Ochoco Divide Group Site
OCHOCO DIVIDE GROUP SITE
Part of Ochoco Nf - Fs
Overview
The Ochoco Divide Group Site is a convenient place to camp while traveling across scenic State Highway 26 by bicycle or car. Resting at the top of the Ochoco Divide at an elevation of 4,700 ft., the group site is set on a hill away from the road as an extension of the general campground. Summertime in the Ochoco National Forest brings pleasant temperatures; the campground is closed during winter.Facilities
The group site is part of the main Ochoco Divide Campground. There is excellent quality drinking water throughout the main campground and near the group site. The group site can comfortably fit up to 12 people; no more than 35 are allowed. Parking is limited. Campers must park at the base of a small hill and walk up to the site. There is a large group size fire ring as well.
Natural Features
The scenery surrounding the campground alternates between thick Ponderosa pine forests and grassy meadows, though shortly beyond the campground the road descends into lower-elevation, arid canyon lands.One of the most unique geologic features of the Ochoco National Forest is the 'thunder egg,' Oregon's official state rock. Thunder eggs are small, colorful, round volcanic rocks similar to geodes that have been exposed over time. The U.S. Forest Service has designated specific sites for rock hounding.
Recreation
The group site of the Ochoco Divide Campground is mainly used by touring cyclists. It is also a good place to take a relaxing stroll through the woods. There are opportunities for hunting, mountain biking and hiking in the national forest surrounding the facility. Several trailheads begin at the Bandit Springs rest stop about one mile from the campground on Highway 26.Nearby Attractions
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is less than an hour away. Hike amongst the Painted Hills and famed fossils, take a journey through time at the museum at Sheep Rock or picnic beneath the beautiful mountain scenery.John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
Important Notices
- This facility does not meet accessibility standards
- Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
This facility has excellent drinking water and is a great highway stop for a night or to relax for several while visiting the Central Oregon Ochoco Mountains and John Day basin.
Check-in Time is 2:00pm and Check-out time is 12:00pm
Available Activities
- Picnicking - Picnicking
- Camping - Camping
- Biking - Biking
- Hiking - Hiking
Directions
From Prineville, Oregon travel approximately 28 miles on State Highway 26. The campground is on the right at the top of the divide.
Contact Information
Phone: 541-351-1182
3160 Ne 3rd StreetPrineville, OR 97754
