Tent camping opportunities near Prineville, Oregon include sites at elevations ranging from 3,000-4,000 feet in central Oregon's high desert terrain. The area experiences significant temperature variations, with summer days often reaching 90°F and dropping to 40°F at night. Seasonal fire restrictions typically run from June through September, with most dispersed camping areas lacking amenities like potable water.
What to do
Hiking at Smith Rock State Park Campground: Access the challenging 3.8-mile Misery Ridge Trail directly from the campground for panoramic views of the Crooked River. "The hiking is fantastic and the climbing is world-renown," notes Kristin G., who also appreciates that "there's nice showers with hot water" after a day on the trails.
Fishing the Crooked River: Chimney Rock Campground offers direct river access for anglers. "Right across from the hiking trail that leads up the canyon to Chimney Rock. It also sits right on the crooked river," says Christopher C., making it an ideal base for both hiking and fishing activities.
Rock climbing for all levels: Smith Rock provides hundreds of established routes for climbers. "Smith Rock is in Terrebonne and is world-famous for being a rock climbing mecca. There's even a practice wall here!" shares Eva W. The area attracts climbers year-round, though spring and fall offer ideal temperatures.
Swimming at Steelhead Falls: Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground offers a half-mile hike to a swimming hole. "You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water," notes Braden M., who recommends visiting during weekdays when the popular swimming area is less crowded.
What campers like
Clean facilities at remote sites: The vault toilets at Palisades Campground receive regular maintenance. "Cleanest vault toilets I've ever seen. Can barely hear the few cars that do go by," reports David, highlighting the unexpected cleanliness in a primitive camping area.
Stargazing opportunities: Jasper Point Dispersed camping area provides excellent night sky viewing. "We stayed here for the meteor shower. One other family in the spot," shares Timothy R., describing the unobstructed views from the ridge above Prineville Reservoir.
Privacy between sites: Most BLM campgrounds offer well-spaced sites despite their proximity to roadways. At Palisades Campground, "Sites are well spaced, many with excellent access and views of the river," according to David, who appreciated the natural barriers between camping areas.
Communal camping atmosphere: Smith Rock State Park's bivouac area creates an intentional community feeling. "The bivy site has real bathrooms with running water, charging stations, showers, and a sink for dishes. Communal cooking area near the parking and scattered tent sites make for a great way to meet other campers," explains Katie L.
What you should know
High clearance vehicles needed: Many dispersed camping roads require appropriate vehicles. Timothy R. notes that at Jasper Point Dispersed camping area, "The drive in was rocky, but we made it (very slowly). Bottomed out a few times" in their minivan, while others with trucks "had no problem."
Limited water sources: Most campgrounds outside established parks lack potable water. Bill T. advises that near Post Pile Campground, "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."
Campsite availability challenges: Popular areas fill quickly during peak seasons. Katie L. warns that at Smith Rock, "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."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season. Kelsey G. advises at Chimney Rock Campground, "If you need firewood be sure to grab it in town, there is no gathering of sticks or wood for burning allowed."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with bathroom access: Smith Rock State Park provides superior facilities for families. "This is the best campground I've ever stayed at... the bathrooms and showers were nice and clean (the showers were free too!)," shares Makena B., highlighting amenities that make family camping more comfortable.
Consider river safety: Shallow river access points work best for families with children. Bess N. from Palisades Campground notes, "The river is flowing and shallow with rocky shores" but warns, "An animal got into our kitchen during the night and stole a soft cooler with dogfood" - reminding families to secure food items.
Watch for hazards at dispersed sites: Areas like Jasper Point require extra vigilance with children. "Careful this is a literal cliffs edge... there are literally no signs or barriers," warns kathaleen, emphasizing the need for constant supervision at sites with natural hazards.
Pack for temperature swings: Desert climate means significant day-to-night changes. "Be prepared for all weather," advises kathaleen, who experienced "lightning all around us, followed by the sky dumping rain the next morning for hours."
Tips from RVers
Campsite length limitations: Many BLM sites have unmarked size restrictions. Mark W. notes about Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, "There is a sign in the way in indicating 30ft length max, but there is no mention on the BLM site. They must mean trailer length since we had no issues with our 22' trailer and rig (40ft total)."
Limited dump facilities: Plan ahead for waste disposal needs. Bill T. recommends, "Best bet for dumping and getting fresh water is the Crook County RV park, just 15 minutes north on the road in Prineville. Very nice setup, dump $10, fresh water fill $5 (or free with dump)."
Pull-through site availability: Cynthia W. from Palisades Campground notes the area has "Spacious pull through first come first serve sites. Good for mid-size RV's, trailers & tent camping," making this one of the best tent camping near Prineville, Oregon options for those with small trailers.
Leveling requirements: Most sites need minimal adjustment. Bill T. observes that at Post Pile and nearby campgrounds, sites "have good spacing and require very little leveling. Many are pull through, a few back in."
