Camping

For good campsites in the Ochocos, take Ochoco Creek Road approximately 10 miles east of Ochoco Lake. Choices include Wildwood (free, no water), Ochoco Camp, Ochoco Divide, and Walton Lake (www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon [1], mid-Apr.–late Oct., all $12–16), where you can fish, boat, or hike the trail to Round Mountain. While on this loop, stop at the mining ghost town of Mayflower. Founded in 1873, the community was active until 1925; a stamp mill is still visible.

Camp alongside the Crooked River at any of the nine Bureau of Land Management campgrounds (541/416-6700, www.blm.gov/or/resources/recreation [2], $8) on Route 27; they are about 15–20 miles south of Prineville [3]. Be sure to bring water or be prepared to filter river water.