Walton Lake
4.31103 reviewsOCHOCO NATIONAL FOREST, 3160 NE 3rd St., PRINEVILLE, OR, 97754, USA
Walton Lake
$20.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual sites cost $20 per night, and group sites are $60 per night with an additional $40 charge for weekends. The day use fee is $7 per vehicle.
About this campground
Escape to Walton Lake Campground, where towering old-growth Ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite. This hidden gem features thoughtfully designed spaces nestled among mountain meadows, with many sites offering breathtaking views of the sparkling lake below. The campground's paved, level RV sites make setup effortless, letting you focus on what matters most—immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty that surrounds you. As one visitor perfectly captured it: 'Lovely little lake with nice paved, level RV sites' that make this destination a favorite among those seeking both comfort and wilderness.
Walton Lake Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including RV camping, tent camping, and group camping. Primitive camping and glamping options are not mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Walton Lake, where each season brings its own character. Summer days invite you to bask in warm sunshine, though refreshing lake breezes keep temperatures comfortable even during peak heat. But don't let those sunny days fool you—mountain nights tell a different story. As darkness falls, temperatures can plummet dramatically, creating crisp, star-filled evenings that demand cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. One camper learned this firsthand, noting: 'It did get COLD in the night and we were not expecting how chilly it would be.' Pack layers and prepare for nature's full spectrum of moods.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation where the air feels crisp and pure, Walton Lake offers that perfect high-country camping experience without specific elevation details available.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a pristine mountain oasis where nature has crafted the perfect camping backdrop. Walton Lake emerges like a jewel from the dense forest canopy, its waters reflecting the sky while quaking aspens and towering willows create intimate groves along the shoreline. This rich tapestry of habitats draws an impressive array of wildlife—from melodious songbirds at dawn to deer tiptoeing through evening shadows. Visitors consistently marvel at this 'beautiful, small lake with good camping facilities,' where every sunrise paints the water in new colors and every sunset brings a symphony of forest sounds.
Geological RegionTucked within the enchanting Ochoco National Forest, Walton Lake represents a masterpiece of natural engineering. Here, ancient Ponderosa pines stand sentinel over rolling mountain meadows, their roots reaching deep into volcanic soils that tell stories millions of years old. The lake itself owes its existence to a modest dam that captures crystal-clear spring water seeping from the surrounding hillsides, transforming meadow springs into a shimmering blue sanctuary. This unique geological setting creates an ever-changing landscape where forest meets water, and where campers can witness the subtle interplay between human ingenuity and natural beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, parking, fishing dock, grills, picnic area, and vault toilets are available, especially in the South Shore section.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Some are large enough for multiple RVs, while others are better suited for tents. Group sites can accommodate three to four RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites are clustered closely together, while others offer more seclusion. "Sites are far enough away from each other for the most part, to have privacy," as one reviewer noted.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and proximity to the lake, choose campsites on the north shore. "Spot 23 is a perfect distance from the lake but has no direct access."
Best CampsitesSite numbers 6, 23, and 28 are highly rated for their lake views and accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campground-specific rules for guest limits are not detailed.
Groups
Two group sites can accommodate three to four RVs each and provide several tent pitching spots. Each site includes three picnic tables and one fire ring.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into sections: the south side accommodates large RVs, while the north side is better suited for tents and car camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to October 4 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, the contact center, or in-person at the fee station.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations are advised.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the arrival date, subject to a $10 fee and forfeiting the first night's use fee for late cancellations.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities set amidst the scenic natural surroundings of Walton Lake. Activities include fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout and features a fishing pier and boat ramp for small, self-powered crafts.
Hiking
There are several hiking options, including the 7.5-mile multi-use Round Mountain Trail and the 1-mile Walton Lake Trail, which encircles the lake. Trails are described as easy to moderate, with scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Walton Lake. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and there is no limit on brown trout. At least two fishing spots are wheelchair accessible. However, some users noted dead fish along the banks, suggesting that fishing practices could be improved.Swimming
A small swimming beach is available, but some users described the lake as uninviting during certain times of the year. Safety measures and lifeguards are not mentioned.Biking
Mountain biking is popular around Walton Lake, including trails like the Round Mountain Trail and Lookout Mountain Trail. The campground itself also features paved roads suitable for biking.Boating
Boating is limited to electric and self-powered watercraft. Motorized boats are prohibited. The lake is described as ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with species such as white-headed woodpeckers, belted kingfishers, spotted sandpipers, and Steller's jays commonly observed. Frogs and geese are also abundant.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on Walton Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings with grills at each site.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears may visit the campground. "A bear visited the camp one night (not our campsite)." Snakes have been observed in the water, making some visitors hesitant to swim.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Prineville, Oregon, approximately 16 miles away, offers emergency services including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 4
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but may require carrying bags to designated areas. "On both Sunday afternoon/evenings we were there, all of the garbage cans were moved out of the campsite and day use areas and placed near the hosts' campsite for pick up," noted one user.
Proximity to water featuresMost campsites are close to Walton Lake, a small dam-fed, spring-fed body of water.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include generator noise, issues with reservation management, and challenges in finding the site due to poorly marked roads. "The reservation system is terrible. Through no fault of the camp host, the reservation list was wrong every day we were there."
HostCamp hosts are praised for their friendliness and diligence. "The campground hosts, John and Ann are awesome."
Campground Map
OCHOCO NATIONAL FOREST, 3160 NE 3rd St., PRINEVILLE, OR, 97754, USA
Driving directionsFrom Prineville, Oregon, take Highway 26 east for 16 miles. Turn right at the junction to Walton Lake and Big Summit Prairie (County Road 23) and travel 9 miles to Forest Service Road 22. Turn left and proceed approximately 7 miles to Walton Lake. The campground will be on the left.
Roads leading to Walton Lake are paved but poorly numbered, which can make navigation challenging for non-locals. "First of all, this place is impossible to find. All of the roads are numbered on the maps, but THERE ARE NO NUMBERS on any signs!"Nearby places
Prineville, Oregon (16 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Prineville, Oregon, approximately 16 miles away, has grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations.
Camper Reviews
4.3
103 reviews
Walton Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Walton Lake Campground are mixed, with many praising its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and range of recreational activities, while some express concerns about reservation issues, noise, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 103 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the "beautiful lake," "clean and well-maintained facilities," and the "friendly and helpful camp hosts." Activities like fishing, hiking, and kayaking were also popular.
Based on 103 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include "limited access to drinking water," "noise from generators," and "issues with the reservation system." Some users also noted the lack of flush toilets and the distance to...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water as there is only one water spigot. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds. Reserve sites in advance but have a printed copy of your reservation. Bring a kayak or...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular but can get crowded. Noise from frogs and other wildlife is noted during spring and summer nights. Fall offers a quieter experience with fewer visitors.
Based on 103 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This little campground and lake is very charming!" "Vault toilets were cleaned twice a day and were spotless." "The trail around the lake is fairly easy to walk." "A bear visited the camp one night,...
Based on 103 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 23 is noted for its proximity to the lake but lacks direct access. Site 6 offers lake views and is described as level, making it suitable for RVs. Site 20 is a walk-in site and involves a steep...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible campsites and vault toilets are available. Some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues due to steep inclines.
Based on 103 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, and dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after. Some users appreciated the family-friendly environment for pets.
Based on 103 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025