- The Cove Palisades State Park
The best camping in The Cove Palisades State Park, OR
The best camping in The Cove Palisades State Park, OR
Casa Del lago 2 Lake Billy Chinook
1. Casa Del lago 2 Lake Billy Chinook
97%
(19)
3.9km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land:
Pull up and let the vacation begin. The Lake Billy Chinook area has everything for the perfect camp trip. There is bike riding, boating, fishing, hiking, ATV riding, swimming, kayaking, lounging and enjoying nature.
When you arrive just park in your site. We have 30-amp service but no RV septic hookup. The site is gravel so you may need to level your rig.
We have a fantastic outdoor area complete with couch, loungers, BBQ and fire pit. The high desert offers some of the most amazing views of the Cascade Mountains with clear blue skies and some of the best star gazing around. Casa del Lago is a dark sky site. There is a fantastic view of Mount Jefferson from the couch and the sunsets are absolutely beautiful.
During the Summer we usually enjoy beautiful sunny days and cool comfortable nights. You can hang out down at the lake and find a spot on the beach to have a picnic. You can also bring your boat or rent one at the Cove Palisades Marina and enjoy water sports.
Hosts live in house on property. We are located 4 miles from the lake and are nestled in a rural country neighborhood.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$60
/ night
Camping under the Stars
2. Camping under the Stars
98%
(27)
4.1km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We are sharing our property with guests who have good reviews and are invited to the property. Our strict rules about --NO FIRES-- is strictly in effect all summer long. We do provide some outdoor propane firepits which work great for heat and marshmallows !!
We love our property close to the lake and the great grasslands, and also love to share it with responsible groups for camping.
Please note that we are only sharing our property and that this is not a full-time campground or RV park with any specific layout. There are no services offered, other than a Bathroom which is serviced regularly. Come camp with us, we look forward to hosting you and your friends/family.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$47
/ night
Winter Creek Acres
3. Winter Creek Acres
93%
(15)
9.1km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Come enjoy 80 acres of beautiful central Oregon! Ancient Junipers, stunning views of the Sisters and Mt. Jefferson, breathtaking sunsets…our property has it all. Escape the chaos and enjoy the peace and quiet and wide open space. We are also 20 minutes to the marina and swimming beaches for those hot summer days.
Please do not camp near owner’s trailer. Porta-potty is NOT available to campers.
Pets
from
$25
/ night
Cabin on the Rim
4. Cabin on the Rim
97%
(16)
10km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Cabin on the Rim is a beautiful and quiet off the grid getaway. A studio cabin overlooking the Crooked River Canyon. It is nestled into the cliff side on the back end of a 110 acre working horse ranch.
Enjoy gorgeous sunrises peaking over the canyon walls and beautiful sunsets tucking themselves in behind the cascade mountains.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$77
/ night
Horse Ranch on the Rim
5. Horse Ranch on the Rim
98%
(26)
11km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
New: porta potty has now been removed until spring. Campers must be self contained
Come enjoy the scenic views. They are breathtaking.
Room to set up camp and go for a hike.
Owners live on the property and can assist you in finding the perfect spot for your family. Horses all around. Pets welcomed on leash. Smith Rock only 10 minutes away. Cove Palisades State Park is only 9 miles away.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$55
/ night
Crooked River Ranchette
6. Crooked River Ranchette
91%
(11)
12km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 1 site · RV
Learn more about this land:
Hey y'all! As much as we would love to share our space with everyone, we cannot accommodate tent camping since we don't offer an outhouse. While here you'll get to watch the sunset behind the Cascades and stargaze into the night, at our high desert sanctuary. We have 2.5 acres surrounded by sage and rabbitbrush, bunchgrass and juniper trees. My partner and I live on the property along with our dog, cats and chickens. In addition, you will most likely witness cottontails, deer, and quail, as well as many bird species. At night, you may be lucky enough to be serenaded by local coyotes and owls. We are located atop a peninsula straddled by the Deschutes and Crooked river canyons, with access to golfing, hiking, biking, fishing, climbing and kayaking just minutes away! We are also a short 20 minute drive to Smith Rock , 35 minutes to Lake Billy Chinook, and 40 minutes from Bend or Sisters. There is a small