Post Pile Campground

For Oregon locals yearning for a tranquil and visually stunning escape into the high desert landscape, Post Pile Campground near Prineville, Oregon, offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled along the banks of the Crooked Wild and Scenic River, this serene destination is celebrated for its breathtaking views, easy river access, and unique geological features that tell a story spanning millennia. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the river, with dramatic rocky terrain and the iconic Chimney Rock framing your view. While it's a "dry camp" – meaning you'll need to bring your own drinking water – this detail only enhances its rustic charm, appealing to those who appreciate a more self-sufficient and undisturbed connection with nature. Whether you're an angler, a hiker, a photographer, or simply seeking quiet contemplation, Post Pile Campground provides a perfect setting for a memorable Oregon adventure.

Post Pile Campground is located at OR-27, Prineville, OR 97754, USA. This places it directly along the Lower Crooked River Back Country Byway, a scenic route that winds through the captivating high desert landscape of Central Oregon. The campground's most significant locational feature is its direct position on the Crooked Wild and Scenic River, offering immediate access to the river's waters. It is situated approximately 18 miles south of Prineville on State Highway 27.

Accessibility to Post Pile Campground is generally straightforward via State Highway 27. This route is part of the designated Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway, indicating well-maintained roads suitable for vehicles, including RVs and trailers (campsites can accommodate vehicles ranging from 25 to 70 feet). As a first-come, first-served campground, accessibility also means arriving prepared to potentially find sites occupied during peak times, as no reservations are accepted. The remote setting implies that cell phone service is not available directly within the campground, which for many, is a welcomed part of disconnecting from daily life. However, this also means planning and gathering information before arrival is crucial. Despite its somewhat secluded feel, its proximity to Prineville and being along a state highway makes it a relatively easy drive for many Oregon residents looking for a peaceful getaway. The "easy access to river" highlighted by visitors further emphasizes its convenient natural connection.

Post Pile Campground, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers a rustic yet accommodating set of services designed for a self-sufficient camping experience within a stunning natural environment. While it is a "dry camp" without drinking water, it provides essential facilities for comfortable outdoor living.

• Campsites: The campground features 7 spacious single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, providing the fundamental elements for outdoor dining and campfires (subject to current fire restrictions). Campsites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, with parking spurs ranging from 25 to 70 feet.
• Vault Toilet: A vault toilet is available at the campground, offering a basic, non-flush restroom facility for visitor convenience.
• Trash Collection: Trash receptacles are provided, encouraging campers to properly dispose of their waste and adhere to Leave No Trace principles, thus maintaining the pristine environment.
• No Potable Water On-Site: A critical point to remember is that Post Pile Campground has no drinking water available directly at the site. However, potable water is conveniently accessible year-round at the nearby Chimney Rock Campground, which is a short 1.3-mile drive north on State Highway 27.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. Campers must arrive and secure an available site.
• Fee-Based Camping: There is a fee per night for individual campsites.
• Year-Round Access: The campground is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Crooked River Canyon across all seasons.

Post Pile Campground stands out with several distinct features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a unique camping destination in Oregon.

• Stunning Views of Chimney Rock and River: A major highlight, consistently praised by visitors, is the "beautiful views" it offers, particularly of the striking Chimney Rock formation and the surrounding river canyon. This dramatic landscape provides an incredible backdrop for camping and outdoor activities.
• Direct Crooked Wild and Scenic River Access: The campground is located "right on the river," providing "easy access to river" for various activities. The Crooked River is celebrated for its "rugged, dramatic canyons" and offers opportunities for fishing (especially for trout and whitefish), kayaking, and canoeing.
• Unique Columnar Basalt Formations: The campground takes its name from "nearby rock outcrops composed of basaltic lava." These "post pile" formations are a fascinating geological phenomenon known as columnar basalt, where cooling lava created multi-sided, vertically stacked columns. This natural wonder adds an educational and visually captivating element to the landscape.
• Serene and Peaceful Atmosphere: Described as a "beautiful serene place," Post Pile Campground attracts those seeking quietude. Its dry camp status and first-come, first-served nature often contribute to a less crowded environment, allowing for true relaxation and disconnection.
• Year-Round Camping: The ability to camp year-round is a significant advantage, offering opportunities to experience the Crooked River Canyon in all seasons, from the warmth of summer to the crisp beauty of winter (though temperates can drop to the 30s Fahrenheit).
• Designated Scenic Bikeway: The section of State Highway 27 leading to and past the campground is part of the Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway. This is a highlight for cyclists, offering a dedicated and scenic route to explore.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The diverse habitats of the Crooked River area, including cliffs, riparian zones, and grass/sage slopes, support a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can watch for raptors like bald eagles and golden eagles, as well as prairie falcons, and various bird species.
• Proximity to Chimney Rock Campground for Water: While Post Pile is a dry camp, the convenience of having potable water available year-round at Chimney Rock Campground, just 1.3 miles away, makes managing water needs straightforward.

For those planning a visit to the serene Post Pile Campground in Prineville, Oregon, here is the essential contact information. As a campground managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), direct inquiries should typically be directed to their local office.

Address: OR-27, Prineville, OR 97754, USA

Phone: (541) 416-6700

This phone number connects to the Prineville District Office of the Bureau of Land Management, which oversees Post Pile Campground and other recreation sites in the area. This is the best contact for:

• Current conditions at the campground.
• Information on fire restrictions, which can vary by season and may prohibit campfires.
• Updates on road conditions or any closures.
• General inquiries about the Crooked River area and its recreational opportunities.

It is highly advisable to call the BLM Prineville District Office before your trip to gather the latest information. As cell phone service is noted as being unavailable at the campground itself, having all necessary details beforehand is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable visit. While Post Pile is a first-come, first-served campground, verifying conditions is always a good practice.

Post Pile Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, offering a quintessential Central Oregon outdoor experience that truly resonates with the state's rugged beauty and desire for peaceful retreats. Its primary appeal for locals lies in its genuine serenity and uncrowded nature. For Oregonians accustomed to seeking out hidden gems away from bustling tourist hubs, Post Pile delivers a tranquil riverside setting that allows for true disconnection and rejuvenation.

The "beautiful views" and "easy access to river" provide an immediate and immersive connection to the natural environment, perfect for activities like fishing, quiet contemplation, or simply enjoying the sounds of the Crooked Wild and Scenic River. The unique columnar basalt formations add an intriguing geological dimension, offering a point of interest that is distinct to this region.

While the absence of drinking water on-site means bringing your own supply, this minor logistical detail is often embraced by experienced Oregon campers who value the undisturbed nature it preserves. The proximity of potable water at Chimney Rock Campground makes this a manageable aspect. Furthermore, its year-round accessibility means locals can enjoy this beautiful spot across all seasons, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips or planned getaways whenever the call of the wild is strong. Post Pile Campground is a testament to Oregon's diverse landscapes, providing a truly peaceful and visually stunning backdrop for local outdoor adventures.

You can see more about the campground in this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ate2vp2VtA8) video.

Post Pile Campground

OR-27, Prineville, OR 97754, USA