Princess Creek Campground
3.6569 reviewsPO BOX 208
Princess Creek Campground
$23.00 - $46.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates range from $23 to $46 per night, with an additional $2 holiday surcharge. First-come, first-served seasons have similar rates. Reservation fees are additional, costing $8 online, $9 via contact center, or $3 in person.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Odell Lake, Princess Creek Campground invites you to experience the Pacific Northwest at its finest. Here, 32 thoughtfully placed campsites rest beneath a towering canopy of ancient evergreens, each offering its own window to the lake's sparkling waters. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, catching afternoon winds on your sailboard, or simply gathering around your campfire as stars emerge overhead, this beloved retreat delivers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Every site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings for those memorable evening conversations, while convenient vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay.
Princess Creek Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent camping and RVs. However, the campground is better suited for tents due to uneven and small sites. No group-specific sites or luxury options are available.
Historical SignificancePrincess Creek Campground stands as a gateway to the rich tapestry of Oregon's natural heritage within the magnificent Deschutes National Forest. This cherished recreation area tells the story of the Cascade Range's volcanic past, where ancient eruptions and geological forces shaped the dramatic landscape visible today. Travelers along the renowned Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway have long paused here to experience the raw beauty that defines Oregon's high country, with majestic Diamond Peak serving as a constant reminder of the powerful forces that created this alpine paradise.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature adds her own dynamic touch to Princess Creek, where afternoon winds sweep across Odell Lake, creating ideal conditions for windsurfing enthusiasts while occasionally challenging paddlers and anglers. Summer brings warm days perfect for swimming and exploring, though wise campers come prepared for the mosquitoes that thrive in this lush environment. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a golden tapestry, and winter blankets the landscape in deep snow, turning this summer playground into a serene wonderland accessible only to the most adventurous souls.
ElevationPerched high in the heart of the Cascade Range, Princess Creek Campground occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp even on summer days and where the forest seems to touch the sky. This elevated setting creates the perfect alpine climate that draws visitors seeking refuge from valley heat, offering cool nights ideal for sleeping and mornings that demand a warm cup of coffee while watching mist rise from the lake's surface.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted forest where towering Douglas firs stand sentinel alongside graceful hemlocks, their branches intertwining with white firs and stately ponderosa pines to create nature's own cathedral. Beneath this verdant canopy, wild huckleberries carpet the forest floor, offering sweet summer treasures to those who know where to look. This living landscape pulses with wildlife – from the gentle deer that graze at forest edges to the majestic elk whose bugling echoes through autumn valleys. Sharp-eyed visitors might spot elusive pine martens darting through the underbrush or hear the distinctive calls of ravens overhead, while all campers should properly store their food to avoid attracting the black bears that occasionally wander through this thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionPrincess Creek Campground occupies a front-row seat to one of North America's most dramatic geological theaters – the volcanic wonderland of Oregon's Deschutes National Forest. Here, the ancient forces that built the Cascade Range are written in every ridge and valley, where Douglas fir, white fir, hemlock, and ponderosa pine have colonized lands born from fire and shaped by ice. The crown jewel of this volcanic legacy, Diamond Peak, pierces the sky at 8,744 feet, its snow-capped summit a testament to the powerful uplift and eruptions that continue to shape this dynamic landscape. This is where the story of the Earth itself unfolds before your eyes, making every visit a journey through millions of years of natural history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Some reviews describe them as spacious and suitable for multiple tents, while others mention tight spaces with uneven terrain.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some sites are noted for their seclusion and larger sizes, while others are cramped and close to neighboring sites. Sites by the lake generally offer more space.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLakeside sites are recommended for views and access to water. Avoid sites close to Highway 58 due to noise. Site 30 is noted for being dusty and near bathrooms.
Best CampsitesSites near the lake are highly rated for views and proximity to water. Site 20 and other lakeside locations are frequently mentioned as favorites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in required before noon of the day following arrival.
