Lake Owyhee State Park
00 review1298 LAKE OWYHEE DAM RD, ADRIAN, Oregon, 97901, United States
Lake Owyhee State Park
$7.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Extra vehicle fee is $7 per night. Fees for camping are not explicitly listed, and details should be confirmed by contacting the park.
About this campground
Discover your own hidden desert sanctuary at Lake Owyhee State Park, where dramatic canyon walls cradle a pristine 53-mile reservoir in Oregon's remote southeastern wilderness. This spectacular desert oasis invites adventurers to explore two distinct campgrounds—Indian Creek and McCormack—each offering unique perspectives of the rugged landscape. Whether you're pitching a tent under star-filled skies or settling in with your RV, you'll find yourself immersed in one of Oregon's most breathtaking and least-crowded natural treasures.
The park accommodates various camping styles, including RV sites, tent sites, two cabins, and seasonal group camps.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of high desert seasons at Lake Owyhee, where summer days bask in golden sunshine with temperatures climbing above 90°F—perfect for swimming and water sports. As autumn arrives, the canyon walls glow in the changing light, while winter transforms the landscape into a stark, beautiful wilderness touched by snow and freezing rain. Spring brings renewal and the return of essential services, with potable water flowing from mid-April through mid-October, marking the prime season for your desert canyon adventure.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be awestruck by nature's artistry at Lake Owyhee, where ancient volcanic forces have carved a narrow, deep canyon painted in vibrant reds, oranges, and purples. The shimmering Owyhee Reservoir stretches an impressive 53 miles through this geological masterpiece, its sapphire waters creating a stunning contrast against the towering volcanic rock formations. Every bend reveals new vistas of sculpted stone, hidden coves, and dramatic cliff faces that tell the story of millions of years of geological drama.
Geological RegionNestled in Eastern Oregon's remote high desert, Lake Owyhee State Park showcases one of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular geological wonders. Here, ancient volcanic eruptions and eons of erosion have sculpted a narrow, deep canyon system that rivals any desert landscape in the American West. The colorful volcanic rock formations create a natural amphitheater around the reservoir, offering visitors a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's creative forces at work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityShowers for handicapped individuals are mentioned as operational at McCormack State Park.
Sites SizeSite details, including tent pad sizes, can be viewed online before reservation.
Sites Privacy/Campground privacy varies. One user described McCormack as a small campground with close neighbors.
Total Campsites58 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Information on the number of people and vehicles allowed at group sites was not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutMcCormack Campground includes 29 electrical sites with water and 8 tent sites. Indian Creek Campground includes 21 electrical sites and 2 cabins.
Open and Closed SeasonMcCormack Campground is open April 15 through October 31, with reservations available May 1 through September. Indian Creek Campground is open April 15 through November 14, with reservations available from May 1 through November 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through the state park's official website or by calling the OPRD Information Center at 1-800-551-6949.
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyRefer to the official reservation platform for cancellation details.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Owyhee State Park offers a variety of activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. Wildlife viewing, particularly eagles and hawks, is also popular. Visitors should be aware of the area's rugged terrain and potential encounters with rattlesnakes after dark during summer.
Fishing
Fishing is a significant draw, with some reviewers calling it a "great fishery." Trout and other species are available.Swimming
The water is described as warm and enjoyable, though water levels can be low at certain times of the year.Boating
Boating is a highlight, with activities including water sports and exploring scenic spots like the Honeycombs.Wildlife viewing
"Wildlife is everywhere," notes one reviewer. Eagles and hawks are common sights.Winter Activities
/No specific winter activities were described, but Indian Creek Campground is open in winter on a first-come, first-serve basis weather permitting.Water Sports
Water sports like jet skiing and kayaking are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- null
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsRattlesnakes are mentioned as frequent visitors during summer nights. The narrow, steep roads to the park present driving challenges.
Active alertsFish cleaning station closed for repairs until 2024.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingIssues with trash were noted, such as garbage on beaches, which detracts from the park's natural beauty.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to a 53-mile-long reservoir, offering access to boating and fishing.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews noted poor maintenance, including dead grass, dying trees, trash on beaches, and limited shower availability.
HostVolunteer hosts and staff may not always be present.
Campground Map
1298 LAKE OWYHEE DAM RD, ADRIAN, Oregon, 97901, United States
Driving directionsFrom Highway 201, turn west at Owyhee Junction onto Owyhee Avenue for 5 miles, then turn south (left) onto Owyhee Dam Rd for 22 miles to the park. WARNING: Parts of this road are steep and narrow with sharp corners, and with limited visibility. Please use caution.
The road to the park is steep, narrow, and includes sharp corners and limited visibility. Recommended for cautious drivers only.Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Owyhee State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, highlighting the park's scenic beauty and activities, but also noting maintenance issues like dead grass, trash, and non-operational facilities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
"The campgrounds are well taken care of," noted a reviewer. Others appreciated the camp's remoteness, scenic views, and activities like fishing and wildlife viewing.
Common Concerns
Visitors reported issues such as dead grass, dying trees, trash, dirty bathrooms, and non-operational facilities. The narrow and steep road to the park is also a concern for some.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Prepare for limited cell service and make calls before arrival. Bring a flashlight at night to spot potential rattlesnakes in summer. Consider booking during less crowded periods.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews mention hot weather and rattlesnake sightings, while fall reviews cite lower water levels. Winter operations at Indian Creek are first-come, weather permitting.
Camper Quotes
"Very beautiful and rugged area—lots of great views," notes a reviewer. Another writes, "Camping here is castle-free, and the campgrounds are well taken care of," but warns of fire restrictions.
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specifically praise McCormack campground for its warm water and accessibility. However, it is described as small with close neighbors.
Accessibility Features
Accessible showers were mentioned at McCormack, though other facilities may have limitations.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies were found.
Last updated August 10, 2025