China Hat Campground

For Oregonians who thrive on adventure and the thrill of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, China Hat Campground near Bend is more than just a place to pitch a tent—it's a vibrant hub for some of the best trails our state has to offer. Located squarely within the renowned East Fort Rock OHV Trail System, this campground is a dream come true for dirt bikers, ATV riders, and off-road enthusiasts looking to "go full send" on exhilarating terrain.

China Hat Campground is celebrated by its visitors for the sheer quality and excitement of its riding opportunities. One enthusiastic rider from out of state proclaimed, "I have travelled south from the Seattle area three times to ride here. Best trails EVER! I can only wish Washington State had {or cared about} a riding area such as this." This glowing review underscores the exceptional nature of the trail system and the dedication evident in its maintenance and design, making it a truly unique asset for Oregonians.

The thrills are undeniable, as another rider humorously recounted, "This place is allot of fun. If you like to go full send. Be sure to that that suspension set up correctly. The whips are a blast I have had to rebuild my forks a couple of times in a couple months." While a testament to the intensity of the riding, it also speaks to the challenging and rewarding nature of the trails, promising an unforgettable experience for those with properly equipped vehicles and a love for high-octane fun.

Beyond the adrenaline-pumping rides, China Hat Campground offers a distinct high desert camping experience, shaded by lodgepole and ponderosa pine trees, with views of volcanic formations. For Oregon locals, it’s a dedicated space where passion for off-roading meets the beauty of Central Oregon's unique landscape, creating a community of like-minded adventurers.

China Hat Campground is strategically located at China Hat Road, Bend, OR 97702, USA. This places it directly in the heart of Central Oregon's high desert, approximately 25 miles southeast of Bend. The campground is nestled within the Deschutes National Forest, near the striking China Hat Butte, a prominent volcanic formation that lends its name to the area.

Accessibility to China Hat Campground is generally straightforward for vehicles. From Bend, visitors can reach the campground via Highway 20 East for about 21.5 miles, then turning onto Forest Road 25 for a couple of miles. Alternatively, from Highway 97 South from Bend (just south of milepost 142), you can turn onto China Hat Road (Forest Road 18), travel approximately 25 miles, and then turn left onto Road 25. While Road 25 is paved, many of the surrounding roads within the OHV system are dirt surfaces, often with washboards, requiring careful driving. Despite this, the campground is considered accessible for large RVs, provided one is mindful of road conditions.

The location is particularly advantageous for OHV enthusiasts, as the campground itself is part of the extensive East Fort Rock OHV Trail System. This means riders have direct access to hundreds of miles of designated trails right from their campsite, eliminating the need to trailer vehicles long distances each day. The blend of accessibility and immersion in the trail network makes China Hat Campground a prime destination for motorized recreation in Oregon.

It's important for visitors to note that due to its location within a wildfire-prone area and its association with dispersed camping in the past, there may be ongoing fire restrictions or temporary closures in the broader China Hat Road area. Always check with the Deschutes National Forest for the most current conditions and access regulations before planning your trip.

China Hat Campground is a primitive campground tailored to the needs of OHV enthusiasts and traditional campers alike, providing essential services for a self-sufficient outdoor experience. Based on information from the Deschutes National Forest and camper reviews, the services typically available include:

• Campsites: The campground offers "13 non-reservable sites." Each site is equipped with a "picnic table" and a "fire pit" or "fire rings." There are also "two areas of adjoining sites that will accommodate small groups and large RVs," offering flexibility for various camping setups.
• Restrooms: "Vault toilets" are located within the campground, providing basic, non-flush restroom facilities. Campers should bring their own toilet paper.
• No Potable Water: It is explicitly stated that there is "no potable water" available. Campers must bring all their own drinking water for the duration of their stay or be equipped to filter/treat water from natural sources if available, following all safety guidelines.
• Direct Trail Access: A major service is the direct "access to the campground from the north or the south via Forest Road 18," which places it right "in the heart of the East Fort Rock OHV Trail System." This allows riders to start their adventures directly from their campsite.
• Campfires Allowed (in rings, when permitted): "Campfires permitted" in designated fire rings when state regulations and forest fire restrictions allow. Visitors must always check for current fire bans, especially during Oregon's dry summer months.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground operates on a "first come, first served" basis, as "reservations are not accepted." This provides flexibility but means arriving early during peak season or holidays is advisable to secure a spot.
• No Garbage Service: As a primitive campground, there is "no garbage service." Campers are required to "pack it in, pack it out," adhering to Leave No Trace principles to maintain the cleanliness of the area.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the campground, though leash regulations apply within the developed areas.

