The best great views campgrounds 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.

98% (948)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

98% (948)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sage Ridge

100%

(141)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bend, OR

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 expore 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 thoses sites for tent camping. The tent sites offer a comfortable setting for your tent in the sandy dirt. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire pit. We have a small community area! There you will find a mini outdoor kitchen with a blackstone and a bbq. (We have no water on-site) This is also where the trash bins are located. There is also 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.

2. Experience Heaven

99%

(972)

12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · La Pine, OR

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”.

3. Harmony Farm Sanctuary

100%

(112)

1 site · Lodging · Bend, OR

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!

4. Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

100%

(111)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · OR

****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊 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 having a grief, widows/widowers, caregiver, cancer, hospice or other group that would like to have their group listed should message us as well. These respite visits are short getaways to refuel and support individuals 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. May we collectively create TOM'S REST with Tom's intention and the passion he infused in us to carry it through to fulfillment. ****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊

5. Moon Shadow Meadows-Closing July 8!

97%

(44)

54 sites · Tents, RVs · Oakridge, OR

Moon Shadow Meadows will be CLOSED July 8th 2025 indefinitely due to a letter from Lane County following Rule ORS 197.732 You can NOT have a campground within 3 miles of an Urban Growth Boundary. I am sad to share this awful news with you. Please book and enjoy while you can.. We are considering running this as an event space for Class and Family Reunions, Weddings and small music festivals contact jason@moonshadowmeadows.life secluded 40-acre hilltop retreat at 2200 feet, offers an unparalleled escape into the heart of the Cascade foothills. This serene haven, accessed via a scenic 2-mile gravel winding road through our neighbor 450-acre ranch, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Diamond Peak, Devil’s Backbone, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The property serves as a gateway to an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, boasting an onsite 1-mile mountain bike trail suitable for hiking, running, and wildlife observation and serves as a great fire Break. The region is renowned for its world-class mountain biking trails, a legacy of its logging history, and offers access to the crystal-clear waters of the Willamette River, perfect for swimming, fly fishing, and kayaking. Nearby, the historic Office Covered Bridge, and the natural hot springs of McCredie, Cougar, and Salmon Creek provide additional opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Located just outside Westfir/Oakridge, Oregon, the area offers a tranquil, crowd-free experience, ideal for those seeking respite from bustling towns. Moon Shadow Meadows embraces its remote setting, offering limited cell service and text 5038917054 no on-site Wi-Fi, encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The Skoolie Bus at the entrance provides maps, a lending library, and a first-aid kit, ensuring guests are well-prepared for their outdoor adventures. This retreat is perfect for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience, with well-behaved pets welcome, and a reminder that uphill traffic has the right of way on the driveway. Visitors should arrive ready to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities without the distractions of modern connectivity. We are not quite Dark Sky Sanctuary- Oregon, but close proximity.

6. STEEP DREAMS

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(41)

2 sites · Lodging · Sisters, OR

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.

7. White Wolf Ranch

89%

(122)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Bend, OR

White Wolf Ranch is an organic vegetable farm situated on 80 acres with beautiful views of the cascade mountain range. Walk through the numerous trails among the juniper trees and sage brush. Play games and have picnics on the 2 acres of manicured lawn and even pick vegetables for your dinner from the greenhouses. This is a beautiful oasis in the high desert. 9 minute drive from Bend, Or or a short walk down to The Bite in Tumalo. Come enjoy a truly magical camp site on our farm.Please let us know if you would like to include vegetables for your stay, we also have camp chairs, yard games, paddle boards, etc all available at an additional charge.

8. Pacific Star Ranch LLC.

95%

(21)

8 sites · RVs · Redmond, OR

4 RV spots with full hookup's we also provide dry camping for availability please call (530) 570-2114) Come be our guest at our 20 acre private gated horse and hay ranch with beautiful Mountain View’s amazing sunrises and sunsets! Safe, Private with gated code entry, Picnic tables with large lawn ***No Public Restrooms*** Must be self contained Just around the corner from Deshutes River for swimming, rafting and fishing, golfing at Eagle Crest Resort beautiful lakes nearby Endless hiking, biking, and horse back trails, waterfalls, skiing and snow sports Close to downtown Redmond shopping, restaurants, taprooms, brewery’s, wine tasting.. 20 minutes to Bend, Tumalo, Sisters, Madras, Prineville, and Terrebonne

Camper favorites in and near Wickiup Reservoir

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

100%

(111)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · OR

****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊 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 having a grief, widows/widowers, caregiver, cancer, hospice or other group that would like to have their group listed should message us as well. These respite visits are short getaways to refuel and support individuals 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. May we collectively create TOM'S REST with Tom's intention and the passion he infused in us to carry it through to fulfillment. ****PLEASE POST YOUR PHOTO on your profile for everyone’s safety. 😊

Moon Shadow Meadows-Closing July 8!

