Established Camping
Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore)
Haystack Reservoir Campground, near Prineville, Oregon, offers a unique camping experience right by the water. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of tent and RV camping, with sites nestled among junipers and sagebrush.
The campground features picnic tables and fire rings, making it a great place to gather around the fire after a day of exploring. Visitors have noted the beautiful sunsets and decent fishing opportunities, with some even catching impressive trout. However, be prepared for the mosquitoes; they can be relentless, especially during warmer months.
For outdoor activities, the campground is conveniently located near Smith Rock, a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing. While the lake has had some water quality issues, it still provides a scenic backdrop for your camping adventure. As one camper mentioned, “The campground is beautiful, but killer skeeters!!!”
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to unwind and enjoy nature, Haystack Reservoir Campground is worth considering. Just remember to pack your bug spray and be ready for a bit of adventure!
Description
US Forest Service
Crooked River National Grassland
Overview
Haystack Campground (East Shore) is located in central Oregon's scenic Crooked River National Grassland. With a view of Mt. Jefferson in the distance, visitors can enjoy the beautiful vistas while relaxing in the high desert.
Recreation
Fishing is a popular pastime at the reservoir, which is regularly stocked. Largemouth bass, rainbow trout, kokanee, along with crappie and catfish are some of the species that inhabit the water. Recreational boating is also popular with paved boat ramps available at Haystack Campground as well as at the West Shore Campground. Swimming is also permitted. Nearby areas provide other activities such as rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and ATV use.
Natural Features
Near Madras, Oregon, Haystack Reservoir's 240 surface-acres are surrounded by a high desert landscape of juniper trees and sagebrush. The expanse of water attracts waterfowl such as common loon, horned grebe, red-necked grebe, and eared grebe for a respite during migration. Rarities that have been reported are trumpeter swan, surf scoter, black-necked stilt, sanderling, bald eagle, osprey, and eastern kingbird. The spring breeding season in April through May produces nature's own concert from Pacific chorus frog.
Nearby Attractions
Smith Rock State Park, a very popular area for rock climbing is about a 20-minute drive to the south. Also, a spectacular view of the Crooked River Gorge is available from an old highway bridge, now accessible by a short walk from a rest area just off Hwy 97 about 15 minutes south of the campground.
Location
Haystack Reservoir Campground (East Shore) is located in Oregon
Directions
From Highway 97: Exit Jericho Lane and go east for approximately 1.2 miles. Turn right on Haystack Drive (FS 7130 / FS 96) and continue on for about 2.1 miles. The Haystack Campground entrance is on the left. From Highway 26: Exit on Laurel Lane (FS 96) and go west for approximately 4 miles. Bear right at the intersection of FS 7130 / FS 96 and continue on for about 2 miles. Haystack Campground entrance will be on the right.
Address
P.O. Box 739
Prineville, OR 97754
Coordinates
44.49448 N
121.141687 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TAvailable
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
