Haystack Campground (East Shore)

Star3.89
109 reviews
P.O. Box 739, Prineville, OR 97754, USA

Quick Facts

2,851 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Open April 25 to Oct...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Haystack Campground (East Shore)
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates include $20 for Standard Nonelectric sites and $50 for Group Shelter Nonelectric sites, with an additional $25 for weekend bookings.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

3.89

Mixed Reviews

Based on 109 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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reservation

"User reviews for Haystack Campground (East Shore) are mixed, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Positive aspects include the cleanliness of the facilities, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the scenic views. However, complaints about mosquitoes, toxic algae in the reservoir, and issues with reservations are common."

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Campground Map

P.O. Box 739, Prineville, OR 97754, USA

Haystack Campground (East Shore)

P.O. Box 739, Prineville, OR 97754, USA

Driving directionsFrom Highway 97: Exit Jericho Lane and go east for approximately 1.2 miles. Turn right on Haystack Drive (FS 7130 / FS 96) and continue on for about 2.1 miles. The Haystack Campground entrance is on the left. From Highway 26: Exit on Laurel Lane (FS 96) and go west for approximately 4 miles. Bear right at the intersection of FS 7130 / FS 96 and continue on for about 2 miles. Haystack Campground entrance will be on the right.
Paved interior roads and site pads. Accessibility includes seasonal operation and entry through Haystack Drive or Laurel Lane.
Nearby places
Madras (Approx. 20 minutes south), Crooked River Gorge (Approx. 15 minutes south), Prineville (Approx. 30 miles north).
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Haystack Campground (East Shore)

Experience the dramatic seasonal shifts of Oregon's high desert, where each season paints the landscape with its own unique character. Summer visitors should come prepared for nature's full spectrum – from brilliant sunshine to vigorous mosquito populations during peak months. The reservoir's water levels naturally fluctuate with the seasons, and occasional algae blooms may occur during warmer periods, reminding us of this dynamic ecosystem's ever-changing nature.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Peak season for boating/fishing but mosquitos and algal blooms reported during warm months.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Late-season visits note lower water levels but fewer mosquitoes and good solitude/views.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring praised for birdwatching and pleasant conditions at the reservoir.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed out of season (open Apr 25–Oct 11).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 25 to October 11. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 25 to October 11, reservable from June 25 during peak season. Closed out of season.
  • Current Alerts: Reports of toxic algae in Haystack Reservoir. Seasonal advisories about mosquito activity.

About Haystack Campground (East Shore)

Escape to the tranquil shores of Haystack Campground (East Shore), where central Oregon's high desert meets pristine waters. Nestled within the expansive Crooked River National Grassland, this intimate, rustic retreat offers sweeping views of majestic Mt. Jefferson rising above the horizon. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with a large RV, you'll find your perfect basecamp along the peaceful eastern shores of Haystack Reservoir.
Haystack Campground (East Shore) accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. It is described as rustic and quiet, suitable for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
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Reserving a campsite

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Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers various recreational activities, both water-based and land-based. Popular activities include fishing, recreational boating, and swimming in the Haystack Reservoir. The reservoir supports species such as largemouth bass, rainbow trout, kokanee, crappie, and catfish, making it a favorite among anglers. Nearby, visitors can enjoy rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and ATV use. Birdwatching is another highlight, with sightings of unique species during migration seasons.
HikingHiking opportunities are available in the nearby areas, although specific trails and their difficulty levels are not detailed.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
FishingFishing is highly popular, with the reservoir regularly stocked with largemouth bass, rainbow trout, kokanee, crappie, and catfish. One user stated, "Evidently it is a good place to fish as well."
SwimmingSwimming is permitted in Haystack Reservoir, although users expressed concerns about water quality, such as toxic algae blooms. One reviewer noted, "We were unaware that there was toxic blue algae in the water until we got there."
BikingMountain biking is available in the surrounding areas, but specific trails or difficulty levels are not mentioned.
BoatingRecreational boating is a popular activity. The campground offers paved boat ramps, making it convenient for visitors. However, some reviewers noted that the reservoir's water levels can affect the boating experience.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUsers and authoritative sources reported hazards such as toxic algae blooms, swarming mosquitos, and flies.
Active AlertsReports of toxic algae in Haystack Reservoir. Seasonal advisories about mosquito activity.

Weather at Haystack Campground (East Shore)

Reviews

3.9
109 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Haystack Campground (East Shore) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Haystack Campground (East Shore) are mixed, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Positive aspects include the cleanliness of the facilities, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the scenic views. However, complaints about mosquitoes, toxic algae in the reservoir, and issues with reservations are common.
Review Summaries
Based on 109 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback frequently mentions the helpful and friendly camp hosts, clean and spacious campsites, and opportunities for fishing. Direct quotes include: "The cleanest vault toilet" and "Camp...
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Based on 109 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints revolve around mosquitoes, toxic algae in the water, and management issues. For example, one user noted, "Mosquitos were horrible," and another stated, "We were unaware that there...
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Based on 109 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing mosquito repellent due to frequent complaints about bugs. "Bring plenty of Deet with you," one reviewer advised. Another tip is to check water levels and conditions before...
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Based on 109 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquito problems appear to be more severe during the warmer months, while some reviewers found the reservoir's water levels low at the end of the season. The spring months were praised for...
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Based on 109 reviews

Camper Quotes

"From the first minute to the last, we couldn't have asked for more." "The views were beautiful, but the mosquitos were swarming day and night." "This used to be one of my 'go to' campgrounds. No...
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Based on 109 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific campsites received mixed reviews. Site 23 is noted for being quiet and offering privacy, while site 10 is praised for its large size and water access. Site 12 had complaints about...
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Based on 109 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews mention accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 109 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There were no explicit comments on pet-related experiences, but one user mentioned needing to find another place for their dog to swim due to toxic algae in the water.
Based on 109 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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