12 Best Campgrounds Near Prineville, Oregon
Prineville, Oregon, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of campgrounds that cater to different preferences, from serene lakeside spots to rugged high desert landscapes.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, here are the 12 top campgrounds near Prineville that promise an unforgettable experience.
1. Genghis Campground
Located on the South Shore of East Lake, Genghis Campground offers a unique blend of traditional camping and cultural experience with its 8 campsites and 2 original Mongolian Gers.
Open from June 1st to October 15th, this campground is perfect for those seeking a unique lodging experience.
Pets are allowed, and amenities include toilets and campfires (when burn bans are not in place).
The campground is set on 157 acres, providing ample space for exploration and relaxation. The serene environment is ideal for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Key Features:
- Season: June 1st to October 15th for campsites; Gers available year-round.
- Amenities: Toilets, campfires permitted (when no burn ban), pets allowed.
- Unique Aspect: Original Mongolian Gers for a unique cultural experience.
2. Picnik Place
Nestled under a juniper tree with a lava rock backdrop, Picnik Place in Bend, OR, offers a secluded camping experience on a 20-acre farm.
With an off-grid solar power hook-up, this site is ideal for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.
It’s just a short drive from downtown Bend, making it convenient for day trips. The site offers a simple and tucked-away camping experience, perfect for those who appreciate privacy and tranquility.
Key Features:
- Location: 20 acres in Bend, OR.
- Amenities: Off-grid solar power hook-up, pets allowed, campfires permitted.
- Proximity: 15 minutes to downtown Bend, 7 minutes to Trader Joe’s and Home Depot.
3. Big Rock Ranch
Big Rock Ranch in Terrebonne, OR, features two lodging sites on a 30-acre working regenerative family farm.
Guests can stay in a 12×14 ft canvas tent with stunning views of a 300+ ft Tuff rock formation and the Cascade Mountains.
The ranch offers an outdoor kitchen, farm-fresh eggs, and seasonal greens. The modest ranch layout with wildly immodest views makes it a continual wonder for visitors.
Key Features:
- Location: 30 acres in Terrebonne, OR.
- Amenities: Outdoor kitchen, farm-fresh eggs, seasonal greens, potable water, toilets, showers, trash disposal.
- Activities: Limited hiking onsite, close to Smith Rock State Park, Lake Billy Chinook, and the Deschutes River.
4. Camping Under the Stars
Located in Culver, OR, this 5-acre property offers 5 RV and tent sites. While no fires are allowed during the summer, propane fire pits are provided.
The property is close to the lake and grasslands, making it a great spot for nature lovers. The strict no-fire policy ensures safety during the dry summer months.
Key Features:
- Location: 5 acres in Culver, OR.
- Amenities: Propane fire pits, toilets, pets allowed.
- Proximity: Close to the lake and grasslands.
5. B:30 Desert Destination
Situated on 10 acres in Prineville, OR, B:30 Desert Destination offers three tent sites with Cascade Mountain views and unlimited stargazing.
The campground is close to the Crooked River, Prineville Reservoir, and Millican Valley OHV Trail System, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The group tent site includes an outdoor shower and compostable toilet.
Key Features:
- Location: 10 acres in Prineville, OR.
- Amenities: Outdoor shower, compostable toilet, BBQ with picnic area, propane fire pits, pets allowed.
- Activities: Close to Crooked River, Prineville Reservoir, Millican Valley OHV Trail System, and Chimney Rock Trail.
6. Heart of Sisters
In the city limits of Sisters, OR, this campground offers two RV and tent sites on a 1-acre property. It’s within walking distance to downtown Sisters and the Buckrun Trailhead.
The site features a firepit, BBQ, and grills, and the host offers prepared meals and social media promotion for small businesses.
Key Features:
- Location: 1 acre in Sisters, OR.
- Amenities: Firepit, BBQ, grills, potable water, toilets, showers, pets allowed.
- Proximity: Walking distance to downtown Sisters and Buckrun Trailhead.
7. High Desert Ranch
High Desert Ranch in Redmond, OR, offers 10 tent sites on a 1-acre property. Guests can enjoy an outdoor shower, a portal toilet, and breathtaking night skies.
The ranch is close to Smith Rock and the Redmond Caves, making it a great base for exploring the area.
Key Features:
- Location: 1 acre in Redmond, OR.
- Amenities: Outdoor shower, portal toilet, potable water, pets allowed.
- Proximity: Close to Smith Rock and Redmond Caves.
8. Harmony Farm Sanctuary
Located in Bend, OR, Harmony Farm Sanctuary offers a unique glamping experience in a tiny house on a 10-acre farm animal sanctuary.
Guests can enjoy stunning mountain views, a composting toilet, and an outdoor shower (in summer). The sanctuary is conveniently located between Bend and Sisters, OR.
Key Features:
- Location: 10 acres in Bend, OR.
- Amenities: Composting toilet, outdoor shower (summer), potable water, pets allowed.
- Unique Aspect: Farm animal sanctuary with educational tours.
9. Antelope Market Camping
This 2-acre property in Antelope, OR, offers dry camping with a porta potty onsite. The area is rich in history and culture, making it an interesting spot for history buffs and those looking to explore the rural landscape.
Key Features:
- Location: 2 acres in Antelope, OR.
- Amenities: Porta potty, potable water, pets allowed.
- Unique Aspect: Located in a near ghost town with historical significance.
10. Working Ranch Just Outside Bend
Located 9 miles east of Bend, OR, this 40-acre ranch offers two RV and tent sites. Guests can enjoy the company of cows, chickens, geese, and ducks, along with quiet nights filled with the sounds of nature.
Key Features:
- Location: 40 acres near Bend, OR.
- Amenities: Potable water, toilets, trash disposal, cooking equipment, pets allowed.
- Unique Aspect: Working ranch with farm animals and open fields.
11. Back Side of Painted Hills Camping
This 320-acre property in Mitchell, OR, offers a single RV and tent site with excellent views and night star gazing.
The site is close to the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and the Ochoco National Forest.
Key Features:
- Location: 320 acres in Mitchell, OR.
- Amenities: Primitive outhouse, pets allowed.
- Unique Aspect: Proximity to Painted Hills and John Day Fossil Beds.
12. River Oasis Farm
Located in Sisters, OR, this 3-acre farm on the Whychus Creek offers four lodging sites. The farm grows biodynamic and organic food and medicinal herbs, providing a unique and educational camping experience.
Key Features:
- Location: 3 acres in Sisters, OR.
- Amenities: Potable water, toilets, campfires, showers, pets allowed.
- Unique Aspect: Biodynamic and organic farm with medicinal herbs.
Conclusion
Prineville, Oregon, and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of campgrounds that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a serene lakeside retreat, a unique glamping experience, or a rugged high desert adventure, these campgrounds provide the perfect setting for your next outdoor escape.
