Best Campgrounds near Alder Springs, OR

Alder Springs, Oregon provides access to several campgrounds along the Deschutes River corridor, with options ranging from established facilities to dispersed camping areas. The Cove Palisades State Park offers multiple campgrounds including Crooked River and Deschutes River, while Lake Simtustus RV Park and Mecca Flat Campground provide alternatives for both tent and RV camping. Several locations feature cabin accommodations, and the Deschutes River Overlook area allows free dispersed camping with minimal amenities. Most established campgrounds maintain seasonal operations, with many closing during winter months.

Road conditions vary significantly when accessing more remote sites like Mecca Flat, where visitors encounter narrow roads with limited passing areas. The 1.6-mile Mecca Flat Road requires caution, particularly when towing trailers. Most campgrounds in the region experience high temperatures during summer with minimal shade. Seasonal considerations include fire restrictions during dry months and winter closures at higher elevations. Cell service is spotty throughout the area, especially in canyon locations. "The dirt road is single lane and rough," noted one visitor about access to Mecca Flat Campground.

Waterfront access ranks as the primary draw for camping in this region, with multiple sites positioned along the Deschutes River or Lake Simtustus. Campers frequently mention the fishing opportunities, particularly for Kokanee, Rainbow Trout, and Bull Trout in Lake Simtustus. Several campgrounds offer boat ramps or docks for water access. Privacy between sites varies considerably, with reviews highlighting that sites at Mecca Flat have "minimal privacy" due to limited tree cover. The dispersed camping at Deschutes River Overlook provides scenic views but less shelter, with one camper describing it as "essentially a parking lot over a very pretty view." Visitors to established campgrounds like Pelton Park and Lake Simtustus consistently praise the cleanliness and maintenance of facilities, with particular appreciation for amenities like fish cleaning stations and boat rentals.

Best Camping Sites Near Alder Springs, Oregon (344)

    1. Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park

    26 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 546-3412

    $32 - $35 / night

    "Driving around Oregon for a few days, we dropped our tent in the grasslands in early March."

    "We followed our RV GPS and WAZE, which agreed until we got near the state park. We checked out the confirmation email, which stated to follow the signs."

    2. Deschutes River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park

    25 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 546-3412

    $24 - $38 / night

    "Again with most of our trip in Central Oregon, late August/early September, it was very smoky."

    "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."

    3. Lake Simtustus RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 475-1085

    $40 - $250 / night

    "About 5 miles off main highway, on the edge of Lake Simtustus, they have boat sliis, pontoon boats and kayaks to rent."

    "The ‘A’ sites at the lake side are very close together. The staff are all friendly and very helpful. Good WiFi and quiet at night."

    4. Mecca Flat Campground

    5 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6700

    "Situated on the banks of the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River, Mecca Flat Campground is located just a mile and a half from Oregon State HIghway 26 near Warm Springs."

    "This is a nice campground right on the banks of the Deschutes River, surrounded by high canyon walls and basalt outcroppings."

    5. Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    4 miles
    Website

    "Nice couple spots around a couple big piles of dirt. Some fire rings and no one around. Very windy in the tent."

    "There was a trailer that seemed to be permanently located at one end of the lot, and a local woman stopped by to ask what I was doing there."

    6. Pelton Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 325-5292

    $24 - $58 / night

    "The park is very family-friendly, with easy physical access to restrooms, the docks and playground equipment."

    "Available to rent now are yomes (yurt domes) with bunkbeds and inexpensive lake view cabins with AC and heat."

    7. Kah-Nee-Ta High Desert RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 553-1112

    "However,considering the location and the associated costs of maintaining a place that is off the beaten path it is quite remarkable. There are many mineral pools varying in temperature."

    "Our RV site’s sewer wasn’t operational, our water hook up leaked, and there was a bunch of standing water in the grass around our site. That said, we had an awesome stay."

    8. Redmond - Central Oregon KOA

    16 Reviews
    Culver, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 546-3046

    "Redmond/Central Oregon KOA is such a beautiful place to come and camp. The views are incredible, and is one of the reasons why I really enjoy this place."

