Camping near Deschutes National Forest

95% (70 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Deschutes National Forest adventure.

Swim, boat, ski, and hike your way through this sunny Central Oregon expanse.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Deschutes National Forest

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Deschutes National Forest

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Big River Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

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(1)

McKay Crossing Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Prairie Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Elk Lake Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Little Fawn Group Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

The water was so glassy when I went up. Perfect for everything! I have no complaints, such a gorgeous spot.

100%

(4)

Little Lava Lake Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Lower Canyon Creek Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Lower Bridge Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Fall River Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Wyeth Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Ogden Group Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Big Cove Boat In Campgrounds

6 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Cow Meadow Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Great time hiking and biking around. There are some really cool trails out here.

East Davis Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$12

/ night

Gull Point Campground

80 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

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(1)

Mallard Marsh Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$10

/ night

North Davis Creek Campground

14 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$10

/ night

North Twin Lake Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$12

/ night

Reservoir Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Sheep Bridge Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

South Twin Lake Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Todd Lake Campground

3 sites In Deschutes National Forest

West Cultus Boat In

12 sites In Deschutes National Forest

from

$15

/ night

West South Twin Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Cultus Corral Horse Campground

10 sites In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Todd Creek Horse Camp

7 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Contorta Flat Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$12

/ night

Contorta Point Group Campground

2 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

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(7)

Crescent Lake Campground

3 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Princess Creek Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Spring Campground

79 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Trapper Creek Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Allingham Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Camp Sherman Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Candle Creek Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Cold Spring Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Amazing views of the Cascades from Tam MacArthur Rim-a steep 3 mile hike from the lake.

Driftwood Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Gorge Campground

18 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Indian Ford Campground

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Lava Camp Lake Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Link Creek Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Pine Rest Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Pioneer Ford Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Riverside Campground

In Deschutes National Forest

Scout Lake Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Smiling River Campground

34 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

South Shore Campground

37 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Three Creek Meadow Campground & Horsecamp

20 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Sheep Springs Horse Campground

11 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Cinder Hill Campground

55 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Highly recommend maneuvering your way to the base of the falls and having a little shower!

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(9)

Paulina Lake Campground

39 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

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(1)

Newberry Group Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Allen Springs Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Lava Flow (North) Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Little Cove Boat-In Campground

5 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Cultus Lake Campground

55 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Devils Lake Campground

6 sites In Deschutes National Forest

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(1)

Point Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Quinn Meadow Horse Campground

26 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Jack Creek Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$12

/ night

Monty Campground

34 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Perry South Campground

62 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

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(1)

Three Creeks Lake Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Sisters Cow Camp Horse Camp

5 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Whispering Pines Horse Campground

9 sites In Deschutes National Forest

from

$18

/ night

Chief Paulina Horse Campground

14 sites In Deschutes National Forest

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(3)

Bull Bend Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Pringle Falls Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Crane Prairie Campground

129 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Crescent Creek Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

Simax Group Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Windy Group Campground

1 site · RV, Tent In Deschutes National Forest

Whitefish Horse Campground

17 sites In Deschutes National Forest

China Hat Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

This is a great lake to go swimming, Scout Lake is just a mile up the road past Suttle Lake and that place is also good for swimming and beats the crowd!

Blue Bay Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Graham Corral Horse Campground

13 sites In Deschutes National Forest

Little Crater Campground

49 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$18

/ night

Rock Creek Campground

32 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$14

/ night

South Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$10

/ night

Summit Lake Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Sunset Cove Campground

21 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

from

$16

/ night

Boundary Springs Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

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(4)

East Lake Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Soda Creek Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Lava Lake Campground

44 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Little Cultus Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Pine Mountain Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Deschutes National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Deschutes National Forest

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Experience Heaven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents157 acres · La Pine, OR

