Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

4.01

119 reviews

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, Bend, Oregon, 97701, USA

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

4,485 ft

Price

$25 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open from May 23 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Deschutes National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

4,485 ft

Price

$25 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open from May 23 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Deschutes National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

$25.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season nightly rates for standard non-electric sites range from $25 to $50, with an additional holiday surcharge of $2/night. During shoulder...

Standard Site Fee$25.00

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.01

Satisfactory

Based on 119 reviews

30 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousfriendlywell-maintained

"User reviews are polarized, with some praising the clean facilities, spacious sites, and peaceful environment, while others criticize maintenance issues, lack of shade due to fallen trees, and algae blooms in the reservoir."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, Bend, Oregon, 97701, USA

Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, Bend, Oregon, 97701, USA

Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel about 50 miles southwest on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46). Campground is on left-hand side of Cascade Lakes Highway.

The campground is accessible by paved roads directly off Cascade Lakes Highway. Conditions appear suitable for standard vehicles, but seasonal closures or wildfire-related restrictions may affect access.

Nearby places

Bend (50 miles away, approximately 1 hour drive)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available in Bend, Oregon.

Best Time to Camp at Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Wake to crisp mountain mornings where mist dances across the reservoir and wildlife emerges for their daily routines. Summer brings the perfect recipe for outdoor adventure—cool, refreshing mornings ideal for that first cast or early hike, followed by warm afternoons perfect for swimming and exploring. As evening approaches, temperatures drop to comfortable levels, creating magical conditions for campfire stories and stargazing. While occasional algal blooms may temporarily affect water activities during peak summer, the surrounding forest and trails remain pristine year-round.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Peak season: good fishing/boating but algae blooms and mosquitoes commonly reported in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall noted as quieter with fewer bugs — better for solitude and cleaner waters.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Late-spring opening (May 23) yields cool mornings and wildlife, but early spring is closed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground reservation period is May 23–Sept 27; winter visitation and services not documented.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 23 to September 27. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 23 to September 27 (reservable period). Outside of these dates, bookings are unavailable.
Current Alerts: Seasonal algal blooms may render the lake unsafe for swimming. Always check local wildfire conditions.

About Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Nestled along the western shores of Crane Prairie Reservoir, Rock Creek Campground invites you to discover your own private slice of Oregon wilderness. Here, spacious campsites tucked beneath towering pines offer the perfect balance of seclusion and adventure. Whether you're casting a line into the renowned trophy waters, launching your boat for a sunset paddle, exploring forest trails on foot, or scanning the skies for magnificent birds of prey, this hidden gem delivers the authentic Cascade Lakes experience that outdoor enthusiasts dream about.

The campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping and RV camping. Group camping options are available.

Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Rock Creek places you at the heart of one of Oregon's most scenic treasures—the legendary Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway winds nearby, offering access to a string of alpine jewels. Just minutes away, the Osprey Point interpretive area reveals the fascinating ecological story of this unique high-desert reservoir system, where ancient volcanic forces created a landscape that now supports one of the most diverse bird populations in the Pacific Northwest.

Weather and SeasonsWake to crisp mountain mornings where mist dances across the reservoir and wildlife emerges for their daily routines. Summer brings the perfect recipe for outdoor adventure—cool, refreshing mornings ideal for that first cast or early hike, followed by warm afternoons perfect for swimming and exploring. As evening approaches, temperatures drop to comfortable levels, creating magical conditions for campfire stories and stargazing. While occasional algal blooms may temporarily affect water activities during peak summer, the surrounding forest and trails remain pristine year-round.

ElevationPerched in the classic Cascade alpine environment, Rock Creek Campground offers that sweet spot where mountain meadows meet evergreen forests. The terrain here tells the story of volcanic forces and glacial carving, creating the gentle rolls and hidden hollows that make each campsite feel like its own private retreat in the high country.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the haunting call of sandhill cranes echoing across morning waters, or watching a bald eagle soar above ancient ponderosa pines. Crane Prairie Reservoir stretches before you like a natural amphitheater, its waters reflecting the surrounding tapestry of dense coniferous forests and wildflower meadows. This is where the Cascades reveal their gentler side—where volcanic peaks give way to serene waters, and where majestic Rocky Mountain elk might wander through your campsite at dusk. The interplay of forest, meadow, and water creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.

