BLM's Prineville Deschutes Field Office manages Reynolds Pond Recreation Site, a dispersed camping area spread across 20-plus acres of sagebrush and juniper terrain. The site centers around a fishing pond and operates on a pack-in, pack-out basis with no developed amenities. Campers can access the area by vehicle, though several reviews mention rough road conditions that require attention.
The camping area provides multiple pull-offs and open spaces where RVs and tent campers can set up among scattered juniper trees on sandy ground. Fire rings dot various spots, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. "A steady stream of locals came and went, running the dogs, fishing, playing guitar, even flying model pontoon planes, but it was quiet after dark," notes MeLinda W.. The pond supports fishing but prohibits motorized boats.
Cell service reaches the area, with multiple campers confirming Verizon coverage works well. The open layout means sites can spread out considerably, reducing crowding even when other campers are present. Reviews indicate cleanliness varies, with some established sites showing signs of previous use including trash in fire rings.
Campers should bring a flashlight since the area lacks artificial lighting and becomes completely dark after sunset. The location works well as an overnight stop for travelers or a base for exploring campgrounds around Powell Butte.
Description
An oasis sits just east of Bend...a small 12-acre pond surrounded by old juniper and dusty trails. Tall willow and cattails offer a lush green vista in a sea of desert brown. Visitors can pass through to access the north side of the Oregon Badlands Wilderness or spend the day at the pond, enjoying the sunshine and fishing for sunfish, largemouth bass and brown bullheads. The .75 mile walking trail around the pond provides access to spots for picnicking and floating. Bring a tent and tuck yourself back amid the basalt rock for a primitive night of camping. Know Before You Go: Open YEAR ROUND. The pond is not ADA accessible. Open for primitive overnight camping. Amenities include limited trailer parking, but no potable water or restrooms. Campfires are allowed; fire restrictions may be in effect in the summer. Pets should remain under owner control at all times. Motorized boats are not permitted. Canoes, kayaks and float tubes are allowed but must be carried from the parking lot over a narrow bridge to the pond. Point of Interest: This pond was built to hold excess water from the Central Oregon Irrigation District canal system. It has been stocked for fishing and the state record reader sunfish was caught here at almost two pounds! Reynolds Pond Brochure ADA Access: No accessible facilities are available.
Fee Info
No Fees.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundReynolds Pond Recreation Site is located in Oregon
Directions
From Bend, Oregon: Drive 14 miles east on Alfalfa Market Road. Turn right on Johnson Road just before the Alfalfa Market Store. At one mile, when the road turns sharply to the right, bear left toward the transfer station. Continue off of the pavement and follow the gravel road about 0.6 miles to the pond.
Coordinates
44.05924694 N
121.01614797 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 4/26/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/13/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 4/26/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/13/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 19 min from Bend, OR
- 2 hrs 37 min from Albany, OR
- 2 hrs 39 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 39 min from Eugene, OR