China Hat Campground offers a unique array of features and highlights that make it a premier destination for specific types of outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon:

• Premier OHV Riding Hub: The most significant highlight is its central location within the "East Fort Rock OHV Trail System." Reviews consistently praise it for having the "Best trails EVER!" for dirt biking, ATV, and other off-road vehicle riding, offering challenging and fun terrain.
• Volcanic Landscape & Scenic Views: The campground offers a "beautiful view of volcanic rock formations and scenic vistas," with the campground itself located near "China Hat Butte, a tall (6,573 ft. elevation), cone-shaped formation," providing a unique geological backdrop.
• Secluded High Desert Environment: Shaded by "lodgepole and Ponderosa pine trees," the setting offers a distinct high desert camping experience, different from Oregon's coastal or mountain forest campgrounds.
• Hunter-Friendly: The campground is "a popular area for hunters during deer season," making it a suitable base camp for those pursuing traditional hunting activities in Central Oregon.
• Group Accommodations: With "two areas of adjoining sites," the campground can "accommodate small groups and large RVs," making it versatile for families or friends traveling together for OHV trips.
• Partnership Maintained: The campground is "operated and maintained...by Central Oregon Combined OHV Operations (a Forest Service, & Bureau of Land Management Cooperative agreement), in partnership with Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation ATV Funds, and other user groups and volunteers." This highlights a dedicated effort to maintain the trails and facilities.
• Close to Bend: Despite its rustic nature and OHV focus, it's relatively close to Bend, allowing for convenient access to supplies or other amenities if needed.
• No Reservation Policy: The first-come, first-served policy offers spontaneity for last-minute trips, a bonus for locals.

For more information or to inquire about current conditions at China Hat Campground, particularly regarding trail status, fire restrictions, or any closures, it is best to contact the managing authority. As China Hat Campground is part of the Deschutes National Forest, the local Ranger District or the Forest Supervisor's Office is the primary point of contact.

Address: China Hat Rd, Bend, OR 97702, USA

Phone: (541) 383-4000

Mobile Phone: +1 541-383-4000

This phone number is associated with the Deschutes National Forest Supervisor's Office in Bend, Oregon. Their staff can provide the most current and accurate information regarding the campground, including any alerts, road conditions, fire bans, or specific details about the OHV trail system. It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially since the area can be subject to emergency closures due to fire or other conditions, as noted in past alerts (e.g., "Firestone & Flat Top Fires Emergency Closure").

You can also typically find updated information on the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Deschutes National Forest.

For Oregon locals, China Hat Campground is an unparalleled destination, especially if your passion lies in off-highway vehicle riding. Its suitability for locals stems from its direct integration into the "Best trails EVER!" of the East Fort Rock OHV Trail System, offering an adrenaline-fueled escape right in Central Oregon's backyard. This isn't just a place to camp; it's a launchpad for adventure, allowing riders to truly "go full send" on trails celebrated across the Pacific Northwest.

Beyond the thrilling rides, China Hat provides a unique high desert camping experience, set against a backdrop of volcanic formations and shaded by pine trees. It caters to a specific, passionate community of OHV enthusiasts and hunters, fostering a shared appreciation for the rugged beauty of our state. The primitive nature of the campground, with its first-come, first-served sites and lack of potable water, appeals to self-sufficient Oregonians who prefer raw nature over manicured amenities.

It's a place where you can challenge your skills on the trails, unwind by a campfire under the vast Oregon sky, and connect with fellow adventurers. For those who embrace the spirit of motorized recreation and seek a dedicated, high-quality riding area combined with a tranquil camping experience, China Hat Campground near Bend is an essential and highly recommended destination for your next Oregon outdoor escapade.

China Hat Campground

China Hat Rd, Bend, OR 97702, USA