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Lake Owyhee
Overview
Lake Owyhee State Park offers a striking contrast to the lush greenery typically associated with Oregon. Situated in the high desert of the eastern part of the state, this park sits along the shores of a massive, 53-mile-long reservoir. The park is characterized by its **dramatic volcanic rock formations** and deep, narrow canyons that provide a sense of total immersion in nature. It is a destination where the vastness of the landscape meets the tranquility of the water, making it a premier choice for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the noise of modern life.
Location & Surroundings
Located about 33 miles southwest of Nyssa, OR, the park is nestled within the heart of the **Owyhee Canyonlands**. The drive to the park is an experience in itself, winding through colorful geological layers and rugged terrain that feels like a hidden world. Once you arrive, you are surrounded by towering cliffs that have earned the area the nickname Oregon’s Grand Canyon. The remote location ensures **dark night skies** perfect for stargazing, far removed from the light pollution of major metropolitan areas, providing a peaceful environment for every traveler.
Amenities & Park Features
The primary area for RVers is the McCormack Campground, which features paved pads and a mix of site types designed to accommodate various rig sizes. Many sites offer **electrical and water hookups**, providing essential comforts in a wilderness setting. The park is well-equipped with the following features:
- Access to **well-maintained boat ramps** and docks for lake entry.
- Clean restrooms equipped with **hot showers and flush toilets**.
- A seasonal dump station and accessible picnic areas for day use.
These facilities ensure that while you are deep in the canyon, you have the basic necessities required for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water-based recreation is the heart of the experience here. The reservoir is a hotspot for **fishing for crappie and bass**, while the calm waters are ideal for boating and long-distance paddleboarding. Hikers and wildlife enthusiasts should keep a lookout for **California bighorn sheep** and golden eagles that frequent the canyon walls. A short drive or hike allows visitors to view the historic Owyhee Dam, an engineering marvel that was the tallest dam in the world when it was completed in 1932, offering a glimpse into the region’s history.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal fit for travelers who prefer **scenic seclusion** over the hustle and bustle of luxury RV resorts. It appeals most to outdoor adventurers, including photographers drawn to the golden-hour light on the canyon walls and anglers looking for their next big catch. If your travel style involves **disconnecting from technology** to reconnect with the natural world, Lake Owyhee State Park provides the perfect backdrop for your next eastern Oregon journey, offering a rugged yet peaceful camping experience.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Steve B Jones
Loved McCormick Campground at Lk. Owyhee! Late Sept. stay; only a few sites taken. FANTASTIC Ranger staff accommodated our switch to a more scenic site with smiles and offered useful site and local information. WiFi range limited, best near site 16, info board has password. Super clean bathrooms! Watch out for the little "goat's-head" thorns on the grasses - will pop bike tires and bare feet. NO mosquitos but LOTS of flies around any warm/hot surface; bring bug spray & set chairs in shade. Water was comfortable - almost warm! Great for paddle boarding; very little boat traffic/wakes. Hot spring pools just 30 min away. Power & water at all RV sites. Well worth the 7-hour tow of the camper - we WILL be back!!
Rhonda Scott
What can't I say. Scary drive in for someone afraid of heights or driving off the road, but if you're not driving, close your eyes because the Park is great! I love it here. It is boating and fishing and swimming paradise. If your not into water related sports, it's probably not for you. There are no real hiking trails out of the park itself but quite a few around the Succor Creek area and Leslie Gulch. The park personal are great and very helpful. The pit toilets are clean. Yes we did have an encounter with a rattlesnake but not in camp. We found one while out boating and exploring. It didn't want anything to do with us. One bad thing is there was a fair amount of dog poo on the beach. Come on people clean up after your dogs.
Tracie
The place was very clean and quiet. The lake was unbelievable. When we were there is was HOT, but we loved it ! Highly recommend
Damon “Dmanherper” Donner
This place is so beautiful! Not aa many people as I expected. I will be coming here often. Would like to rent one the cabins some day.
Theresa Halverson
We have camped here a couple of times and really like it here. The campground is clean and the showers are warm. The flies can be a bit voracious at certain times so bring fly paper. The hosts are very nice and try very hard to keep the grass green even when it is 100° out. The lake is warm in the summer and not too busy since most boaters are just fishermen. The fishing seems to be pretty good. There aren't a lot of beaches but there is a Rocky Beach at the campground to set up shade to hang out during the day. We also anchored our boats off the shore and no one bothered them the whole week. The wind usually picks up in the late afternoon but it's not too bad.