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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% (3K) 3,661 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Wickiup Reservoir

Sage Ridge

1. Sage Ridge

100%
(181)
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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Experience Heaven

2. Experience Heaven

99%
(1005)
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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Roadhouse Ranch & Camp

3. Roadhouse Ranch & Camp

96%
(12)
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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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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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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Happy Tails Retreat

6. Happy Tails Retreat

La Pine, OR · 1 site
Bring your clothes, some food, and relax in the high desert, just 8 miles south of La Pine. A 24-foot RV with all the essentials is waiting for you! The RV sleeps up to four guests and features a queen-size bed, a dinette that converts into a full-size bed, and a bunk suitable for two small children. Amenities include internet, smart TVs, a propane fire ring, two camp chairs, two gravity chairs, an outdoor table, all linens and pillows, and a private shower. Tents are also welcome for additional guests. The property is fully fenced and includes an additional small fenced area where your dog can safely relax while you unwind. It's a great place to stargaze with virtually no light pollution, watch deer roaming the property, and enjoy peace and quiet. Located down a well-maintained dirt road, our gated, five-acre property offers a secluded setting. The host lives on site with friendly yellow Labs. During your stay, you'll also have access to a full-size dog agility course for an additional fee and with a signed waiver. No smoking. Quiet hours are 9:00 PM Sunday through Thursday and 10:00 PM Friday and Saturday. Enjoy the many recreational opportunities nearby, including seven lakes, the Deschutes River, and multiple parks, all within an hour's drive. Our property is also surrounded by BLM land, offering excellent opportunities for biking, ATV riding, and hiking among the trees just minutes away. We are located just a 2½-hour drive from Eugene, 32 miles south of Bend, and 105 miles north of Klamath Falls. Sunriver is 24 miles north, Cowboy Dinner Tree is about 55 minutes east, and Crater Lake is just over an hour to the south. Please feel free to message us with any questions. We hope to see you soon! ☺
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Wild River Sanctuary

7. Wild River Sanctuary

93%
(264)
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.
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Moonrise Meadow Willow Camp

8. Moonrise Meadow Willow Camp

Bend, OR · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Moonrise Meadow is the name we’ve given the large wildlife migration meadow in front of our house on a quiet, rural gravel road that sees very little traffic. Willow Camp is your peaceful, private getaway with room for multiple RVs, including a U-shaped pull-through site that will accommodate all but the largest trailers. There are also two prime tent sites with soft ground created by layers of pine needles, as well as a shared porta-potty disguised as a vintage outhouse that includes a Dometic spigot and sink. Larger groups can be accommodated just across the street in the currently unused horse arena. Just 4 miles from Sunriver Resort, you'll find restaurants, shops, and plenty of activities only a short drive or bike ride away. Private neighborhood access to the Deschutes River is just 2 miles away, and miles of hiking trails in the Deschutes National Forest begin just down our road. Cascade Lakes Highway, with its abundance of lakes and trails, is 14 miles north and offers endless outdoor opportunities. Mt. Bachelor is just 20 minutes away, offering spring skiing through May, as well as downhill mountain biking and hiking during the summer. Mule deer frequent the meadow, and because there is a nursery just down the street, you may even see fawns. The mothers can be protective of their young, so please keep dogs under control. Elk also migrate through in the spring and fall, though they're rare during the summer. Coyotes are fairly common as well. We've spotted many native raptors, including Great Gray Owls, Great Horned Owls, Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, Prairie Falcons, and Red-tailed Hawks. Luckily, we've only lost one chicken to a raptor so far! We also see hummingbirds, woodpeckers, and many other bird species. Black bears and cougars have been seen in the area, although we've never encountered them ourselves. That said, we don't let our dogs wander unsupervised at night. And speaking of night, the night sky over the meadow is phenomenal, with the occasional chance to catch the Northern Lights!
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Old Bend River Farmhouse

9. Old Bend River Farmhouse

100%
(5)
Bend, OR · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
Our property is located on a quiet deadend street in Old Bend, where you will have access to our restored 1976 Terry travel trailer. 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 private trailer or in the whimsical garden space.
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Umpqua National Forest

10. Umpqua National Forest

93%
(50)
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

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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FourLeafs Camp

