The best camping in Wickiup Reservoir

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Not far from the town of La Pine in the Central Oregon high desert, Wickiup Reservoir is a well-known spot for cooling off in the oftentimes sweltering summer months. Both non-motorized and motorized boats are allowed here, and there are multiple boat launches, with two at the two lakeside campgrounds and a third on the reservoir’s eastern banks. Wickiup Reservoir is also a popular spot for both birdwatching and fishing, particularly if you're hoping to catch a large brown trout. While many people fish directly from their boats, shore fishing is an option earlier in the season.

95% (2.9K) 3,676 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Wickiup Reservoir

Sage Ridge

1. Sage Ridge

100%
(159)
Bend, OR · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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 explore the juniper forest. We have tent camping sites and one tipi. **A larger tipi is on its way as well as a cowboy shower and sauna area 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 those sites for tent camping. The tent sites offer a comfortable setting for your tent in the sandy dirt. Each site includes a large picnic table and a fire pit. **We offer firewood bundles for sale for $5 in the community area** We have a small community area, there you will find a small outdoor kitchen with a large blackstone, small bbq and little cooking/eating utensils. (We have no water or electricity on-site) This is also where the trash bins are located. We have 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.
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Experience Heaven

2. Experience Heaven

99%
(973)
La Pine, OR · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
I am going to be in early this year because of the lack of snow. I am going in March 22nd. I have taken the block off of the Gers and the camp sites. 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”.
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Campfires
Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

3. Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

99%
(152)
Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
✨ Shelter at Castle Rock Farm – A Private Sanctuary Camping Paradise🏕️🚐✨ ✨Pet Friendly✨ Book your stay today and experience camping like never before! ✨ Pet-Friendly-Off Leash | Sanctuary Escape | Wildlife Viewing | Covered Shelters | Stunning Scenery | Exclusive and Peaceful | Dark Skies Project | 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 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! ✨
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Deschutes National Forest

4. Deschutes National Forest

95%
(74)
National forest in Oregon · 1713 sites
Swim, boat, ski, and hike your way through this sunny Central Oregon expanse.
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Toilets
Campfires
Willamette National Forest

5. Willamette National Forest

93%
(46)
National forest in Oregon · 1153 sites
Experience the wilderness without venturing far from the city.
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Toilets
Campfires
Brookswood Camp

6. Brookswood Camp

Bend, OR · 1 site
Fully equipped Motorhome in a Cloverfield in a beautiful town of Bend fresh fruit trees on a small urban farm
Pets
Showers
Campfires
The Camp

7. The Camp

92%
(53)
Bend, OR · 13 sites
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.
Pets
Full hookups
Moon Shadow Meadows

8. Moon Shadow Meadows

97%
(50)
Oakridge, OR · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Moon Shadow Meadows is currently in the permitting process to become an official event space. As a working farm, we currently sell Eggs, Herbs, Vegetables and Flowers. We are preparing to host agritourism events, class reunions, weddings and farm to table events. Our secluded 40-acre hilltop retreat is located at 2,200 feet in the Cascade foothills near Westfir and Oakridge, Oregon. Accessed via a scenic two-mile gravel road, the property offers panoramic views of Diamond Peak and Devil’s Backbone. On-site, guests can enjoy a one-mile trail for hiking and biking, with easy access to world-class mountain biking, the Willamette River, and local hot springs. Please note that we embrace a genuine wilderness experience; we offer limited cell service and no on-site Wi-Fi to encourage guests to disconnect. Our Skoolie Bus at the entrance provides maps, a lending library, and first-aid supplies. Well-behaved pets are welcome, and we kindly remind visitors that uphill traffic has the right of way on Steep Gravel Driveway. Follow our IG at Moon_Shadow_Meadows_or For any inquiries- Please contact jason@moonshadowmeadows.life
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Picknik Place

