Prineville Reservoir State Park
Prineville Reservoir State Park is an International Dark Sky Park in Oregon’s high desert—with year-round cabins, 3,000-acre reservoir, and excellent trout fishing!
Camping & Cabins
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏡 Cabins | 5 deluxe log (year-round) |
| ⚡💧🚽 Full Hookup | 22 sites |
| ⚡💧 Electric/Water | 22 sites |
| ⛺ Tent | 23 sites |
Fishing
Year-round! Rainbow trout, bass, catfish, crappie. Best trout: winter. Best bass: May-Oct. Accessible fishing pier.
Boating
No speed restrictions! 5 boat ramps. 32 moorages (open ~May 15). No houseboats allowed.
2025 Alert
⚠️ Starting Oct 1, 2025: New parking permit required for day-use!
FAQ
Why is it called a Dark Sky Park?
Prineville Reservoir is designated an International Dark Sky Park—minimal light pollution makes it Oregon’s premier stargazing destination!
🌌 Oregon’s Stargazing Paradise
Reserve at OR State Parks.
Location & Getting There
Prineville Reservoir State Park is located in Oregon. The park’s coordinates are 44.1100, -120.7856. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.
Quick Facts
- Location: Oregon
- Coordinates: 44.1100, -120.7856
- Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
- Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)
Things to Do
Oregon showcases the Pacific Northwest at its finest — 362 miles of public coastline, ancient forests, volcanic peaks, and high desert canyonlands. Activities include hiking old-growth forests, tide pooling, beachcombing for agates, camping oceanfront, kayaking mountain lakes, fishing for steelhead, rock climbing at Smith Rock, and cross-country skiing.
Best Time to Visit
June through September is prime season on the west side. The coast can be enjoyed year-round — winter brings storms and whale watching. Eastern Oregon enjoys more sunshine but extreme summer heat. Spring brings wildflower blooms in the Columbia River Gorge.
Visitor Tips
Oregon state parks are free to enter on foot or by bike. Vehicle access requires a $5 day-use permit or $30 annual permit. Oregon’s coastline is public by law. Camping reservations up to 9 months in advance.
Explore More Oregon State Parks
Prineville Reservoir State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Oregon. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Oregon guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