    "I’ve never stayed at a KOA before but it was close to the rock ranch we were going to so it was really convenient."

    9. Jefferson County Fairgrounds RV Park - DURING EVENTS ONLY

    4 Reviews
    Madras, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 325-5050

    "Camp host was nice, easy access to sites. Showers/bathrooms clean but dated."

    "Rght next to Fair-when it is in town!"

    10. Trout Creek Campground Boat Ramp

    3 Reviews
    Alder Springs, OR
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6700

    $8 - $12 / night

    "It's located right along the Deschutes River with a landing used by rafters and fishers. There are lots of trails and roads to walk on, so it would be easy to spend a few nights here."

    "very nice) pit toilets, or it could be due to the 14' clearance tunnel you need to pass through that limits some RVs, or it could be because of the rutted washboard gravel road that pleads for you to drive"

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Recent Reviews near Alder Springs, OR

1562 Reviews of 344 Alder Springs Campgrounds


  • Vinny A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Eagle Rock Road Camp

    Eagle Rock Road Boondocking

    Stayed here for one night. Got in late and left early, so didn’t stay long, but it was perfect for a stop. Many spots along the road. Ours was pretty close to Route 20. The road its was in decent shape.

  • E
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    Lots of spaces

    Came on a Sunday night so had lots of spots to choose from. Good camping for a quick stop. There are warning signs about potentially closing the campground cause people keep leaving trash. So if you come please LNT!

  • Derek N.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Cold Springs Resort

    Relaxing RV park with lots to see from a walking distance

    Relaxing RV park with lots to see from a walking distance

    This is a really well laid out campground, with well kept grounds. The RV area is shaped like a horse shoe and only has 12 sites. The rest of the campground has about 20 cabins spread out around the grounds. Our site was had lots of room to easily back in our trailer. The fire pit was big and cleaned out when we arrived. There is a creek that runs behind most of the sites which was a nice addition. There are two bathrooms with showers. There are a handful of kids and adult bikes you can use. The campground is a few minutes walking distance to a stocked pond that youth can fish in. About an 8 minute walk away from the nearby general store which feels like a blast from the past. The walk to the general store includes a really beautiful bridge crossing to get across the Metolius river.

    With most people in cabins and only a handful of RVs, it’s a really quiet campground. This was a really relaxing stay and it was so nice that most the things we wanted to do was just walking distance away. We will definitely come here again.

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Green Canyon

    Unexpected serenity!!

    I wanted to get away for the weekend and it was close. I arrived. Perfect camp spot. Close to the river. I heard it’s lullaby at night!! True therapy in its finest !!

    The trail along the river was awesome. It’s now one of my favorite spots. Will definitely be back.

    No cell service at all but it’s worth it!!! Great camp host!! Very friendly people there. Great memories!!!

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Britenbush River Dispersed2

    Britenbush River Dispersed2

    A bit past the other listing. Beautiful, just off the road. There is a pullout on both sides of the road to camp. I suggest stopping to scout each to decide what is best for your rig.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Trillium Lake

    Nice place with a lake

    Easy access. Nice sites.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Terrebonne East Camp Dispersed

    A bit bumpy

    I went a bit further on the main road then pulled off on the right. A bit bumpy for my non-lifted van, but managed. Drove in about .5 miles and found a flat place to park. Yes, there was some trash scattered, I picked up around where I was. Windy in the afternoon when I was there. I enjoyed it.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    cascade view trailhead

    Great spot

    Like the 1st review, just pulled off on a pull thru area. Close walk to trailhead and vault toilets. The road was a bit busy during the day. Glad I came


Guide to Alder Springs

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Alder Springs, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, Alder Springs, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 344 campgrounds and RV parks near Alder Springs, OR and 65 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Alder Springs, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Alder Springs, OR is Crooked River Campground — The Cove Palisades State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Alder Springs, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 65 free dispersed camping spots near Alder Springs, OR.

What parks are near Alder Springs, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Alder Springs, OR that allow camping, notably Mt. Hood National Forest and Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland.