Cow Meadow Campground

Star3.52
61 reviews
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

4,459 ft

Price

$21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open from May 23 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Hoodoo Recreation Services site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

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January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Cow Meadow Campground
$21.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nightly fee of $21 during peak season and first-come, first-served season. Additional $2 charge for holiday nights. Fees do not include...
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Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
541-323-1746Jen@Hoodoo.com
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What Campers Say

3.52

Mixed Reviews

Based on 61 reviews

26 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefulsites

Some mention

mosquitoes

"Reviews are mixed, with users appreciating the natural beauty and quiet atmosphere but complaining about mosquitoes, the lack of water, and limited restroom facilities. Some reviewers also mentioned safety concerns during extreme fire warnings."

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Campground Map

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD

Cow Meadow Campground

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD

Driving directionsFrom Bend, OR: Travel about 45 miles south on Cascade Lakes Highway (46), 0.5 mile east on Forest Road 40, then 2 miles south on Forest Road 4000-790.
Access involves a 3-mile gravel road with significant washboarding and potholes. "Road is full of holes and washboard. Not horrible but a slow drive."
Nearby places
Bend, OR (45 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Campers will need to bring their own water and supplies as there is no water available at this location. The closest supply points are likely in Bend, OR.

Best Time to Camp at Cow Meadow Campground

Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days that can climb to a toasty 100°F, perfect for early morning adventures and lazy afternoon siestas in the shade. From late spring through early fall, the mosquito population explodes into a buzzing frenzy that rivals any wilderness challenge—consider it part of the authentic Oregon backcountry experience. The shoulder seasons offer cooler temperatures and fewer bugs for those willing to trade peak weather for peaceful solitude.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Open in summer but reviewers report heavy mosquitoes and up to 100°F temps affecting comfort.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall has fewer mosquitoes and more temperate weather; reviewers note improved conditions.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Late spring open period; mosquitoes emerge in late spring but activities begin to resume.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed for reservations outside May 23–Oct 18; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 - October 18 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 23 to October 18 for reservations; closed for booking out of season.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal fire restrictions may be enforced. Check centraloregonfire.org for updates.

About Cow Meadow Campground

Hidden away where Snow Creek meets the mighty Deschutes River, Cow Meadow Campground offers an intimate escape into Oregon's wild heart. This tranquil retreat sits just a stone's throw from Crane Prairie Reservoir, where anglers cast their lines into pristine waters and paddlers glide across glassy surfaces at dawn. While this secluded gem sees fewer visitors than its neighboring sites, those who discover it are rewarded with exceptional fishing and front-row seats to nature's daily drama. Fair warning: the mosquitoes here are legendary, so come prepared with repellent and a sense of humor about these persistent residents.
Cow Meadow Campground caters to a range of campers with options for tent camping, RVs, and trailers. However, the lack of hookups and other amenities makes it more suitable for self-sufficient or primitive camping enthusiasts.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Reserved sites held until noon the day following the arrival date.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
  • Maximum 14 nights per visit
  • 28 nights per year.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is a hub for outdoor recreation, including boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The Crane Prairie Reservoir offers opportunities for anglers to catch rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and other species. Bird watchers can observe a diverse array of birds, including osprey and bald eagles. Hiking trails and access to the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway provide additional avenues for exploration. However, mosquitoes are a major deterrent for many visitors.
HikingHiking trails are accessible from the campground, including routes to nearby wilderness areas and the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway.
FishingFishing is a highlight at the Crane Prairie Reservoir, managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Anglers can catch rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, brook trout, and largemouth bass. A 10 MPH speed limit is enforced on the water to maintain a serene environment.
BoatingBoth motorized and non-motorized boating is permitted on the reservoir, but a 10 MPH speed limit is enforced. The boat ramp at the campground is shallow and suitable only for kayaks or small boats.
Wildlife viewingThe campground is located in a premier wildlife viewing area. Visitors can see waterfowl like Sandhill cranes, Canadian geese, and bald eagles, as well as mammals such as deer and squirrels. Reviewers frequently mention encounters with local fauna.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsNearby Osprey Point offers educational opportunities about local fauna and osprey nesting platforms. The Newberry National Volcanic Monument provides interpretive exhibits and ranger talks.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSignificant mosquito infestation; deer and occasional black bear sightings.
Active AlertsSeasonal fire restrictions may be enforced. Check centraloregonfire.org for updates.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Cow Meadow Campground

Reviews

3.5
61 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Cow Meadow Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with users appreciating the natural beauty and quiet atmosphere but complaining about mosquitoes, the lack of water, and limited restroom facilities. Some reviewers also mentioned safety concerns during extreme fire warnings.
Review Summaries
Based on 61 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the quiet setting, large campsites, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. One reviewer noted, "The campground is a little off the beaten path which added to its charm and...
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Based on 61 reviews

Common Concerns

The biggest complaints include the overwhelming number of mosquitoes, lack of potable water, inadequate restroom facilities, and safety concerns such as illegal fires during fire bans. As one...
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Based on 61 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Many users recommend bringing plenty of mosquito repellent, potable water, and being prepared for the lack of on-site amenities. One reviewer suggested, "Bring a Thermacell if without a pet and soak...
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Based on 61 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews consistently highlight the mosquito problem, especially in July and August, as well as the 100-degree temperatures during this period. Fall seems to have fewer mosquitoes and more...
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Based on 61 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The mosquitoes ate us alive regardless of the millions of mosquito repellent used." "The campground and area is beautiful. We saw some deer during our stay at our site and kayaked with the geese."...
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Based on 61 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 010: Complaints about illegal fires and noise. Site 011: Described as unsuitable for trailers due to short length and tight bollard placement. Site 015: Concerns about theft. Site 013: Positive...
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Based on 61 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews about pet-related experiences, though one reviewer warned about the dangers of toxic algae in the reservoir for pets.
Based on 61 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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