How much does camping cost at South Shore Group Campground?

Camping fees at South Shore Group Campground range from $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is South Shore Group Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

South Shore Group 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 South Shore Group Campground before I book?

Yes! South Shore Group Campground has 6 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 South Shore Group Campground?

South Shore Group Campground is open The campground is open March through November.. 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 South Shore Group Campground?

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

How many campsites does South Shore Group Campground have?

South Shore Group Campground has 3 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at South Shore Group Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at South Shore Group 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 South Shore Group Campground?

South Shore Group Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at South Shore Group Campground?

Popular activities at South Shore Group Campground include Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

South Shore Group Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at South Shore Group Campground?

Fire policies at South Shore Group Campground: 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. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.42

12 reviews

US Bureau of Reclamation, 1375 SE Wilson Avenue Bend, OR 97702, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Group Camping Oregon

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,000 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Crook County Parks and Recreation District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,000 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Crook County Parks and Recreation District Official Website

Get Directions

South Shore Group Campground

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC-449921: $75.00; GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone...

Group Site Fee$50.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-389-6541

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

US Bureau of Reclamation, 1375 SE Wilson Avenue Bend, OR 97702, USA

South Shore Group Campground

US Bureau of Reclamation, 1375 SE Wilson Avenue Bend, OR 97702, USA

Nearby places

Madras, Oregon (null miles, unspecified travel time)

Bend, Oregon (null miles, unspecified travel time)

Driving directionsFrom Highway 97: Exit on to SW Jericho Lane and head East for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right on SW Haystack Drive and proceed approximately 1 mile to South Shore Group Campground on the left. From Highway 26: Exit on to Laurel Lane (FS 96) and head west for approximately four miles. Turn right on to SW Haystack Drive and continue approximately 2 miles to South Shore Group Campground on the right.

Weather at South Shore Group Campground

Current alerts(4)

4th weekend in August every year are the Drag Boat Races at Haystack Reservoir. Reservations are allowed at South Shore Group Campground; however, temporary loud noise and no use in the water is allowed on Saturday and Sunday, 9 am - 6 pm.
NO REFUNDS will be issued for situations that are out of management's control, such as weather, water levels, natural acts, etc.
South Shore Group Campground has a locked gate to the facility. You need to check in with the Campground Host at West Shore Recreation Area, .5 miles away, to receive your access instructions. You will need a copy of your reservations for the Camp Host to confirm.
While recreating at Haystack Reservoir: CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY boats and any other recreational equipment that comes in contact with water. Never dump unwanted bait, worms, fish parts or other organisms into the water.

Best Time to Camp at South Shore Group Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warm, long days and reliably low precipitation that make Haystack Reservoir and the surrounding high-desert landscape most accessible — expect daytime highs around 85–95°F (29–35°C) and cool nights near 50–60°F (10–15°C). Boating, warm-water fishing, swimming, group gatherings at the three group sites, and late-night stargazing are at their peak; water recreation is easiest and most enjoyable. Crowds increase in July–August (weekends fill first) and fire restrictions can be in‑ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is best: highs 85–95°F, cool nights; campground open March–November with peak use in July–Aug.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: The campground is open March through November.

About South Shore Group Campground

South Shore Group Campground sits on Haystack Reservoir in the high-desert foothills near Madras, Oregon. Operated by Crook County Parks and Recreation District, this group-focused site offers vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The reservoir draws drag boat races that can generate significant noise.

South Shore Group Campground provides primitive group camping sites designed for large groups seeking a natural, private setting. No individual, RV, or cabin camping options are available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warm, long days and reliably low precipitation that make Haystack Reservoir and the surrounding high-desert landscape most accessible — expect daytime highs around 85–95°F (29–35°C) and cool nights near 50–60°F (10–15°C). Boating, warm-water fishing, swimming, group gatherings at the three group sites, and late-night stargazing are at their peak; water recreation is easiest and most enjoyable. Crowds increase in July–August (weekends fill first) and fire restrictions can be in‑ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation3000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies high desert terrain where juniper forests meet sagebrush steppe. Twisted juniper trees, sagebrush, and bitterbrush provide natural screening between sites. Haystack Reservoir stretches along the camp's northern boundary, backed by distant views of Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Hood's volcanic peaks. The landscape here is classic Central Oregon: volcanic soils, resilient desert vegetation, and wide-open spaces under big skies.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo lodging accommodations, such as cabins or lodges, are available at this site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each group campsite accommodates up to 50 people.

Groups

The campground hosts three group campsites (Willow, Juniper, and Cottonwood), each accommodating up to 50 people. Sites are screened for privacy and feature picnic tables and fire rings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed by Crook County Parks and Recreation District. Contact them at 541-447-2599.

Site SizeThe three group campsites are spacious, accommodating up to 50 people per site.

PrivacyEach campsite is private and screened by vegetation such as juniper trees, sagebrush, and bitterbrush.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesWillow, Juniper, and Cottonwood campsites are recommended for large groups seeking privacy and proximity to nature.

Best CampsitesThe three sites are named Willow, Juniper, and Cottonwood. All offer privacy and mountain views, though no reviews specify which performs best for particular group needs.

Need help booking South Shore Group Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Each site is primitive so they do not have water, electricity or sewer available. Two vault toilets are located in the campground, and each site has picnic tables and a firering. Water is available about .5 miles away at West Shore Campground up the road.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

South Shore Group Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities centered around Haystack Reservoir and the surrounding high desert landscape. Activities include fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. Nearby attractions provide additional options for hiking, rock climbing, and winter sports.

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground is equipped with two vault toilets.

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 PolicyDon'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. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is not mentioned in the official sources.

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.4

12 reviews

Mixed Reviews

South Shore Group Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

No user reviews were provided in the source materials.

Review Summaries

Based on 12 reviews

What Campers Love

No positive highlights from user reviews are available.

Based on 12 reviews

Common Concerns

No complaints or issues from user reviews are available.

Based on 12 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No reviews mentioning specific sites within the campground are available.

Based on 12 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

No user-provided tips are available.

Based on 12 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No trends regarding seasonal reviews are available.

Based on 12 reviews

Camper Quotes

No user quotes are available.

Based on 12 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility reviews were provided.

Based on 12 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews about pet policies or pet-related experiences were provided.

Based on 12 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

You're booking a group outing focused on warm-water fishing and boating in a high-desert setting.

Skip if

You need hookups, want guaranteed quiet, or require gate access outside designated hours.

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Campgrounds

Haystack Reservoir

South Shore Group Campground

About Haystack Reservoir

Context for the broader area surrounding South Shore Group Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

The Haystack Reservoir area encompasses 271 acres of land and 233 acres of water surface, with 5 miles of shoreline. Available species include largemouth bass, crappie, rainbow trout, kokanee, brown trout, and brown bullhead.<A HREF="https://www.usbr.gov/projects/index.php?id=183">Haystack Dam</A> and reservoir are features of the <A HREF="https://www.usbr.gov/projects/index.php?id=445">Deschutes Project</A>.

Directions

Site is 10 miles south of Madras, Oregon east off U.S. 97.