Prairie Campground
4.3026 reviewsPrairie Campground
$23.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
Hookup Site Fee$23.00
Premium Site Fee$23.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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About this campground
Discover your perfect outdoor escape at this hidden gem, where nature's tranquility meets modern camping comfort. Nestled in pristine wilderness, this campground offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers and peace-seekers alike. Wake up to crisp morning air and the gentle sounds of wildlife, spend your days exploring scenic trails, and end each evening gathered around the campfire under a canopy of stars. Whether you're pitching a tent for the first time or arriving in a fully-equipped RV, you'll find the perfect spot to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Prairie Campground accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs but does not offer specialized facilities such as cabins, glamping, or group camping sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning generations. This area has served as a crossroads of history, where indigenous peoples first made their home, early settlers carved out new lives, and countless travelers have found respite and renewal. The surrounding lands whisper tales of ancient traditions, pioneering spirits, and the enduring connection between humans and nature. Today, visitors can explore historical markers, discover archaeological sites, and participate in cultural programs that honor the diverse heritage of this special place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of changing seasons in this outdoor paradise. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect hiking temperatures, while summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and outdoor adventures. Fall transforms the landscape into a stunning tapestry of colors, creating picture-perfect camping conditions with cool, comfortable nights. Winter offers its own serene beauty, with opportunities for cozy campfire gatherings and peaceful solitude. Each season unveils new wonders, ensuring every visit offers a unique and memorable experience.
ElevationPerched at an ideal elevation that offers the best of mountain and valley experiences, this campground provides stunning vistas and comfortable camping conditions. The carefully chosen altitude ensures refreshing breezes during summer months while remaining accessible year-round. This perfect positioning creates a unique microclimate that supports diverse flora and fauna, offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, and provides just enough elevation gain to make hiking adventures rewarding without being overly strenuous. The natural topography creates intimate camping spots while maintaining panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape that showcases nature's finest artistry. Towering trees provide a natural cathedral overhead, while meandering streams create a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. Rocky outcroppings offer dramatic viewpoints, and meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Wildlife thrives in this protected habitat, offering glimpses of deer at dawn, soaring eagles overhead, and the occasional curious raccoon investigating the campground after dark. Every corner reveals a new natural wonder, from hidden waterfalls to ancient grove sanctuaries.
Geological RegionSet within a fascinating geological wonderland, this campground sits atop ancient rock formations that tell the story of Earth's dynamic history. The surrounding landscape showcases millions of years of geological processes, from volcanic activity to glacial carving, creating a diverse terrain of dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and hidden valleys. Rock enthusiasts will discover exposed formations revealing colorful mineral deposits and fossil remnants, while the unique geology has created natural springs, caves, and other formations that add mystery and adventure to every exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the available information.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and able to accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites varies, with some reviewers noting limited privacy due to the proximity of sites.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
There are no designated group camping sites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyReservation rules descriptions RULE NAME DESCRIPTION WHEN? Maximum Consecutive Stay You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. All Year Maximum Stay You may stay up to 28 nights total at this campground within each year. All Year Two Night Weekend Minimum You must reserve Friday night and Saturday night together as part of the same reservation. All Year
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Prairie Campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating during the warmer months. Winter activities such as skiing and snowmobiling are popular in the surrounding areas.
Hiking
Hiking trails include the Crater Rim Trail with views of forests, deserts, and mountains. The nearby Peter Skene Ogden National Recreation Trail follows Paulina Creek and features waterfalls.Fishing
Anglers can fish for salmon and trout in nearby lakes and streams, but specific fishing conditions were not detailed.Swimming
Swimming is available in nearby Paulina Lake and East Lake. Specific safety measures or designated swimming areas are not detailed.Boating
Boating is allowed on Paulina and East Lakes. Details about boat types or docking facilities are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported observing chipmunks, squirrels, ravens, woodpeckers, and an owl. Wildlife viewing opportunities are enhanced by the area's natural surroundings.Winter Activities
During the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowmobiling in the surrounding areas.Water Sports
No specific details about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.6 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and basic recycling facilities are available. Fire restrictions may be imposed due to weather conditions; campers are advised to check centraloregonfire.org for updates.
Campground Map
Driving directions<p>From Bend, OR: Travel about 23.5 miles south on Highway 97 then 3 miles east on County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road) to the Prairie campground sign. Follow the short paved road to the campground entrance.</p> <p>From LaPine, OR: Travel about 6.8 miles north on Highway 97 then 3 miles east on County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road) to the Prairie campground sign. Follow the short paved road to the campground entrance.</p>
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.3
26 reviews
Prairie Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Prairie Campground is appreciated for its natural beauty, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to attractions like Paulina Lake and East Lake. However, reviews also highlight issues such as dust, non-functional water spigots, and occasionally subpar maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praise the campground's quiet ambiance, spacious sites, and beautiful natural surroundings. The proximity to hiking trails and lakes for boating and fishing is also frequently...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include extreme dustiness, non-operational water spigots, and the condition of vault toilets. Some users note limited privacy between campsites and occasional noise from nearby...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing water due to the non-functional spigots, insect repellant for mosquitoes, and trailers for additional comfort. Some suggest selecting sites away from the road to minimize...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight the area's dustiness and road noise but praise the abundance of outdoor activities. Winter feedback is limited but notes opportunities for skiing and snowmobiling in...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This was 4 days of fun. The campgrounds were clean, well maintained." - Judith
"Nice quiet campground. Has 4 first come, first serve sites." - Diana Strand
"Lovely quiet little campground." - Todd...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews include mixed feedback. Sites like 03 and 14 have been noted for their lack of water or maintenance, while 10 and 15 are appreciated for their spaciousness and tranquility....
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews frequently mention the presence of squirrels and chipmunks, which may excite some pets. Campers should ensure pets are leashed and cleaned up after.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025