The Guide to Central Oregon Camping

Are you looking for where to stay for your next event? Whether you're coming to Central Oregon for a marathon, tournament, concert, music festival, reunion, or vacation, RV camping might just be the perfect solution.

Central Oregon is a hidden gem that offers a diverse range of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to deep blue lakes and rolling hills. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best RV camping spots in Central Oregon and provide tips and tricks to help you make the most of your trip.

Top Central Oregon RV Camping Destinations

Tumalo State Park RV Camping

Located just 5 minutes north of Bend, Tumalo State Park is one of the most popular destinations for RV camping in the region. The park sits along the scenic Deschutes River and offers excellent amenities for campers.

Campsite Options:

• 23 full hookup sites
• 54 electrical sites
• 7 tent sites

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The park's proximity to Bend makes it an ideal base camp for exploring downtown restaurants, breweries, and shops. If you're planning a trip, check out our RV rental options to find the perfect vehicle for your adventure.

La Pine State Park RV Camping

Situated on the banks of the Deschutes River, La Pine State Park is a great spot for RV camping about 30 miles south of Bend. This park offers one of the largest campgrounds in the Oregon State Parks system.

Campsite Options:

• 82 full hookup sites
• 25 electrical sites
• 10 tent sites

The river offers great fishing opportunities for rainbow trout and brown trout. There are also hiking and biking trails nearby, including access to the Big Tree Trail where you can see a massive ponderosa pine estimated to be over 500 years old.

Crooked River State Park RV Camping

This park is located in the heart of Central Oregon near Prineville and offers stunning views of the Crooked River Canyon. The dramatic basalt cliffs and unique geological formations make this a photographer's paradise.

Campsite Options:

• 25 full hookup sites
• 45 electrical sites
• 10 tent sites

There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, and the park is known for its excellent birdwatching opportunities. Keep an eye out for golden eagles, prairie falcons, and canyon wrens. The nearby Smith Rock State Park is also worth a visit for world-class rock climbing.

Prineville Reservoir State Park RV Camping

If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy the water, Prineville Reservoir State Park is the perfect spot. This high desert reservoir offers excellent water recreation opportunities.

Campsite Options:

• 82 full hookup sites
• 29 electrical sites
• 16 tent sites

The reservoir is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming during the warm summer months. Anglers can catch bass, trout, and crappie. There are also hiking trails nearby that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Essential RV Camping Tips & Tricks

Planning Your Trip

Make Reservations Early - Central Oregon is a popular destination for RV camping, especially during the summer months. To ensure that you get a spot at your preferred campground, it's important to make reservations as early as possible.

Most state parks allow you to make reservations up to 9 months in advance through the Oregon State Parks reservation system. Peak season (June through September) fills up quickly, so plan ahead.

Packing the Right Gear

Bring the Right Gear - When RV camping, it's important to bring all the necessary gear to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable. Essential items include:

• Comfortable outdoor chairs for relaxing around the campfire
• A portable grill for cooking meals outdoors
• Plenty of sunscreen (Central Oregon has over 300 days of sunshine annually)
• Layered clothing (temperatures can vary significantly between day and night)
• Water hoses and electrical adapters for hookups

We rent out RV camping accessories at Happy Campers RV Rentals, so please ask about what we can do to improve your RV trip. Our 2024 Entegra Ethos and 2022 Forest River Sunseeker come fully equipped with many amenities.

Exploring the Area

Explore the Surrounding Area - While RV camping is a great way to relax and unwind, it's also a great opportunity to explore the surrounding area. Central Oregon is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country.

Must-see destinations include:

• Crater Lake National Park - America's deepest lake with stunning blue waters
• The Cascade Mountains - Perfect for hiking, skiing, and scenic drives
• The Painted Hills - Colorful geological formations in the John Day Fossil Beds
• Newberry National Volcanic Monument - Explore lava tubes and volcanic landscapes
• Smith Rock State Park - World-renowned rock climbing destination

Make sure to take some time to explore these amazing destinations while you're in the area. Many are within a short drive from the major RV camping locations.

Safety First

Stay Safe - RV camping is generally a safe activity, but it's important to take some precautions to ensure that you stay safe while you're on the road.

Important safety tips include:

• Pack a well-stocked first aid kit
• Bring plenty of water (stay hydrated in the high desert climate)
• Always follow safety guidelines when using your RV appliances
• Be aware of wildfire conditions and restrictions during summer months
• Know how to properly level and stabilize your RV
• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling

For more RV safety tips, visit the RV Industry Association's safety resources.

Start Your Central Oregon RV Adventure

RV camping in Central Oregon is an amazing experience that allows you to connect with nature and explore some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. Whether you're looking for a place to relax and unwind or a place to explore and adventure, Central Oregon has something to offer everyone.

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your RV camping trip is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable. The combination of excellent state parks, diverse outdoor activities, and beautiful high desert scenery makes Central Oregon an ideal RV camping destination.

Ready to start planning your trip? Contact us today to learn more about our rental options and availability.

Explore Our RV Rental Lineup

Pick out an RV rental for your next Central Oregon adventure. From compact campervans to spacious Class C motorhomes, we have the perfect vehicle for your needs.