8 campsites and 2 original Mongolian Gers. The season for the camp sites is from June 1st to October 15 and the Gers are all 12 months. The Hipcamp is on the South Shore of East Lake Pets allowed, toilets on site, campfires permitted when burn ban is not in place. This being the 5th year, things are excellent and I certainly don't have any issues to deal with. If you aren't capable of practicing the 5 P's, then you need to book somewhere else. Proper Preperation Prevents Poor Performance. If you can't get here and have your camp set up by 8:00PM, showing respect to the other Hipcampers that are already set up and enjoying the PEACE AND QUIET, then you need to book somewhere else or don't come until the following morning. No driving down to the campsites/the lake after 8::00PM. Period. Communicate with me. If you leave Portland at 5:00 PM with the intention of spending the night in Heaven then you need to alter your plans. No more than 4 adults at each campsite. I am not to the point yet of saying no big dogs. Talk to me if you think your "big dog" might not fit in. It is a given they willl need to be on a tethered throughout your time in Heaven. Take them for walks along the lake, not having them run thru everyone elses camp sites. No Yappers, no barking dogs, no yippers, no pain in the butts. Why would you drive by 46 grocery stores and forget to bring ice? No loud music. I have changed quiet time to 9:00 PM. You need to listen to the chaos/stressful music I suggest you start a band or become a DJ. What I want folks to get out of being here, whether they are camping or staying in the Gers is just to “take a break”. Relax, appreciate, assess and just listen. I hope what you hear is the sound of life and of course all the Angels that make up this special piece of Heaven. The chipmunks, the squirrels, all the different birds, the eagles, the osprey, the fish jumping, the deer roaming, the timber martins running thru the trees, the snowshoe rabbits and the occasional black bear. Then there is the silence. The best part of “Heaven”. So, while you are here, take a deep breath, close your eyes at the appropriate moment and ask yourself, am I on the right path? Is what I am doing fulfilling me? Am I showing my family and friends how much I love them? Do I really need all that crap I got? Where do I go from here? My intention was for each one you to not just go camping, or to stay in a Mongolian Ger but to have an “Experience” that just might lead you to a more fulfilling and happier life.

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Big Rock Ranch

2 sites · Lodging30 acres · Terrebonne, OR

Nathaniel and Raina Potter purchased this 30-acre ranch in 2016 and aptly named it "Big Rock Ranch." The modest ranch layout with the wildly immodest views of a giant rock outcropping jutting out of coyote butte was the immediate draw and continual wonder to Nathaniel, Raina, and all who visit. Big Rock Ranch runs cattle in the irrigated pastures and chickens for meat and eggs. Stay at Big Rock Ranch...Stay in a 12x14 ft canvas tent on a working regenerative family farm in the high desert. Enjoy views of a 300+ ft Tuff rock formation, Cascade Mountains, and irrigated pasture views all from the tent. Cook your own meals in the outdoor kitchen, outfitted with propane burners and a sink. Eat meals from the tent deck or the picnic table under native junipers surrounded by sagebrush, bitterbrush, and native grasses and tuff boulders. Collect farm fresh eggs and greens seasonally with the opportunity to enjoy meat raised at the ranch. One queen bed in a canvas tent, one folding cot, and access to a 2-person tent if needed to accommodate a family or two couples. Bedding is NOT supplied beyond the queen bed. Recreation Activities: Limited hiking available onsite but only 8 minutes from Smith Rock State Park for hiking and climbing. Only 25 minutes from Lake Billy Chinook for water recreating. Just 15 minutes from mountain biking at Skull Hollow. A 10-minute drive to swimming in the Deschutes River at Borden Beck Wildlife Preserve. Bend and Sisters are both 30-minutes away. Night rates are offerings to our family and ranch.

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Picnik Place

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Bend, OR

Hi and welcome to Picnik Place! This is a 20 acre farm, so there is plenty of land to roam free and explore, as well as having your privacy from the primary residents. With this spot, you are nestled under a juniper tree with a lava rock backdrop and can watch the sun dip below the volcanos in the distance. This spot is very simple and tucked away. There is an off-grid solar power hook-up that you can use, but it will not be enough power to run the AC and toaster oven at the same time! While feeling remote and removed from the Bend tourism, it only takes 15 minutes to get downtown, where there are ample restaurants, shops, coffehouses, etc. It takes 7 minutes to get to Trader Joe's and Home Depot, and 10 minutes to get to St. Charles Hospital.

93%

(7)

The Camp Campground

28 sites · RVs13 acres · Bend, OR

Welcome to The Camp, Bend's premier RV park where adventure meets comfort in the heart of Oregon. Situated less than a mile from downtown Bend and just off Highway 97, we offer fully renovated sites with stunning mountain views, modern amenities, and easy access to the city's top attractions. Join us for a unique camp-cation experience that promises relaxation and adventure for the whole family, pets included. At The Camp, we cater to all adventurers with a variety of back-in RV sites tailored for everything from vans to larger RVs, offering dimensions to suit every need. Each site boasts full hookups, gravel pads with concrete and artificial grass lounging areas, and access to top-tier amenities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay amidst Bend's natural beauty. The Camp offers an array of amenities to enhance your experience, including a spacious community area with a fire pit and BBQ grills, clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. We prioritize your comfort with WiFi access, family-friendly spaces, and a dedicated onsite dog area, ensuring a welcoming environment for all our guests. Bend, Oregon, uniquely merges urban appeal with the thrill of the outdoors, boasting a vibrant mix of cultural sites, like the Deschutes Historical Museum, and top-notch dining, including the acclaimed Ariana Restaurant. Adventurers can scale Smith Rock, kayak the Deschutes River, or explore the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, offering endless exploration opportunities. The culinary scene is equally diverse, from the innovative dishes of Ariana Restaurant to the craft brews of Deschutes Brewery, highlighting Bend's dedication to quality, creativity, and local tastes, appealing to both food lovers and casual diners.