trading post in the canyon with gas, limited groceries and made to order sandwiches. For dining, there is a local tap house with food trucks, and a restaurant and bar on the golf course. We offer water and 50 amp electric. If a fire ban is not in effect, we have a fire pit for your use. Enjoy your morning coffee in the sunshine at our bistro table, listening to the birds chirp. Please respect our privacy and do not enter the fenced yard. We are happy to provide information and recommendations on the area, but if you would prefer zero contact we can accommodate that as well! When available, we can offer split firewood, beer and fresh eggs for sale! Also, our home is located next to one neighbor to the south, the local fire station to the north, and 185 acres of rangeland to the west, on a paved road. One can, at times feel totally alone, while other times, the local pickups and harley davidson's like to be heard. We appreciate where we live and want to share that with you!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$75
/ night
Bolton Estates Farm & Gardens
7. Bolton Estates Farm & Gardens
100%
(10)
19km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful and private. Located at the end of the road so no traffic to disrupt your peace! 7 Mountain View, Smith Rock views! Surrounded by farmland. Idealic country setting. Listen to the fields being watered & the sheep/goats next door bleating. Primary residence for hosts. Dogs, cats, chickens, and children on site. Outhouse and handwashing station on site for your use. 14 minute drive to Smith Rock State Park and within an hour of an incredible amount of natural beauty and activities! (Mt. Bachelor, Paulina Lake, Cultus Lake, Billy Chinook, Tumalo Falls, Deschutes River, Ochoco Wilderness, Polka Dot Ranch, and SO MUCH MORE) Come share in the beauty we are blessed to witness daily!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$94
/ night
Big Rock Ranch
8. Big Rock Ranch
98%
(119)
20km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Lodging
🌿 Welcome to Big Rock Ranch
In 2016, Nathaniel and Raina Potter purchased this 30-acre ranch and aptly named it Big Rock Ranch. The land’s modest ranch layout is contrasted by the wildly grand views of a towering rock outcropping jutting from Coyote Butte, a striking formation that continues to inspire awe in both its owners and visitors. Today, Big Rock Ranch is home to pasture-raised cattle, chickens, goats, horses, a bursting garden, and a commitment to regenerative ranching practices.
Your stay at Big Rock Ranch is more than just a getaway—it’s an offering to our family and ranch, helping us continue our work in sustainable agriculture and land stewardship.
⛺ Stay in the Rustic Canvas Tent
Nestled under junipers and sagebrush, the 12x14 ft canvas tent offers a comfortable yet immersive farm experience. Enjoy stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, high desert landscape, and irrigated pastures. The tent features:
🔥 Outdoor kitchen with a BBQ, propane burners, and potable water.
🛏️ Queen bed (bedding available as an extra) + two cots for additional guests.
🚻 Shared composting outhouse with the tiny house listing.
🔌 One outlet for small device charging.
Guests can also collect farm-fresh eggs, purchase pasture-raised meats, and explore regenerative ranching practices on a guided tour.
🏡 Stay in the Cozy Tiny House
For a more intimate and self-contained farm stay, our charming 8x16 ft tiny house offers:
🏡 Fully equipped indoor kitchen with a propane stove, toaster oven, and fridge/freezer.
🛏️ Lofted queen bed.
🚿 Hot water shower and access to the shared composting outhouse.
🍽️ Indoor and outdoor dining with breathtaking views of the ranch.
🌄 Experience Big Rock Ranch
Guests at both listings are invited to explore the land, interact with our animals, and experience the rhythms of regenerative farming. Nearby, adventure awaits with world-class climbing at Smith Rock (8 min), water recreation at Lake Billy Chinook (20 min), and hiking or biking trails just minutes away.
Your stay supports our family ranch and way of life. We look forward to sharing this special land with you! 🌿 Book your stay and experience the magic of Big Rock Ranch! 🐴
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$111
/ night
Smith Rock Safari Tent & Van Camp
9. Smith Rock Safari Tent & Van Camp
98%
(48)
24km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Rest and relax on our beautiful slice of heaven just minutes from Smith Rock State Park; it’s about a mile walk!
VANS & RVs
Flat gravel parking is perfect for Vans and smaller RVs.
*The gravel drive is pretty narrow as it goes over the irrigation ditch. Small RVs will be just fine. Medium or large RVs might have trouble.
*No Hookups
GLAMPING TENT:
BYOB (bring your own bedding) and camp in style in our 10x12 safari tent. Furnished with a comfortable full-size futon, end tables and a classy rug for comfort. It sleeps two very comfortably.
