Top 10 Places For Camping in Central Oregon

Central Oregon is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, and camping is one of the best ways to experience all that this beautiful region has to offer.

From the high desert plains to the towering peaks of the Cascade Range, there is something for everyone.

However, with so many campgrounds to choose from, it can be tough to decide on the best. When you're feeling overwhelmed, you can always begin with these options.

1. Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is a haven for campers and rock climbers alike. Nestled in the Oregon high desert, the park offers stunning views of the Cascades and various challenging climbs.

Camping is available on a first-come, first-served basis, but there are more than enough sites to accommodate everyone who wants to stay overnight. The best time to camp is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are thin.

2. Deschutes National Forest

The Deschutes National Forest is a hiking, mountain biking, camping, and fishing enthusiast's dream come true.

There are 34 electrical sites and hot showers available at the Deschutes River State Recreation Area. The Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area is just a short drive away, or you can explore the area's six miles of circular paths.

You can even go whitewater rafting or steelhead fishing if you so desire. Deschutes National Forest has something for everyone, no matter what type of camping you choose.

3. The Ochoco National Forest

The Ochoco National Forest is a beautiful place to camp, offering a variety of scenic landscapes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The forest is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, and its many hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Camping in the Ochoco National Forest is a great way to experience all that this corner of Oregon has to offer. Several campgrounds are scattered throughout the forest, so you can choose a location that suits your needs.

4. Mount Bachelor

Mount Bachelor is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, but it also offers the opportunity to camp overnight in the parking lot. This can be a great option for those who want to avoid driving back to town after a day on the slopes.

Mt. Bachelor offers several overnight parking choices, including powered hook-up sites.

5. La Pine State Park

LaPine State Park is the perfect spot for a camping getaway. Nestled in a high desert subalpine forest, the park offers stunning scenery, 14 miles of multi-use trails, and plenty of opportunities for fishing and hiking.

The campground features 82 full-hookup sites, 47 electrical sites with water, and 5 rustic log cabins. There are also 5 deluxe log cabins available for rent, 3 of which are pet-friendly.

Other amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, firewood for sale, and an RV dump station.

6. Tumalo State Park

Tumalo State Park is the perfect place to enjoy all that Central Oregon has to offer. With its location along the Deschutes River and just four miles north of Bend, the options for outdoor activities are endless.

You can go golfing on one of the many lush green courses, fishing in a clear blue-ribbon trout stream, hiking or mountain biking on miles of scenic trails, or camping in one of the 23 full-hookup sites or 54 tent sites.

There are also 7 yurts and 2 seasonal group camping areas available, as well as a seasonal hiker/biker camp.

7. Cove Palisades State Park

Cove Palisades State Park, located in central Oregon, is a lovely year-round getaway. The park, which includes the Deschutes and Crooked River canyons, is a popular camping and water sports destination.

The park's two seasonal campgrounds are Deschutes River Campground and Crooked River Campground. Deschutes River Campground is nestled in a canyon just down the road from two swimming and boating areas on the Lower Deschutes River branch of Lake Billy Chinook.

Hikers and campers flock to the Crooked River Campground, which is perched high above the canyon near the park's entrance. Both campgrounds boast stunning views and are perfect places from which to enjoy all that Cove Palisades State Park has to offer.

8. Bend/Sisters Garden RV Park

Camping in Bend/Sisters Garden RV Park in Bend, Oregon, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still having access to all the amenities of home.

The RV park features level and paved sites, 30/50 amp service, and all sites have full hook-ups. There is also a 24/7 laundry room, picnic tables and fire pits, wheelchair accessibility, and basic cable.

The large grassy areas are perfect for meeting new people or enjoying a game of frisbee, and the BBQ rental area is great for cooking up some delicious food.

The luxury bathhouses are a great place to relax after a long day of hiking, and the convenience store has everything you need if you forget something at home.

9. Elk Lake Resort

Elk Lake Resort is the perfect place to enjoy all that nature has to offer. With 13 cabin rentals, a lodge and dining room, and a wide variety of boating options, there is something for everyone at Elk Lake Resort.

The resort is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along to enjoy the majestic mountains and breathtaking landscapes.

In addition, the resort offers fishing and boating lessons for those who want to learn more about these popular summer activities.

10. Creekside Campground

Nestled along Whychus Creek, Creekside Campground is a municipal park that offers a total of 60 campsites, 27 of which have full hookups. This scenic campground is just a short walk from downtown and provides easy access to all the best that Sisters has to offer.

Each campsite comes equipped with a fire pit and picnic table, and the campground also features restrooms, coin-operated showers, and an automated sewer discharge site.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! These are just a few of the many great places to go camping in Central Oregon. With so many beautiful parks and campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!