Bull Prairie Campground (Or)
4.7193 reviewsP.O. Box 7, Heppner, OR 97836
Bull Prairie Campground (Or)
$14.00 - $19.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single site fees range from $14-$19 per night, depending on the season and campsite type. Group sites cost $25/night. Additional fees include $8 reservation service fee, $5 per vehicle exceeding the two-vehicle-per-site limit, and $10 for dump station use.
About this campground
Nestled beside a pristine 28-acre mountain lake, Bull Prairie Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of wilderness tranquility and modern convenience. Whether you're casting a line from the accessible fishing docks for stocked trout, exploring the paved trails that wind through towering pines, or settling in for the night at one of the thoughtfully designed tent or RV sites, this forest sanctuary offers an authentic Pacific Northwest camping experience. Group camping facilities make it an ideal destination for family reunions or outdoor gatherings under the starlit mountain sky.
Bull Prairie Campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including tent and RV sites, double sites, and a group campsite. There are no cabin or glamping options.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Bull Prairie unfold with crisp mountain mornings that gradually warm to comfortable afternoons, with temperatures typically dancing between 54 and 78°F. The lake's cooling influence creates refreshing evening breezes, though savvy campers come prepared with warm layers for those characteristically cool mountain nights. While the lakeside setting attracts its share of mosquitos during peak season, the dry climate and moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing throughout the summer months.
ElevationPerched at 4,200 feet above sea level, Bull Prairie Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp, the wildlife is abundant, and summer's heat gives way to pleasant, pine-scented coolness. This elevated paradise provides the perfect escape from valley heat while remaining accessible to adventurers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering Ponderosa pines mingle with Douglas-fir, grand fir, and spruce, creating a verdant canopy that filters golden sunlight onto the forest floor. Morning visitors often encounter deer grazing near their campsites, while playful squirrels and chipmunks provide endless entertainment. Lucky campers might spot majestic elk moving through the shadows at dawn or dusk. The centerpiece lake attracts graceful waterfowl, their calls echoing across the water as they glide past anglers trying their luck in the trout-filled depths.
Geological RegionBull Prairie Campground claims its spectacular setting within the vast Umatilla National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a mountainous landscape now cloaked in dense coniferous forest. The campground's crown jewel—a 28-acre lake teeming with trout—sits like a sapphire amid the emerald expanse of Ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, grand fir, and spruce. This pristine pocket of the Pacific Northwest showcases the region's characteristic volcanic origins, with its elevated terrain offering glimpses of the surrounding peaks through breaks in the forest canopy.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers multiple accessible features, including 8 accessible vault toilets, a paved trail around the lake suitable for wheelchairs, and accessible fishing docks.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally spacious; one user described their site (#21) as "big with two tables, a cool fire pit, lots of shade."
Sites PrivacyThe campground is noted for its privacy, with sites being well-spaced. "Campsite was full yet we felt almost alone there," according to one review.
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites like Site 27 for views and proximity to fishing docks. Sites near potable water spigots are convenient.
Best CampsitesSite 27 is noted as being right on the lake with beautiful views. Other popular sites include 21, 26, and group site 10.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping or occupying a site beyond 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period is not permitted.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 25 guests for group sites
- standard sites allow fewer guests.
Groups
The group site (Site #10) accommodates up to 25 people and 10 vehicles. However, some users noted that the group site may not fully accommodate the stated capacity.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops with 31 sites, including tent/RV sites, group sites, and tent-only options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 8th to November 1st annually. First-come, first-served options available starting June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov online or via their app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are available first-come, first-served starting June 21.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 service fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee if canceled after midnight the day before check-in. Late cancellations for one-night stays result in forfeiture of the full payment.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bull Prairie Campground offers a wide range of activities catering to diverse interests. Campers can enjoy hiking on the 1.2-mile paved trail around Bull Prairie Lake, fishing from several docks, non-motorized boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake, stocked annually with trout, is a favorite for anglers. Visitors can also enjoy photography, picnicking, and hunting in designated areas nearby. The campground is connected to trails leading to the Morrow County OHV Park, 8 miles away. A user noted, "The lake is beautiful with foot docks for kayaks and fishing, including a paved path around it."
