Chimney Rock Campground
4.6916 reviews3050 NE 3rd Street, Prineville, OR, 97754, USA
Chimney Rock Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
Recreation use fee is $8 per night. Additional vehicles cost $2 per night, excluding tow vehicles, with a maximum of two vehicles per site.
About this campground
Nestled in a tranquil woodland of ancient Western Juniper trees, Chimney Rock Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the raw beauty of Central Oregon. Here, beneath towering Columbia River rock formations, 16 well-appointed campsites offer front-row seats to nature's grand theater. The melodic whispers of the Crooked River provide a constant soundtrack as it winds past the campground, inviting anglers to test their fly-fishing skills in its pristine waters. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the wilderness setting, featuring clean vault toilets and a reliable water pump, ensuring comfort without compromising the authentic outdoor experience.
Chimney Rock Campground offers traditional camping accommodations, including tent sites. There are no RV-specific amenities such as hookups, and no group or luxury camping options.
Historical SignificanceThe crown jewel of the campground experience awaits on the legendary Chimney Rock Trail. This 2.3-mile journey transforms hikers into time travelers, following ancient pathways once used by Native peoples and early settlers. Each step on this out-and-back adventure reveals increasingly dramatic vistas of the river canyon below, culminating in panoramic views that have inspired photographers, artists, and dreamers for generations. The trail serves as both a physical challenge and a spiritual journey, connecting modern visitors to the timeless beauty that has drawn people to this sacred landscape throughout history.
Weather and SeasonsThe high desert climate of Chimney Rock creates a captivating seasonal tapestry. Early season adventurers should prepare for crisp mornings that can dip to 28°F, warming to comfortable 42°F afternoons perfect for exploration. The area's characteristically dry conditions and gentle breezes make spring through early summer the golden window for camping, when wildflowers paint the canyon walls and the river runs full with snowmelt. These moderate winds carry the scent of sage and juniper, creating an intoxicating aromatherapy session courtesy of Mother Nature.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of the Crooked River just steps from your tent, its crystal-clear waters carving an eternal path through the rugged landscape. The campground's prime riverside location offers immediate access to this aquatic playground, where smooth river rocks invite quiet contemplation and deeper pools harbor native trout. Overhead, a cathedral of Western Juniper trees provides natural shade and shelter, their gnarled branches telling stories of centuries past. The true spectacle, however, rises in the massive Columbia River rock formations that frame the campground like ancient sentinels, their weathered faces changing color with each passing hour of sunlight.
Geological RegionChimney Rock Campground sits at the heart of Central Oregon's acclaimed Crooked Wild and Scenic River corridor, a geological wonderland millions of years in the making. This dramatic landscape showcases the power of ancient volcanic activity and patient river erosion, creating a natural amphitheater of towering basalt columns and sculpted canyon walls. The distinctive Western Juniper ecosystem thrives in this unique environment, where massive Columbia River rock formations create microclimates and shelter pockets that support diverse plant and animal communities. This protected wilderness area represents one of Oregon's most pristine examples of high desert river canyon habitat.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAn accessible fishing pier with a built-in picnic table is located near the campground entrance, although one review mentions that the approach is not fully accessible.
Sites SizeVaried site sizes with some larger campsites recommended; specific sites 1, 2, 5, and 6 are noted as preferred by one reviewer.
Sites PrivacySites are located on the river side of the campground road, and many offer direct river access. Privacy levels are mixed and not explicitly mentioned.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure larger campsites like 1, 2, 5, and 6, as noted by reviewers.
Best CampsitesUser reviews recommend campsites 1, 2, 5, and 6 as good options.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two vehicles allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutAll campsites are walk-in type located on the river side of the campground road.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only, following a first-come, first-served policy.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations accepted; site is first-come, first-served only. No cancellation policies apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Chimney Rock Campground offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Fly fishing and hiking are the most prominent activities, with the Chimney Rock Trail providing a 2.3-mile out-and-back hike across the highway. The Crooked River offers opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. Biking is also popular, with access to the 18-mile Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway.
Hiking
The Chimney Rock Trail, located across Highway 27, is a 2.3-mile out-and-back hike offering views of the river canyon. Reviews describe the trailhead as well-maintained and easily accessible.Fishing
Fishing is accessible along the Crooked River. A designated accessible fishing platform is located near the campground entrance, but one reviewer mentioned the approach to the platform is not fully accessible.Biking
The Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway provides an 18-mile route from Prineville to Big Bend Campground, traversing picturesque farms and cliffs.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include observing swifts or swallows living in mud cones on basalt cliffs. A boardwalk with a flat area for birdwatchers is available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted; follow Leave-No-Trace principles.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews warn about the presence of rattlesnakes in the campground area.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Prineville, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to the Crooked River, providing accessible fishing and recreational opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention the campground can be busy compared to others nearby, and the water pump requires effort to operate.
Campground Map
3050 NE 3rd Street, Prineville, OR, 97754, USA
Driving directionsFrom Prineville, Oregon: Drive 16.4 miles south on State Highway 27; the campground will be on your right.
Easily accessible from State Highway 27, the campground lies along the Crooked River Back Country Byway. The road is paved and suitable for most vehicles year-round.Nearby places
Prineville: 16.4 miles (approximately 30 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Prineville, 16.4 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
16 reviews
Chimney Rock Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Chimney Rock Campground are generally positive, highlighting its serene location, river access, and affordable pricing. Visitors commend the site for its cleanliness, well-maintained trails, and stargazing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, potable water availability, picturesque river and canyon views, proximity to the Chimney Rock Trail, and affordable fees. One reviewer described it as...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the presence of rattlesnakes, busy conditions compared to nearby campgrounds, and the manual effort required to use the water pump.
Based on 16 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a preferred site, such as sites 1, 2, 5, or 6. Be prepared for rattlesnakes and bring firewood to minimize the risk of spreading invasive species.
Based on 16 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campsite is busier during summer months, with some users finding it quieter in July. Stargazing conditions are praised on clear nights.
Based on 16 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Lovely and quiet campground along the Crooked River about 30 minutes from Prineville. Incredible views of stars on clear nights.' - Lianna Palkovick
2. 'Great campsite with access to water and an...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 1, 2, 5, and 6 are recommended by one reviewer for their size and quality.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
An accessible fishing pier is available, but the approach to it may not be fully accessible.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025