Oregon is a paradise for travelers, offering an expansive scenic coastline, dense forest areas, and dramatic mountain regions perfect for discovery. Central Oregon is especially favored by those who enjoy adventure and the great outdoors. It’s here you’ll findthe underappreciated and rugged city of Redmond, referred to as Central Oregon’s “hub”,” and Prineville, The oldest city in Central Oregon, a secret gem located in the Painted Hills. Just outside Prineville, there’s an underappreciated state park located in the foothills of the Ochoco Mountains, Prineville Reservoir State Park, famous for less congestion, scenic lake vistas, and wide-ranging hiking paths.
The Prineville Reservoir was created as part of the Crooked River Federal Reclamation Project, which led to the completion of the Arthur R. Bowman Dam in 1961. It includes a 3,000-acre man-made lake that stretches for 15 miles, with the towering Ochoco Mountains, reaching 6,926 feet, nearby. Sections of the Crooked River have been recognized as a Wild and Scenic River by the Bureau of Land Management. The state of Oregon acquired the land, situated 16 miles southeast of Prineville, and established it as a state park in 1961. Prineville Reservoir State Park was also named an International Dark Sky Park in 2021, making it a favored spot for stargazing (which requires a permit) from one of its year-round campgrounds, thanks to its perfect high desert location.
The state park, which offers free access, features two day-use areas (one including a swimming zone), six boat launch points, and an amphitheater, making it enjoyable throughout the year, though certain spots may be unavailable during winter. It boasts 43 miles of shoreline around Prineville Reservoir, perfect for observing wildlife, with the large Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River Grasslands located to the northeast.
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Head Out on a Trail and Take in Scenic Lake Views at Prineville Reservoir State Park
Once you’re prepared to explore an open trail, there are many choices within the park that have fewer people, making them simpler to traverse. Make sure to check seasonal water levels and weather conditions before planning your trip. The Jasper Point Trail is a family-friendly, easy path along the lake, stretching roughly 2 miles one way, linking to the main campground, or 4 miles from the Prineville Reservoir Trailhead to the Jasper Point Trailhead. Some sources mention this trail can be accessed all year, while the park’s website states that the Jasper Point area is only open between May and October.
Close to Bowman Dam, the Chimney Rock Trail is available, offering a 2.7-mile hike that reaches the beautiful Chimney Rock overlook, featuring a 623-foot increase in elevation.All Trailsmentions that the trail is rocky, so it’s advisable to wear strong hiking boots or other suitable footwear. For a greater challenge, the Northern Prineville Reservoir Trail, which is open all year, offers a 7.2-mile walk that allows you to enjoy the lake scenery and is pet-friendly.
The state park is also recognized for its water-based recreational activities, allowing you to launch a boat or smaller water vehicles such as a kayak from six locations during the warmer seasons. You will need to bring your own equipment or arrange to rent from the Cove Palisades Resort and Marina or Central Oregon Rentals, as the park does not provide rental services. Additionally, you can reserve a two-hour guided kayak tour using either a solo or double kayak (priced from $25) to discover the region’s history and natural environment. The primary day-use area includes a designated swimming zone, an accessible fishing dock, and a facility for cleaning fish.
How to Explore Prineville Reservoir State Park
Although there is no charge for using the day-use areas or launching a boat, a parking permit is necessary. The permits are priced at $10 for Oregon residents and $12 for visitors from outside the state. Additionally, if you intend to fish for trout, bass, or catfish, you must obtain a fishing license. Visit the park’s website to view the calendar and discover educational and other activities available at the Discovery Center located near the park entrance.
Traveling to Prineville Reservoir State Park by air involves using the Redmond Municipal Airport, which is roughly 36 miles away. The airport provides about 30 daily flights from key west coast locations and makes getting around easier with car rentals available on-site. From Bend, anaturally stunning Oregon City, famous for its craft beer, art, and outdoor activitiesIt takes just over an hour to get to the Prineville Reservoir. The trip from Portland International Airport is longer, as it’s more than three hours and 160 miles away.
To prolong the adventure into the night, you have the option to camp within the park at two established campgrounds or one of its more rustic sites. The primary campground, which is open all year, offers 22 full hook-up sites, 22 sites with water and electricity, 23 tent-only areas, and five log cabins that welcome pets. Additionally, there are 32 boat docks, restrooms with flush toilets, and shower facilities. These spots fill up quickly, so it’s essential to make reservations. Jasper’s Point, located three miles from the main area, is a seasonal (May through October) location that provides 28 first-come, first-served sites and one log cabin that needs booking. If camping isn’t your preference, the Prineville Reservoir Resort has space for 70 RVs (half of them offering scenic lake views), a small seven-room motel, a convenience store, and a cafe where you can take in the reservoir scenery.
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