities. At Three Creeks Meadow Horse Camp, "11 sites with tables and fire rings. Additional sites specifically for horse trailers," notes William B., while the Sisters Rodeo area allows larger rigs, with Tia A. reporting "a lot of horse trailers come into the dispersed camping area to park and ride their horses."
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