Prineville Reservoir State Park
00 review19020 SE PARKLAND DR, PRINEVILLE, Oregon, 97754, United States
Prineville Reservoir State Park
$7.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$33.00
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
Campsite fees vary based on amenities and site type. Extra vehicles are charged $7 per night.
About this campground
Escape to Prineville Reservoir State Park, where the vast Oregon sky meets pristine waters in a high desert paradise. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars, settling into a full hookup site with your RV, or retreating to one of the deluxe cabins, you'll find yourself immersed in one of the Pacific Northwest's most celebrated stargazing destinations. As an internationally recognized dark sky park, Prineville Reservoir transforms each night into a cosmic spectacle that draws astronomers and dreamers alike.
The park offers diverse accommodations, including campsites for tents, RVs, and trailers, as well as deluxe cabins. Group camping is also available.
Historical SignificancePrineville Reservoir State Park has earned its place as a crown jewel of Pacific Northwest astronomy, holding the prestigious designation as an international dark sky park. This rare certification places the park among an elite group of protected nocturnal environments worldwide, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky in breathtaking clarity, connecting modern stargazers with the same celestial wonders that have inspired humanity for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of Oregon's high desert, where winter nights sparkle with frost and temperatures dip well below freezing, creating crystalline mornings perfect for cozy cabin stays. As spring unfolds into summer, the landscape awakens with warmth, bringing balmy days in the 80s°F that beckon swimmers, anglers, and sun-seekers to the reservoir's inviting shores.
ElevationNestled in Oregon's high desert landscape, the park's elevation creates the perfect conditions for its renowned clear skies and panoramic views, offering visitors a natural amphitheater for both daytime recreation and nighttime astronomical adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryThe rugged beauty of the high desert unfolds around Prineville Reservoir, where aromatic sagebrush and ancient juniper trees frame the sparkling waters. This diverse ecosystem pulses with life—watch for the flash of golden squirrels darting between trees and listen for the diverse chorus of birds that call this unique landscape home. The reservoir itself serves as the centerpiece, its waters reflecting the endless sky and surrounding hills in an ever-changing canvas of color and light.
Geological RegionSet within Eastern Oregon's captivating high desert, Prineville Reservoir State Park showcases the region's distinctive semi-arid terrain. This geological wonderland, sculpted by ancient forces and characterized by expansive sagebrush steppes and weathered juniper groves, offers visitors a glimpse into Oregon's wild interior—a landscape that feels both timeless and constantly alive with subtle desert magic.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible toilets are available, and the cabins are described as private and well-suited for families or groups.
Sites SizeSites accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers, with options for full hookups, electricity, and water. Some reviewers noted limited privacy and small site sizes: "Sites are small and not very private."
Sites PrivacySites are noted to be close together, leading to reduced privacy. As one reviewer stated: "The campsites are nice but too close to each other."
Total Campsites62 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabin camping is recommended for privacy and amenities, particularly during colder months.
Best CampsitesCabin #1 and Cabin #5 received notable praise for their views and cleanliness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific time detailed.
Check-out
No specific time detailed.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit not mentioned explicitly.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6person maximum per campsite per authoritative source.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is laid out with small, closely placed sites. Cabins are separated and offer more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonLate spring and summer are the peak seasons, but the campground operates year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Oregon State Parks website.
Walk-in Availability"There were several camping sites available on a weekday," noted Cheri Denton in her review.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation and change policies are detailed on Oregon State Parks website. No explicit deadlines or rules mentioned in the provided sources.
Accomodation available
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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Prineville Reservoir State Park offers an array of activities, from stargazing in an international dark sky park to fishing, boating, and hiking. Wildlife viewing is also popular, with visitors noting tracks and sounds near cabins. Some activities are seasonal, such as boat moorages in summer and frozen reservoir exploration in winter.
