The best camping in Wickiup Reservoir

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) • 3,658 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Wickiup Reservoir

Sage Ridge

1. Sage Ridge

99%
(212)
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

78%
(16)
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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Old Bend River Farmhouse

3. 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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Deschutes National Forest

4. Deschutes National Forest

95%
(77)
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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Shelter at Castle Rock Farm🏕️🚐

6. 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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log shelter retreat

7. log shelter retreat

98%
(66)
La Pine, OR · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Summers here and we are up and running we look forward to all our new friends and the return of past hipcampers! Come see Crater Lake ,kayak down the little Deschutes, the obsidian flow, fort rock , and crack in the ground ! Our wooded acre provides , 12 by 20 three sided log shelter, Fire pit , BBQ, water, porta potty, and dog runs. 15 camp sites, one cabin and one Aloha trailer Vintage Aloha camp trailer, has fridge, coffee , stove and heat . sleeps two ( bedding not provided.... $80) , Cabin with loft ,heated, coffee, microwave, fridge. sleeps three adults, or Two adults and two children... $80 .(bedding not provided.) group site $500 a night, 20 people 15 tent sites . $50 per site 3 RV sites. ($50) per site. (no hook ups) Rivers, hiking, Fishing, Kayaking, Paddle boards, Crack in the ground, Fort Rock, little and Big Deschutes, Paulina lake , and Crater Lake. Gods beautiful playground is here!! 1,500 Four wheeler trails on BLM one block south. Bring your snowmobiles for winter fun on BLM. Hunters welcome on BLM ONE BLOCK SOUTH WE ARE OPEN ALL YEAR! 30 minutes to Sunriver Resort providing fine dining , bike trails, shops , golf, awesome swimming pools, etc. We are one mile from Lapine, there's restaurants, grocery stores, gas ,and outdoor food carts with views. live music, great food and drinks. Transportation for put in and take out for river excursions are provided with reservations ( $60 includes Kayak) We have three Kayaks for rent ($60 a day) with reservations. 30 minutes away is Paulina lake , the Obsidian flow, HIking, Biking, fishing, and camping,. LaPine State Park ,providing lots of hiking ,biking trails and beautiful fishing spots. Clay's the fisherman and knows all the best spots! On site there is a central place with fire pit for family, friends and to meet people. Our log shelter has ping pong, fire pit, picnic table, wash basin, porta potty and Quiet starlet sky's every evening. Clay and I will provide (24hr. notice )hot coffee ,tea, orange juice and homemade muffins to begin your morning! ( $ 10 per person ) We look forward to meeting you ! We also provide reservations for family reunions, small weddings, and private parties. Rent the group site for the weekend! ( $500) Thank you and Happy Trails
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Moon Shadow Meadows

8. Moon Shadow Meadows

98%
(74)
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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FourLeafs Camp

9. FourLeafs Camp

98%
(67)
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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Umpqua National Forest

10. Umpqua National Forest

93%
(51)
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

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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Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

14. Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

100%
(129)
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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Experience Heaven

15. Experience Heaven

99%
(1066)
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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Working Ranch just outside Bend

16. Working Ranch just outside Bend

99%
(180)
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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Harmony Farm Sanctuary

17. Harmony Farm Sanctuary

100%
(121)
Bend, OR · 1 site
Absolutely breathtaking mountain views from the tiny house and all over the property. Located on an active farm sanctuary. You will wake up to the sights, sounds and smells of our rescued farm animal friends. Learn more about this land: Tiny house with stunning mountain views located on a farm animal sanctuary, Harmony Farm Sanctuary. You will wake up in the morning to the sound of roosters crowing and our crew of friendly animal residents. It can be noisy at times but we find it delightful! The tiny house has huge, direct views of the Three Sisters mountains and Broken Top and plenty of outdoor sitting space to enjoy it and a little propane fire pit to enjoy the sunsets. The tiny house offers an amazing "glamping" experience and a unique opportunity to learn more about what we do at our animal sanctuary and even take a tour! The Space: Our hand made tiny house offers a double sized mattress (bedding included) in the upstairs area (access via an attached ladder). Room for an additional person across from double bed also in upstairs area or put provided mat on the floor. Please note: the space is small for 3 people and better serves 2. The Kitchen: Tiny house kitchen area has a small refrigerator, small counter space for meal prep, a tea kettle for hot water, water jug for fresh water, french press coffee pot and coffee/tea, hot plate for cooking, popcorn maker and popcorn, pots and pans, silverware, napkins, bottle openers, etc. We now have a new small outdoor kitchen with a two burner propane stove and an outside fish washing station. The Facilities: The tiny house offers a composting toilet for night time pee pee needs and offers a port-a-potty for all other uses please! If you want to know a secret river dipping spot or where to go to find a sauna I’m happy to share! Outdoor Shower: We have a lovely little “instant hot” shower for use on non freezing days. The Location: We are conveniently located between beautiful Bend, Oregon and Sisters, Oregon. We have hiking and biking trails within .3 of a mile! We also have books to recommend 100's of other hiking, biking, nordic skiing and alpine skiing nearby! And, since we are outdoor enthusiasts ourselves, we are happy to recommend places to ski, hike, mountain bike, float or paddle!
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Great Spot for a Quick Rest

18. Great Spot for a Quick Rest

98%
(31)
La Pine, OR · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are super close to all that Central Oregon has to offer. Right now we just have space for you to park your rig and crash for the night. Bathroom available for you with a shower. We have a nice hot tub that you can use for $10 per person for your entire stay. We have friendly dogs that roam our property but we can put them inside if you would like. We love meeting new people and sharing travel stories :)
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Wild River Sanctuary

19. Wild River Sanctuary

93%
(278)
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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Sun Outdoors Bend

20. 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
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Full hookups

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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