Skull Hollow Campground
4.3394 reviewsSkull Hollow Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
$15 per single site per night (includes 1 vehicle, 6 people). $30 per double site per night (includes 2 vehicles, 12 people). Additional vehicles are $5 each; $7 extra vehicle overnight fee.
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About this campground
Nestled among juniper-dotted sagebrush flats in the heart of Ochoco National Forest, Skull Hollow Campground offers 70 generously spaced sites where the spirit of the Old West meets modern adventure. This rustic, first-come-first-served haven has become a beloved basecamp for rock climbers making their pilgrimage to the legendary Smith Rock State Park, while hikers and mountain bikers discover endless trails winding through the high desert landscape. Here, where modern conveniences give way to starlit nights and campfire stories, visitors trade cell service for soul service—though you'll need to bring your own water to this wonderfully primitive retreat.
Skull Hollow Campground offers a rustic camping experience primarily catering to tent campers, car camping, and small RVs. Double sites accommodate larger groups.
Historical SignificanceIn 1995, the Oregon Army National Guard left their mark on this corner of the Ochoco, carefully carving out what would become one of Central Oregon's most cherished camping secrets. Originally conceived as an overflow sanctuary for the crowds at Smith Rock, Skull Hollow has since earned its own devoted following. The campground stands as a testament to military precision and environmental stewardship, where engineering expertise met wilderness preservation to create a perfect balance between accessibility and untamed beauty.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-March through mid-November, Skull Hollow transforms with the seasons, offering adventurers a front-row seat to nature's dramatic high desert theater. Dawn breaks with spectacular desert sunrises painting the sagebrush in golden hues, while evenings bring that crisp mountain air that makes campfires feel especially welcoming. The wind occasionally sweeps across the plateau, carrying the scent of sage and juniper, and reminding visitors to pack layers—here at 3,000 feet, temperatures can swing from warm afternoon sunshine to nights cool enough to see your breath dance in the moonlight.
ElevationPerched at 3,000 feet where the high desert plateau meets the sky, Skull Hollow occupies that sweet spot where the air is crisp enough to invigorate your morning coffee ritual but gentle enough for comfortable summer camping. This elevation creates a natural amphitheater of climate, where warm days melt into refreshingly cool evenings, and where the thin air seems to make the stars shine just a little bit brighter.
Natural Features and SceneryVisitors often find themselves stopping mid-setup just to absorb the panoramic beauty that unfolds in every direction. As one enchanted camper put it, 'The natural beauty surrounding Skull Hollow Campground is simply breathtaking.' Ancient junipers stand sentinel over seas of silvery sagebrush, while the distant silhouette of Gray Butte anchors the horizon. Morning light transforms the landscape into a photographer's paradise, where every trail promises new vistas and every evening delivers sunsets that paint the high desert in shades of amber and rose. It's the kind of place where 'beautiful scenery' feels like an understatement—where the clean, open spaces and pristine wilderness create moments of genuine awe.
Geological RegionSkull Hollow sits within the remarkable tapestry of the Ochoco National Forest, where ancient volcanic forces and patient erosion have sculpted a high-desert masterpiece. This juniper-sagebrush ecosystem represents millions of years of geological storytelling, from the dramatic uplift that created the surrounding buttes to the patient work of wind and water that carved the gentle valleys. The campground's position offers intimate access to this living geology lesson, where hikers can trace the region's volcanic past along scenic trails and climbers can test their skills on the ancient basalt flows that make nearby Smith Rock famous worldwide.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility options for campers with disabilities are mentioned in authoritative or user sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some capable of accommodating small RVs and trailers. Double sites are available, allowing for larger groups and vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers fair privacy between campsites with reviews highlighting the large and spaced-out sites: "Sites are generously spaced," and "Plenty of space between campsites provides above-average privacy."
Total Campsites70 campsites
Recommended CampsitesDouble sites are likely better for larger groups. Campsites closer to the entrance may experience less road noise.
Best CampsitesSite #12 is noted as a spacious pull-through site. Double sites are available with extra amenities, including two picnic tables.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days maximum per site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- 6per single site
- 12 per double site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground follows a single-loop design with well-spaced campsites. Most sites have a fire ring and picnic table.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from March 15 to November 15, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsThis is a first-come, first-serve campground. No online or phone reservation system is available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up, first-come, first-served. Sites fill during weekends and peak climbing season.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system; first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Skull Hollow Campground provides access to various outdoor activities. Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing at nearby Smith Rock State Park are popular choices. Hunting is also permitted. User reviews describe the trails and scenic views as a highlight, with quotes like "Nice trails close-by and good place to camp if you climb at Smith Rock," and "Great hiking and biking trails about 100 feet away."
