Round Butte Overlook Park
Come see Central Oregon’s natural beauty
Eagle’s eye view of the Deschutes River Canyon
Round Butte Overlook Park is a terrific place to picnic and enjoy spectacular views of the Deschutes River Canyon.
From the park, on the rim of canyon, you can look down on Round Butte Dam, Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus about 400 feet below. It’s a great spot to view wildlife, including bald eagles and ospreys. A half-mile trail takes you to more spectacular views of the canyon and waters below.
In and around the observation building, you’ll find interpretive displays on the Round Butte Hydroelectric Project and Deschutes River fish and wildlife. Learn more about PGE’s efforts to protect fish on the Deschutes River.
The picnic area is reservable and can hold up to 200 people.
Location information
Directions: From Madras, travel west on Belmont Lane. Follow the signs for Round Butte Overlook Park.
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Make a reservation – day use
Round Butte Overlook is open Thursday through Sunday from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day Weekend. It is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday only following Labor Day Weekend through the end of September.
If you want to reserve the picnic area, there is a reservation fee. Please make a reservation using the Day Use Area Permit Application. Be sure to take a look at our Parks & Recreation Rules.
Reservations for the upcoming season will be accepted by phone starting the first business day in March at 8 a.m.Â
Pelton area parks: 541-325-5292
For more information
Use our contact form or call the PGE Parks Information Line at 503-464-8515.
Thinking ahead
We’re committed to keeping our parks safe, clean, sustainable and welcoming – but we need your help.
Before you go
Make a plan: Check for road closures, construction, fire bans, swimming restrictions or other conditions that may hamper your visit.
…and a plan B: Make a backup plan in case of crowds. Try visiting on weekdays or at off-peak times to beat the masses!
EV adventuring? While our parks do not have charging stations (yet!), check here for nearby locations
that do.
During your visit
Stop campfires from becoming wildfires! Keep campfires small, make sure your tent and anything that can burn is a safe distance from your fire, keep water nearby and never leave a fire unattended.
Keep it clear: Park only in designated areas. Do not double-park or block entrances.
Leave no trace: Help us protect these natural areas by staying on-trail, packing out your trash, and admiring wildlife from a distance.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
7am-7pm, Monday – Friday