Perry South

For Oregonians drawn to the unique beauty of our state's high desert and the refreshing allure of a mountain lake, Perry South Campground offers a truly exceptional outdoor escape. Situated on the scenic Metolius Arm of Lake Billy Chinook, within the sprawling Deschutes National Forest, this campground is a cherished destination for those seeking tranquility, adventure, and a genuine connection with nature. It’s a place where rugged canyons meet the clear, deep waters of a reservoir, providing a stunning backdrop for all your camping adventures.

Perry South Campground is a favorite among locals, many of whom return year after year, some for decades. This loyalty speaks volumes about the quality of the experience offered here. Campers consistently praise the campground's cleanliness and the helpful, dedicated camp hosts who work tirelessly to maintain the facilities. Imagine spending your days surrounded by towering ponderosa pines, with the option to launch your boat directly from the campground, or cast a line into some of Oregon's most productive fishing waters.

What makes Perry South so appealing is its perfect blend of comfortable amenities and immersive natural beauty. While it offers essential conveniences like potable water and clean vault toilets, it maintains a rustic charm that allows you to truly disconnect and appreciate the Oregon wilderness. Whether you're planning a family trip filled with water sports, a quiet fishing getaway, or simply a peaceful retreat to unwind, Perry South Campground provides the ideal setting. Its popularity is well-deserved, offering an authentic and memorable camping experience that captures the essence of Central Oregon's outdoor lifestyle.

Perry South Campground is located in the beautiful high desert region of Central Oregon, with its address tied to Oregon 97734, USA, specifically near Culver. You'll find it nestled on the shores of Lake Billy Chinook, at an elevation of approximately 2,000 to 2,217 feet. To reach the campground, you’ll typically head toward Culver, then take Co. Hwy 64 / Montgomery Rd. The drive offers scenic views as you approach the lake.

It’s important for visitors, especially those with larger RVs or trailers, to note that the road leading to Perry South, while generally manageable, can be narrow in some sections. Planning your route and exercising caution is always advisable. Despite its somewhat secluded feel, which contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, the campground remains accessible, making it a viable option for a weekend trip from many parts of Oregon. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, transitioning from bustling highways to the serene landscapes of the Deschutes National Forest. Its location on Lake Billy Chinook's Metolius Arm means immediate access to prime water recreation, a key draw for many campers.

• Campsites: Perry South Campground features approximately 55-63 campsites, spread across two loops (a lower loop closer to the lake and an upper loop). These sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 50 feet. There are also a few double sites, tent-only areas (e.g., sites 19-24), and some walk-to sites (e.g., sites 22, 28, 30). Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a metal fire ring with a grate, perfect for camp cooking and fires (when permitted).

• Potable Water: Drinking water is conveniently available from spigots throughout the campground, a highly appreciated amenity for all campers.

• Vault Toilets: Well-maintained vault toilets are provided for guest convenience. Reviewers frequently commend the cleanliness of these facilities, thanks to diligent camp hosts.

• Boat Ramp and Dock Space: The campground boasts a boat ramp for easy launch of watercraft onto Lake Billy Chinook. Dock space (moorage slips) is available by reservation for registered campers at $10/night, with various slip dimensions to accommodate different boat sizes. A $10/day permit may apply for vehicles at the launch or overflow areas.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the camp host, ensuring you can enjoy a cozy campfire without needing to bring your own supply.

• Trash Disposal: Bear-safe trash boxes are provided for proper waste disposal, helping to keep the campground clean and protect wildlife.

• Camp Host: A dedicated camp host is on-site throughout the season, providing assistance, maintaining facilities, and ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.

• Generator Use: Generators are permitted during specific hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Campers are asked to refrain from using excessively noisy open-frame, construction-style generators.

• Lake Billy Chinook Access: The prime location on the Metolius Arm of Lake Billy Chinook is the campground's biggest draw. With 72 miles of shoreline across its three arms (formed by the Crooked, Metolius, and Deschutes Rivers), the lake offers extensive opportunities for boating, swimming, and water sports.

• Exceptional Fishing: Lake Billy Chinook is a renowned fishing destination. Anglers can target a variety of species, including bass, trout (including trophy bull trout), kokanee salmon, whitefish, suckers, minnows, and dace. Easy access to the lake from the campground makes it a fly-fishing paradise for many.

• Cleanliness and Management: Consistently praised in reviews, the cleanliness of the facilities, particularly the vault toilets, and the diligent efforts of the camp hosts are significant highlights. This attention to detail creates a very welcoming and comfortable environment.

• Scenic Beauty: The campground is set amidst rugged hills and a diverse evergreen forest, primarily ponderosa pines, providing ample shade and a picturesque setting. The surrounding canyons and lake views are truly stunning.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, coyote, black-tailed jackrabbit, and cougars, offering opportunities for nature observation.

• Nearby Hiking Opportunities: Hikers can explore trails such as the nearby Balancing Rocks Overlook, just west of the campground. The Tam-a-lau Trail in Cove Palisades State Park is also a scenic hike at the confluence of the Crooked and Deschutes Rivers.

• Seasonal Operation: Perry South Campground is typically open from the Friday before Memorial Day through the last weekend of September, aligning with Oregon's peak summer and early fall camping season.

For more information about Perry South Campground, including reservations and current conditions, you can use the following details:

Physical Address: 2958 SW Montgomery Rd, Culver, OR 97734 (or Co Hwy 64, Culver, OR, 97734)

For campground inquiries, contact Portland General Electric (PGE) Parks and Recreation Dept., which operates the campground:

Phone Number: (503) 464-8515

Reservations for Perry South Campground can be made through Recreation.gov, or by calling their toll-free number: 1-877-444-6777. It is highly recommended to reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak season, as this is a very popular destination.

For Oregon locals, Perry South Campground embodies the quintessential Central Oregon outdoor experience, making it an ideal choice for a memorable getaway. Its accessible location, relatively short drive from many population centers in the state, allows for easy weekend trips without extensive travel planning. This convenience is a significant factor for Oregonians looking to maximize their time in nature.

The true appeal for locals lies in the abundant recreational opportunities centered around Lake Billy Chinook. We cherish our state's diverse landscapes, and here, the high desert meets a beautiful, clear lake, creating a perfect playground. Whether you're a passionate angler drawn by the promise of bull trout and kokanee, a family eager to explore the lake on a boat, or simply someone seeking a tranquil spot for swimming and relaxation, Perry South delivers. The availability of a boat ramp and reservable dock space directly at the campground is a massive convenience for those with watercraft, enhancing the overall lake experience.

Furthermore, the consistent praise for the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities (including potable water and vault toilets), and the helpfulness of the camp hosts resonates strongly with Oregonians who appreciate well-managed public lands. These details contribute to a comfortable and stress-free camping trip, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural surroundings. The seasonal operation aligns perfectly with Oregon's best summer and early fall weather, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the dry climate and starry nights. Perry South Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a cherished local spot where families return generation after generation, creating enduring memories and truly experiencing the unique beauty of our Oregon backyard. It's a testament to the simple joys of lakeside living in the heart of our state's stunning high desert.

Perry South

Oregon 97734, USA