Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds is a popular camping destination located in Southern Oregon. The campgrounds offer a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains while camping in a peaceful and serene environment.

Located just 25 miles east of Ashland, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds is easily accessible and offers a range of amenities and facilities. The campgrounds feature modern restrooms and showers, picnic areas, and boat ramps. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking in the nearby mountains.

Key Takeaways

• Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.
• The campgrounds are easily accessible and offer a range of amenities and facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, picnic areas, and boat ramps.
• Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking in the nearby mountains while camping in a peaceful and serene environment.

Location of Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds are located in southern Oregon, about 20 miles east of Ashland. The campgrounds are situated on the shores of Howard Prairie Lake, a large reservoir that is fed by snowmelt from the nearby Cascade Mountains. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, providing visitors with a beautiful and peaceful setting for camping and outdoor recreation.

There are several campgrounds located around the lake, each with its own unique features and amenities. The main campground is located on the eastern shore of the lake and offers easy access to the water for swimming, boating, and fishing. Other campgrounds are located on the western shore and offer more secluded camping options with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Visitors to Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. There are also several picnic areas located throughout the campgrounds, as well as a boat launch and marina for those who want to explore the lake by boat.

Overall, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds are a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of southern Oregon.

Types of Campgrounds

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a variety of camping options to suit different needs and preferences. Here are the three types of campgrounds available:

1. Developed Campgrounds

Developed campgrounds are perfect for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience. These campgrounds have amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and fire pits. They also have designated campsites, so you won’t have to worry about finding a good spot to pitch your tent. Developed campgrounds are great for families with kids or those who are new to camping.

2. Semi-Developed Campgrounds

Semi-developed campgrounds offer a balance between comfort and wilderness. These campgrounds have some amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, but they may not have restrooms or showers. They also have fewer designated campsites, so you may have to search for a good spot to set up your tent. Semi-developed campgrounds are perfect for those who want a bit of adventure, but still want some basic comforts.

3. Primitive Campgrounds

Primitive campgrounds are for the true wilderness enthusiasts. These campgrounds have no amenities, so you’ll have to bring everything you need with you. They also have no designated campsites, so you’ll have to find a spot to pitch your tent on your own. Primitive campgrounds are perfect for experienced campers who want to get away from it all and enjoy nature in its purest form.

Amenities and Facilities

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

The campgrounds feature a total of 293 campsites, including 34 full-hookup sites, 129 electrical sites, and 130 tent sites. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring.

Restroom and shower facilities are available throughout the campgrounds, and there are also several drinking water stations located throughout the area.

For those looking for recreational activities, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a variety of options. There are several hiking trails in the area, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming in the lake.

In addition, the campgrounds feature a playground for children, as well as a horseshoe pit and a volleyball court for adults.

Reservation and Pricing

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a variety of camping options for visitors. Reservations can be made online or by phone, with a minimum stay of two nights required for weekends and three nights required for holidays. The campgrounds are open from May through September.

There are several pricing options available, depending on the type of camping you prefer. Tent camping starts at $20 per night, while RV camping starts at $30 per night. There are also cabins available for rent, with prices ranging from $65 to $125 per night.

Visitors should be aware that there is an additional $8 per vehicle per day fee for day use, which is not included in the camping fees. This fee is payable at the entrance station upon arrival.

Overall, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer affordable pricing options for visitors looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities in the area.

Activities at Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the popular activities available:

Water Activities

Howard Prairie Lake is a popular destination for water activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is stocked with trout, bass, and other fish species, making it a great spot for anglers. Visitors can rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards from the marina to explore the lake. There are also several swimming areas around the lake.

Hiking and Biking

The campgrounds offer several hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding area. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll around the lake on the paved path.

Wildlife Viewing

Howard Prairie Lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, deer, and more. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat from various viewpoints around the lake.

Other Activities

In addition to the above activities, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds also offer:

• Picnicking
• Volleyball
• Horseshoes
• Playground
• Interpretive Programs

Visitors can also take a short drive to nearby attractions such as Crater Lake National Park, Ashland Shakespeare Festival, and the Rogue River.

Rules and Regulations

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds have rules and regulations that must be followed by all campers. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors to the campgrounds.

Here are some of the important rules and regulations to keep in mind:

• Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am. During this time, campers are expected to keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing others.
• Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills. Campers must never leave fires unattended and must ensure that fires are completely extinguished before leaving the area.
• Pets are allowed in the campgrounds but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pet owners must also clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in designated areas.
• Alcohol is allowed in the campgrounds, but excessive drinking and disorderly conduct will not be tolerated.
• Firearms and fireworks are strictly prohibited in the campgrounds.
• Dumping waste or littering is not allowed. Campers must dispose of trash in designated areas and must not dump waste in the lake or other areas of the campgrounds.

These rules and regulations are enforced by campground staff, and violations may result in fines or expulsion from the campgrounds. By following these rules, campers can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors to Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds.

Nearby Attractions

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. However, if you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of nearby attractions worth checking out.

For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument offers stunning views of the Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges. Visitors can hike through the monument’s diverse ecosystems, which include old-growth forests, high-elevation meadows, and rocky outcroppings. The monument is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and bald eagles.

If you’re interested in history, the nearby town of Ashland is home to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, one of the oldest and largest professional non-profit theaters in the United States. The festival has been running since 1935 and offers a wide variety of plays, including Shakespearean classics, contemporary works, and world premieres.

Finally, for those looking to relax and unwind, the nearby town of Medford offers a variety of wineries and tasting rooms. Visitors can sample local wines, enjoy live music, and take in the beautiful scenery of the Rogue Valley.

Overall, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds offer a great base camp for exploring the surrounding area. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or just relaxing, there’s something for everyone nearby.

Camping Tips

When camping at Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds, there are a few tips that can make your experience more enjoyable.

Firstly, it is important to pack appropriately for the weather conditions. The weather can change quickly and unexpectedly, so it is recommended to bring layers of clothing and rain gear.

Secondly, it is important to properly store food and dispose of waste to avoid attracting wildlife. All food should be stored in bear-resistant containers or hung from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet away from the trunk. Garbage should be stored in bear-resistant containers or disposed of in designated dumpsters.

Thirdly, campers should be respectful of other campers by keeping noise levels down, especially during quiet hours.

Lastly, campers should be aware of fire safety. Fires should only be started in designated fire rings and should be completely extinguished before leaving. It is also important to check fire restrictions before starting a fire as they can change depending on weather conditions.

By following these tips, campers can have a safe and enjoyable experience at Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds.

Conclusion

Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds is a great place to spend a few days camping, fishing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. With several different campgrounds to choose from, visitors can find the perfect spot to suit their needs. The lake itself offers excellent fishing opportunities, and there are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy as well.

The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer a variety of amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they work hard to ensure that visitors have a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

Overall, Howard Prairie Lake Campgrounds is a great choice for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway in the great outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced camper or just starting out, you’re sure to have a great time at this beautiful and welcoming destination.