Hiking
Hiking options include the 1.2-mile paved trail around Bull Prairie Lake, which is described as "awesome" by one user. The trail is accessible and suitable for morning jogs and leisurely walks.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with trout stocked in the lake annually. "Great trout action on the dock; caught my limit in 45 minutes," one camper shared. However, bank fishing may be challenging due to weeds around the lake's edge.Biking
The paved trail around the lake is suitable for biking. "Great for morning jogs and bicycle rides," according to the campground overview.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed, with facilities including a boat ramp and dock. "Lake is great to go floating with tubes," a user mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with deer, ospreys, and other animals frequently sighted. "We saw tons of wildlife—ducks, deer, red-winged blackbirds, and even a family of osprey," one camper noted.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking are popular. "Wonderful place to fish, kayak, or paddleboard," noted a user.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, provided attendees adhere to the rules and use designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include aggressive mosquitos, leeches in the lake, and occasional bears or cougars in nearby forests.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Emergency services can be accessed at Heppner, approximately 45 minutes away, which includes hospitals and police.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 8th to November 1st annually
Trash and recyclingTrash service is not available, and campers are required to pack out all garbage. "If you pack it in, please pack it out," is a stated guideline.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the 28-acre Bull Prairie Lake, accessible for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Common complaintsComplaints include leeches in the lake, aggressive mosquitos, and occasional noise or maintenance issues with restrooms and water availability.
HostHosts Jody and Heather are widely praised for their helpfulness, cleanliness, and hospitality. They provide free firewood and actively engage with visitors.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 7, Heppner, OR 97836
Driving directionsFrom Heppner, Oregon: Travel south on Highway 207 for approximately 36 miles. Turn east on Forest Service Road 2039 and follow signs to Bull Prairie Recreational Area.
The driving route includes paved roads with occasional small signs guiding visitors towards Bull Prairie Recreational Area. Accessibility is generally good, but some reviews noted road conditions could be challenging for trailers.Nearby places
Heppner, OR (41.5 miles
approximately 45-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Heppner, OR (41.5 miles away) is the nearest location for supplies and gasoline.
Camper Reviews
4.7
93 reviews
Bull Prairie Campground (Or) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bull Prairie Campground is highly praised for its cleanliness, attentive camp hosts, and natural beauty. However, some concerns include aggressive mosquitoes, limited water spigots, and leeches in the lake. "Heather and Jody should be recognized for their excellence," one camper stated.
Review Summaries
Based on 93 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently commend the clean facilities, the scenic lake, and the attentive and friendly camp hosts. "Bathrooms were spotless," and "The campground hosts were the best we've ever had," are...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns include leeches in the lake, aggressive mosquitoes, and occasional road access issues. "Beware of the mosquitoes; they are very aggressive," and "The road going into Bull Prairie Lake is in...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and be prepared to pack out your trash. For group camping, consider the actual site capacity carefully. "If you need firewood, go to the OHV park down the road for a large...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. However, mosquitoes and occasional water shortages are noted during this time. Fall offers quieter experiences...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The lake and scenery and elevation are all so refreshing," "Campground was incredibly well taken care of," and "Hosts Heather and Jody are phenomenal!"
Based on 93 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #10: Some users found it too small for large groups. Site #21: Praised for being spacious with ample shade. Site #27: Described as private and close to the lake.
Based on 93 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is noted for its wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and paved trail around the lake. "The walking path circles the entire lake and is paved to allow strollers and wheelchairs," one...
Based on 93 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. One user noted, "Lake is a great place for dogs to swim; however, leeches in the water can be an issue."
Based on 93 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025