Geological RegionRock Creek Campground sits within the magnificent Deschutes National Forest, a landscape sculpted by fire and ice over millennia. This is volcano country, where ancient lava flows created the foundation for today's pristine alpine lakes and verdant meadows. Dense stands of pine, fir, and hemlock forest blanket the rolling volcanic terrain, punctuated by crystal-clear waters and meadows that burst with wildflowers each summer. It's a geological wonderland where every vista tells the story of the powerful forces that shaped the Cascade Range.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Reserved sites must be occupied by noon the following day to retain reservation.

Check-out

Check-out is by noon.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit
28 nights total per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to two RVs per double site or one RV per single site
one tow vehicle per single site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops with varying amenities and proximity to lake access.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website and Contact Center.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during shoulder seasons (e.g., September 28 to October 18).

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight 1 day before arrival) forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified in the provided materials.

Site SizeSites are described as large and spacious, accommodating both trailer and tent camping setups.

PrivacyMixed reviews. Some users highlighted the isolated and private nature of sites, while others reported that sites lacked seclusion, especially in specific loops like Loop 3.

Total Campsites32 campsites

Recommended SitesSites in Loop 4 provide the best water access. Families seeking quiet and clean facilities should consider Loop 2.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Rock Creek Campground at Crane Prairie Reservoir offers fishing, boating, hiking, bird watching, and limited wildlife viewing opportunities due to its unique natural setting. Reviewers frequently mention the reservoir's reputation for fishing (rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, and bass).

HikingShort hiking trails are available within the campground. Reviewers describe them as scenic and easy to navigate.

FishingFishing is a primary attraction, with Crane Prairie Reservoir managed for species like rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, brook trout, and largemouth bass. Some users noted the fishing quality was affected by lake conditions during certain seasons.

SwimmingSwimming opportunities may be limited depending on conditions. Several reviews reported blue-green algae blooms, making the water unsafe for swimming, especially during late summer.

BoatingA boat ramp provides access to Crane Prairie Reservoir. Motorized boats were highlighted as popular for fishing purposes.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of sandhill cranes, bald eagles, osprey, deer, and beavers. Seasonal conditions impact the variety and frequency of wildlife sightings.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include algal blooms, wildlife encounters (black bears, elk), and mosquito infestations.

Active AlertsSeasonal algal blooms may render the lake unsafe for swimming. Always check local wildfire conditions.

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

Fire PolicyFire restrictions may apply during dry weather conditions. Local wildfire updates available at centraloregonfire.org.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency medical facilities likely in Bend, Oregon.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available at the campground, with dumpsters located at each loop. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesSituated next to Crane Prairie Reservoir, with a boat ramp and cleaning stations available.

Camp HostMixed reviews about hosts; some praised their cleanliness and helpfulness while others criticized poor management.

Weather at Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)

Reviews

4.0

119 reviews

Satisfactory

Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are polarized, with some praising the clean facilities, spacious sites, and peaceful environment, while others criticize maintenance issues, lack of shade due to fallen trees, and algae blooms in the reservoir.

Review Summaries

Based on 119 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and spacious sites, well-maintained vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, and great access to fishing and bird watching.

Based on 119 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues include unmaintained water spigots, algae blooms in the lake, fallen tree hazards, and occasional noise from rowdy campers. Mosquitoes and yellow jackets are frequently mentioned as nuisances.

Based on 119 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring yellow jacket traps and plenty of bug spray. Check for algae bloom updates before planning to swim. Stay in Loops 4 or 5 for better water access.

Based on 119 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight algae blooms and mosquitoes as challenges, but also note the campground's popularity for fishing. Fall brings quieter conditions and fewer bugs. Winter trends were not...

Based on 119 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The vault bathrooms were always clean and we never ran out of toilet paper." - Melissa F. "The lake was full of dense green algal bloom, and not suitable for swimming." - Andrew T. "We loved our...

Based on 119 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Loop 3 received mixed reviews for its openness and lack of privacy. Campsites near the lake (e.g., Loop 4) are favored for water access, while others (e.g., Loop 1) were criticized for proximity to...

Based on 119 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews were noted.

Based on 119 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leashes. No specific reviews highlight pet facilities or pet-friendly features.

Based on 119 reviews

0 review

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.

Last updated January 13, 2026

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in OREGON

Campgrounds

Deschutes National Forest

Rock Creek Campground (Deschutes National Forest, Or)