The futon easily transforms into a lounger, perfect for reading. Tie the tent doors open during good weather and relax as you watch the wildlife in the field and the sun move over Smith Rock.
Important Notes:
- **There are no toilets available on our property. Please DO NOT poop on our land!
- Warm showers and toilets are available at Smith Rock State Park.
- Pond: The sides of the pond are extremely slippery. If you want to swim, please be careful; it’s very easy to fall and hurt and is dangerous. Enter and swim at your own risk!
- Drinking Water: Our well water (from the pump at the pumphouse) is safe for drinking.
- 120 electricity available. Ask us for the extension cord when you book.
- Gas Fire Pit: Kick back next to a little gas fire pit on the tent platform as you watch the sunset over the Cascade mountains.
- Food: Keep all food in tightly closed containers and please don’t leave food in the tent during the day (your car is the best place for that). Pack your trash out.
- A Quiet Space: This is a quiet neighborhood and our voices really carry, so please, no parties. Quiet time is 9PM-9AM.
Please respect property boundaries.
from
$60
/ night
Mountain view escape
10. Mountain view escape
100%
(10)
25km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 1 site · RV
No tents please. Just campers, vans, trailers, and 5th wheels. Need to be self-contained as there is no bathroom. A 16’x30’ relatively level gravel site with 30-amp hookup (Plenty for air conditioning) with stunning mountain views in our quiet campground country neighborhood. Delicious well water available and wifi. 9 miles to Smith Rock State Park, 15 miles to charming town of Sisters, 19 miles to adventurous Bend. Short walk to the Deschutes River where you can picnic, swim, fish, or hike on trails. Watch deer graze under the Three Sisters mountains as you relax in the quite, peaceful setting you will be staying at. Fill your RV with our incredible tasting well water (May- Sept we have water) and watch the birds swoop over the valley underneath the gaze of the Cascade Range.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$65
/ night
Wits End RV Camp
11. Wits End RV Camp
95%
(29)
27km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our spacious RV camp spot in Redmond, OR, conveniently situated just 5 minutes from town and a mere 10 minutes from the renowned Smith Rock.
Whether you prefer solitude or are joining a sizable group of RVs, our site accommodates your needs. The property has 25 acres to explore as well as an additional 80 acres of public land.
Pets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Rooper Ranch
12. Rooper Ranch
97%
(17)
28km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 3 sites · Lodging
Rooper Ranch is a working organic vegetable farm located in beautiful Central Oregon. The yurt has 2 full beds and a futon that can comfortably sleep 4-5 people. Beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains and close to Smith Rock State Park. Bend is a 20 minute drive and endless recreational opportunities are very close.
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
from
$150
/ night
Henry Farms
13. Henry Farms
93%
(22)
28km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 68 sites · Tents, RVs
80 acres set along the crooked river. Views of smith rocks and cascade mountains. Abundant wildlife with fishing and floating the river when weather allows. Goats, sheep, cattle, pigs, chickens, rabbits and horses to enjoy watching and feeding if desired. We have a garden started that will be available soon
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
Pacific Star Ranch LLC.
14. Pacific Star Ranch LLC.
95%
(21)
31km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 8 sites · RVs
4 RV spots with full hookup's
we also provide dry camping
for availability please call (530) 570-2114)
Come be our guest at our 20 acre private gated horse and hay ranch with beautiful Mountain View’s amazing sunrises and sunsets! Safe, Private with gated code entry, Picnic tables with large lawn
***No Public Restrooms***
Must be self contained
Just around the corner from Deshutes River for swimming, rafting and fishing, golfing at Eagle Crest Resort beautiful lakes nearby
Endless hiking, biking, and horse back trails, waterfalls, skiing and snow sports
Close to downtown Redmond shopping, restaurants, taprooms, brewery’s, wine tasting..
20 minutes to Bend, Tumalo, Sisters, Madras, Prineville, and Terrebonne
Pets
Full hookups
from
$95
/ night
STEEP DREAMS
15. STEEP DREAMS
100%
(41)
33km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Lodging
RELAX!!.... Or hike, or bike, or swim or simply recharge your batteries!
