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Elk Lake Campground

In

Deschutes National Forest

·

100%

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22 sites · RV, Tent

You’ll have easy access to hiking trails, a boat launch, and awesome fishing spots at Elk Lake Campground. The 22 sites here are non-reservable; if you’re just pitching a tent, try to snag one of the four tent-only sites right next to the water. Be sure you check for closures and alerts before you head over. And if you’re in a large RV, you might want to skip this campground--difficult roads and small spurs make this spot less than ideal for RVs over 30 feet.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

22 sites

RV, Tent

Explore 790 campgrounds near Deschutes National Forest

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Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Deschutes National Forest

Sage Ridge

38mi from Elk Lake Campground · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bend, OR

Our unique location is close to Bend city limits and right next to Horse Ridge Mountain Biking Trails. BLM land surrounds the area, and is even accessible from the upper part of our property. Come out and enjoy the high desert and expore the juniper forest. We have tent camping sites and one tipi. We are currently in the process of still building out our glamping pods. However in the mean time you can currently book a stay at thoses sites for tent camping. The tent sites offer a comfortable setting for your tent in the sandy dirt. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire pit. We have a small community area! There you will find a mini outdoor kitchen with a blackstone and a bbq. (We have no water on-site) This is also where the trash bins are located. There is also a basketball hoop, yoga deck, and pull up /hanging bars. Next to the community area is where you will also find the bathroom, which is a clean porta potty. Come enjoy wandering the juniper forest and sage brush in Central Oregon’s high desert. We are next to 100’s of acres of BLM land, including the Horse Ridge Mountain Biking Trail System. There is hiking, biking, horse trails and ATV trails all nearby. Our open skies are great for daydreaming and stargazing. Come see how bright the milky way is out here Sage Ridge. Sage Ridge is only 15 miles east of Bend right off of Hwy 20.

Winberry Walden

44mi from Elk Lake Campground · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Fall Creek, OR

Nestled between the tranquil flows of Winberry Creek and a beautiful forested hillside, our property offers a serene retreat in the heart of Oregon's natural beauty. Located just outside the charming town of Lowell, this peaceful haven provides the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet escape. Currently we can offer our attached, fully equipped and private studio for your stay here. 🛶 Outdoor Recreation at Your Doorstep Winberry Creek State Recreation Area: Just 4 miles away, this park offers swimming beaches, picnic spots, and boat access to the Fall Creek Lake—ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. Dexter Reservoir: Enjoy a variety of water activities on this expansive lake, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Mountain Biking Trails: Explore nearby trails such as the Winberry Divide via Winberry Tie, offering scenic routes through lush forests for riders of all levels. 🍽️ Local Dining Experiences Rattlesnake BBQ: Located at the historic Dexter Lake Club, this spot gained fame as a filming location for the movie Animal House. Enjoy Texas-style BBQ in a nostalgic setting with live local music on special event evenings. Dueling Spoons: A fine dining gem in Fall Creek, just a short drive away. Chef Billy Reid offers a unique culinary experience with dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. The warm, community-focused atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination. 🌿 A Peaceful Retreat Our property provides a harmonious blend of comfort and nature. Whether you're here to hike, bike, paddle, or simply unwind, you'll find a welcoming space to relax and reconnect with the outdoors.

Ruby’s Cabin

36mi from Elk Lake Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Westfir, OR

Grandpa had a dream of building cabins for his granddaughters. Ruby is the first grandchild and this cabin was built for her. Jay and Tamara (Ruby’s grandparents) bought this acreage in 1998 and are excited to share their special place with other people who love the outdoors while being with family and friends.This is a rustic, off the grid, cabin experience that you will never forget. Almost 200 acres of forest are available to explore. Winter, our second granddaughter is expecting grandpa to get her cabin finished soon.Cabin with loft can sleep 6. Think of it as camping with walls and extras thrown in. Air beds provided, bring your own sleeping bags. Outhouse provided. Additional tents and people are allowed for an additional 15.00 per tent/2 people. Additional RV’s are allowed for 15.00 per RV. Area for tents and RV’s is large grassy wooded area. Great for large gatherings of friends or family who enjoy camping. Fire pit and bar-b-que provided, pavilion for shelter at fire pit area is in the process of construction. Mountain bike/hiking trails run throughout property as well as National forest trails within a few miles. North Fork River swimming 10 minutes away. Golf course across Westoak Rd. Sit on the porch and enjoy the solitude only minutes from Oakridge. Grocery store, etc... all available in Oakridge. Beautiful, safe and secluded. Elk, deer, and other forest critters live here too. Well behaved dogs are welcome.

