Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests
Crooked River National Grassland

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping

1. How do I get a campground space?   Most campgrounds have first come first serve sites. Reservations are only available for Group Camps, some Horse Camps, and a few regular campgrounds.
2. How do I get a reservation?   First you need to know the name of the campground that you want to reserve. Then check this web site for availability of reservations or call one of our offices.
3. How do I make a reservation?   Remember reservations are only available for group camps, some horse camps, and a few campgrounds. All others are first come first serve. Most but not all reservations are made through the National Reservation Center. You will need the following information to make a reservation: Name of Campground, Arrival Date, Number of Nights, Number of People, Number of vehicles, What Types of Vehicle, Size of Equipment, Credit Card number and Expiration Date. Golden Age/Access card numbers must be given at the time of reservation in order receive a discount.
4. How long are the campgrounds open?   Most of the campground are open April to October. In late September and October if weather conditions warrant the water and restrooms may not be available, especially if the restroom are flush. Late in the season, garbage service may not be available so you will need to pack your garbage out.
5. Do I have to camp in developed campgrounds?   No, you may camp in most places on the forest that are not posted as a closed to camping. There are a few high use areas (some lakes in the Three Sisters Wilderness for example) where you may only camp at designated camp sites. Please contact our office for additional information on current fire danger and for the regulations about camping. Please set up your camp 200 feet from all water sources and use existing fire rings when possible. We have a brochure "The Art of Designated and Dispersed Camping" that will give you more details about this type of camping. Please contact one of our offices for a copy.
6. How can I become a campground host?   The operation of campgrounds on the Deschutes is under a contact. The contractors hire their own crews for hosts. You can contact our office at 541-383-5300 for a list of the contractors that are on the forest. If you are interested in campground hosting for the Ochoco National Forest please call 541-416-6500. Some times the Bureau of Land Management is also looking for campground hosts you can reach them at 541-416-6700 for information.