Top Photo: View from the back of our campsite.
Our first outing of the season, which was a combination of a shakedown trip and to visit friends at the park. This was our first camping visit to this state park, although we previously have taken day trips here. ///steams.adjuster.winced
Campground Name - Crooked River Campground - The Cove of Palisades State, near Culver, OR: Site #71 (91 RV sites total) - This site has: electric & water hookups • Campground Notes: flush toilets • showers • dump station available • lake access • trails from campground • trails nearby • 2,056’ elevation. March 24th - 27th. [Miles traveled: 38 miles].
Pros:
• Campground well maintained.
• Clean restrooms & showers.
Cons:
• Noisy during the day. Our bad, it was spring break.Overall Experience:
During our visit to Crooked River Campground, only one of the three loops was open. And the other campground in the park, Deschutes River, was still completely closed for the season.
Local Flavor – Area Businesses We Enjoyed & Recommend (on this visit to the area)
• Desert Inn Sports Bar and Grill, Metolius, OR. The only place in town to get a meal. They had very good hambergers & a decent beer selection.
The Cove Palisades State Park is a scenic destination located in central Oregon. The park is situated near the town of Culver and offers stunning views of Lake Billy Chinook, a large reservoir created by the construction of the Round Butte Dam. The park's unique landscape features a mix of high desert and lake shoreline, providing a diverse range of recreational activities and opportunities for exploration.
Campgrounds at The Cove Palisades State Park
One of the main attractions of The Cove Palisades State Park is its two campgrounds: Crooked River Campground and Deschutes Campground.
Crooked River Campground
The Crooked River Campground is located near the lake's shoreline and offers 85 campsites, including some with electric hookups.
Deschutes Campground
The Deschutes Campground is situated on a hill overlooking the lake and has 45 campsites, including some with electric hookups.
Both campgrounds offer amenities such as flush toilets, showers, and potable water, making them ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The surrounding area of The Cove Palisades State Park is also worth exploring. The nearby town of Culver offers basic amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. The town of Redmond is also nearby, providing access to more extensive shopping and dining options. For outdoor enthusiasts, the park is surrounded by the Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River National Grassland, offering opportunities for hiking, hunting, and fishing.
Recreational Activities in The Cove Palisades State Park
The park itself offers a range of recreational activities:
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Boating on Lake Billy Chinook
The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, trout, and catfish, making it a popular destination for anglers. The park also features several hiking trails, including the Tam-a-lau Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Wildlife in The Cove Palisades State Park
In addition to its natural beauty, The Cove Palisades State Park is also home to a variety of wildlife:
- Deer
- Elk
- Birds of prey
The park's unique landscape and location make it an ideal spot for birdwatching, with over 100 species of birds documented in the area.
A Must-Visit Destination for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Overall, The Cove Palisades State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning lake views, diverse recreational activities, and surrounding natural beauty, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to camp, hike, fish, or simply enjoy the scenery, The Cove Palisades State Park is an ideal destination for your next adventure.
