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.

97% (2.8K) • 3,651 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Wickiup Reservoir

Sage Ridge

1. Sage Ridge

99%
(215)
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. 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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Bunk+Brew Historic Lucas House

2. Bunk+Brew Historic Lucas House

79%
(17)
Bend, OR · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Bunk+Brew Historic Lucas House Stay in the heart of downtown Bend at the historic Bunk+Brew Lucas House, a unique adventure basecamp designed for travelers looking to explore everything Central Oregon has to offer. Whether you're road-tripping, bikepacking, hiking, or simply passing through, this welcoming property offers a fun and social atmosphere with easy access to Bend's best attractions. Choose from a cozy hammock camping site or a convenient RV parking space, both with access to shared amenities including restrooms, hot showers, potable water, and picnic areas. The seasonal hammock site even includes a hammock, making it easy to travel light and enjoy a comfortable night's rest. Step outside and you'll find yourself within walking distance of Bend's renowned breweries, restaurants, coffee shops, live music, and local events. Spend your days exploring the Deschutes River, hiking nearby trails, mountain biking world-class singletrack, or taking a scenic drive to Smith Rock State Park, Mount Bachelor, and the Cascade Lakes. Whether you're staying for a night or using Bend as your launch point for outdoor adventures, Bunk+Brew Historic Lucas House offers a convenient, friendly, and memorable place to rest, recharge, and connect with fellow travelers.
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Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

3. Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

99%
(173)
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

94%
(79)
National forest in Oregon · 1713 sites
Swim, boat, ski, and hike your way through this sunny Central Oregon expanse.
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Willamette National Forest

5. Willamette National Forest

94%
(47)
National forest in Oregon · 1153 sites
Experience the wilderness without venturing far from the city.
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Moon Shadow Meadows

6. Moon Shadow Meadows

98%
(75)
Oakridge, OR · 8 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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Experience Heaven

7. Experience Heaven

99%
(743)
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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Picknik Place

8. Picknik Place

98%
(95)
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!
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Picnic table
Sun Outdoors Bend

9. Sun Outdoors Bend

95%
(10)
Bend, OR · 119 sites
Discover the unique charm of Sun Outdoors Bend, a top-rated RV campground nestled in the breathtaking high desert plateaus of Bend, Oregon. This exceptional destination, located just east of the majestic Cascade Mountains, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking to explore Central Oregon. At Sun Outdoors Bend, guests can choose from a variety of spacious RV sites with full hookups, including extra-large and extra-long options, as well as vacation rentals for added comfort. The campground boasts an impressive array of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Unwind in the soothing hot tub, challenge friends to a game of billiards in the clubhouse, or gather around the fire in the courtyard for memorable evenings under the stars. Surrounding the resort, you'll find a wealth of attractions to explore. Spend a day in Bend indulging in tastings at the renowned Deschutes Brewery, take leisurely walks along the scenic river, and savor a delicious meal at one of the many locally-sourced restaurants. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. In winter, the nearby slopes of the Cascades provide excellent skiing and snowboarding options. Plan your next adventure at Sun Outdoors Bend, where unforgettable memories
Pets
Full hookups
Umpqua National Forest

10. Umpqua National Forest

93%
(52)
National forest in Oregon · 836 sites
Forests, meadows, lakes, and waterfalls abound in this gorgeous neck of the woods.
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Fremont-Winema National Forest

11. Fremont-Winema National Forest

50%
(6)
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

97%
(15)
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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Roadhouse Ranch & Camp

14. Roadhouse Ranch & Camp

93%
(46)
Bend, OR · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover one of Central Oregon's most unique camping experiences at Roadhouse Ranch & Camp, a boutique campground set on 10 private acres just minutes from Bend and Tumalo. Our signature feature is Ghost Ridge Trail, a dramatic natural lava fissure that winds through the property, offering guests the chance to explore ancient volcanic terrain, walk through a natural lava tube, and take in panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains. Whether you're traveling in an RV, pitching a tent, or staying in one of our year-round yurts, Roadhouse Ranch is the perfect basecamp for everything Central Oregon has to offer. Spend your day hiking Smith Rock, mountain biking world-class trails, floating the Deschutes River, fishing nearby lakes, skiing Mt. Bachelor, or exploring Bend's renowned breweries, restaurants, and shops. Back at camp, slow down and connect. Gather with fellow travelers at our communal gazebo, outdoor kitchen, and fire pit, where stories are shared, marshmallows are roasted, and lasting memories are made. By keeping campfires and cooking in one central gathering space, we create a safer campground while encouraging the kind of social camping experience that brings people together. Property Highlights • Explore Ghost Ridge Trail, a spectacular private lava canyon and natural lava tube • Boutique campground on 10 peaceful acres • Year-round yurts, RV sites, and tent camping • Communal gazebo with fire pit and outdoor cooking area • Exceptional dark-sky stargazing • Family-friendly atmosphere • Minutes from Bend, Tumalo, Smith Rock, Mt. Bachelor, and the Cascade Lakes Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, an outdoor adventure, or a relaxing escape under the stars, Roadhouse Ranch & Camp offers an unforgettable Central Oregon camping experience unlike anywhere else.
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STEEP DREAMS

