How much does camping cost at Mckay Crossing Campground?

Camping fees at Mckay Crossing Campground range from $19-$21/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mckay Crossing Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mckay Crossing Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mckay Crossing Campground before I book?

Yes! Mckay Crossing Campground has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mckay Crossing Campground?

Mckay Crossing Campground is open May 08 to October 16. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mckay Crossing Campground?

Mckay Crossing Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Mckay Crossing Campground have?

Mckay Crossing Campground has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mckay Crossing Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mckay Crossing Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mckay Crossing Campground?

Mckay Crossing Campground offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Mckay Crossing Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Mckay Crossing Campground?

Fire policies at Mckay Crossing Campground: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.07

158 reviews

SwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,774 ft

Price

$19 - $21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Season opens May 23,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Deschutes National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,774 ft

Price

$19 - $21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Season opens May 23,...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Deschutes National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Mckay Crossing Campground

$19.00 - $21.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $19.00 (+$2.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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541-383-5300Jen@Hoodoo.com

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Campground Map

Mckay Crossing Campground

43.7164, -121.3773

Driving directionsFrom Bend, OR: Travel about 23.5 miles south on Highway 97 then 3 miles east on County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road) until you see the sign for McKay Crossing at FS road 2120. Travel a few miles on this sometimes washboard dirt road to reach the campground. From LaPine, OR: Travel about 6.8 miles north on Highway 97 then 3 miles east on County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road) until you see the sign for McKay Crossing at FS road 2120. Travel a few miles on this sometimes washboard dirt road to reach the campground.

Weather at Mckay Crossing Campground

Current alerts(9)

Camping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive calendar days is prohibited.
Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests.
During your time in Central Oregon, you can find wildfire, prescribed fire and smoke information at centraloregonfire.org
NO generator use is allowed in campgrounds between 10:00PM and 7:00AM (36 CFR 261.10). Silent power banks or battery powered devices are allowed.

Best Time to Camp at Mckay Crossing Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and best weather — expect warm, sunny days in the mid-60s to high-70s °F (18–26 °C) and cool nights in the mid-30s to low-50s °F (2–10 °C). The campground is fully open (reservable sites May 23–Sep 27), so all trails, creek access, and lake fishing/swimming opportunities are available and safe. Summer is peak time for hiking the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, mountain biking, swimming in Paulina Creek pools, and reliable fishing, though holiday weeks/ Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer (mid-60s–70s) is best for swimming, trails and full campground access; peak season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 08 to October 16. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Season opens May 23, 2025, and closes September 27, 2025 for reservable sites.

About Mckay Crossing Campground

McKay Crossing Campground sits in the Deschutes National Forest along a creek known for natural water slides and a nearby waterfall. This small, secluded campground offers spacious sites for tents, RVs, and primitive camping, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Families come for creek play, hiking trails, and bird watching in a quiet mid-elevation forest setting.

The campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, including tent, RV, and trailer camping. No cabins, glamping, or group sites are specifically mentioned.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and best weather — expect warm, sunny days in the mid-60s to high-70s °F (18–26 °C) and cool nights in the mid-30s to low-50s °F (2–10 °C). The campground is fully open (reservable sites May 23–Sep 27), so all trails, creek access, and lake fishing/swimming opportunities are available and safe. Summer is peak time for hiking the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, mountain biking, swimming in Paulina Creek pools, and reliable fishing, though holiday weeks/ Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation4774 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryPaulina Creek divides the campground's two loops and creates natural pools and small waterfalls accessible via short trails. Dense coniferous forests shade most sites, though some reviewers note limited shade coverage during peak summer heat. Wetland areas near the creek attract bird species throughout the day. The surrounding terrain sits within Newberry National Volcanic Monument, where lava flows and volcanic formations shape the landscape. Wildlife visits the creek regularly. Sites along the water offer creek sounds but also see more foot traffic from campers heading to the waterfall.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are detailed for the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights, with a total yearly limit of 28 nights.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground does not specifically mention accessibility features, and user reviews do not provide information related to accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites are of varying sizes, accommodating RVs, trailers, and tents. Some users note challenges with leveling trailers at specific sites like #5.

PrivacyThe sites are described as spacious and secluded, with many located along Paulina Creek. However, proximity to shared amenities like vault toilets and the waterfall can result in higher foot traffic.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #6 is recommended for its creekside location and scenic views. Site #4 offers proximity to the waterfall.

Best CampsitesSites #6, #4, and #8 get strong reviews for their creekside positions and proximity to the waterfall. Some campers note site #5 presents leveling challenges for trailers. Sites along Paulina Creek offer water views and sounds but experience higher foot traffic as other campers walk to the falls.

Need help booking Mckay Crossing Campground?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

McKay Crossing Campground offers a rustic, off-the-beaten-path camping experience. Facilities include picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. The campground is divided into two loops, separated by Paulina Creek. The scenic creek and its accompanying waterfall are key features. No electric, water hookups, or potable water on-site. Trash collection is available, but no recycling bins were mentioned. The campground's quiet nature is frequently highlighted, although its remoteness and access road condition are common concerns.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

McKay Crossing Campground provides a range of activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to Paulina Creek offers natural water slides and a scenic waterfall, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Winter activities like skiing and snowmobiling are available in the broader recreation area.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available, but there are no mentioned recycling facilities. Some reviews highlight issues with trash being left inappropriately in day-use areas.

Cell CoverageVerizon has good service, but T-Mobile is spotty according to user reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.1

158 reviews

Satisfactory

Mckay Crossing Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's scenic location, peaceful environment, and proximity to natural attractions like Paulina Creek and the waterfall. Negative feedback frequently focuses on the poor condition of the access road and the lack of potable water.

Review Summaries

Based on 158 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 158 reviews.

Site #6Loved
Site #6 is often praised for its creekside location.
Site #5Issues noted
Site #5 is criticized for uneven ground, making it challenging for trailers.

What Campers Love

Reviews praise the campground's seclusion, natural beauty, and family-friendly features. Many enjoy the sounds of the nearby creek, the waterfall, and spacious campsites. The hiking trails, natural...

Based on 158 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the rough, washboard-like access road, lack of potable water, and vault toilets, which some find smelly. Crowding during peak times and chipmunks begging for food are...

Based on 158 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water or a water filtration system. Prepare for the bumpy access road, and consider arriving early to secure a spot. Avoid feeding wildlife. Shade can be limited, so bring additional...

Based on 158 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are popular for swimming and hiking. Fall offers quieter camping experiences with fewer crowds. Winter is less discussed but offers access to nearby skiing and snowmobiling...

Based on 158 reviews

Camper Quotes

"McKay Crossing is a little-known gem in Central Oregon." "The waterfall offers a fun thrill to keep the adults and teens busy." "Vault toilets smell, but such is life." "The road to the campground...

Based on 158 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews address accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 158 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, but owners are reminded to keep them on leashes and clean up after them. The creek provides plenty of shallow water for dogs to enjoy.

Based on 158 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a quiet, family-friendly forest camp with creek access and don't need potable water on-site.

Skip if

You need level sites, paved roads, or drinking water at your campsite.

Nearby Campgrounds

Deschutes National Forest

Prairie Campground sits in the Deschutes National Forest at mid-elevation, offering quiet tent, RV, and primitive sites managed by the Forest Service. Visitors enjoy spacious sites surrounded by natural forest, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. The campground is a base for hiking trails and nearby lakes for boating and fishing.