Cow Meadow Campground

About

Cow Meadow Campground occupies a scenic location where Snow Creek and the Deschutes River converge at the northeast corner of Crane Prairie Reservoir. The 18 standard nonelectric sites are spread across a large grassy meadow dotted with lodgepole pine, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Crane Prairie Reservoir is one of Central Oregon's premier destinations for both fishing and wildlife viewing. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife manages populations of rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, brook trout, and largemouth bass. A primitive boat ramp accommodates small boats, with a 10 MPH speed limit enforced on the reservoir. The area attracts Sandhill cranes, Canadian geese, bald eagles, and osprey, while the surrounding forest hosts black-backed woodpeckers, Williamson's sapsuckers, deer, beaver, and occasional black bears. Located just off the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, the campground provides access to wilderness areas, high lakes, and views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mt. Bachelor. Newberry National Volcanic Monument lies 30-45 miles away, offering Lava Lands Visitor Center, Lava River Cave, and the Newberry Caldera.

Directions

From Bend, OR: Travel about 45 miles south on Cascade Lakes Highway (46), 0.5 mile east on Forest Road 40, then 2 miles south on Forest Road 4000-790.