Madras sits at the junction of three major highways in central Oregon's high desert at 2,242 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F to 95°F with low humidity and cool nights even during hot days. The area receives less than 12 inches of annual rainfall, creating optimal conditions for clear night skies and stargazing at many campsites near Madras.
What to do
Hiking trails: Several trails await at Smith Rock State Park Campground where "the hiking is fantastic and the climbing is world-renown." The park features "real bathrooms with running water, charging stations, showers, and a sink for dishes."
Fishing opportunities: Lake Simtustus RV Park offers "good fishing off dock and near the campground." One visitor mentioned "we enjoyed our quick 2 night getaway. Nice bathrooms/showers. Level lots. Very good wi-fi."
Water recreation: Boating and swimming options abound at the Deschutes Campground where "Lake Billy Chinook is simply stunning." Another camper noted that "the marina also rents boat moorages, boats, water toys, and Houseboats. The marina also includes a café and store that sells fuel and a few small items."
What campers like
Clean facilities: At Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, campers appreciate that there is "clean pit bathroom and clean sites. Little to no trash on the trails to the falls themselves." Another visitor was surprised that "this beautiful and well kept park was completely free!"
Evening temperatures: The high desert climate means warm days but comfortable nights. At Steelhead Falls, one camper noted it was "hot and dry during the day but cooled off at night and had great view of the night sky."
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystem around Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping provides opportunities to observe native species in their natural habitat. One camper described the experience: "So much wife open space. We were the only campers here last night. So quiet that you can hear a pin drop."
What you should know
Water availability: Bring extra water when camping at dispersed sites. At Steelhead Falls, "there is no water nearby. Closest place we found was Smith Rock day use area. Pay the day use fee and fill water jugs there."
Mosquito preparations: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito activity, especially at Haystack Reservoir Campground where multiple reviewers warned about "killer skeeters." One camper noted "there are a lot of mosquitos all year long. Good fishing though."
Campsite selection: Arrive early for prime spots. At Skull Hollow Campground, one visitor found "a plentiful selection of sites" even on a Saturday afternoon, describing the area as "a nice quiet campsite and easy to get to with a camper."
Fire restrictions: Check current restrictions before arrival. One camper at Steelhead Falls mentioned "when we went, fires were allowed, and there was a residence on the road in (clearly marked) selling firewood. And they took Venmo!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Crooked River Campground is described as "a great spot for families. Plenty of room to play outdoor games and it has a neat outdoor amphitheater. Lots of wildlife and nice restrooms."
Recreation options: Families will appreciate varied activities at Deschutes Campground where "they put on a power point for the kids about local animals. There were multiple day use areas to swim at just a two minute drive from there."
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer equipment for children. At Crooked River Campground, a camper noted "there is a swing-set, a couple of nice horseshoe pits, an animal exercise area, and a volleyball pit."
Weather protection: Plan for both sun and cool nights. One visitor to Steelhead Falls recommended "bringing shade. A canopy or whatever is reasonable for your group. It also gets hot and it's dry."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: At Jefferson County Fairgrounds RV Park, visitors report "camp host was nice, easy access to sites. Showers/bathrooms clean but dated." The park provides basic amenities for those passing through Madras.
Hookup options: The Deschutes River Campground has varied options with "A and C Loop: 87 full hookup sites" while "B Loop: 93 tent sites with water nearby Flush toilets/showers."
Parking challenges: Some sites have limitations on vehicle size. At Steelhead Falls, "there is a sign in the way in indicating 30ft length max, but there is no mention on the BLM site. They must mean trailer length since we had no issues with our 22' trailer and rig (40ft total)."
Leveling considerations: Some campsites require additional equipment. The Redmond-Central Oregon KOA was described by one camper as having "many spaces for trailers/Rv not level have gravel with spin outs no grass just dried out weeds."
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