Camping spots around Alder Springs, Oregon typically experience high desert conditions with dramatic temperature swings. Summer days can reach above 90°F while nights drop significantly. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet in the high desert terrain where juniper trees and sagebrush dominate the landscape. Water access is limited at dispersed sites, with the Deschutes River providing the main water source.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Tam-A-Lau trail starts directly from Deschutes River Campground and offers sweeping views. "Cove Palisades State Park is one of my favorite Central Oregon destinations. Lake Billy Chinook is simply stunning, and there is a great hike, the Tam-A-Lau trail, that goes right from the campsite," notes one visitor to Deschutes River Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Simtustus provides excellent fishing conditions for multiple species. A camper at Lake Simtustus RV Park reported, "Good fishing off dock and near the campground," making it convenient for anglers without boats.
Water activities: Beyond fishing, the lakes and rivers offer multiple recreation options. "A nice place for watercraft. Was semi crowded in July. Has a shallow swimming area surrounded by wood docks to protect swimmers from the wake," explains a visitor to Crooked River Campground.
Horseback riding: When operational, Kah-Nee-Ta offers riding opportunities. The resort previously featured "horse rides" among its amenities according to one review, providing a unique way to explore the landscape.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The combination of water and desert terrain creates diverse wildlife habitats. At Trout Creek Campground, one camper shared this experience: "Across the river we watched wild horses. In the river there were birds. During the day rafters come down."
Reliable facilities: Even at more remote sites, maintenance is generally good. A camper at Jefferson County Fairgrounds RV Park noted, "Camp host was nice, easy access to sites. Showers/bathrooms clean but dated," indicating basic but functional amenities.
Unique geological features: The volcanic landscape creates interesting terrain. "Beautiful basalt cliffs. Otherworldly landscape," reported one camper at Trout Creek Campground, highlighting the distinctive high desert scenery.
Quieter camping experiences: Some less-developed sites offer peaceful stays. A visitor to Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping shared: "I was just passing through and saw a spot to pull over for a bit. It was so peaceful along the river and was a beautiful sunset view."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. For Trout Creek Campground, a camper warned: "The road down was STEEP! I really overheated my motorhome breaks. Plus a scary, low and narrow tunnel at the bottom."
Limited water sources: Many sites lack potable water. "No water available unless you boil river water," notes one Trout Creek Campground visitor, making water planning essential.
Seasonal wildlife concerns: Local wildlife includes potentially dangerous species. A reviewer at Crooked River Campground simply cautioned: "Watch out for rattle snakes," highlighting an important safety consideration.
Tent site conditions: Surface type varies between campgrounds. At the Redmond Central Oregon KOA, a camper reported: "Very uncomfortable night, tent sites were on gravel. However, very nice staff & clean facilities."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This is a great spot for families. Plenty of room to play outdoor games and it has a neat outdoor amphitheater," shared a visitor to Crooked River Campground.
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation. Pelton Park Campground features "a swimming hole, playground and amphitheatre" that "delight little campers," according to one review.
Evening activities: Some campgrounds offer organized programs. One KOA visitor mentioned a "glo-lite parade they had for the littles Saturday night- very cute," showing family-friendly evening entertainment.
Noise considerations: Family campgrounds generally respect quiet hours. At Deschutes River Campground, a camper observed: "Everyone there really obeyed the 10PM noise ordinance. The campsites were pretty close together and I didn't hear a single person after 10PM."
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: Some sites have unusual utility setups. At Kah-Nee-Ta High Desert RV Park, one RVer noted: "Writing a review because our site was backwards. The utilities were on the passenger side. Couldn't hookup to water or sewer with my TT because I would have had to pull in forward."
Size restrictions: Physical barriers may limit access. For Trout Creek Campground, a reviewer mentioned the "14' clearance tunnel you need to pass through that limits some RVs," making advance planning crucial.
Pull-through availability: Some sites offer easier access options. "We had a pull through which was nice. Sites were gravel and there was grass in the park, also nice trees," reported a Redmond Central Oregon KOA visitor.
Full hookup options: Utility access varies by campground. At Pelton Park, visitors have access to "Tent sites, Yurts, cabins, large RV spaces with full or partial hookups," providing flexible options for different camping setups.
