Wildcat Campground And Day Use Area
02 reviewsWildcat Campground And Day Use Area
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$20 per single campsite, $10 for an extra vehicle, and $50 for a group site.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Ochoco National Forest, Wildcat Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape just a short drive from Prineville. This beloved forest retreat draws families and adventurers alike with its cool, shaded campsites and the soothing melody of Mill Creek flowing nearby. As the gateway to Mill Creek Wilderness, the campground serves as your basecamp for exploring the Twin Pillars Trail, where ancient forests and pristine wilderness await. Wake up to the gentle sounds of the creek and spend your days discovering why this hidden gem has become one of the most cherished campgrounds in the region.
Wildcat Campground provides a mix of camping options suitable for tent campers and recreational vehicles. Individual and group sites are available, offering a secluded experience in a forested environment.
Historical SignificanceNo information provided.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through mid-October, Wildcat Campground transforms into a cool mountain sanctuary. While valley temperatures soar, the campground's forested setting offers natural air conditioning, with summer days reaching pleasant highs in the mid-80s°F and crisp nights dipping into comfortable sleeping temperatures. Spring and fall bring their own magic, with temperatures ranging from the upper 20s°F to mild afternoons perfect for hiking. The seasonal window captures the best of mountain weather, from wildflower blooms to golden autumn colors.
ElevationPerched at 3,700 feet above sea level, Wildcat Campground sits in that sweet spot where the air turns crisp and pine-scented. This elevation creates a natural climate haven, offering relief from summer heat while remaining accessible and comfortable. The mountain setting brings cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that refreshing high-country atmosphere that makes every breath feel restorative.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering ponderosa pines and majestic Douglas firs create a living cathedral around Wildcat Campground, their branches forming a natural canopy that filters sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns. This old-growth forest ecosystem supports remarkable wildlife, including the impressive pileated woodpecker, whose distinctive call echoes through the trees. The adjacent Mill Creek Wilderness preserves some of the region's most pristine forest habitats, where ancient trees tell stories of centuries past and every trail promises discovery.
Geological RegionWildcat Campground sits within the diverse landscape of the Ochoco National Forest, where volcanic origins have shaped a terrain of gentle ridges and creek-carved valleys. The surrounding Mill Creek Wilderness showcases the region's geological heritage through its mix of volcanic soils that nourish the towering ponderosa pines and Douglas firs. This unique forest ecosystem creates a natural oasis, offering campers a cool, green refuge when summer heat blankets the lower elevations of Central Oregon.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, ensuring some level of accessibility.
Sites SizeThe campground has sites suitable for both tent campers and recreational vehicles. Parking aprons are gravel.
Sites PrivacySites are spaced well to offer privacy according to user reviews.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider campsites on the upstream spur for recreational vehicles and the downstream spur for tent groups.
Best CampsitesUser reviews did not highlight specific campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated in the source materials.
Groups
Group sites are available for a fee of $50, but the exact number of people and vehicles allowed is unspecified.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two spurs: one better suited for RVs and another for groups of tent campers.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 15 to October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made for this campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityOnly walk-up, first-come, first-served availability. All 17 sites operate this way.
Cancellation PolicyNot stated.
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.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is adjacent to Mill Creek Wilderness and offers access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking, picnicking, and observing old-growth dependent species such as the pileated woodpecker. There are no water-based activities such as swimming, boating, or kayaking. Hiking opportunities are particularly noted for their scenic value.
Hiking
The Twin Pillars Trail (#832), stretching 8 miles, provides access to a network of trails in Mill Creek Wilderness. It is suitable for foot and horse traffic.Fishing
Fishing for Eastern brook trout is available in the nearby Mill Creek.Wildlife viewing
Campers have opportunities to observe old-growth dependent species like the pileated woodpecker.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but no specific restrictions or guidelines were noted.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife common to the area, such as bears and other forest creatures. Additionally, the last 5.6 miles of gravel road may pose difficulties for low-clearance vehicles.
Active alertsNone currently stated.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Prineville, the nearest town, approximately 17 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to October 15.
Trash and recyclingNo explicit mention of trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Mill Creek, which flows through the campground and can be heard throughout the area.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention the rustic nature of the campground, including vault toilets that do not flush and the absence of potable water.
HostNo campground host information provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Prineville, Oregon: Take Highway 26 east for approximately 7 miles past Ochoco Reservoir. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 33 (Mill Creek Road). Continue for approximately 10 miles to where Forest Service Road 33 makes a sharp left turn. Instead of taking the turn, continue straight and you will drive directly into Wildcat Campground.
Last 5.6 miles are on a gravel surface (Forest Rt. 33). Paved roads lead to the gravel section, but the gravel road may be challenging for low-clearance vehicles.Nearby places
Prineville (approximately 17 miles, around 25 minutes drive time).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Prineville, approximately 17 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Wildcat Campground And Day Use Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's quiet atmosphere, well-spaced campsites, clean vault toilets, and scenic hiking trails. The lack of potable water and flush toilets contributes to its rustic charm. Families appreciate the paved loop for biking and shallow water features for safety.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews focus on the clean vault toilets, peaceful environment, well-spaced campsites, and scenic hiking trails. Families particularly enjoy the campground for its safety features like...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints are mostly about the absence of potable water and flush toilets, contributing to its rustic nature.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing ample water due to the lack of potable water on site and highlight the paved loop as a fun feature for kids.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews tend to emphasize the campground's suitability for escaping summer heat due to its shaded sites. There is limited insight into winter use.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Love this campground. The water is shallow so kids can't drown. Beautiful hiking trails." - Mekia Ogborn; "Quiet, well-spaced campsites. Clean vault toilets. Nice hiking trails." - Marlene Connor
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
The upstream spur is described as better suited for recreational vehicles, while the downstream spur caters to tent campers. Sites are shaded and provide ample privacy.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, ensuring some accessibility.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit reviews regarding pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025