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Ochoco Lake Campground (Crook County Park)
Overview
Ochoco Lake Campground, managed by Crook County, offers a serene escape along the shores of its namesake reservoir. This park serves as a refreshing oasis in the high desert landscape, characterized by its shimmering waters and mature trees. It provides a peaceful setting where travelers can disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of Central Oregon. The park is well-regarded for its scenic lake views and easy accessibility for those traveling along the scenic Highway 26 corridor.
Location & Surroundings
Located roughly seven miles east of Prineville, the park sits conveniently for travelers entering the gateway to the Blue Mountains. The surrounding landscape features a mix of high desert terrain and lush shoreline vegetation, providing a habitat for local wildlife and various bird species. The campground is nestled against the rolling foothills, offering a transition from the agricultural valley to the densely forested peaks of the Ochoco National Forest, creating a picturesque backdrop for every campsite.
Amenities & Park Features
The facility is designed for those who appreciate a blend of comfort and rustic charm. It features a concrete boat launch that provides immediate access for anglers and boaters. RVers will find several helpful features during their stay:
- Electrical and water hookups at designated sites
- Seasonal restroom and shower facilities
- Spacious day-use area with picnic tables
- Easy access to potable water
The presence of large cottonwood trees throughout the campground offers much-needed shade during warm summer afternoons, making it a comfortable spot for mid-day relaxation.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water-based recreation is the primary draw here, with the lake being a local favorite for trout and bass fishing. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the rugged trails of the Ochoco National Forest or hike to the iconic Steins Pillar. For a longer excursion, the world-famous Painted Hills are accessible for a day trip. The nearby city of Prineville provides convenient access to local breweries, shops, and historical sites, ensuring travelers have all the necessary supplies within reach.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for travelers who prioritize outdoor recreation and proximity to the water over luxury resort-style features. It is a fantastic choice for fishing enthusiasts and boaters who want to be steps away from the dock. Because of its manageable size and quiet atmosphere, it is also a perfect stopover for road trippers exploring the backroads of Oregon. RVers who enjoy a more traditional, nature-focused camping experience will find this county park to be a welcoming and scenic destination.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Dave n' Heather Crawford
Pretty campground, beautiful view of the lake. The sites were a little hard to get backed in to because of the trees but we made it. We have a 26' trailer and it was really snug to get it backed in to site 11... But great once we got there. I would definitely stay here again
melinda paris
Camp was very clean, quiet and restful. Pet friendly, and the camp host was wonderful. She keeps everything very clean including the rest rooms and showers. Also very friendly and helpful with any reservation issues. Definitely a 5 star review would give more if I could.
Lauralee Stephens
This campground was amazing, the bathrooms were incredibly nice. The hosts were new and the husband was very nice and friendly but the wife wasn't as friendly.
sharon charles
Very nice well kept quiet campground. The host was very friendly and helpful even delivering wood to our site. The bathroom and shower was warm and immaculately kept with not a spec of dirt to be seen.
Cathy
This campground is lovely! It is set back off the highway but some of the sites near the front of the campground can have road noise. The sites toward the back of the campground have lake views, are beautiful and more quiet. The sites are not private however they are spacious with lots of distance between sites. The host is very attentive and friendly. He even has free coffee available to campers every morning! He has a lot of pride in this place and it shows. It's one of the cleanest campgrounds I've been to. The bathrooms, which also have showers are immaculately clean at all times of the day/night. There is wood and ice available as well as a few other random camping supplies. While it's not a destination campground, it is only 53 minutes to the Painted Hills. Personally, I think this place is much nicer than places that are closer.