$15 / night

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Bully Creek Reservoir County Park

5 Reviews

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Bully Creek Reservoir County Park, near Vale, Oregon, is a straightforward campground that offers a peaceful escape by the water. With 40 sites available, it’s a solid choice for those looking to unwind, whether you’re in a tent or an RV.

The campground is known for its clean facilities and friendly hosts who keep things running smoothly. Visitors appreciate the availability of electric hookups and drinking water, making it convenient for a short stay. As one camper noted, “The site was very spacious and the campground nice and quiet, clean and well kept.”

If you’re into birdwatching, you’ll love the variety of feathered friends that frequent the area. The reservoir itself is a nice backdrop, although it’s important to be cautious about the water quality. The sunsets here are stunning, and the nights cool down nicely after a windy day, perfect for stargazing or sharing stories around the campfire.

While the campground doesn’t have a lot of shade, it’s a great spot to kick back for a night or two. Just keep in mind that the wind can pick up, so securing your gear is a must. Whether you’re passing through or planning a quick getaway, Bully Creek Reservoir County Park offers a simple yet enjoyable camping experience.

Description

The following is information about the park and the check-in and Reservation process:

We are a county Campground with a great layout, grass and trees along the eastern edge of the Bully Creek Reservoir. (Map attached) We have showers and restrooms which are included in your camping fee and therefore not an extra cost. The Park season is April 15th to November 15th each year. Most sites are "back-in".

Our fees are $15.00 per camping unit per night. We can only accept cash or checks. (If paying with cash, please have the exact amount as we are not making change in the office at this time. If paying by check, please make checks payable to "Bully Creek Park.") We cannot process credit/debit cards.

We take phone reservations and you are also welcome to drop in if you are unsure of your dates. Most weekends from May though mid-July will become fully booked so if arriving over a weekend, reservations are strongly recommended. We write reservations in the book and have you pay upon arrival. If you are not able to make it, we ask that you call us so we have a chance to re-rent the site.

All sites have power (20-30-50 amp) but not all sites have water. Some sites are close enough to a faucet that you can hook up with a 'Y' splitter so other folks can still access the water. Right now, the Well water is testing high for Arsenic (has been a problem in the area for years) So it is safe to bathe in or wash dishes but it is suggested that you bring alternative forms of drinking water. There is NO Arsenic in Bully Creek Reservoir. One dump is also included in the cost of your stay (approximately once a week).

Check in and check out is noon.

Just as you cross over the dam, you will see the lake on the left hand side and the caretakers house on the left hand side. Drive down the pull through driveway.

There is a door on the side of the building that says "office". We are doing contact-less check-in at the office so there is a table with literature and a registration Roster for you to complete. Payment envelopes will be in the card holders on the door. Put your payment in the envelope for your site then put it through the "mail" slot in the door. Receipts will be available later that day or the next morning depending on what time you arrive.

Thank you for your interest in Bully Creek Park!

Sue and Mishelle

Bully Creek Park

2475 Bully Creek Rd

Vale OR 97918

5414732969

bullycreek@malheurco.org

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Location

Bully Creek Reservoir County Park is located in Oregon

Directions

From town, NW 7 mi on Graham Blvd to Bully Creek Rd, NW 3 mi (L)

Address

2475 Bully Creek Rd
Vale, OR 97918

Coordinates

44.02500085 N
117.403 W

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BY

Juntura Hot Springs Dispersed

56 min away

Saddle up Ranch

1 hr 10 min away

Drive Time

Presented by

1 hr 20 min from Boise
3 hrs 39 min from Walla Walla
3 hrs 54 min from Kennewick
4 hrs 40 min from Lewiston

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

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Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Dispersed
Group

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Reservable
Showers
Drinking Water
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Water Hookups
Pull-Through Sites
30 Amp Hookups
50 Amp Hookups
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

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mike L.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2024

Nice place but not fancy

This is a basic campground but it sits on a nice lake. There were forest fires burning in the distance so I didn’t have the best timing. That being said, I think it is a good place to stay in the area for a night or two. It was quiet, easily accessible, and reasonably maintained. It would not be a destination for me, but I’d stay there again

Site35

Month of VisitJuly

allison W.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 26, 2022

Hot, dusty, arsenic… but maybe the best option

This area is devoid of good camping spots, so I’m kind of glad we stopped here. There are a few things to know before you go, though.