Hiking
The park features hiking trails, including one near the cabins. "We enjoyed the trail to Jasper Point as well. Great views of the lake from all along the trail," mentioned one guest. Trails are described as easy and family-friendly.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities for crappie and bass. However, water levels can impact the experience. "Love coming here for the Crappie spawn," noted a camper. Some reviewers mentioned that low reservoir levels can affect fishing quality.Swimming
Swimming is allowed, but the reservoir's low water levels and occasional algae issues may deter visitors. "The water itself is very muddy, not a great place to swim," remarked one user.Biking
Biking is common throughout the campground. A reviewer stated, "You can ride bikes all over the campground, and it is a perfect family vacationing spot."Boating
The park includes facilities for boating, though water levels may impact usability. "The boat launch completely out of the water and the swimming area nothing more than sand and rocks," noted one visitor during low water levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with tracks and sounds near cabins. "We saw tons of tracks from wildlife," mentioned one reviewer.Cultural and Educational Programs
The junior ranger program offers activities for children to earn badges, as highlighted by one reviewer: "If you are camping, there's a junior ranger program where kids can do some activities and earn a badge."Winter Activities
Winter visitors can enjoy frozen reservoir exploration and hiking, though trails may become slippery due to snow and ice.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are common: "We walked to the lake and had a blast in our kayaks."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood available for sale at $5.
- Quiet hours are mentioned but enforcement is noted as lacking by some users.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention rattlesnake presence and narrow, windy roads leading to the campground.
Active alertsWater levels in the reservoir are often very low, limiting boating and fishing activities.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services available in Prineville (15 miles away) including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate spring and summer.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling stations are available within the park, including dog stations at every cabin.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground overlooks Prineville Reservoir, but water levels are consistently noted as being very low.
Common complaintsSites are closely packed together leading to privacy concerns. "The campsites are nice but too close to each other," noted user Jacob Terwilliger.
Host"Great camp hosts and rangers," said Patrick Hanenkrat in his review. Camp hosts provide firewood and assist with issues.
Campground Map
19020 SE PARKLAND DR, PRINEVILLE, Oregon, 97754, United States
Driving directionsFrom Portland: (approximately 3 1/2 hours) Take Highway 26 east, over Mt. Hood, to Madras. Continue on Hwy 26 to Prineville. At the east end of Prineville, turn right on Combs Flat Road. After approximately 1 mile, turn right on Juniper Canyon Road. Proceed 15 miles to park entrance which is SE Parkland Drive. From Salem: (approximately 3 1/2 hours) Take Highway 22 over Santiam Pass, to Sisters, then take Hwy 126 to Redmond. Continue on Hwy 126 to Prineville. At the east end of Prineville, turn right on Combs Flat Road. After approximately 1 mile, turn right on Juniper Canyon Road. Proceed 15 miles to park entrance, which is SE Parkland Drive.
The roads to the park are paved but windy and narrow closer to the campground. Several user reviews mention this can be challenging, particularly at night. "I would not recommend driving here at night," said Gerald Wilkerson in his review.Nearby places
Prineville (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Madras (approximately 1 hour), Redmond (approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available in Prineville, 15 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Prineville Reservoir State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the park is praised for its stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and cleanliness, but frequent mentions of low reservoir levels and closely spaced campsites highlight some drawbacks.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
1. "A trip to a high desert state park is worth it for the night sky alone." 2. "The whole area is very well maintained, and the staff is extremely friendly." 3. "Camping sites are very clean and...
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Common Concerns
1. "The campsites are nice but too close to each other." 2. "Low water levels in the reservoir affect some activities." 3. "No Wi-Fi and limited cell service." 4. "The park map could be more clear in...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring extra water and bug spray during the summer, as the area is hot and dry. 2. Reserve early, especially for cabins, as they are limited. 3. Try to visit during the spring or early summer for...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are ideal for camping, with better water levels and moderate weather. Winter offers unique experiences, such as exploring a frozen reservoir, but some amenities may be closed....
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Camper Quotes
1. "This international dark sky certified park is a short drive from Portland and Seattle." 2. "The cabin was clean and cozy, and the cabin is very well heated." 3. "Camp hosts are awesome, and the...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Cabin #5 is highlighted as having an excellent location and amazing reservoir views. Deluxe cabins are praised for their privacy and well-kept interiors.
Accessibility Features
Accessible toilets are available, and the cabins cater well to families and groups, offering privacy and convenience.
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is dog-friendly, with dog stations and trash cans at every cabin. "Huge thank you for being so dog-friendly!" exclaimed one reviewer.
Last updated August 10, 2025