Prineville Reservoir

Julie Adrianna Olsen

Go for the views and the lovely dog park with the coolest view. Stay for the staff!!! This is in middle oregon and the high desert mountain area. The nature and the animals, flowers and bugs are very different.So be prepared and get educated. They got some really cool people working here. I realize they change in and out. But there's something about the place that is very jolly. Like it attracts a really cool laid back vibe You're going to get those sky views that you want.Prineville is better than jasper.I think, but jasper you can pull in and claim a spot at any time. New law is you can stay 2 weeks.But then you have to leave for seventeen days. The best spots are obviously along the water overlooking the view. But if it's in the dead of summer, I would take the spots that are hidden amongst the trees along the bottom closer toward the dark sky parking lot. In the summer, they apparently hold dark sky, star viewings, and they break out the telescopes and everything.It's kind of a new thing, and i'm very excited to go see it next year. TrulyThe coolest people work here so much that you want to stay beyond the two weeks. I was told that it is best to go there in spring and summer early summer.Because then the water is a lot higher that is also when they hold the dark sky viewings. But I was there for the first two weeks of october, and it was still in the high 80s. The land there looks frozen in time and near eye.There are a bunch of really cool walks that wind through the very unique nature. Why are you still reading this go on then! It's only three hours from portland oregon! After this head over to ben to get the other end of the natural spectrum.And immerse yourself in the forest.

Kourtney S

A beautiful dark sky campground that lights up the night! We stayed in Cabin 1 and had a fantastic experience. It comes with an amazing view overlooking the reservoir and a great view of the clear, dark skies. We lucked out that we stayed over the new moon so the sky was extra dark and the Milky Way was visible. As for amenities, the deluxe cabin was really a game changer with the bathroom and shower. There's also a sink, microwave and mini-fridge. We did have to adjust the fridge as it was on low when we arrived and never seemed to get very cold. There are four beds, two in the main living room area and two in a side bedroom. The futon mattress in the front room had more cushion, though is not the most comfortable. The a/c and heater unit in the front area worked really well to keep a temperate climate. There were only a few downsides and more of a nitpick. While Cabin 1 has a nice view, it is also closest to the nearby parking lot for extra cars and boat visitors. Its patio area is also in direct sight of the nearby RV site and campsites, which in itself is fine but our inconsiderate neighbors had a bright, bright light that lit up the entire area at night that it was hard to see the stars until they turned it off. There is no cover away from the brightness on that side, so you are more likely to be disturbed by sound and light. It seems as if the cabin next to us would be better suited if you want more privacy and the same kind of view. Additionally, we really loved the trail to Jasper point and back (2 miles each way) that had fantastic views, but it is by no means a beginner hike and felt very dangerous at times while walking sideways on the steep side by the water. We had wished that there were more actual hiking trails, though walking along the shore and seeing out to the dock is a very nice, easy experience. A huge plus is the friendly and amazing ranger staff. Catie was fantastic when she drove over to check us in (there is no one at the kiosk) and helped get us a new propane tank for the grill as ours was completely bone-dry empty when we arrived. We also noticed a constant presence for cleaning and upkeep which was appreciated. It was a great trip and the night sky is one of the best views you can get! I would definitely recommend a cabin if possible, it's a great way to enjoy the outdoors with some better amenities and a fantastic little camp set up.

R R

The reservoir is perfect for fishing and swimming. Whenever we go fishing we always catch something and the views are a nice added bonus.

James Woods

Great Dark Sky campground. Try to go when there's no moon. If you've always been a city slicker, it will blow your mind! Nice facility. Not much cell/Internet coverage, but just walk down near the boat dock if you need it.

Jeannine Ladrini

We camped here for 4 days and it was awesome! Certified dark sky park so try to bring red lenses for your flashlights and headlamps. Rangers are always nearby if you need anything. Firewood and ice are for sale through the campground. There's very little cell service so it is a nice getaway place to unplug. Bathrooms are cleaned daily, showers are available here as well.