South Shore Group Sites

About

South Shore Group Campground sits on Haystack Reservoir in the Crooked River National Grassland, offering the only dedicated group camping at this popular Central Oregon destination. Three large sites (Willow, Juniper, and Cottonwood) are screened from each other by vegetation and positioned along the lake shore. Each site holds up to 50 people with space for 25 RVs or tents, making this an ideal location for family reunions, climbing groups visiting nearby Smith Rock State Park, or other large gatherings. The high desert landscape features juniper trees and sagebrush with Mt. Jefferson as a scenic backdrop. The 3,000-foot elevation and open sky create excellent stargazing conditions. Haystack Reservoir supports fishing for kokanee, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, and brown bullhead catfish. Motorized boating is allowed, with boat launches at nearby day-use areas. Sites are primitive with no water, electricity, or sewer hookups. Two vault toilets serve the campground, and each site has picnic tables and a fire ring. Potable water is available 0.5 miles away at West Shore Campground. The entrance gate is locked; campers must check in with the campground host at West Shore to receive access instructions. The fourth weekend of August hosts annual drag boat races with temporary lake restrictions.

Directions

From Highway 97: Exit SW Jericho Lane and head east for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right on SW Haystack Drive (FS 7130/FS 96) and proceed approximately 1.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the left. From Highway 26: Exit Laurel Lane (FS 96) and head west for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto SW Haystack Drive and continue approximately 2.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the right.