About This Park
With views of nearby Chimney Rock, this campground offers year-round camping and Crooked River access along the Lower Crooked Back Country Byway. Campground facilities include seven campsites with excellent access to the Crooked Wild and Scenic River.
Know Before You Go:
- Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are accepted.
- Potable water is available year-round at the nearby Chimney Rock Campground, 1.3 miles north on State Highway 27.
- Cell phone service is not available in the campground.
- Watch for bicyclists: the section of State Highway 27 between Prineville and Bowman Dam is designated as the Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway.
Point of Interest:
The campground takes its name from nearby rock outcrops composed of basaltic lava. As these formations cooled, a multi-sided joint pattern formed which seemingly resulted in the appearance of a pile of posts stacked vertically. The geologic phenomena is known as columnar basalt.
Quick Information
- Type: Overnight Parking
- Network: Federal – Other
- Price Range: $15-35
Amenities
Contact & Location
Prineville District Office 3050 NE 3rd Street
Prineville, OR 97754
Phone: 541-416-6700
Email: BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov
Sites are dry camping only, so come with a full tank and plan accordingly — the trade-off is a quieter, more natural experience. Desert camping means open views and quiet nights, though plan for heat during the day and shade where you can find it. Facilities are basic — bring what you need and expect a more self-sufficient camping experience.