Sugar Creek Campground And Day Use Area
01 reviewSugar Creek Campground And Day Use Area
$3.00 - $8.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on booking methods. For online reservations, fees may be $8.
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Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Ochoco National Forest, Sugar Creek Campground stands as one of the region's premier recreational destinations, where modern amenities meet pristine wilderness. This thoughtfully designed campground welcomes all adventurers with three fully accessible campsites and ADA-compliant pathways that wind through towering ponderosa pines. The gentle murmur of Sugar Creek provides a natural soundtrack as you settle into your site, while the convenient paved Forest Service road ensures easy access without sacrificing the authentic forest experience. Whether you're scanning the canopy for wildlife, enjoying a creekside picnic, or exploring the accessible trail network, Sugar Creek offers an inclusive outdoor experience that doesn't compromise on natural beauty.
Sugar Creek Campground features a small setup with three campsites and supports tent camping. It is not a reservable location, and group or RV-specific accommodations are not highlighted.
Historical SignificanceWhile specific historical records remain to be uncovered, Sugar Creek Campground sits within the ancestral lands that have witnessed thousands of years of human connection to these forests. The surrounding Ochoco National Forest holds countless untold stories of early settlers, indigenous peoples, and the natural forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsSugar Creek experiences the classic high-country climate of central Oregon, where crisp mountain air and four distinct seasons create an ever-changing landscape. Winter brings a delicate dusting of snow that transforms the ponderosa pines into a wonderland, while spring and fall offer ideal conditions with dry, comfortable days perfect for camping. Summer temperatures remain moderate thanks to the elevation and forest canopy, though visitors should prepare for cool evenings and the occasional mountain weather surprise.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable mountain elevation within the Ochoco range, Sugar Creek Campground offers that perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere. The elevation provides naturally cooler temperatures and cleaner air, making it an ideal escape from valley heat while remaining easily reachable for visitors of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's stunning natural canvas features a vibrant grove of young ponderosa pines whose vanilla-scented bark and towering presence create an intimate forest cathedral. Sugar Creek meanders through the heart of the campground, its crystal-clear waters supporting a delicate riparian ecosystem where wildflowers bloom and wildlife gathers. The interplay of dappled sunlight through pine needles, the creek's gentle melody, and the fresh mountain air creates an immersive sensory experience that defines the essence of Ochoco's natural beauty.
Geological RegionSugar Creek Campground rests within the remarkable Ochoco National Forest, a geological treasure trove where ancient volcanic activity and millennia of erosion have sculpted a landscape of rolling hills, deep valleys, and pristine waterways. The young ponderosa pine forest represents nature's ongoing renewal, thriving in volcanic soils that tell the story of the region's fiery past. This unique geological setting, combined with the life-giving presence of Sugar Creek, creates a diverse ecosystem where mountain and water ecosystems converge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features ADA-compliant pathways and three moderately accessible campsites. This makes it suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThree moderately accessible campsites are available, but no specific details about the dimensions or configurations of the sites are provided.
Sites PrivacyNo information is available regarding the level of privacy at the campsites.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesYet! advised whether large group obvious.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
N/A
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned or described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNo layout loops
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal operational details not included.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via Recreation.gov platform or phone contact.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up access not clearly detailed in source materials.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of first night's camping fee if canceled past provided deadlines. No-show fees are $20.
Activities you can enjoy
Sugar Creek Campground offers a mix of nature-based activities. Highlights include a short hiking trail (Sugar Creek Trail), wildlife viewing opportunities, and large group picnicking facilities in the day-use area.
Hiking
The Sugar Creek Trail provides opportunities for short hikes within the campground area. No specifics about the trail's length, difficulty, or features are given.Wildlife viewing
The area offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, but no specific details about the types of wildlife or recommended viewing spots are provided.Winter Activities
No specific details about winter recreation options are provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No rules explicitly.
Hazards
General hazardsNo wildlife hazards or other reported active risk data from user fields .
Active alertsNo emergency active alerts mention wilderness bear mechanics
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Rager Ranger Station is mentioned as not operational, but no clear details are provided for current emergency service locations.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season details are null.
Trash and recyclingNo information is provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresCampground straddles creek. Other nearby water features are not described.
Common complaintsOn nearby Rager Ranger unclear shutdown cited context.
HostNot clearly presented organization host.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Prineville, Oregon: Take Post-Paulina Hwy (State Highway 380) southeast from Prineville for about 55 miles, then turn left onto Izee Hwy east of Paulina (County Road 112). Travel on County Road 112 for 3.5 miles to Beaver Creek Road (County Road 113). Turn onto the left fork (County Road 113) and go 7.5 miles to Forest Service Road 58. Follow Forest Service Road 58 for 2.25 miles to Sugar Creek Campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads with connectivity from State Highway 380 and Forest Service Roads. Roads appear moderately accessible, though nearby Rager Ranger Station is no longer operational.Nearby places
Paulina is approximately 12 miles away. Prineville is 55 miles distant.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies potentially in Paulina, approximately 12 miles from campground. No specific details provided about grocery, fuel, or camping supplies merchants.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Sugar Creek Campground And Day Use Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is described as well-kept and peaceful. It is ideal for visitors seeking an 'out of the way' experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the campground's maintenance and its appeal as a remote and tranquil destination.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints are highlighted in the user reviews provided.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest that the campground is suitable for those who prefer less crowded areas and a break from civilization.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Weather data suggests variability based on the season, but no direct user commentary on seasonal trends is available.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
Mariann Schindler stated, 'Nice well kept campground. If you are looking for an out of the way place this is it.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No reviews specify site numbers or comparative quality among the three campsites.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features, such as ADA-compliant trails and moderately accessible campsites, are highlighted as a strength of this campground.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews address pet policies or pet-friendliness.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025