Beavertail Campground

For Oregonians seeking an authentic and serene outdoor experience, Beavertail Campground presents an idyllic riverside escape into the heart of our state's stunning high desert landscape. Tucked along the picturesque Lower Deschutes River, this Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground offers a no-frills, natural setting that encourages you to truly unplug and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves the gentle sounds of a flowing river, breathtaking canyon views, and a sky full of stars, Beavertail Campground is a destination you'll want to discover. We know that our state is rich with diverse camping opportunities, and for those who appreciate a more primitive, first-come, first-served approach, Beavertail offers a genuine slice of Oregon wilderness right in our backyard.

Unlike some of the more developed campgrounds, Beavertail embraces its natural surroundings, providing essential amenities while preserving the raw, untamed feel of the Deschutes River canyon. It’s a favorite among anglers, rafters, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The campground's relatively small size – featuring 15 single-family sites and 2 group sites – contributes to a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to truly connect with nature and your fellow campers. While it requires a bit of a drive on unpaved roads, the journey itself becomes part of the adventure, leading you to a tranquil oasis where the main attractions are the river, the landscape, and the clear Oregon sky. Get ready to embrace the simplicity and stunning vistas that make Beavertail Campground a treasured spot for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Beavertail Campground is strategically located along the Lower Deschutes River at Oregon 97029, USA, approximately 21 miles north of Maupin. This placement puts it squarely within the renowned Lower Deschutes Wild and Scenic River corridor, celebrated for its unique ecology and recreational opportunities. For many Oregonians, especially those in the Willamette Valley or central Oregon, accessing Beavertail involves a scenic drive through varied landscapes, culminating in the dramatic beauty of the Deschutes Canyon.

To reach the campground from Maupin, a common route is to take Bakeoven Road, then turn left onto the BLM Access Road/Deschutes River Road at the Maupin City Park. You'll continue along this route, which includes both paved and graveled sections, for a significant distance. The road can be dusty, particularly in dry conditions, so be prepared for rural road surfaces. The campground is situated off the main Lower Deschutes Back Country Byway, providing a sense of seclusion and quiet. Its location is a key draw for rafters and drift-boaters, as there's a convenient launch available directly at the campground. While the remote setting contributes to its peaceful ambiance, visitors should be aware that the presence of active train tracks on the opposite side of the river means occasional train noise, which can be quite noticeable, particularly at night. However, for many, the trade-off for such a pristine riverside location is well worth it.

Beavertail Campground provides essential amenities typical of a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) primitive campground, focusing on functionality and maintaining the natural environment.

• Campsites: Offers 15 single-family campsites and 2 group sites, accommodating various sizes of camping parties.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grates: Every site includes a fire ring, complete with a grate, suitable for campfires (when permitted by seasonal fire restrictions) and cooking.
• Potable Water: A hand pump for potable water is available, though visitors should be aware that it might require a few pumps to get flowing reliably. Bringing extra water is always advisable.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault (pit) toilets are provided for convenience.
• Raft/Drift-Boat Launch: A significant amenity for river users, allowing easy access to the Deschutes River for boating and floating activities.
• Garbage Service: Basic garbage disposal facilities are available to help campers keep the area clean.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs, making it a true dry camping experience.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not accepted, so arriving early, especially during peak season, is recommended.

Beavertail Campground's appeal lies in its inherent natural beauty and the unique opportunities it presents for outdoor recreation in the Oregon high desert.

• Riverside Views: Many sites, and the campground as a whole, offer beautiful views of the surrounding canyon cliffs and the flowing Deschutes River. Some sites are directly waterfront, providing prime river access.
• Stunning Scenery: The campground is nestled in a canyon surrounded by impressive rock formations and the arid beauty of the high desert, offering a truly unique Oregon landscape.
• Fishing Paradise: The Lower Deschutes River is world-renowned for its fishing, particularly fly fishing for trout and steelhead. The campground provides excellent access for anglers.
• Rafting and Floating Hub: With its dedicated raft/drift-boat launch, Beavertail is an ideal stopover or base camp for multi-day rafting, kayaking, and tubing trips on the Deschutes River. (Note: A "boater pass" is required for all watercraft on the Lower Deschutes).
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite the occasional train noise from across the river, many visitors describe the campground as a quiet oasis, offering a good balance of openness and privacy between sites.
• Stargazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the night sky at Beavertail is often described as amazing, providing fantastic opportunities for stargazing.
• Hiking and Biking: While specific trails originating directly from the campground may be primitive, the surrounding Lower Deschutes River Recreation Area offers numerous opportunities for hiking and biking, allowing for exploration of the canyon.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, including various bird species and deer, making it a great spot for nature observation and photography.
• Limited Shade: It's important to note that only a few sites offer natural shade from trees, so campers should be prepared for sun exposure, especially during warmer months.
• Well-Spaced Sites: Many visitors appreciate the spaciousness of the campsites, providing a good degree of privacy between individual spots.

For information and inquiries about Beavertail Campground, as it is a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) site, you will primarily interact with the BLM's Prineville District Office.

Address: Oregon 97029, USA (Specific address for campground is BLM Access Rd, Grass Valley, OR)

Administering Office (Prineville District Office):

3050 NE 3rd St, Prineville, OR 97754

Phone: (541) 416-6700 (BLM Prineville District Office)

Email: BLM_OR_PR_Mail@blm.gov

Please remember that Beavertail Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. Therefore, contacting the BLM office would be for general information, current conditions (like fire restrictions), or directions, rather than booking a specific site. It's always advisable to check the BLM website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding road conditions and fire bans before planning your trip.

Beavertail Campground is an ideal destination for Oregon locals looking to experience the raw, authentic beauty of our state's high desert and the magnificent Deschutes River. Its unreserved, first-come, first-served policy caters to the spontaneous adventurer, offering a genuine sense of discovery with each visit. For those living in Oregon, the drive to this "tucked away" gem becomes part of the adventure, leading you to a tranquil oasis that feels a world away from urban life, yet is still relatively accessible.

The campground's suitability for locals lies in its focus on primitive camping, encouraging self-reliance and a deep connection with nature, which many Oregonians cherish. Anglers will particularly appreciate the quick and easy access to the world-class fishing opportunities on the Deschutes River, while rafters and kayakers will find the on-site launch incredibly convenient for multi-day trips. Despite the occasional rumble of a train across the canyon, the prevailing atmosphere is one of peaceful solitude, perfect for unwinding under a vast, star-filled sky. Beavertail offers the chance to immerse yourself in stunning canyon views, enjoy beautiful wildflowers, and observe abundant wildlife. It’s a testament to Oregon’s diverse landscapes and provides a quiet, clean, and truly rewarding camping experience for any local willing to embrace its natural simplicity and embrace the wild heart of our state.