South Shore Group Campground

About

South Shore Group Campground sits on the shores of Haystack Reservoir, a small irrigation reservoir 8 miles south of Madras in Central Oregon's high desert. The campground offers three primitive group sites named Willow, Juniper, and Cottonwood, each capable of hosting up to 50 people with a mix of RVs and tents. Sites are well-screened by juniper trees and bitterbrush, providing privacy between groups while offering views of the lake and the Cascade peaks including Mt. Jefferson and Mt. Hood. The campground is primitive with no water, electric, or sewer hookups. Two vault toilets serve the area, and potable water is available 0.5 miles away at West Shore Campground. Each site includes picnic tables and a fire ring; all campfires must be contained in the rings. The gravel roads and sites can accommodate various vehicle types. A locked gate controls access, so campers must check in with the camp host at West Shore to receive entry instructions. Haystack Reservoir is popular for fishing and small motorized boating. Nearby attractions include Smith Rock State Park for world-class rock climbing, Cove Palisades State Park, and the Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River. The 3,000-foot elevation and open skies make this an excellent stargazing location.

Directions

From Highway 97: Exit onto SW Jericho Lane and head east for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right on SW Haystack Drive and proceed approximately 1 mile to South Shore Group Campground on the left. From Highway 26: Exit onto Laurel Lane (FS 96) and head west for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto SW Haystack Drive and continue approximately 2 miles to South Shore Group Campground on the right.