Cozy Shop ADU

37mi from Elk Lake Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Redmond, OR

Cozy & Peaceful ADU Near Smith Rock Cozy and peaceful ADU on the property! Sit back and relax in the outdoor seating area by the propane fire pit, or enjoy the air-conditioned indoor space. You’ll have quick access to Smith Rock State Park, Redmond, and the Deschutes River — the perfect landing spot to relax and recharge while enjoying all that Central Oregon has to offer. Just 15 minutes from the Redmond Airport. Please note: there is no TV available — enjoy the outdoors or bring your own device to stream your favorite shows.

Cabin on the Rim

43mi from Elk Lake Campground · 1 site · Lodging · Culver, OR

Cabin on the Rim is a beautiful and quiet off the grid getaway. A studio cabin overlooking the Crooked River Canyon. It is nestled into the cliff side on the back end of a 110 acre working horse ranch. Enjoy gorgeous sunrises peaking over the canyon walls and beautiful sunsets tucking themselves in behind the cascade mountains.

Lava Rock Experience!

21mi from Elk Lake Campground · 3 sites · Lodging · Seventh Mountain, OR

Stay just feet from the Newberry Monument lava flow, right on the edge of Newberry Monument National Park. Fall asleep under an unparalleled view of the stars—just outside of town with minimal light pollution—and wake up to the sounds of nature, as free-range chickens, quail, and deer wander near your tiny home. Enjoy the privacy of off-grid living without giving up essentials like power, Wi-Fi, and restroom access. Notes: • Pets must be leashed at all times due to free-range ducks and chickens on or near the property. • Pets may not be left unattended in the unit while you’re away. • A detached bathroom and laundry are available in a shared utility space. • Non-smoking property.

Lucky Six Ranch

30mi from Elk Lake Campground · 1 site · Tent, RV · Bend, OR

Lucky Six Ranch is located 5 miles from the edge of NE Bend OR surrounded by sagebrush, juniper, pastures, and mountain views. Enjoy the seasonal adventures around the Central Oregon Area including Mt Bachelor, Smith Rock State Park, Tumalo State Park. Grab a bite at one of the many food carts in town and relax under the stars at the ranch. Say hi to the goats and cats and listen to the coyotes, hawks and quail. Stretch, do yoga, mediate in the tipi space. This campsite space works well for self contained camper vans/trucks, tent camping. The tipi space can be used for camping/sleeping in good weather. However- Please note, it is OPEN, un-heated, and during times of rain/snow, it is not weather proof. You are welcome to use your own portable propane or electric heaters at your own risk. No fires or cooking is allowed inside the tipi space.

Calico Princess

23mi from Elk Lake Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Deschutes River Woods, OR

A peaceful retreat on the ranch, lots of open pasture and wildlife. Multiple RV spaces with electrical and well water, and a few tent sites. Lots of open space and sunshine for walks, clear sky’s for starry nights, a frog pond, larger pond with mature aspen grove and bench, campfires*, motorcycles**. birds, deer passing through. Resident cats, Ike, Rose and Haze can be seen out hunting. Streams and ponds June-Sept. Rpod not included. Cameras onsite, but campsites are not covered. Kid friendly with some playground equipment. Very private, lots of spaces to choose from. Kid friendly, including a climbing dome and a trampoline, and some other obstacle course items. Cows and goats to follow around. Afternoon shade on the bench by the main pond next to the aspen grove and a bit of a trickling creek when the pond is full. 10 minutes from downtown Bend and all it has to offer. 5 mins north on Brookswood to the Old Mill District, and the Deschutes river (and trail). Chickens on site for fresh eggs (starting Sept ‘25)

Experience Heaven

34mi from Elk Lake Campground · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · La Pine, OR

8 campsites and 2 original Mongolian Gers. The season for the camp sites is from June 1st to end of Sept and the Gers for 2025/2026 winter are blocked out from Nov 15/25 to May 15/26. Pets allowed, toilets on site, campfires permitted when burn ban is not in place. Now up until this year I have provided Free Firewood. I have quit doing that for a variety of reasons, the least being the cost and the work for me. I am encouraging everyone to purchase a Propane Fire Pit if you don't have one by now. 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. I don't like them running thru other campers sites, so just be respectful. Take them for walks along the lake.. No Yappers, no barking dogs, 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. If 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. Then there is the silence. The best part of “Heaven”.

Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

22mi from Elk Lake Campground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR

Shelter at Castle Rock Farm – A Private Sanctuary Camping Paradise Sanctuary Escape | Wildlife Viewing | Pet-Friendly | Covered Shelters | Stunning Scenery | Exclusive and Peaceful Escape to Castle Rock Farm, a breathtaking 1893 homestead nestled at the base of Castle Rock in the heart of the stunning Willamette National Forest located in McKenzie Bridge. This one-of-a-kind, private wildlife and birding preserve offers an unforgettable camping experience with covered shelters designed for comfort in all weather conditions. Ultimate Privacy & Seclusion – No noisy highways, busy roads, or misleading locations. Just peace, quiet, and nature. Camping in Comfort – Stay dry with covered gathering spaces, a deluxe canvas tent on a wooden platform, and handcrafted furniture made from sustainably sourced lumber. Breathtaking Scenery & Wildlife – Camp under a majestic Big Maple Tree, next to a babbling brook, with Great Gray Owls, Pileated Woodpeckers, and over 150 bird nesting boxes surrounding you. A true birder’s paradise! Outdoor Adventure Awaits – Just minutes from King Castle Trail, Blue Pool, hot springs, waterfalls, lakes, and endless trails for hiking, biking, rafting, and paddleboarding. Eco-Friendly & Handcrafted – No pesticides, no herbicides—just nature at its purest. Every structure is professionally built by expert craftsmen, using heritage-cut lumber from windfallen trees. Furry Friends Welcome! Two friendly yellow labs roam the property and love to join on morning and evening walks.Hand-feed native wild cutthroat trout in the private pond. Forage for wild strawberries along the nature trails. Enjoy the peaceful sound of the wind whispering through the trees and birds singing all around you 🏕️ Group Camping & Events: Need space for a group? The Big Maple site accommodates up to 50 tents for special events, weddings, birding groups, biking/running retreats, and more. 🚴‍♂️ Adventure-Ready: We can connect you with local rafting trips, bike/mountain bike rentals, and hiking shuttle services for a hassle-free experience. This is not just another campsite—it’s a sanctuary. Come disconnect, unwind, and immerse yourself in nature at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm. ✨ Book your stay today and experience camping like never before! ✨

FourLeafs (McKenzie River Retreat)

22mi from Elk Lake Campground · 6 sites · Tents · Cascadia, OR

No RV's or camper trailers! 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! Message a special request if you are seeking a group site or event booking for multiple sites or to book campsites plus indoor accomodations in the Hygge A-Frame (listed on AirBnB and VRBO). 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 enjoy between 8-10pm, while permitted. 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 available. As well, we've added an insulated "drinking water hose" for improved taste and water quality. 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 with towering firs and lush greenery creating an enchanting atmosphere. Whether seeking solitude or company, our camp 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 . We have recently added two security cameras overlooking the general area of camp

Sunny Ponderosa Camp

25mi from Elk Lake Campground · 1 site · RV · Bend, OR

Park in our large wrap-around driveway under our beautiful Ponderosa pines and fall asleep to the gorgeous view of the stars with no obnoxious streetlights. Don’t worry, we have a flood light and cameras to keep you and your stuff safe! Then wake up to the smell of our Juniper trees and watch our local group of mule deer grazing through the yard with views of Tumalo Mountain. Just across the street starts the Canal Trail that heads East and West. A 5 min bike ride East along the trail will take you to a Fred Meyer Grocery store, Starbucks, and much much more. Or take the Canal Trail West through the massive 123+ acres of forested public land that connects directly to the Deschutes River Trail (only 4 mins away). Once there, the outdoor activities are endless! Great fishing, bouldering, biking, swimming, rafting, and nature viewing spots are all within a couple minute walk from our home. Heading to the Old Mill or Hayden Homes Amphitheater for some shopping, a concert, restaurants, or drinks? It all starts 3/4 of a mile down the hill! If you’re viewing this posting, you probably already know all the amazing outdoor and sporting opportunities, entertainment, shopping, and eating that our beautiful town of Bend offers. If you’re still not sure, we’ll be right here to help you find the perfect spot to go! We’ll be continuing to add photos and facilities as time goes on to help better serve you. We appreciate your interest and hope that if the dates don’t work out this time, we get to meet you on your next trip to Bend. Cheers!

More to explore nearby

100%

2 ratings · 2 reviews

May 2018

A beautiful place! Just have gone for the day a couple of times but worth the trip!

K

Kalei T.

7 years on Hipcamp

May 2015

The "resort" at Elk Lake offers campsites, cabins, a boat launch, dock & a restaurant (try the Eggs Benedict). The classic vintage cabins range from $140-$200 a night which seemed steep for a shack with mice crawling in the walls. I'd probably camp next time.

Tally G.

10 years on Hipcamp

LocationElk Lake Campground, Deschutes National Forest, Oregon, United States

Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

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