Ochoco National Forest — Wildcat Campground
Wildcat Campground sits along Ochoco Creek in the Ochoco National Forest, shaded by big ponderosa pines at roughly 4,000 feet. It’s a small, no-frills established camp with vault toilets and hand-pump water — the kind of place that fills up on summer weekends but stays calm mid-week. Campsites accommodate most overland rigs without issue. It’s a legitimate staging point for forest road runs into the Ochoco highlands and a comfortable night before pushing east toward the high desert.
Access is via US-26 east of Prineville, then south on FR 22 (Ochoco Creek Road) — paved most of the way, manageable for any rig. Water pump availability varies by season; confirm with Ochoco NF Lookout Mountain Ranger District before banking on it. Fire restrictions apply in summer. Snow possible October through April.
Ponderosa basecamp in the Ochocos.
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 4000 ft |
| Nearest town | Prineville, OR |
| Miles from pavement | 16 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Paved |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $10.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Drinking water, Fire ring, Picnic table, Shade, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |