Location

About This Access Site

Crane Prairie Day Use Area provides convenient access to Crane Prairie Reservoir, a 4,940-acre lake on the Deschutes National Forest with 24 miles of shoreline. Located on the east shore with scenic views of South Sister and Mt. Bachelor, the site features a paved boat ramp, permanent boat docks, ample parking for trailers, picnic tables, and restroom facilities. A recreation pass is required for parking. Note that a 10 mph speed limit applies on the reservoir, and motors are prohibited on the adjacent Deschutes River section.

This is an excellent access point for kayakers, canoeists, and boaters interested in flatwater paddling on the reservoir or accessing the motor-free Deschutes River and Deschutes River Trail. The site includes a fish cleaning station and is near Crane Prairie Campground (reservable through Recreation.gov at 541-323-1746), making it suitable for multi-day trips. The area is located off the scenic Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, approximately 18 miles north on Forest Road 46 from Highway 58. Water levels may vary seasonally, so check current conditions before launching.

Federal Facility Information

541-323-1746 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Crane Prairie Campground is located on the east shore of its namesake reservoir on Deschutes National Forest just off the scenic Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Crane Prairie Reservoir offers a variety of recreation opportunities, including fishing, boating and swimming with glimpses of South Sister and Mt. Bachelor on the horizon.Recreation
Crane Prairie Reservoir is a prime location for...

Overview
Crane Prairie Campground is located on the east shore of its namesake reservoir on Deschutes National Forest just off the scenic Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. Crane Prairie Reservoir offers a variety of recreation opportunities, including fishing, boating and swimming with glimpses of South Sister and Mt. Bachelor on the horizon.Recreation
Crane Prairie Reservoir is a prime location for boating and fishing. Fisheries in close proximity to the site also add to its popularity among anglers. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife manages populations of rainbow trout, mountain whitefish, brook trout and largemouth bass. Fish cleaning stations and a boat ramp are within the campground.

Hiking and hunting are popular activities in the surrounding area. Facilities
Crane Praire Campground offers many sites that accommodate both tent and RV camping, though electric hookups are not available. Several campsites are located right on the waterfront.
Sites are equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are also available. Roads and most parking spurs throughout the campground are paved.
Showers and a small grocery store are available at a nearby resort.Natural Features
Crane Prairie Reservoir hosts a number of waterfowl, including Sandhill cranes, Canada geese, bald eagles and osprey The adjacent forest is home to black-backed woodpecker, Williamson's sapsucker and mountain chickadee. Deer, squirrel, beaver and an occasional black bear also find habitat in the surrounding forest.

Nearby Attractions
Nearby Osprey Point is a unique interpretive area for visitors to learn about local fauna and observe osprey nesting platforms erected after natural snags toppled from age.
Crane Prairie Campground offers easy access to the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway which weaves through multiple high lakes with views of South Sister, Broken Top and Mt. Bachelor.
Newberry National Volcanic Monument offers a glimpse into Central Oregon's rich geologic history. Travel 25 miles to Lava Lands Visitor Center to explore exhibits at the interpretive center, attend a ranger talk, take in scenic views from the top of Lava Butte and travel one-mile underground through Lava River Cave. Travel 40 miles to Newberry Caldera to visit Paulina and East Lake, Paulina Peak and Paulina Falls.

Crane Prairie Day Use Area

Location

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