About OCHOCO FOREST CAMP
Overview Ochoco Forest Camp is nestled in the Ochoco Mountain range near the 6,926-foot Lookout Mountain, which is known for its unusual rock formations. The pavilion offers a large group picnic area and several campsites. A small meadow and group fire ring with BBQ is popular for weddings and family reunions. Wild horses are sometimes seen near the camp and surrounding area. Recreation The shelter is close to the Lookout Mountain Trail, which climbs to the top of the mountain and offers terrific views of the Cascades and meadow wildflowers in the spring. This trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders. However, horses are not allowed at the pavilion and campground. Anglers can also go fishing for trout in nearby Walton Lake. Facilities The large picnic shelter sits in a quiet and secluded location at the far end of the campground. Groups of up to 125 people can enjoy picnicking and other recreational activities. Picnic tables and grills are provided at the shelter, and drinking water and vault toilets are available in the campground as well. Electricity is provided only for pavilion use and not compatible as a RV hookup. Several first-come, first-served campsites are available for visitors wishing to spend the night. Natural Features Much of the area is dominated by old-growth Ponderosa pine. Wildlife include Rocky Mountain elk and mule deer, as well as several bird species that include white-headed woodpecker, belted kingfisher, spotted sandpiper, cinnamon teal, American coot, Steller's jay, yellow-headed blackbird and Brewer's blackbird. Wild horses are commonly seen in the area. Excellent hiking, mt biking, and horse riding is available on the trails nearby. Nearby Attractions Walton Lake offers a variety of activities for day-use visitors. There is a swimming beach, fishing pier and boat ramp, and the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. There is exellent trail hiking and mt. biking at Lookout Mt and Round Mt. trails.
How to Get There
From Prineville, Oregon, take Highway 26 north for 16 miles. Turn right on Ochoco Ranger Station Road and go 9 miles to the Ranger Station, then turn left onto Forest Service Road 2610, proceed across the small bridge and take a right into the Forest Camp fee station. Continue on to the pavilion group site, follow signs.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to OCHOCO FOREST CAMP
Heading to OCHOCO FOREST CAMP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for OCHOCO FOREST CAMP?
No central reservation system listed for OCHOCO FOREST CAMP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233894) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to OCHOCO FOREST CAMP?
From Prineville, Oregon, take Highway 26 north for 16 miles. Turn right on Ochoco Ranger Station Road and go 9 miles to the Ranger Station, then turn left onto Forest Service Road 2610, proceed across the small bridge and take a right into the Forest Camp fee station. Continue on to the pavilion group site, follow signs.
How do I contact OCHOCO FOREST CAMP?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-351-1182 or email: audi1@scinternet.net.
References & Official Resources