If you’re following geocoords and coming from the west, you’ll be tempted to take a more direct route from Willow Creek. The road is a disaster, don’t do it. It will be faster and much easier on your vehicle to take the tar road from Vale.
There are incredibly high levels of arsenic in the reservoir. When you check in, you’ll get a packet of information dating back to 2012 on this. I’m surprised no other reviewers mentioned it. You basically shouldn’t touch the water. The campsite does not have shade like you might expect, most sites are in full sun.
The wind is epic. I was grateful to be in a vehicle with the torrential gale blowing everyone’s tents halfway to Idaho. It’s the kind of wind where you get dirt in your eyes and dust everywhere. I tried to talk to other campers, but we couldn’t hear each other over the wind! It lasts until sundown, at which point it stops and the temperature gets much cooler and the nights are pretty beautiful. Sunset here is very very late in the summer, so keep that in mind.

The camp hosts live in a house nearby and were implementing a no contact check in (apparently reservations are possible if you call, but there was plenty of space on a weekday). They seem very organized and nice, but goodness, the weather made this inhospitable — and given the surrounding environment I feel confident saying that heat and wind are the norm.

Month of VisitJune

Jackie S.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 13, 2019

Peaceful

There is not much in Vale and this is the perfect escape. Sites are large with electric only. There is water close by or you can fill your reserve at the fresh water hose by the dump station.
Great one or two night stay, lots of birds.

(4) View All

Joshua G.

Traveler

Reviewed Sep. 7, 2018

Nice hidden gem

An enjoyable stay with clean facilities and friendly hosts.

Janeal C.

Scout

Reviewed May. 22, 2018

Beautifully kept

We are regulars to tHis campground. The ladies who care for it are amazing and do a beautiful job. We have never had any problems here other than nature being its own amazing unpredictable self. We camp with a large group every year with no mix-ups or crossed wires and the cellular service is slowly starting to creep in. Clean grounds, clean bathrooms always a pleasure

Site2-6

Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Bully Creek Campground?

Bully Creek Reservoir County Park offers electric hookups at spacious campsites, with water available nearby and a freshwater fill-up station located by the dump station. The campground maintains clean restroom facilities and is well-maintained by attentive hosts. While amenities are basic, they provide the essentials for a comfortable camping experience. The sites are large enough to accommodate groups, making it suitable for family gatherings. Cellular service is available but may be slow in some areas of the campground.

What recreational activities are available at Bully Creek Reservoir?

The reservoir offers excellent opportunities for water-based recreation including fishing, boating, and swimming. Bird watching is particularly rewarding at Bully Creek, with diverse avian species inhabiting the area. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for nature photography, picnicking along the shoreline, and enjoying scenic views. The lake serves as the centerpiece for activities, providing a welcome escape in an area with limited recreational options. Hiking along the shoreline and stargazing are also popular activities at this tranquil destination.

What do visitor reviews say about Bully Creek Campground?

Bully Creek Campground earns praise for its clean facilities and friendly, attentive hosts who maintain the grounds beautifully. Campers appreciate the spacious sites and peaceful environment, highlighting it as a perfect escape from Vale. Many visitors return regularly, especially with large groups. The campground's lake setting receives positive mentions, though some note it's best for short stays of one or two nights. While described as basic, the campground is valued for being quiet, easily accessible, and reasonably maintained in an area with limited camping options.

How do I make reservations at Bully Creek Campground?

Reservations for Bully Creek Campground can be made by contacting the Malheur County Parks Department. The campground accommodates large groups without reservation issues, making it suitable for family gatherings and events. For the most current reservation information, including fees and availability, contact the park directly or visit the Malheur County website. It's advisable to secure your spot in advance, especially during peak summer months when water recreation is most popular.

Where is Bully Creek Campground located and how do I get there?

Bully Creek Campground is located near Vale, Oregon at Bully Creek Reservoir. When traveling to the campground, it's important to take the proper route. If approaching from the west, avoid the tempting shortcut via Willow Creek as this road is in poor condition. Instead, use the main access roads to reach the campground safely. The campground is easily accessible once you're on the correct route and provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. It's one of the few camping options in this region of eastern Oregon.

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