Only spent one night at Crane Prairie, and that was a Sunday night. The campground was clean and well maintained and the sites were large. The lake seemed nice, though we didn't have a chance to get on the water.

Crane Prairie is about a 30 minute drive from Bend, so far enough to feel like you are getting away. 

The store is right by the boat launch, is well stocked and had friendly staff.

It did appear that there were a lot of no shows, which was too bad, as many prime spots by the water were booked. The plus was that we had quite a bit of privacy.

I'd be happy to stay here again.

Crane Prairie is a popular spot in Central Oregon off the Cascade Lakes Highway west of 4 season resort town of Bend, OR.

The spots are all a little different and many are downright huge. Of course, people like to camp lakeside but those are actually not the best for privacy.

We prefer the blue loop sites 120 and up. And the even number ones on the ridge like 138 are supreme because they back up to open wilderness and can accommodate several tents and RV.

The lake is accessible from many points and small beaches. The resort lodge rents watercraft, sells ice and food and propane. Super nice folks as well.

The place is clean, and friendly. You see kids riding bikes and walking in groups all over the huge space with adults watching out for everyone.

Can't go wrong with Crane Prairie. One quirk brought me pause this last year. People were having a hard time with the camp host getting into spots where no shows weren't arriving. They claimed they don't give away those spots the next day, which is the Forest Service typical rules. It was a PITA for some people and too many were denied a spot in a sparsely populated weekend. That was sad.

We had a beautiful tent spot right up next to the lake but had to leave because the ants were insane. It was like the ground was moving. There were ant hills two feet tall. We ended up going to elk lake and had a wonderful time.

beautiful views of the cascade mountains, gorgeous reservoir. free camping. dispersed, first come first serve. no amenities. LEAVE NO TRACE!!!!

road is a bit rough but I made it in with a Honda Accord though I wouldn’t recommend for low clearance vehicles.

fire rings available during burn seasons. plenty of fire wood. please do not burn during no burn/dry seasons. the forest is very dry!

bring plenty of water during the summer it’s very hot and dry. you can probably drink the reservoir water if you bring a good filter.

We stayed here for the first time in 2017 and coming back in 2018.

RV camping was fun and quiet and the staff was very friendly. Fishing was not too bad also.

nice places to fish and walk.

I've stayed at this campground several times and always have a great experience. Single spots along the water usually have direct access - some spots have nice beaches, some are more marshy. There's lots of space between most campsites, so you get some privacy from other campers.

The yellow loop is great for big groups, with 15 spots separated from the rest of the campground. There's a small private beach beside the boat ramp, and a bigger, more sandy beach near the day use area.

There are lots of trees for hanging hammocks and giving shade in the afternoon. The reservoir is great for kayaks & paddleboards & floating & swimming. And if you keep your eyes on the sky, you just might see a bald eagle - we see him every time we go, so now we call him Earl.

If you forget anything or just need an ice cream, there's a cute little resort store that's only a short walk from anywhere in the campground.