15. STEEP DREAMS

99%
(58)
Sisters, OR · 2 sites
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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Working Ranch just outside Bend

16. Working Ranch just outside Bend

99%
(183)
Bend, OR · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Located 9 miles east of Bend our serene 40 acre ranch is full of open fields, flowers, and juniper forest. We have Bees, dogs, cows, chickens, geese and ducks that live on the ranch. You will most likely see the cows roaming around the fields, ducks and geese in the irrigation ditch and bees on the wildflowers. We are close enough to Bend where if you need something you are not far, but far enough out that you have dark star filled nights with full view of the milky way. We have our local honey available on the ranch in both pints and 1/2 pints!
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Electrical hookup
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Golden Triangle RV Bend, Oregon

17. Golden Triangle RV Bend, Oregon

100%
(125)
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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Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

18. Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

100%
(107)
Sisters, OR · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
TOM'S REST was created by Tom's wife Cheryl in an effort to carry out their plans to provide respite for those in need. Tom Edwards worked tirelessly for years to clear this wild recreation space where he planned to live while helping others. Tom suddenly and unexpectedly passed February 2, 2015 while in the process of making his move to Sisters with his High School sweetheart of 45 years. Cheryl continued his passion and their dream to make this a place for those in need as a way to honor the most giving man she ever knew. This process has brought some healing and it is our hope to continue that healing for others in need from life's many trials. Anyone experiencing grief, widows/widowers, can enjoy a respite visit to refuel and support during tough times. Those that come to enjoy Tom's Rest will hopefully gain some needed respite. Most feel they are pretty much 'on their own' in this retreat area with the option for seclusion OR mingling if so desired. My deepest thanks to all who have stood alongside through this journey and continue to do so. ****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊
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Full hookups
FourLeafs Camp

19. FourLeafs Camp

98%
(70)
Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR · 4 sites
Welcome to the Outdoor Stay Area at FourLeafs, a small forest campground nestled beneath the tall firs of the beautiful McKenzie River Valley. Surrounded by fresh mountain air, lush greenery, and the sounds of the forest, FourLeafs offers a relaxed balance of outdoor adventure, quiet retreat, and optional connection with fellow travelers. FourLeafs is also home to McKenzie Sound Therapy, where guests may have the opportunity to book a private gong-based sound bath in an indoor or outdoor setting—a unique way to unwind after a day of exploring. The campground includes three active campsites, each with its own personality. Big Leaf Maple is slightly more open and social near the shared gathering area, Pacific Yew offers a bit more privacy with close-in parking, and the Group Site sits farther from the communal area, providing additional separation for larger groups and neighboring guests. Flat parking areas and easy site access make FourLeafs especially comfortable for tent campers, car campers, and small camper vans. Travel trailers, tow-behind campers, and RVs cannot be accommodated. The heart of the campground is a shared gravel gathering area with rustic log seating, ambient string lighting until 10:00 p.m., and a central table for meals, games, and conversation. During fire season, no wood, charcoal, propane fire pits, or recreational fires are permitted. Guests may bring an approved propane or liquid-fuel camp stove for cooking. Smoking is permitted on gravel only and with extreme caution. Tent sites are covered with wood chips for a softer night's rest. Drinking-water-safe hose water is available throughout the campground. Nearby you'll find McKenzie River access, Horse Creek, hiking, mountain biking, waterfalls, scenic drives, whitewater rafting, fishing, nearby hot springs, Tokatee Golf Club, and Cascade mountain pass exploration. Wildlife sightings are common and may include deer, elk, foxes, and a wide variety of birds. If you enjoy birdsong, you'll likely fall in love with the Swainson's Thrush, whose beautiful calls echo through camp each morning and evening. The property is also home to the Hygge A-Frame retreat cabin, available separately on Airbnb and Vrbo.
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Old Bend River Farmhouse

20. Old Bend River Farmhouse

98%
(20)
Bend, OR · 1 site
Our property is located on a quiet deadend street in Old Bend, where you will have access to our restored 1976 Terry travel trailer or campervan parking. Bend is known for its outdoor beauty, recreation, and welcoming community. Located between downtown Bend and the Deschutes River, you'll be just a short walk from: - Downtown Bend with boutique shops, coffeehouses, and restaurants. - The Deschutes River, perfect for floating, kayaking, or walking along the river trail. - Hayden Homes Amphitheater hosting lots of great shows. - Grocery Stores. A short drive will get you to Cascade Lakes Highway and Mount Bachelor, offering endless options for hiking, biking, skiing, and lakes. Our place is perfect to kick back and relax in your own space or in the whimsical garden.
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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