South Shore Group Sites
00 review3160 NE 3rd Street, Prineville, OR 97754, USA
South Shore Group Sites
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Group site fee of $50 per site, with a maximum capacity of 50 people per site.
About this campground
Nestled along the serene shores of Haystack Reservoir, this expansive group campground beckons families and friends seeking the perfect basecamp for their outdoor adventures. The Willow and Cottonwood sites each welcome up to 50 guests, creating an ideal setting for reunions, celebrations, or group retreats beneath the high desert sky. Here, your days unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line into the reservoir's calm waters, dive into refreshing swimming holes, or gather around crackling campfires as stars emerge in the crystal-clear heavens above. Well-appointed with picnic tables, fire rings, spacious parking areas, and clean vaulted toilets, this campground seamlessly blends comfort with the raw beauty of Central Oregon's wilderness.
The South Shore Group Sites are ideal for group camping, accommodating events such as family reunions or gatherings of rock climbers visiting Smith Rock State Park nearby. The campground is outdoorsy and designed for primitive camping experiences without the luxury of hookups or on-site water.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself serves as a modern gateway to outdoor recreation, its proximity to the legendary Smith Rock State Park connects visitors to one of rock climbing's most storied landscapes. This region has witnessed the evolution of American climbing culture, where pioneering athletes pushed the boundaries of what was possible on vertical stone. Today's campers share the same dramatic vistas that have inspired generations of adventurers, artists, and nature lovers drawn to Central Oregon's unique high desert environment.
Weather and SeasonsThe high desert climate delivers a spectacular show of seasons at Haystack South Shore. Summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for water activities, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues under impossibly blue skies. As elevation reaches 3,000 feet, winter occasionally dusts the sagebrush with snow, transforming the campground into a quiet wonderland. Spring awakens the desert with bursts of wildflowers and migrating birds. Throughout most of the year, the dry conditions and minimal light pollution create some of Oregon's most breathtaking stargazing opportunities.
ElevationPerched at 3,000 feet where the high desert meets the sky, this campground offers a refreshing escape from lower elevations. The altitude brings crisp, cool evenings that provide welcome relief after sun-soaked days on the water. This elevation creates an atmospheric sweet spot – high enough to escape the valley heat, yet comfortable for all ages and fitness levels. As darkness falls, the thin, dry air at this altitude transforms the campground into a natural planetarium, where the Milky Way stretches across the heavens in stunning clarity.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape here tells the story of Oregon's dramatic geological past, where ancient juniper trees twist skyward from carpets of silvery sagebrush. On clear days, the snow-capped majesty of Mt. Jefferson dominates the western horizon, standing sentinel over this high desert oasis. Along the reservoir's edge, golden and bald eagles patrol the shoreline, their presence a testament to the area's rich ecosystem. The sparse forest canopy allows panoramic views in every direction, from sunrise painting the distant peaks to sunset igniting the desert in shades of amber and rose.
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground sits within Central Oregon's captivating high desert region, where volcanic forces and erosion have sculpted a landscape unlike anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest. At approximately 3,000 feet elevation, Haystack Reservoir fills an ancient basin surrounded by rolling hills dotted with hardy juniper trees and aromatic sagebrush. The sparse vegetation and dramatic topography create unobstructed views of Mt. Jefferson's volcanic peak, a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this land. This unique geological setting, where water meets desert and mountains touch sky, offers campers an authentic taste of Oregon's diverse natural heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information on accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeThe group sites are spacious enough to host up to 50 people each.
Sites PrivacyThe two sites, Willow and Cottonwood, are designed to be out of sight from each other, providing a sense of privacy for each group.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Willow or Cottonwood based on group size and preference for privacy; both sites are comparable in amenities.
Best CampsitesTwo group sites: Willow and Cottonwood. Both are relatively private and out of sight from each other, making them ideal for large gatherings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
50 people per group site.
Groups
The Willow and Cottonwood sites each accommodate up to 50 people, with room for multiple vehicles and large groups.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo group sites (Willow and Cottonwood) that are spacious and separated from each other for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not accepted.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up/first-come, first-served. No reservations are accepted.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not accepted.
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
South Shore Group Sites offer a variety of recreational opportunities, both at the campground and in the surrounding area. Nearby Haystack Reservoir is a hub for activities such as fishing, swimming, and motorized boating. The surrounding land also supports hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, and off-highway vehicle riding. The natural features and open skies make it ideal for stargazing and birdwatching.
Hiking
The surrounding national grasslands provide ample hiking opportunities, though no specific trail details are provided.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.Fishing
Haystack Reservoir is renowned for fishing, with species including kokanee, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, and brown bullhead catfish.Swimming
The reservoir offers swimming in cool but comfortable water temperatures.Biking
Mountain biking is supported in the nearby grasslands, but no specific trails or difficulty levels are detailed.Boating
Motorized boating is permitted, and boat launches are available nearby at Haystack and West Shore day-use areas.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a prominent activity, with eagles and other birds frequently seen along the shoreline.Winter Activities
No information about winter-specific activities is provided.Water Sports
The reservoir supports motorized boating and swimming, but non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not specifically mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated campfire rings.
- Quiet hours are /
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife around the lake, including eagles and other birds. Dry high-desert terrain may pose risks of dehydration or sun exposure.
Active alerts/
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 located in Prineville. This includes hospitals, police stations, and other essential services.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot applicable; prices and availability do not vary by season.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Haystack Reservoir, which is suitable for fishing, swimming, and boating.
Common complaints/
Host/
Campground Map
3160 NE 3rd Street, Prineville, OR 97754, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 97: Exit Jericho Lane and head East for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right on Springer Road (FS 7130/FS 96) and proceed approximately 1.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the left. From Highway 26: Exit Laurel Lane (FS 96) and head west for approximately four miles. Turn right onto Springer Road (FS 7130/FS 96) and continue approximately 2.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the right.
The campground is accessible year-round via paved roads from the nearest highways (Highway 97 and Highway 26). Driving conditions appear straightforward, though seasonal weather may impact safety.Nearby places
Prineville (approx. 13 miles), Redmond (approx. 27 miles), Bend (approx. 40 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found in Prineville, approximately 13 miles away.
Camper Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025