Booked 4 times

Upriver Paradise -"Private Retreat"

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Blue River, OR

Off Season rates - November 1st to March 31st Centrally located in the McKenzie Valley near McKenzie Bridge Oregon. Upriver Paradise is your private, gated retreat with elevated views and tranquil sounds of the McKenzie River that overlooks forestry land. Steps away to your private river access with approx. 150 ft of river frontage to explore, cast a line, take in the wildlife, waving to rafters and drift boats floating by. Included are two power and potable water sites, up to 8 guest. Power pedestals have 50-30 and 20 amps at each location. Both locations have a 50' power extensions(30amp) and extra water hoses if needed. There are two picnic tables, fire pit, extra seating, garbage, WIFI and one portable toilet on site for use during your stay. There is no septic on site for gray or black waste There is a dump site approx. 1 mile west. For larger groups if needed: Upon request (2) additional power and water connection sites can be accommodated with same amenities above, up to (6) additional guest or up to (14) total per night, for an additional fees. On the east end of the 2.5 acre property, there are two short term rentals. A three bedroom house and a one bedroom cabin listed on ABB-VRBO for family or friends, just a short walk to camp. Please inquire if you would like additional information of listings for availability and booking.

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(12)

Desert Rose Private Campground

3 sites · Lodging2 acres · Prineville, OR

Welcome to our family's Private Campground - The Desert Rose. A boondocking site for you and your family to enjoy! We have a Yurt, a cabin, 3 RV/Travel trailer pads and 2 tent sites created here and plenty of room for everyone to have their own space yet be all together. You can book the entire campground, or just one of the units. Whether it's just you, or you're bringing a crew, we know you'll love it here! Our favorite hikes in the Central Oregon area is Smith Rocks and Chimney Rock. The Prineville reservoir is roughly a 12 minute drive and the starry nights here are something to behold. Up the road is the most unique petting zoo that we recently found! Find it and you might just be able to hold a baby kangaroo! Boondocking site means there is no hook-ups or running water so you'll want to bring in your own water and heat if you're here in the colder months. Your four legged furry family members are welcomed! They must be accompanied at all times and not left on the property alone. The dog run is for you to keep closer tabs on them while relaxing, not for leaving them while going into town or enjoying the area. The dirt is very soft and it wouldn't take very long for them to dig under to get out and go looking for you. The cabin or yurt is also not a pet storage area - with no power or AC, pets are not allowed to be left alone in the dwellings.

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(25)

Log Shelter Retreat

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · La Pine, OR

Our wooded acre provides , 12 by 20 three sided log shelter, Fire pit , BBQ, water, porta potty. Vintage Aloha camp trailer, has fridge, freezer , stove top ,oven and heat . sleeps two( bedding not provided.... $80) , cozy shelter cabin with loft. heated. ( sleeps three adults, or Two adults and two children... $80 .bedding not provided.) rent the whole site and have it all to yourself! $350 a night, 21 people 12 tent sites . $50 per site 3 RV sites. ($50) per site. (no hook ups) Rivers, hiking, BLM are one block away. Fishing, Kayaking, Paddle board and water fun .little Deschutes 10 minutes away and big Deschutes 30 minutes way. Four wheeler trails on BLM one block south. Bring your snowmobiles for winter fun on BLM. Hunters welcome on BLM ONE BLOCK SOUTH WE ARE OPEN ALL YEAR! 30 minutes is Sunriver Resort providing fine dining , bike trails, shops , golf, awesome swimming pools, etc. We are one mile from Lapine, there's restaurants, grocery stores, gas ,and outdoor food carts with views. live music, great food and drinks. Transportation for put in and take out for river excursions are provided with reservations ( $60 includes Kayak) We have three Kayaks for rent ($40 a day) with reservations. 30 minutes away is Paulina lake , the Obsidian flow, HIking, Biking, fishing, and camping,. LaPine State Park ,providing lots of hiking ,biking trails and beautiful fishing spots. Clay's the fisherman and knows all the best spots! On site there is a central gathering place for your family, friends and to meet people. Our log shelter has seating , fire pit, Picnic table, wash basin, porta potty and Quiet starlet sky's every evening. Clay and I upon request will provide hot coffee ,tea, orange juice and home- made muffins to begin your morning! ( $ 15 additional fee) We look forward to meeting you and welcome. We also provide reservations for family reunions, small weddings, and private parties. Rent the whole site for the weekend! ( $500) Also weekly rates are available ,check with Clay and I ,price will be determined by how many persons. Thank you and Happy Trails!

