This article about Ochoco National Forest camping is brought to you by Wraptie. Their fastening systems won’t let you down on your trip to explore central Oregon.
Ochoco National Forest camping is the ultimate R and R getaway. Ochoco National Forest shows off the best of the Ochoco Mountains and central Oregon wilderness. It’s home to unique geological wonders, rare wildlife, pristine lakes, and bubbling creeks. And it boasts some of the most peaceful camping spots in the state. It’s a favorite destination for bikers in the summer and snowmobilers in the winter. The campgrounds are spread out, promising a quiet, peaceful camping experience. These Ochoco National Forest camping spots will soothe your soul and put your mind at ease.
The Best Ochoco National Forest Camping
1. Ochoco Divide Group Site
Image from The Dyrt camper Matt T.
The Ochoco Divide Group Site is part of the Ochoco Divide Campground, 30 minutes from Prineville. The campground is right off the Scenic Ochoco Highway, at the Ochoco Divide summit. There are first-come-first-serve sites for tents and RVs and reservable group sites. You get picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. There’s no drinking water, so come prepared. One of the main features of this area is the abundance of Thunder Eggs, Oregon’s official state rock. They’re beautiful rocks formed by volcanic ash layers that look like sparkling geodes. You can hunt for the rocks in designated areas near the campground. You’re also near several trailheads and hunting locations. For winter activities, check out the Ochoco Divide Sno-Park, a mile down the road. It’s a great basecamp for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sledding.
“We came upon this gem on the pass late afternoon after a long drive. This campground has 25 sites including 5 level pull-throughs with more than adequate length for our long truck and trailer. July 11 and no mosquitoes, lovely flowers, perfect temperature for sleeping. Lots of area between campsites. Fire pits, picnic tables. Paved campground road, graded gravel sites. The best part is the Ponderosa Pine forest that surrounds the campground. Trees up to 150’. One group site available by reservation, the rest are first come first serve. May the Forest be With You.” – Karla B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $13-35
- Number of sites: 28
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
2. Walton Lake
Image from The Dyrt camper Lauren B.
Walton Lake Campground offers a tranquil camping experience, no matter the season. The campground is 30 miles from Prineville, on the pristine shores of Walton Lake. There are lakeside sites for tents and RVs, as well as group sites. Amenities include fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and drinking water. The lake has a boat ramp to drop in your craft and fish for rainbow trout. There are several trails nearby, including one that circumnavigates the lake. It’s common to see wildlife roaming around. The aspen trees make this spot especially beautiful in the autumn months. If you’re into winter sports, check out the Walton Sno-Park, a mile down the road. It’s the perfect place to camp for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and tubing. No matter when you visit Walton Lake, you’re met with a quiet camping experience deep in the forest.
“Walton lake is just gorgeous. It was really calm and smokey when we stayed. It’s $15 a night or $60-$100 for a group site depending on the days. There are walking trails and you can even take the big loop, there are actual trailheads nearby as well. We saw some deer. Weird thing was we spotted moo cows in the park. There is a $5 day-use fee and it’s well worth it, BBQ pits and picnic tables all over. Go fishing. They also have a handicap area. Lots of toilets. I just love this place.” – Amanda B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-60
- Number of sites: 29
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
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3. Wildcat Campground & Day Use Area
Image from The Dyrt camper Amanda B.
Wildcat Campground is the perfect getaway and respite from the summer heat. It’s a half-hour from Prineville, on the banks of East Fork Mill Creek. This secluded campground has sites for tents and RVs up to 20 feet. Amenities include fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and drinking water. The campground offers immediate access to the creek and the Twin Pillars trailhead. It’s not uncommon to be the only campers in the campground, despite the proximity to Prineville. Wildcat is still a hidden gem where you can enjoy the calming silence of the Ochoco National Forest.
“Great secluded little USFS campground in a quiet forest. We had the place to ourselves in mid-September, other than a couple of very pleasant camp hosts. Easy dirt road in. Fresh cold spring water on site. Trail access to Steins Pillar and a Twin Pillars. (We didn’t take either one, unfortunately.) We’d definitely return next time we pass through central Oregon.” – Jeff D.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15
- Number of sites: 17
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
4. Ochoco Forest Camp
Image from The Dyrt
The Ochoco Forest campground is half an hour from Prineville, on the serene banks of Ochoco Creek. This quaint campground has first-come-first-serve sites for tents and RVs. Sites come with fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and drinking water. The creek is a great place to fish for trout or dip your toes in to cool off. The campground provides immediate access to the Lookout Mountain trailhead, where you can explore the mountain’s bizarre rock formations. From the summit, you’re rewarded with magnificent views of the Cascades. Keep an eye out for the elk, deer, and wild horses. There’s a herd of horses that roam free in the area, one of the few places in Oregon to see these majestic animals. The Ochoco Forest campground is an excellent place to rest and restore after a long week.
“Great campsites and friendly host. $13 a night, tent sites were super dusty but not much of the dust came with us. The sites are visually stunning with all the Ponderosas (we’re not used to big trees) 10/10” – Kelsea B.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15
- Number of sites: 5
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Are you looking for the best Ochoco National Forest camping spots? Look no further. These four campgrounds feature the best of the Ochoco National Forest and central Oregon.