Stay the night in our tipi or cabin while taking in the peaceful views of mountains and the treetops. Camps are located on the top of a canyon where you can see for days on this one of a kind central Oregon property. Camps are located next to county and BLM land if you want to hike, bike or take a dip in the pond. 20 minutes to Bend, 15 minutes to Redmond and only 10 minutes to Downtown Sisters.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center
16. Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center
100%
(111)
33km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊
TOM'S REST was created by Tom's wife Cheryl in an effort to carry out their plans to provide respite for those in need. Tom Edwards worked tirelessly for years to clear this wild recreation space where he planned to live while helping others. Tom suddenly and unexpectedly passed February 2, 2015 while in the process of making his move to Sisters with his High School sweetheart of 45 years. Cheryl continued his passion and their dream to make this a place for those in need as a way to honor the most giving man she ever knew. This process has brought some healing and it is our hope to continue that healing for others in need from life's many trials.
Anyone having a grief, widows/widowers, caregiver, cancer, hospice or other group that would like to have their group listed should message us as well. These respite visits are short getaways to refuel and support individuals during tough times.
Those that come to enjoy Tom's Rest will hopefully gain some needed respite. Most feel they are pretty much 'on their own' in this retreat area with the option for seclusion OR mingling if so desired.
My deepest thanks to all who have stood alongside through this journey and continue to do so. May we collectively create TOM'S REST with Tom's intention and the passion he infused in us to carry it through to fulfillment.
****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$49
/ night
The Back Five
17. The Back Five
91%
(11)
34km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 1 site · RV
Property located in SW Redmond, OR - in the heart of an outdoorsman's paradise - fishing, skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, running, biking, swimming, hiking and mountain climbing are all within an hour of the location. Smith Rock State Park is approximately 20 minutes to the north. Eagle Crest Resort is a short drive away.
5 acres of land with a gravel pad, gravel driveway, cross-fencing, shop building ( not accessible to campers) and great views of the Three Sisters mountains in the Cascades range. Summer days are typically warm and dry, while nights cool off dramatically. High desert climate - Redmond is located at about 3,000 feet above sea level.
Electrical hook-up is available for an RV/trailer on the front of the shop building and to the south of the shop on the post. Dry-camping only - no sewage, septic or water hookup is available. 50 amp circuit.
Privacy is not guaranteed. The shop is utilized daily by our family and friends. So, there might be a few visitors throughout the day in the shop.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Rags To Rescues Sanctuary
18. Rags To Rescues Sanctuary
100%
(19)
35km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Lodging
Welcome to Rags to Rescues!
Nestled on our serene 165-acre farm, we offer two unique stays: The Bunkhouse and The Cottage on the Pond. Whether you're seeking a rustic getaway or a peaceful retreat by the water, every stay directly supports our mission of compassionate and sustainable animal care.
The Bunkhouse: A cozy, fully furnished space with rustic charm and modern amenities, perfect for solo travelers or couples.
The Cottage on the Pond: A charming one-bedroom retreat, ideal for individuals or couples looking for a tranquil escape surrounded by nature.
During your visit, you’ll experience the rhythms of farm life—whether you choose to relax in nature or engage in hands-on activities. Your stay helps provide care for our rescued animals and sustains our mission.
We are proud to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all, including individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. At Rags to Rescues, diversity is celebrated, and your presence enriches our community.
Important Details:
*Pet Policy: A pet deposit is required if you're bringing a furry friend. Please add the pet deposit in the “Extras” section when booking. Maximum of 2 dogs allowed.
*Cancellation Policy: We offer a 14-day money-back cancellation policy to allow other guests the opportunity to book a stay.
Thank you for supporting Rags to Rescues Sanctuary, where relaxation, purpose, and community come together in harmony. We look forward to hosting you!
**Tax-ID: 99-1736093
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$149
/ night
Central Oregon Private Oasis
19. Central Oregon Private Oasis
90%
(52)
35km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
The property is 3.3 miles away from Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center, 4 miles from the airport, 13 miles from Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and 11 miles from Smith Rock State Park. There is no shortage of things to do close by.
During festivals there is a three day minimum for all sites.
No matter the time of year there is always something to do.
Small items available to purchase for those forgotten items.
Oregon is a 21 and older state. Everyone needs to be 21 years old to smoke cigarettes, marijuana, or drink alcohol so please obey state laws. That being said feel free to partake just be respectful with your cans and butts.