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STEEP DREAMS

2 sites · Lodging17 acres · Sisters, OR

RELAX!!.... Or hike, or bike, or swim or simply recharge your batteries! Stay the night in our tipi or cabin while taking in the peaceful views of mountains and the treetops. Camps are located on the top of a canyon where you can see for days on this one of a kind central Oregon property. Camps are located next to county and BLM land if you want to hike, bike or take a dip in the pond. 20 minutes to Bend, 15 minutes to Redmond and only 10 minutes to Downtown Sisters.

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(8)

Whispering Pines RV Retreat

1 site · RV1 acre · Bend, OR

Experience the Best of Bend at Whispering Pines RV! Nestled among towering ponderosa pines, this peaceful RV spot offers a serene retreat just 10 minutes from downtown Bend and the lively amphitheater. Positioned at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this location provides an ideal balance between tranquility and adventure. Whether you're hitting the slopes at Mt. Bachelor, a quick 30-minute drive away, or tackling the renowned rock climbing routes and scenic hiking trails at Smith Rock, just 40 minutes from your base, you'll find this spot perfectly positioned for all your outdoor pursuits. For mountain bikers, the famous Phil's Trails and other nearby mountain paths are just 20 minutes away. During the summer, enjoy floating the river, catching a concert, or exploring caves, all within a short distance. This spot is designed for those who want to enjoy all that Bend has to offer without the high cost, providing a comfortable and affordable place to rest and recharge after a day of adventure. Come discover the beauty of Bend from your peaceful retreat among the pines.

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(27)

Cascadia Farm Sanctuary

5 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Pronghorn, OR

Learn more about this land: Enjoy a small working hay farm and animal sanctuary outside beautiful Bend, Oregon. We have amazing sunrises, sunsets, and star gazing on this 40-acre property. We have 11 goats and 2 Llamas, and we plan to enlarge our herd this year and take in other unwanted farm animals as needed. Note: This is an adults-only location. No children or dogs are allowed on the property. We have recently added two open-air A-Frames to the two campsites for your enjoyment. Both come with Gas firepits, lofts, and hammocks. We also have a new wood-burning sauna as an added feature and costs $20 per person for the duration of your stay.

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Harmony Farm Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Bend, OR

Absolutely breathtaking mountain views from the tiny house and all over the property. Located on an active farm sanctuary. You will wake up to the sights, sounds and smells of our rescued farm animal friends. Learn more about this land: Tiny house with stunning mountain views located on a farm animal sanctuary, Harmony Farm Sanctuary. You will wake up in the morning to the sound of roosters crowing and our crew of friendly animal residents. It can be noisy at times but we find it delightful! The tiny house has huge, direct views of the Three Sisters mountains and Broken Top and plenty of outdoor sitting space to enjoy it and a little propane fire pit to enjoy the sunsets. The tiny house offers an amazing "glamping" experience and a unique opportunity to learn more about what we do at our animal sanctuary and even take a tour! The Space: Our hand made tiny house offers a double sized mattress (bedding included) in the upstairs area (access via an attached ladder!). Room for an additional person across from double bed also in upstairs area or put provided mat on the floor. Please note: the space is small for 3 people. The Kitchen: Tiny house kitchen area has a small refrigerator, small counter space for meal prep, a tea kettle for hot water, water jug for fresh water, french press coffee pot and coffee/tea, hot plate for cooking, popcorn maker and popcorn, pots and pans, silverware, napkins, bottle openers, etc. We now have a new small outdoor kitchen with a two burner propane stove! The Facilities: The tiny house offers a composting toilet for night time pee pee needs and offers a port-a-potty for all other uses please! If you want to know a secret river dipping spot or where to go to find showers please let me know! The Location: Aside from the farm sanctuary we are conveniently located between beautiful Bend, Oregon and Sisters, Oregon. We have hiking and biking trails within .3 of a mile! We also have books to recommend 100's of other hiking, biking, nordic skiing and alpine skiing nearby! And, since we are outdoor enthusiasts ourselves, we are happy to recommend places to ski, hike, mountain bike, float or paddle!