Hiking
Several trails are accessible from Skull Hollow Campground, including Skull Hollow Trailhead, Gray Butte Trailhead, and Cole Loop Trail (#854). User reviews frequently praise the hiking opportunities, stating, "Great hiking and biking trails about 100 feet away," and "Access to trails into the backcountry." Smith Rock State Park offers additional hiking experiences.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available and described as popular among visitors. User reviews mention, "Used heavily by mountain bikers and climbers," and "Riding distance from mountain bike trails."Wildlife viewing
User reviews highlight wildlife sightings such as coyotes and rabbits. One reviewer stated, "Coyotes howling at night," and another noted, "I saw lizards and bunnies."Winter Activities
No winter recreation activities are mentioned in the campground’s description or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings at each site. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available on-site; visitors must bring their own water. There are mentions of rattlesnakes in the area. "The grass is very high near the picnic tables and with rattle snake warnings that was a tad concerning," (Review by Cindy Harrison).
Active alertsNo current closures, but campers should heed seasonal fire bans and the closure on dispersed camping near the trailhead.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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 hospital: St. Charles Madras Hospital is approximately 20 miles away in Madras, OR. Emergency services including police and fire are available in Madras and Terrebonne.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 15 - November 15, with busier days typically from Thursday to Sunday.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available for garbage disposal, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct access to lakes or rivers; the campground is primarily used as a base for dry camping and trail access.
Common complaintsLack of water is a recurring issue in reviews: "NO running water anywhere in the campsite," (Review by Bailey Healy). Other complaints include under-maintained vault toilets and windy conditions.
HostCampground hosts are frequently praised for being helpful and accommodating. "Gary, the campground host, was awesome and accommodating," (Review by Adriana Andrasz). Firewood is sold on-site by the hosts for $6 per bundle.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Madras, Oregon: Travel south on Highway 97. Take Lone Pine Road and proceed east. Turn left onto Skull Hollow Road (County Road 5710). Skull Hollow campground will be on the left.
Road access includes paved highways leading to a gravel road (County Road 5710) for the last stretch to the campground. The roads seem accessible for most vehicles but can be dusty or uneven due to gravel.Nearby places
Madras, Oregon: 16 miles (approx. 20–25 minutes)
Terrebonne, Oregon: 4.7 miles (approx. 10 minutes)
Prineville, Oregon: 20 miles (approx. 25 -30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials can be found in Terrebonne (approx. 5 miles away) or Madras (16 miles). Firewood is available for $6 on-site from the camp host.
Camper Reviews
4.3
94 reviews
Skull Hollow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s rustic charm, spacious sites, and proximity to Smith Rock State Park. Common praises include cleanliness, quietness, and friendly hosts. Criticisms focus on the lack of water and occasional maintenance issues with vault toilets. One reviewer noted, "The campground was clean and nice," while another commented, "No running water anywhere in the campsite."
Review Summaries
Based on 94 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention clean vault toilets, spacious sites, quiet atmosphere, and friendly hosts. For example, "Clean restrooms, many many spots to camp," and "Host is so very nice clean...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, occasional under-maintenance of vault toilets, and road noise in some parts of the campground. One reviewer stated, "No running water anywhere in...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing ample water for drinking and cleaning due to the lack of potable water. Early arrival is advised on busy weekends to secure a spot. One reviewer suggested, "Bring lots of...
Based on 94 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews note fluctuations in visitor numbers based on the season, with weekdays being less crowded than weekends. Reviewers mention "Pretty slow during the week, but Thursday-Sunday are very busy,"...
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Camper Quotes
"Great hiking and biking trails about 100 feet away." "Cleanest, best smelling pit toilets ever." "Coyotes howling at night." "Large comfortable campsites that are great for groups." "Quiet setting....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #12 is highlighted as a roomy pull-through site with minimal disturbance from neighboring roads. A double site (#10) was praised for accommodating six adults and eight children comfortably.
Based on 94 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 94 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground is described as dog-friendly in user reviews such as "Picnic tables and fire pits at each site, dog friendly."
Based on 94 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025