9. Picknik Place

99%
(79)
Bend, OR · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Hi and welcome to Picknik Place LLC! This campsite is situated on a 20-acre farm, so it feels remote and removed from the primary residents. With this spot, you are nestled under a juniper tree that provides ample shade with a lava rock backdrop, and can watch the sun dip below the Three Sisters volcanoes in the distance. This spot is very simple and tucked away, perfect for stargazing at night with limited light pollution. There is a picnic table, swing, and fire pit (please make sure the fire ban is off for this). There is no water, electricity, septic, or wifi. You do have cell service. Please remember, you may encounter wildlife. This can include, but not limited to, deer, coyotes, snakes, spiders, etc. I have seen many bull snakes around that mimic rattlesnakes but are harmless. As long as you do not aggravate any animals, they should leave you alone. Also, please remember if you have pets, to keep them under control and be aware that cheat grass in the summer months can get stuck in their paws, ears, etc. While feeling remote and removed from the Bend tourism, it only takes 15 minutes to get downtown Bend, where there are ample restaurants, shops, coffeehouses, the Deschutes River, etc. It takes 7 minutes to get to Trader Joe's and Home Depot, and 10 minutes to get to St. Charles Hospital. We are perfectly situated between Smith Rock State Park (25 minutes) and the High Desert Museum (17 minutes). Heads up: as many places in central Oregon, Picknik Place gets pretty dusty, dry, and hot in the summer months. You may also encounter minimal road noise. Enjoy this private spot with all of the surrounding natural beauty!
Pets
Picnic table
Umpqua National Forest

10. Umpqua National Forest

93%
(49)
National forest in Oregon · 836 sites
Forests, meadows, lakes, and waterfalls abound in this gorgeous neck of the woods.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fremont-Winema National Forest

11. Fremont-Winema National Forest

60%
(5)
National forest in Oregon · 534 sites
Any Cheryl Strayed/Reese Witherspoon fans in the house? Retrace their Wild footsteps in the Fremont-Winema National Forest; part of the 2,650 mile Pacific Crest Trail falls along the forest’s western edge. And the forest certainly is “wild”: the 2.3 million acres of lush green forests and alpine meadows shelter elk, antelope, bobcats, and bears--plus intrepid adventure seekers, like yourself! In the summer, try hiking or biking along the Crane Trail, which offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. And don’t fret when the weather turns cold and snowy; Fremont-Winema turns into a winter wonderland! Strap on ski goggles and coast downhill, or rev it up on a snowmobile at the Quartz Mountain Sno-park. Back at camp, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa--with extra marshmallows, thank you very much--and start planning for your next day in Oregon paradise.
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Tumalo State Park

12. Tumalo State Park

96%
(14)
State park in Oregon · 23 sites
Water adventure and family fun await at this riverside spot north of Bend.
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LaPine State Park

13. LaPine State Park

79%
(7)
State park in Oregon · 21 sites
Kick back among the ponderosas at this riverside park in the Oregon high desert.
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Lucky Six Ranch

14. Lucky Six Ranch

100%
(19)
Bend, OR · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Camp Close to town, trails, river and more

15. Camp Close to town, trails, river and more

98%
(57)
Bend, OR · 1 site
Our house is located in Wood River Village. It is the beginning of where the Deschutes River bends as it comes into the town of Bend. One can quickly and easily walk to the river trail from our house. By going up river, one gets the sense of being remote and in the forest along a well maintained trail that makes a 3 miles loop with many rapids visible from the trail. By walking down river, one can quickly access Hayden Homes Amphitheater, Old Mill shopping and Downtown on a paved walking path. Check out the Hayden Homes Amphitheater websites for their concert series this year. https://www.eventticketscenter.com/hayden-homes-amphitheater-bend-tickets/525456/e?gclid=Cj0KCQjw06OTBhC_ARIsAAU1yOUS7UvoFf-WWpnWbHjLjiXzVu0zkNnzLjvGaFg_Oh2eCBJhXHjRfIEaAvU7EALw_wcB Learn more about this land: Campers will be camping in our backyard, surrounded by old growth Ponderosa pines. We are a 5 minute walk to the Deschutes River and a 15 minute walk to the Old Mill and Hayden Homes Amphitheater. We love it here. You will, too. We offer water and electrical hook ups. However, we have no public bathroom.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Calico Princess

16. Calico Princess

99%
(39)
Deschutes River Woods, OR · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
2026-04-12 The frogs will keeep you up at night. They are noisy. New ponds, more water, and a bunch noisy birds in one tree or another. Water is on and so are the big guns. Come see some animals and greenery in the high desert. Fires ok if it’s not dry and or windy. Designated spots, and on-site wood. 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)
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Heart of Sisters

17. Heart of Sisters

94%
(175)
Sisters, OR · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
In the city limits of Sisters. Just a few block walk to parks and downtown Sisters where tourists get trapped. Good for getting close spots for events like Sisters Folk Festival. Couple blocks from the Buckrun Trail head and 15 min drive to Three Creeks Lake. Firepit, Bbq, and grills available for use.
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Toilets
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Hidden Gem