Check-out
Check-out required by noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit, 28 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Typically accommodates 1 RV and tow vehicle or one tent and vehicle. Double sites allow for two RVs and tow vehicles or two tents and vehicles.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in a single loop with lakeside and non-lakeside options. Sites vary in size and terrain.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - September 27 for reservations, followed by first-come, first-served availability until October 18.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov, via their website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served season runs from September 28 to October 18, with similar fees as peak season. Prime sites may be hard to obtain.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online before check-in, incurring a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after 12:00 AM local time) will forfeit the first night's fees in addition to the cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Princess Creek Campground provides a variety of recreational opportunities, with a strong emphasis on water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and windsurfing on Odell Lake. Hiking and wildlife watching in the surrounding forest are also popular activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible in the Deschutes National Forest, which offers approximately 1,600 miles of trails. Specific details about trails directly from the campground are lacking.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Odell Lake, with boats being the most effective way to fish. Anglers should be cautious of the afternoon winds, which can make the lake rough.Biking
Biking opportunities are available in the surrounding forest area. Specific biking trails are not detailed.Boating
Boating is a key activity at Odell Lake, with both motorized and non-motorized boats permitted. A boat ramp is available for lake access.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding area provide opportunities to observe local wildlife, including deer, elk, pine martens, and ravens.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned. The campground is operational during the warmer months.Water Sports
Water sports such as windsurfing and kayaking are popular at Odell Lake, as suggested by user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire restrictions may be imposed during dry conditions. Generators are restricted during quiet hours.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsOccasional black bear sightings and mosquito infestations reported. Afternoon winds can make boating hazardous. Fallen trees and uneven terrain noted by users as potential safety concerns.
Active alertsNone reported in the authoritative content.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services are in Crescent, OR. Specific facilities are not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 27.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling details are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative source. Multiple user reviews complain about overflowing trash receptacles and lack of proper maintenance.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly on Odell Lake, with access to a boat ramp and shallow areas for wading.
Common complaintsUser reviews cite overflowing trash receptacles, loud noises from nearby highways, and deteriorated roads. Lack of potable water and uneven campsites are recurring concerns.
HostHosts are not always present, as they reportedly manage multiple campgrounds. User reviews highlight mixed experiences with hosts.
Campground Map
PO BOX 208
Driving directionsFrom Crescent, OR: Travel 12.2 miles west on County Road 61/Crescent Cut-off Road, then 9.1 miles northwest on Highway 58.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, user reviews consistently mention the road conditions within the campground as deteriorated, with potholes and uneven surfaces.Nearby places
Crescent (12.2 miles, approx. 20 minutes), Bend (approx. 65 miles, 1 hour 20 minutes), Eugene (approx. 65 miles, 1 hour 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
A nearby resort on Odell Lake offers lodging, camping supplies, coffee, snacks, and fishing licenses. Additional supplies can be found in Crescent, OR.
Camper Reviews
3.7
69 reviews
Princess Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Princess Creek Campground are highly polarized. While many visitors appreciate the scenic lakefront setting and spacious sites, others criticize the lack of maintenance, absence of potable water, and noise from the nearby highway.
Review Summaries
Based on 69 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews often praise the scenic beauty of Odell Lake, the clean vault toilets, and the friendly campground hosts. Highlights include: 'The vault toilets were clean and didn't smell,' 'Beautiful views...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes issues such as uneven campsites, lack of potable water, overflowing trash bins, and absence of a camp host. Many reviewers also note excessive highway noise, mosquito...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as there is none available on-site. Some visitors recommend visiting nearby Crescent or Sunset campgrounds for water refill needs. Mosquito repellent is highly advised due to...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular but come with challenges like high mosquito activity and occasional noise disturbances. Early summer may be quieter, as other campgrounds in the area are still closed.
Based on 69 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The fragrance of the sun warming the fir needles, the trees gently swaying to the breeze off the lake and the water lapping on the rocks is amazing.' 2. 'There were fallen trees, not even...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites by the water are highly recommended for their views and space, e.g., site 20 is described as 'HUGE' and great for families. Complaints about site 10 include uneven terrain and slanted ground.
Based on 69 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for disabled visitors.
Based on 69 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews are limited. One reviewer mentioned playing with dogs in the shallow water.
Based on 69 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025