Most nights only 1 night stay is required however there are some blocked out days or extended stays (only a couple times a year)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Heart of Sisters
20. Heart of Sisters
94%
(169)
36km from The Cove Palisades State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
In the city limits of Sisters. Just a few block walk to parks and downtown Sisters where tourists get trapped. Good for getting close spots for events like Sisters Folk Festival. Couple blocks from the Buckrun Trail head and 15 min drive to Three Creeks Lake. Firepit, Bbq, and grills available for use.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next The Cove Palisades State Park adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Stephanie
3 weeks ago
2 nights at Rags To Rescues Sanctuary
Bonita had the place all warmed up when I arrived and sent detailed easy check in instructions. I was there for cozy solitude and the bunkhouse delivered. I cooked all my meals and the kitchen had everything I needed. Would be excellent as a pit stop for folks exploring and also folks like me wanting a quiet spot to read, write, and enjoy sitting by a fire. Check out was a breeze. Will definitely be back.
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H
Hunter
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Great little spot for camping. Close to smith and town.
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Keely
November 2025
With pets
Awesome off grid tiny house with unbeatable views. I really don't want to leave a positive review, as I'd love to keep this place a secret, but must be honest...this place is really special!
Pure relaxation, comfy bed, cozy woodstove and yes, unbelievable view. 10 our of 10
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T
Tim
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Rags To Rescues Sanctuary
We stayed in the Bunkhouse. The listing definitely undersells how beautiful this place is. Super spacious, well appointed kitchen, super comfy everything, awesome hot tub, and animal friends! When we weren't relaxing or staring at the stars while having a soak, we got to know the cute critters that call this place home. Bonnie is a fantastic host and I love that the proceeds from our stay went to the sanctuary. We will definitely be staying again.
See moreS
Stacey
October 2025
14 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was our second time staying here. We really appreciate the generous check in time (1pm) because we can drop our trailer and easily get in a hike, etc instead of losing a day. Easy access to 97 and we were left to ourselves. It’s a big area where you can easily position your equipment to maximize privacy- though we only saw 2 vehicles drive by the whole time we were there. We will be back!
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B
Becky
October 2025
Tent
This was a great spot! Would definitely stay again.
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T
Tyler
October 2025
With kids
Amy has a beautiful farm with great views! She was a welcoming host and made sure we had all we needed.
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V
Valerie
October 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
We really appreciated having such a nice sized lot to ourselves. Our dogs were able to just relax outside of the van which we dont get to do often. Lovely sunsets and great access to everywhere we wanted to go.
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Janice
September 2025
21 ft travel trailer
We stayed at Susan’s place for four days and very much enjoyed it! Quiet and with lots of amenities including Porta potty, sink, grill and lovely seating area with a hammock. It was very well maintained-highly recommend it!
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Cynthia
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Rags To Rescues Sanctuary
What an incredibly special place! We would absolutely stay there again when visiting the area. Wonderful hosts and wonderful space.
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Melanie
September 2025
20 ft travel trailer
Immaculate RV site with horses a neighbors. Couldn’t be happier.
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K
Kat
September 2025
Tent
With pets
We loved our camp site on Sharon's land! The sunset over the Sisters and big sky night was spectacular. Cleanest lou I've used, and clean water and picnic right at the site.. wish we could stay longer.
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K
Karen
September 2025
Weekend Trip to STEEP DREAMS
This is a special place with an amazing views, comfortable bed and great shower. Coffee in bed while watching the sun rise. A porch for relaxing. Exactly as advertised, but better!
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Raelyn
September 2025
Tent
My dog, Panzer, and I had a great stay here! We had originally booked site 4, but due to a no-show Cheryl said we could set-up in site 5, which gave us a ton of room to spread out that I didn't expect. It can be dusty, but I'm used to that in Central Oregon - having the gravel road cuts down on the dust quite a bit too (personally, I packed up my tent in the gravel). I was surprised by the complete lack of bugs, which was a great highlight. And I loved how close the restroom was - even being in the furthest camping spot, it's maybe a 2-minute walk. Once we got the lay of the land, the best part was being able to let Panzer run off-leash - he had a grand ol' time traversing the terrain. It was nice that Cheryl kept checking in on us as well - very personable and a great conversationalist.
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D
Deborah
September 2025
19 ft travel trailer
With pets
Cheryl was a wonderful host!! Her campsites are amazing and super clean! She was very responsive to all our questions and needs!! We are hoping to stay with her again soon!!