18. Hidden Gem

100%
(5)
Bend, OR · 1 site · Tent, RV
This gravel pad is on the southern side of my house in an extremely quiet neighborhood. Just 5 minutes to the Old Mill District and Deschutes River, and 25 minutes to Mt. Bachelor ski resort via Sunriver, it’s a convenient and peaceful place to land while exploring Bend. This hidden gem is quiet yet close to everything — with a couple of restaurants just up the street less than 5 minutes away. Tents, truck campers, and RVs up to 40’ are all welcome. Pets are allowed, as long as you pick up after them. The RV pad area and front yard are accessible, and the site is well-shaded by tall pine trees, so it stays comfortable even on hot days. The neighborhood is about as safe as they come — you could literally leave things unlocked and nothing would happen. I’m a Central Oregon native and happy to help with recommendations or local tips to make your stay even better.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Wild River Sanctuary

19. Wild River Sanctuary

93%
(262)
Crescent, OR · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Established in 1963. The Vann family cabin was built by the Vann family. Third generation energy is steering this new endeavor. Soon to come will be a creek side treehouse and cabin will be available by next summer. Learn more about this land: Two tent sites available on the creek. The sites are situated on a one acre river frontage property under the pine trees. Important to note that the two sites are located about 30-40 feet apart. Each site has a private dock and fire pit. You are just minutes from the lakes and a great fire lookout hike. Mountain bike from your tent to endless trails. Enjoy the creek that is just feet away from the sites where you can indulge in a variety of activities including; swimming, floating, fishing, and sunbathing. We have great neighbors who have vacation homes nearby.  Dorothy lane is between Earl Lane and Pine Creek Loop. Firewood no longer for sale.
Pets
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Golden Triangle RV Bend, Oregon

20. Golden Triangle RV Bend, Oregon

100%
(107)
Bend, OR · 2 sites
Looking for a true escape without giving up comfort? Our RV campsite offers the best of both worlds—peaceful surroundings, open skies, and just enough modern convenience to keep things easy. Spend your days exploring, relaxing, or doing absolutely nothing at all. Evenings are for sunsets, fresh air, and the kind of quiet that’s hard to find these days. It’s not just a place to park—it’s a place to reset. We are located 10 minutes into downtown Bend and about 20 minutes to either Sisters or Redmond. Don't miss out on the incredible lineup at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, which has concerts ALL summer long. Mountain bike riding, hiking, fishing, floating, food trucks, microbrews, and ciders! Grab a chair and head to "The Bite" in Tumalo just a 5-minute drive away.
Electrical hookup
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Wickiup Reservoir camping guide

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations for the can be made directly through the Forest Service, either online using recreation.gov or over the phone. Campsites open up for reservation six months in advance, at 6 am.
  2. The peak season runs from the end of May until the end of September. Outside of that time, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  3. If you can’t find a spot at Wickiup, note that there are still tons of places to camp in the area, both in nearby state parks, on BLM land, and at privately run Hipcamps.

When to go

The best time to visit Wickiup Reservoir is in late spring or early autumn, when the weather is warm and dry and the crowds are fewer. July and August are also great months if you like warm weather, but the reservoir and area campgrounds can get very busy with summer vacationers. Accessing the area during the cold winter months can be challenging due to heavy snowfall.

Know before you go

  • The easiest place to pick up groceries and other supplies is the town of La Pine, about a half-hour drive from the reservoir.
  • Do not enter the water during cyanobacteria (harmful algae) blooms. The forest service puts out alerts about blooms, but it's always a good idea to do a visual check just in case. Water that looks foamy or thick and is a green, blue, or brownish-read color should be avoided.
  • Forest fires are an issue in this part of the forest, and bans on fires and even some types of cooking devices are not uncommon. Check before igniting anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Wickiup Reservoir is in late spring or early autumn, when the weather is warm and dry and the crowds are fewer. July and August are also great months if you like warm weather, but the reservoir and area campgrounds can get very busy with summer vacationers. Accessing the area during the cold winter months can be challenging due to heavy snowfall.

The forest service puts out alerts about blooms, but it's always a good idea to do a visual check just in case. Water that looks foamy or thick and is a green, blue, or brownish-read color should be avoided. You can also explore different options for camping near Wickiup Reservoir on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Wickiup Reservoir trips