About SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES
OverviewHaystack South Shore Group Campground is the only group campground on Haystack Reservoir. Each of the two campsites holds up to 50 people. This is a year-round facility ideal for large events such as family reunions or groups of rock climbers visiting nearby Smith Rock State Park. Natural Features:South Shore is located in the high desert landscape with views of Mt. Jefferson as a scenic backdrop. Juniper trees and sagebrush dot the landscape. The combination of a low forest canopy and 3,000 ft. elevation make this a perfect location for stargazing at the wide open sky on clear nights. Eagles and other birds inhabit the shoreline of the lake.Recreation:Haystack Reservoir is a popular fishing spot for a variety of species, including kokanee, rainbow trout, largemouth bass, black crappie and brown bullhead catfish. The lake is cool, but a comfortable temperature for swimming. Motorized boating is allowed. Boat launches are located at nearby Haystack and West Shore day use areas. The surrounding national grassland also provides ample opportunities for hunting, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and riding off-highway vehicles.Facilities:The facility is very comfortable for group events, providing several picnic tables, campfire rings and plenty of parking. There are two group sites, Willow and Cottonwood, which are out of sight from each other. Although there is no drinking water at this facility, it is available at Haystack Campground down the road. There are no hookups. Vaulted toilets are located near both sites.Nearby Attractions:Smith Rock State Park, best known for its many rock climbing routes, is a short drive away.
How to Get There
From Highway 97: Exit Jericho Lane and head East for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right on Springer Road (FS 7130/FS 96) and proceed approximately 1.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the left. From Highway 26: Exit Laurel Lane (FS 96) and head west for approximately four miles. Turn right onto Springer Road (FS 7130/FS 96) and continue approximately 2.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the right.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
- 🌡
Layers for swings
Daily temp range is wide (44°F low → 70°F high). Pack layers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES
Heading to SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES?
No central reservation system listed for SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233237) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES?
From Highway 97: Exit Jericho Lane and head East for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right on Springer Road (FS 7130/FS 96) and proceed approximately 1.5 miles. South Shore Campground will be on the left. From Highway 26: Exit Laurel Lane (FS 96) and head west for approximately four miles. Turn right onto Springer Road (FS 7130/FS 96) and continue approximately 2.5 miles. South Shore Campground wil…
How do I contact SOUTH SHORE GROUP SITES?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-270-0094.
References & Official Resources
