Perry South Campground

USDA Forest Service campground, 91 sites

Overview

Located in the high desert region of central Oregon, Perry South Campground sits on the shores of Lake Billy Chinook in the Deschutes National Forest.



It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the area's scenic beauty and year-round recreational activities.

Recreation

Fishing and motorized boating top the list of recreational activities for visitors. Hikers should be sure to check out nearby Balancing Rocks Overlook, just west of Perry South Campground.

Water enthusiasts of all types will enjoy the opportunities available. Motorized and non-motorized boats share the vicinity with swimmers and water skiers braving the cold, clear waters of Lake Billy Chinook. The day use are is a parking fee area; daily parking passes are $5. PGE also honors the NW Forest Pass and the America the Beautiful Passes. Boat slips are reservable with your campsite reservation.

Facilities

Picnic areas and scenic overlooks, along with the conveniences of firewood, drinking water and vault toilets, give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a comfortable camping environment.


The campground has a boat ramp, and dock space is available by reservation.

Natural Features

Lake Billy Chinook is the highlight of the area. The lake, created by Round Butte Dam, fills the canyons of the Crooked, Metolius and Deschutes Rivers.


Within these three large arms is 72 miles of shoreline, supporting fish habitats for bass, trout, salmon, whitefish, suckers, minnows and dace.


Rugged hills and a diverse evergreen forest surround the lake, providing homes for mammals such as mule deer, coyote, black-tailed jackrabbit and cougars.

Contact Info

Between 05/22/2026 and 09/13/2026 this location is staffed. Please call (541) 325-5315 to speak with local staff. From 09/14/2026 to 05/28/2027 this location is unstaffed. Please call (541) 325-5292 for general information.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors may want to explore the Tam-a-lau Trail, a scenic hike that starts on a peninsula at the confluence of the Crooked River and the Deschutes River in Cove Palisades State Park.

Under the designation of a Wild and Scenic River, nearby Metolius River is nestled in a forested valley west of Mt. Jefferson. Its clear, cold and constant waters support flyfishing and whitewater boating.

Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits.

Charges & Cancellations

A service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see the Recreation.Gov, Rules & Reservation Policies.