Elkhorn Campground

For Oregon locals who truly appreciate a quiet, no-frills camping experience deep within our beautiful forests, Elkhorn Campground near Post, Oregon, offers a perfect retreat. This small, primitive campground is a hidden gem for those seeking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. It's a place where the sounds of a gently flowing creek and the rustle of leaves replace city noise, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful escape.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Elkhorn Campground, drawing directly from available public information and insights shared by previous visitors. We understand that many Oregonians value accessible, yet unspoiled, natural spaces. Elkhorn Campground delivers on this, providing a rustic and serene base for enjoying the vast outdoor playground of the Ochoco National Forest.

Elkhorn Campground is situated at 24300 Drake Creek Rd, Post, OR 97752, USA. This location places it within the sprawling Ochoco National Forest, east of Prineville and deep in Central Oregon's high desert and forest transition zone.

Accessing Elkhorn Campground typically involves driving on forest service roads. From Prineville, Oregon, a common route is to travel southeast on Highway 380 for about 32 miles. Then, turn south onto Forest Service Road 16 and continue for approximately 5 miles. Elkhorn Campground will be on your left, just past the National Forest Boundary. While it provides a remote feel, the roads leading to it are generally navigable for most vehicles, though conditions can vary with weather, especially during the wetter seasons. Its location makes it a suitable destination for those coming from Central Oregon communities like Bend, Redmond, or Prineville, offering a convenient escape without requiring an extremely long drive across the state.

Elkhorn Campground is characterized by its simplicity and focus on a primitive, dry camping experience. It provides essential basic amenities for self-sufficient campers who are prepared to be off-grid.

• Designated Campsites: The campground is described as having a "nice little dry camping campground," with at least "3 camp spots with a picnic table and fire pit." This suggests a small, intimate setting with designated areas for camping.
• Picnic Tables: Each identified campsite includes a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Pits: Campers can enjoy traditional campfires in provided fire pits, allowing for cooking and warmth (subject to any fire restrictions in place at the time of visit, which should always be checked with the Deschutes National Forest or Ochoco National Forest before arrival).
• Pit Toilets: Clean pit toilets (also known as vault toilets or outhouses) are available. Visitors have noted that these facilities, while basic, are maintained and "better than digging a hole," emphasizing their functional utility for a primitive site.
• Dry Camping: It is explicitly stated as a "dry camping" campground. This means there are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer at the campsites. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, and be prepared to manage their waste responsibly.
• No Potable Water: Some reviews explicitly state "No potable water." This reinforces the need for campers to bring all their own water supply.

Despite its simple amenities, Elkhorn Campground's natural setting and atmosphere are its primary highlights, offering a truly relaxing and immersive outdoor experience.

• Quiet Atmosphere: A recurring theme in visitor feedback is the "quiet" nature of the campground. For those seeking peace and solitude away from crowded recreational areas, Elkhorn delivers a serene environment.
• Remote Location: Its position within the Ochoco National Forest contributes to a sense of remoteness, allowing campers to feel truly disconnected and surrounded by nature.
• Small and Intimate: Described as a "nice little" campground with only a few designated spots, it offers an intimate and less commercialized camping experience compared to larger, more developed sites.
• Creek Access: A "small creek running along the edge of the campground" adds to the ambiance, providing soothing sounds of flowing water and potential opportunities for exploration or simply enjoying the riparian environment.
• Clean Pit Toilets: While basic, the fact that the pit toilets are noted as "clean" and "about as expected" (or even "clean out house") is a significant positive for a primitive campground, demonstrating a level of maintenance that enhances the rustic experience.
• Access to Forest Activities: Being in the Ochoco National Forest, campers have access to a vast area for activities such as hiking on unofficial trails, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and perhaps even some dispersed fishing in nearby streams or hunting in season (always check local regulations and licensing for hunting/fishing).

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Elkhorn Campground, including current conditions, specific regulations, or any fire restrictions, it is best to contact the managing authority, which is typically the Ochoco National Forest.

Address: 24300 Drake Creek Rd, Post, OR 97752, USA (within the Ochoco National Forest)

Phone: (541) 416-6500 (This is the general information line for the Ochoco National Forest, specifically the Paulina Ranger District, which would manage this area.)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-416-6500 (Same as above)

It is always highly recommended to call this number or visit the official USDA Forest Service website for the Ochoco National Forest before planning your trip to confirm current conditions, especially regarding water availability and any fire bans.

For Oregon locals, Elkhorn Campground offers a uniquely suitable and highly appealing camping experience, especially for those who prioritize tranquility, self-sufficiency, and a deep connection with our state's wild spaces. It perfectly caters to a segment of the population that seeks genuine outdoor immersion without the crowds.

Firstly, its primary appeal lies in its "quiet" and "remote" nature. Oregonians often cherish opportunities to escape the more populated areas and find true solitude in nature. Elkhorn Campground, being a small, dry camping site deep within the Ochoco National Forest, provides this exact experience. It's a place where the background noise is purely natural, allowing for a genuine sense of peace and a chance to truly unwind and reconnect.

Secondly, the "dry camping" aspect, while requiring campers to be prepared, is often a preferred style for many experienced local outdoor enthusiasts. It signifies a more authentic, less developed camping environment that aligns with a self-reliant ethos. For those who are comfortable bringing their own water and managing waste, this simplicity is a virtue, often leading to a more personal and intimate camping experience compared to full-service RV parks. The presence of basic amenities like picnic tables and fire pits ensures essential comfort without sacrificing the rustic charm.

Furthermore, the small size and limited number of campsites contribute to its intimate feel. Unlike larger campgrounds where you might be surrounded by dozens of other campers, Elkhorn offers a sense of seclusion, making it ideal for individuals, couples, or small groups looking for a private retreat. The "small creek running along the edge" adds to the serene ambiance, providing a soothing natural soundtrack to your stay.

In conclusion, Elkhorn Campground is perfectly suited for Oregon locals who seek a quiet, remote, and self-reliant camping adventure. It offers a genuine escape into the heart of the Ochoco National Forest, providing the perfect setting for relaxation, reflection, and a deep appreciation of Oregon's natural beauty without the distractions of a more developed campground.

Elkhorn Campground

24300 Drake Creek Rd, Post, OR 97752, USA