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Spread out over nearly a million acres, quiet Ochoco National Forest offers a diverse mix of canyons, forest, arid high desert, and lakes. It's a great place to camp, with both dispersed campsites and campgrounds, plus plenty of cabins and private options available to book.
Directly west of Bend, the Willamette National Forest is among the most popular spots in Oregon for hiking and camping. About a fifth of the forest is designated wilderness, accessible only on foot or by horseback, making the area particularly popular for multi-night backpacking trips.
Bend attracts lovers of the great outdoors throughout the year, with all sorts of summer fun, including rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and river rafting. Winter sports enthusiasts flock to the area in the cooler months to ski the slopes of Mt. Bachelor, the crown jewel of the Deschutes Forest. Summers are generally hot and dry, and this time of year is certainly the busiest for camping, so book ahead to sleep under the stars.
Further, in the mountains, Scout Lake features a popular campground and Sandy swimming beaches. When it comes to staying cool, it doesn't get better than the Cascade Lakes. Paddle or cruise your boat across Elk Lake, or kick back on your hammock at a seasonal waterfront campground.