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BLM Camping

Mecca Flat Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Mecca Flat Campground

Mecca Flat Campground sits a mile away from Oregon State Highway 26 on the banks of the Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. Visitors have easy access to the southern end of the seven-mile Trout Creek Trail. Mecca Flat Campground is protected and maintained by the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) organization. While cell phone service isn't available, you'll find several great opportunities for fishing, paddling and camping on BLM land. When Bureau of Land Management camping, there will usually be no services or amenities. The Deschutes Railroad once ran down parts of the Mecca Flat Road and Trout Creek Trail before it was abandoned in the 20th century. You're welcome to check out the old tunnel near Highway 26, but you should avoid walking inside or otherwise disturbing this unstable structure. Oregon's Crater Lake National Park is two hours and 50 minutes southwest of Mecca Flat Campground, near the Umpqua National Forest. Head four and a half hours north into Washington to visit Mount Rainier National Park. The large communities of Prineville and Redmond are approximately an hour's drive south from the campground.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Lake Simtustus Trail

Prepare for a steep climb up the ridge line before the path evens out and begins following an old railroad bed. You're sure to enjoy the stunning views of the distant Cascade Mountains. It's best to visit Lake Simtustus Trail, which is 20 minutes southwest of Mecca Flat Campground, when it is dry to avoid the thick mud. Length: 2.3 miles Intensity: Moderate

Tam-a-láu Trail

Stop by this popular kid-friendly trail at The Cove Palisades State Park for excellent bird-watching, camping and hiking. Much of Tam-a-láu Trail is uphill until you reach the plateau. Don't forget to bring bug spray and binoculars to make the most of the vistas. The trail is approximately 45 minutes southwest of Mecca Flat Campground. Length: 6.6 miles Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

The Deschutes River features exceptional fly-fishing opportunities and huge populations of rainbow trout and steelhead. The bull trout here grow to massive sizes, but they're highly protected and must be released after catching. The Cove Palisades State Park has three day-use areas, two of which offer accessible kayak launches. Paddling is also popular from fall to spring on the six-mile Crooked River Water Trail, which is 45 minutes south of Mecca Flat Campground.

Climbing

Forty-five minutes northeast of Mecca Flat Campground, Trout Creek Climbing Area is home to towering basalt columns with climbs ranging from 5.7 to 5.13. To get to the first crag, you can head upstream from the campground's day-use area to find The Northern End wall. This climbing spot is closed between January and August to protect the local golden eagles. Smith Rock State Park, 50 minutes south of Mecca Flat Campground, has more than 1,800 climbing routes. The 106-foot-high Monkey Face is beloved by experienced rock climbing enthusiasts while the pre-bolted Maple Bridge archway is more popular with beginners.

Wildlife Viewing

While enjoying the stunning Oregon landscape, be sure to keep an eye out for golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, coyotes and jackrabbits. Some of the local bigger mammals include elk, black bears, bobcats and cougars. The Deschutes River provides the perfect environment for beavers, otters, minks, and countless waterfowl like geese, swans, and ducks.

Picnicking

You're welcome to take advantage of the free day-use facilities at Mecca Flat Campground and Trout Creek Campground, which is 40 minutes northeast of Mecca Flat Campground. There are also several dispersed campsites along the Deschutes River where you can eat and rest before continuing your journey. BLM visitors are encouraged to picnic near trailheads or while boondocking. Strive to follow "Leave No Trace" principles by packing out all your food waste and trash.

Stargazing

Head to the High Rocks area in Mount Hood National Forest, an hour and 50 minutes northwest of Mecca Flat Campground, for stunning, unobstructed stargazing. You'll need an off-roading vehicle to reach this viewpoint near Limney Creek. There's no light pollution here, making it easy to see shooting stars and various constellations. Don't forget to venture to the forest's 245-acre Lost Lake to see the breathtaking night sky reflected on the water's calm surface.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Mecca Flat Campground has 13 individual campsites and one group-use area. The Mecca Flat Road leading to the campground is narrow with limited pullout capabilities, so use caution when traveling with a trailer. The nearby BLM Trout Creek Campground offers 21 campsites and three group areas. There are several pull-thru campsites as well as day-use parking spots. The fees for these campgrounds range from $8 to $12 per night depending on the day of the week you visit. Forty-five minutes southwest of Mecca Flat Campground, The Cove Palisades State Park has two RV camping areas open seasonally. Crooked River Campground has 91 sites with electrical and water hookups as well as hot showers and flush toilets. Deschutes River Campground offers 87 full hookup sites and an additional loop for tents.

Free Camping

Feel free to boondock alongside Highway 26 or Highway 97. Indian Head Casino, just 12 minutes southwest of Mecca Flat Campground, allows campers to park their RVs for free in its lot. There are no additional camping facilities here, but you'll find trash cans near the casino. Cyrus Springs Horse Camp, 50 minutes south of Mecca Flat Campground, has free sites large enough to accommodate both RVs and horse trailers. Stock water is occasionally available.

RV Rentals Near Mecca Flat Campground Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Mecca Flat Campground BLM trip

Oregon is known for having some of the most exhilarating sights in the country from the expansive Crater Lake to the towering Mount Hood. Get ready for your trip by snagging a portable camp stove, so you're prepared for any campfire bans. Oregon's peak camping season is between Memorial Day and Labor Day. To make sure you get the campsite and amenities you need, reserve your spot ahead of time. You should also pack cookware, bug repellant, plenty of water and sunscreen. Bring high socks to protect against ticks as well as lots of layers to prepare for the tumultuous weather. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Thoroughly planning your trip before you arrive will improve your experience and limit your impact on the environment. Research all local trail and camping regulations. Be sure to travel on durable surfaces like gravel, dry grasses and sand. Leave all wildflowers, rocks and artifacts where you find them. You should also avoid defacing trees or breaking live branches to make your campfires. Don't forget to be respectful to the local wildlife as well as your fellow campers. "Leave No Trace" of your visit is the best thing you can leave.