14. FourLeafs Camp

98%
(62)
Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR · 3 sites
Welcome to the Outdoor Stay Area at FourLeafs, a small forest campground nestled beneath the tall, mystical firs of the beautiful McKenzie River Valley. Surrounded by fresh mountain air, lush greenery, and the sounds of the forest, the space offers a relaxed balance of outdoor adventure, quiet retreat, and optional connection with fellow travelers. The campground currently includes three active campsites, each with its own feel. Big Leaf Maple Site is slightly more open and social near the communal fire area, while Pacific Yew Site offers a bit more privacy with close-in parking tucked away from the central gathering space. The Group Site sits farther from the shared fire pit, creating more separation for both groups and neighboring guests. Flat parking areas and easy site access make FourLeafs especially comfortable for tent campers, car campers, and small van setups. Guests can enjoy a shared campfire area with rustic log benches, ambient string lighting until 10pm, peaceful forest surroundings, and a swing-out grill over a complimentary wood fire when seasonal conditions allow. During fire restriction periods, a propane fire ring may be available in the evenings depending on current safety regulations. Firewood is provided when wood fires are permitted. Tent sites are covered with wood chips for a softer and more comfortable night’s rest. Hose water is available, including an insulated drinking-water-safe hose for improved taste and water quality. During your stay, explore the many nearby outdoor activities the McKenzie River Valley is known for: • McKenzie River access • Horse Creek trail creek access • Hiking ; mountain biking • Waterfalls & scenic drives • White water rafting & fishing • Nearby hot springs • Golf at Tokatee Golf Club • Historic sites & 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 calls that echo through camp during mornings and evenings. FourLeafs is also home to the Hygge A-Frame retreat cabin, available separately on Airbnb and VRBO, as well as McKenzie Sound Therapy. Optional private gong-based sound bath sessions may be available onsite in both indoor and outdoor settings for
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Rancho Mateo

15. Rancho Mateo

98%
(24)
Bend, OR · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pitch a tent or back your trailer (Up to 16 feet) in the middle of five acres. Access to picnic table, portable outhouse, and propane barbeque with one cook top burner (Propane included). The campsite borders a small farm with goats, sheep and more. Located in Central Oregon just a few minutes from Tumalo State Park, the Deschutes River that runs through downtown Bend. The river is popular for people who want to float the lazy river on their own tubes or rafts with a taxi service with drop-off and pick you up https://www.bendparksandrec.org/float/. The Old mill district is popular for shopping https://www.oldmilldistrict.com/ In downtown Bend and boarding the river is an amphitheater that hosts top name bands every few weeks. Rancho Mateo is less than ten minutes from "The Cascade Village Shopping Center" (https://www.shopcascadevillage.com) with many restaurant and shopping options to the south. Ten minutes to the north is Tumalo Town offering food carts at “The Bite” (https://www.thebitetumalo.com) with tasty local beers on tap. Tumalo town has two cider tasting rooms (Bend Cider and Tumalo Cider). In Tumalo town, you will find a general store offering refillable beer and cider growlers. It has a deli with gas, diesel, and propane. Tumalo town also a coffee shop, pizza parlor, tavern and the historic “Tumalo Feed Co. Steakhouse” https://www.tumalofeedcosteakhouse.com with an old town western feel. For you adventure people, there’s Smith Rock State Park 30 minutes to the north and Mt Bachelor 50 minutes west for you downhill and Nordic skiers. Between Mt Bachelor and my Rancho Mateo site, you can find lots of hiking and impressive mountain bike trails including the Phil’s trail system network. Five minutes north on Old Bend Redmond Highway is "Schilling's Garden Market" https://www.schillingsgardenmarket.com/ offering mini venues, gardening classes and fresh produce along with plants for sale. Fifteen minutes north is “Well Rooted” (https://wellrootedfarms.co) yep without the m at the end of their website) where you can pick your own fresh produce and buy meets and more. Twenty-five minutes N/W is the small town of Sisters with a small-town charm. The Deschutes fairgrounds https://expo.deschutes.org/ and Redmond airport https://flyrdm.com 15 minutes north.
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Paulina Acre

16. Paulina Acre

100%
(8)
La Pine, OR · 1 site
Paulina Acre is located in the Newberry Estates development, NE of La Pine and about 30 minutes south of Bend. Our development is surrounded by BLM, national forest, and a wildlife preserve. It's about 10 minutes from town and 20 minutes to the Newberry Caldera natural area (Paulina and East Lakes). Gordy's truck stop is located just a couple of miles down the road for ice and other necessities. I love small and unique spaces! I am remodeling a 375 sq/ft post WWII shotgun style cottage and am currently living in my 200 sq/ft tiny house on wheels that I built in 2016. Please excuse my mess as I have a lot of big dreams for my property and many ongoing projects.
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Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

17. Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

100%
(117)
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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Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

18. Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

99%
(157)
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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Moon Shadow Meadows

19. Moon Shadow Meadows

97%
(55)
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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Sunset Near Pine Nursery

20. Sunset Near Pine Nursery

100%
(3)
Bend, OR · 1 site · Tent, RV
Located within walking distance to Pine Nursery Park on the outskirts of the city limits. Ride bikes on quiet country roads. Terrain view, big sky, quiet surroundings. Pull through RV site of any size
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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