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K
Kimi
September 2025
Weekend Trip to STEEP DREAMS
Most comfortable bed from an online reservation ever! Very clean and cozy teepee with nice details like lamps with usb plug ins and nightlight setting, heavy blankets and a couple chairs. Portapotty down the hill was clean. Nice landscaping and a cute pond. There were lots of deer to greet us. Note—the gravel path up is indeed steep, we made it in good weather in a Prius, 4 wheel drive in anything less than dry conditions would be great. We’d definitely stay here again.
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C
Claire
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Casa Del lago 2 Lake Billy Chinook
Susan's place is phenomenal. It's a fantastic location right above Billy Chinook Lake. It has a sweet little cabin you can stay in and a tent site area complete with everything you could need for a weekend away. Her attention to detail is impeccable. Each area has outdoor lounging areas, propane fire pits, outdoor cooking areas complete with supplies, a lovely hot outdoor shower, and a cozy hot tub that's perfect for late night soaking and star gazing. She was the best host you could ask for, so friendly, helpful, and responsive.
See moreA
AMARY
September 2025
Tent
Marie's spot was quiet, the facilities were clean, and the pool was a really nice bonus. The hosts were very nice and the location was extremely convenient.
The only negative we experienced was a dog that felt the need to wake everyone up by jumping on their tents and/or trying to get into the tent. I don't think the dog belongs to them, but it was friendly and must've lived nearby because it happened all 3 days. Our last night the dog woke everyone up in the middle of the night (I think it was 3am). I love dogs, but this one was beyond extra...
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B
Brianna
September 2025
Tent
Cheryl is a very friendly host and so easy to work with! We happened to be the only campers there when we stayed (I think a recent fire scared people away), and it was fantastic to have a real bathroom all to ourselves!
In fact, since we were the only campers, Cheryl suggested we switch to site 5 which is bigger and has more shade. We really appreciated that!
Our biggest complaint is no fault of Cheryl's; the land is just really dusty, and all of us and all of our stuff was very dirty. Otherwise, we had a great stay.
Thank you, Cheryl!
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Lin
September 2025
Tent
Large private yard and not many campers when we went, but the ones that were there were quiet and kept to themselves. Was able to bring my dog, and there is a porta potty available, but no water that we know of. There was also a dog (not sure if it was the owners, they only warned of us their cat) that kept trying to come into our and the other campers tents and it wouldn't leave us alone. Loved that the place is also close to the Deschutes County Fairgrounds as we were there for a festival.
See moreThe best camping in The Cove Palisades State Park, OR guide
Overview
About
Situated between the Deschutes River and its Crooked River tributary, The Cove Palisades State Park offers camping, cabins, and lots of outdoor activities. Hiking is popular here, and trails range from the quarter-mile Wetland Nature Trail Loop to the seven-mile-long Tam-a-láu Trail, which rewards those who climb it with fantastic views of the Cascade Mountains. For paddlers, the park offers easy access to both the Deschutes River and the Crooked River, the latter of which is beginner-friendly. There are also three day-use areas with boat launches and swim beaches, and the nearby Cove Palisades Resort and Marina rents out boats, water sports equipment, and moorages.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for camping with dogs: Crooked River Campground (aka E loop) has a pet exercise area.
- Best for families: Deschutes River Campground features horseshoes, a playground, and a basketball court.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Camping reservations are available to book from six months in advance up to a day in advance. Reservations can be made on the Oregon State Parks website or over the phone.
- The two campgrounds here are separate from one another. Crooked River is also referred to as E Loop, while loops A-C are in the Deschutes River Campground.
- Availability opens at 6am PST, six months in advance. It's a good idea to be online and prepared to secure your spot.
- Same-day reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but only in person. Arrive early for the best chances of getting a spot.
When to go
The Cove Palisades State Park is open for day use throughout the year and for camping from March through October. The park and its campgrounds are busiest in summer, particularly from June until September before kids go back to school. Weekdays in late May or early September are good alternatives if you want warm weather without the crowds.
Know before you go
- Basic supplies and fuel are available for purchase at the nearby Cove Palisades Resort and Marina. If you need a more extensive range of groceries or supplies, you can head to the nearby city of Madras, about a 20-minute drive from the park.
- Both campgrounds have accessible campsites and restrooms. The Upper Deschutes and Crooked River day-use areas have accessible kayak launches.
- Fire bans are common due to wildfire risk, especially in the hot and dry summer months. In times of extreme danger, portable cooking devices that run on fuel or propane may be prohibited.
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