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Overview
About Rattlesnake Canyon Campground
Located at the mouth of its namesake canyon and along the scenic Lower Deschutes River Back Country Byway, Rattlesnake Canyon Campground is located 20.4 miles north of the city of Maupin, Oregon. Several campsites in the campground offer direct river access along a verdant strip of riparian vegetation. Know Before You Go: Rattlesnake Canyon Campground is open year-round with 8 individual campsites, one group-use campsite, a vault toilet and garbage service. No drinking water or utility hookups are available. No reservations are accepted; all campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis only. Campfires and smoking are allowed only from October 16 through May 31, annually, unless posted otherwise. When recreating on public lands, practice the Leave-No-Trace Principles . Point of Interest: Rattlesnakes? Yes, but they are out and about in all low elevation desert river canyons in the region. As predators, rattlesnakes play an important ecological role in keeping small mammal populations in check. Please observe rattlesnakes from a safe distance and do not attempt to engage with them; they want to avoid you as much as you may want to avoid them.
- Stay limit: 14 days..
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes Rattlesnake Canyon Campground special
Where the high desert gives way to carved basalt walls and the rush of cold water, Rattlesnake Canyon Campground sits at the mouth of a dramatic canyon along Oregon's Lower Deschutes River Back Country Byway. Located roughly 20 miles north of the small river town of Maupin, this campground places you squarely in some of the Pacific Northwest's finest dry-side scenery, where golden grasslands meet sheer rock faces and the river below teems with wild trout and steelhead. The campground offers a handful of sites suited to tents and smaller rigs, giving it an intimate, uncrowded feel that larger Deschutes River campgrounds sometimes lack. River access is a major draw here. Anglers wade into world-class fly fishing water, while rafters and kayakers launch into lively Class II and III rapids that stretch for miles downstream. Birdwatchers will spot golden eagles, prairie falcons, and great blue herons riding the canyon thermals. Summer is the busiest season, with warm days perfect for floating the river, but spring and fall bring excellent fishing and far fewer visitors. Sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving midweek or early in the day improves your chances. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as shade is scarce and temperatures can climb above 100 degrees in July and August.
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
541-416-6700
BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov
Getting There
From Maupin, Oregon : Take Bakeoven Rd for ¼ mile, then turn left onto the BLM Access Rd/Deschutes River Rd at the Maupin City Park. Continue 8.2 miles to the stop sign at State Highway 218. Continue for ½ mile, then turn left on the graveled BLM Access Rd. Proceed another 10.9 miles; the campground is on the left.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Rattlesnake Canyon Campground.
How do reservations work for Rattlesnake Canyon Campground?
Reservation availability for Rattlesnake Canyon Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Rattlesnake Canyon Campground?
Campsite type details are limited right now. Check back as this listing is enriched.
Where is Rattlesnake Canyon Campground located?
Rattlesnake Canyon Campground is in Oregon near Prineville. Coordinates: 45.3364, -120.9311.
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