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McKenzie River Forest Retreat

6 sites · Tents1 acre · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR

**No RV's or camper trailers! You may message if you have something very low profile like a teardrop and depending on current occupancy, you may be able to stay. We just don't have room or good access!** Welcome to our enchanting Outdoor Stay Area, nestled among the tall, mystical firs of McKenzie Bridge in the breathtaking McKenzie River Valley. Enjoy nature's embrace with a walk-in camp site or car camp site. Message a special request if you are seeking a group site or event booking for multiple sites or to book campsites plus a short term stay in the Hygge A-Frame (listed on AirBnB and VRBO). Special rates offered for booking all, multiple sites or multiple stays. Gather around our central communal "campfire" area, adorned with rustic log benches. Cook on the swing out grill over a complementary wood fire when allowed. As summer matures, and burn bans no doubt crop up, we provide a propane campfire ring which you may cook on as needed, until it is no longer allowed. This can occur quickly, so we request that mid-June through the first rains, please bring your own approved liquid fuel stove for use in the gravel area on fold out tables. Message before booking to confirm any campfire details or requests. I'm always happy to answer any questions. I live on site but generally the Outdoor Stay Area is self-serve unless I have a special request to cater. Tent sites are covered with wood chips for a comfortable night's rest. Hose water is readily available for your convenience, and we provide a porta-potty as well. During your stay explore the wealth of outdoor activities in the McKenzie River Valley, from hiking and fishing to relaxing by the river (1/2 mile walk), biking, golf, a soak in one of three hot springs in our area or visit historical sites. View waterfalls or book a white water adventure with a local guide! The area's wildlife, including deer, elk, grey fox and various bird species, provide a daily delight. If you like birds, you will adore the Swainson’s Thrush birdsong that paints the air in the mornings and evenings here. Our Outdoor Stay Area is a gateway to adventure and a haven of peace, with towering firs and lush greenery creating an enchanting atmosphere. Whether seeking solitude or company, our campsite is perfect for your retreat. By respecting guidelines and mother earth, we maintain the beauty and integrity of this special place together. Thank you in advance . Welcome to your oasis in the enchanted wilderness of McKenzie Bridge. Relax, explore, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty, make lasting memories in this magical corner of the McKenzie River Valley. Near by areas of interest or activity: Terwilliger/ Cougar Hot Springs Belknap Hot Springs Deer Creek Hot Springs McKenzie River Horse Creek Cougar Reservoir Carmen Reservoir Pacific Crest Trail Koosah Falls Sahalie Falls Tokatee Golf Course O'Leary Trail Complex Raft, swim, fish, bike, hike, golf, paddle, soak... Or just relax, read, or meditate... Get away from it all...

The best camping near Deschutes National Forest guide

Overview

About

On the eastern side of the Cascade Mountain Range in Central Oregon, the Deschutes National Forest is made up of 1.8 million acres of trails, mountains, and waterways. It's home to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, comprising lava flows and caves, as well as three National Scenic Byways and segments of the National Wild and Scenic River System. The forest also features many of Oregon’s prettiest rivers and lakes—including the crystalline Cascade Lakes—as well as Mt. Bachelor, one of the most popular ski resorts in the state.

Notable campgrounds

Best for jet-skiing: Cultus Lake Campground sits on one of the few lakes where motorized watersports are allowed.
Best for backwoods biking: Indian Ford Campground offers direct access to forested biking and hiking trails.
Best for boating: Trapper Creek Campground has direct access to Odell Lake and a boat ramp.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can book campsites up to six months in advance through the Forest Service website. Reservations go live each day at 7am Pacific Time. Cabins, in particular, book up fast and are sometimes reserved immediately upon being made available.
If you’re looking for a first-come, first-served (FCFS) spot, try to arrive by Thursday to avoid the weekend rush.
Consider alternative campgrounds. If you’re having difficulty securing a reservation through the Forest Service, look into nearby Hipcamps or try your luck with FCFS camping on BLM land.

When to go

The Deschutes National Forest does not have one distinct climate, and while the western parts of the forest tend to get a lot of rainfall much of the year, other parts are hotter with less precipitation. As a general rule of thumb, July and August are the best months to visit. This is the one time of year in Oregon when rain is not regularly on the forecast and the weather is usually warm enough for boating and swimming.

Know before you go

Cell service can be spotty in parts of the forest. Download offline maps before you head out of range.
Bans on campfires and even camping stoves are common during the summer months. Make sure to check ahead and be prepared to change up your meal plans accordingly.
There are five protected wilderness areas in the Deschutes National Forest. These areas are off limits to motorized vehicles, but can be visited on day hikes or overnight backpacking trips. To visit, you'll need to secure a permit ahead of time.