The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Bureau of Land Management campgrounds provide for camping on public lands and are administered by the federal government. In general, you can camp overnight for a small fee, and sites may require a reservation. However, Palisades Campground is a first come, first served site. The campground is located along the Crooked River and gets its name from the steep basalt formations across the river. There are 14 primitive campsites at this location, and vault toilets are available. There is no potable water at this site, so make sure you bring plenty of water with you. In addition, keep in mind that when camping at this location, you should use the established sites and existing fire rings. Palisades Campground has a fishing pier and several nature trails. Alternatively, biking enthusiasts may enjoy exploring the nearby Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway, which runs between Prineville and Bowman Dam on State Highway 27. In addition, Crater Lake National Park is about a two-and-a-half hour drive southwest, has America's deepest lake, and is known for its exceptional hiking trails.
Chimney Rock Trail offers hikers a route through basalt cliffs and up out of the canyon to stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. You will know when to turn back because you will reach Chimney Rock. Length: 2.6 miles out and back Intensity: Moderate
Dry River Canyon Trail follows a dried-out riverbed and is located on the east side of the Oregon Badlands Wilderness area. While on this trail, you can see layers of lava in the cliffs lining the route from ancient volcanos. Please be aware that this trail is closed from February through August to protect the local wildlife. Length: 4.6 miles out and back Intensity: Moderate
The Crooked River, which flows right by Palisades Campground, is world-renowned for fly fishing. Anglers try their luck at catching Redband rainbow trout and mountain whitefish all year round. If you are interested in boating the river, you can either put in at Lone Pine Road Bridge and paddle for 2.3 miles before hitting the rapids or portage your craft up to Northeast Wilcox Road. There, you can experience Class III+ and Class IV rapids for part of the way. If you're particularly adventurous and have the necessary experience, you can raft or kayak 25 miles downstream. Be careful, however, because some sections of the river have Class V rapids that must be scouted before running them.
Smith Rock State Park, about 45 minutes north of Palisades Campground, is a world-renowned climbing destination. Its routes range between 40 and 400 feet, so various climbing experiences are available. Because the park is so popular for climbing, local guides are available for hire if it is your first time or you want to sharpen your skills. When planning your climbing excursion, you should be aware that some cliffs are occasionally off-limits when bald eagles are nesting.
In the area around Palisades Campground, you can spot mule deer, elks, cougars, and other land animals. Bird watchers may spot woodpeckers, quail, chickadees, and bald eagles.
The day-use area at Palisades Campground has picnic tables, or you can stop to eat almost anywhere along the Crooked River. Alternatively, Prineville Reservoir State Park is about a 40-minute drive east and has picnic tables overlooking the water and restroom facilities.
If you are interested in more amenities than RV camping at Palisades Campground offers Prineville Reservoir State Park is a good alternative. The campground in this park has 22 full hookup sites and 22 with water and electricity suitable for RVs. There are also hot showers and flush toilets available at this location.
There is an $8 fee per night to stay at Palisades Campground and other primitive BLM camping sites along the Crooked River. However, Bureau of Land Management free camping can be found in the Oregon Badlands Wilderness Area, about 30 miles west. To find more free camping options once you are in the area, you can search "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or tablet.
The summer months in the Prineville area are known to be hot, and it is a High Desert environment, so having plenty of water along is essential. When hiking and camping in this type of environment it is recommended that you have a gallon of water per person per day available. Having sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin from the sun is also a good idea. Camping at Palisades Campground and other BLM sites in the area offers you the opportunity to experience Oregon's outdoors away from the hustle and bustle of developed campgrounds. It is also a great way to save money while on your vacation. However, preparing to stay in a primitive or dispersed campground can be a daunting process. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The"Leave No Trace"principles encourage campers to pack out what they bring in. When you leave your campsite, it is expected that you take the time to ensure that you do not leave any food waste or other garbage behind. Cleaning up ensures that Palisades Campground and other BLM sites remain pristine for other RVers and campers to enjoy.
To get to Palisades Campground from Prineville, Oregon drive 15.3 miles south on State Highway 27. The campground will be on your right. Address: Palisades Campground, Crooked River Hwy, Prineville, OR 97754 Ready to visit Palisades Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