97%

(44)

54 sites · Tents, RVs · Oakridge, OR

Moon Shadow Meadows will be CLOSED July 8th 2025 indefinitely due to a letter from Lane County following Rule ORS 197.732 You can NOT have a campground within 3 miles of an Urban Growth Boundary. I am sad to share this awful news with you. Please book and enjoy while you can.. We are considering running this as an event space for Class and Family Reunions, Weddings and small music festivals contact jason@moonshadowmeadows.life secluded 40-acre hilltop retreat at 2200 feet, offers an unparalleled escape into the heart of the Cascade foothills. This serene haven, accessed via a scenic 2-mile gravel winding road through our neighbor 450-acre ranch, provides breathtaking panoramic views of Diamond Peak, Devil’s Backbone, and the surrounding mountain ranges. The property serves as a gateway to an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, boasting an onsite 1-mile mountain bike trail suitable for hiking, running, and wildlife observation and serves as a great fire Break. The region is renowned for its world-class mountain biking trails, a legacy of its logging history, and offers access to the crystal-clear waters of the Willamette River, perfect for swimming, fly fishing, and kayaking. Nearby, the historic Office Covered Bridge, and the natural hot springs of McCredie, Cougar, and Salmon Creek provide additional opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Located just outside Westfir/Oakridge, Oregon, the area offers a tranquil, crowd-free experience, ideal for those seeking respite from bustling towns. Moon Shadow Meadows embraces its remote setting, offering limited cell service and text 5038917054 no on-site Wi-Fi, encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The Skoolie Bus at the entrance provides maps, a lending library, and a first-aid kit, ensuring guests are well-prepared for their outdoor adventures. This retreat is perfect for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience, with well-behaved pets welcome, and a reminder that uphill traffic has the right of way on the driveway. Visitors should arrive ready to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities without the distractions of modern connectivity. We are not quite Dark Sky Sanctuary- Oregon, but close proximity.

STEEP DREAMS

100%

(41)

2 sites · Lodging · Sisters, OR

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.

White Wolf Ranch

89%

(122)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Bend, OR

White Wolf Ranch is an organic vegetable farm situated on 80 acres with beautiful views of the cascade mountain range. Walk through the numerous trails among the juniper trees and sage brush. Play games and have picnics on the 2 acres of manicured lawn and even pick vegetables for your dinner from the greenhouses. This is a beautiful oasis in the high desert. 9 minute drive from Bend, Or or a short walk down to The Bite in Tumalo. Come enjoy a truly magical camp site on our farm.Please let us know if you would like to include vegetables for your stay, we also have camp chairs, yard games, paddle boards, etc all available at an additional charge.

Pacific Star Ranch LLC.

95%

(21)

8 sites · RVs · Redmond, OR

4 RV spots with full hookup's we also provide dry camping for availability please call (530) 570-2114) Come be our guest at our 20 acre private gated horse and hay ranch with beautiful Mountain View’s amazing sunrises and sunsets! Safe, Private with gated code entry, Picnic tables with large lawn ***No Public Restrooms*** Must be self contained Just around the corner from Deshutes River for swimming, rafting and fishing, golfing at Eagle Crest Resort beautiful lakes nearby Endless hiking, biking, and horse back trails, waterfalls, skiing and snow sports Close to downtown Redmond shopping, restaurants, taprooms, brewery’s, wine tasting.. 20 minutes to Bend, Tumalo, Sisters, Madras, Prineville, and Terrebonne

Stories from the community

A

Atarangi

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

Sage Ridge is beautiful with well maintained sites and a great community area. Sandy and Tim are so friendly. I loved this spot and would definitely return. It is easy to get to, and offers some privacy.

B

Ben

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

Great camping spot! We showed up on a whim, booked a site, and had a nice night camping! The stars are mind blowing. The area is pretty sandy though, so be prepared for some cleanup afterwards. There was also a verrrry friendly kitty that came to say hi (and tried to go home with us) which added some fun to the evening.

C

Christian

October 2025

1 night at Sage Ridge

Sandy and Tim’s tipi was so fun and it’s beautifully made! Inside, it’s spacious enough to setup camp and still stand and easily move around. The fire pit was worth it on a cold night as it easily kept us cozy and warm all night. The community space is thoughtfully setup with many resources. The tuxedo cat (unsure their name but we called them “Noodle”) joined us at the community space, then followed us back to the tipi. We were happy to have their companionship, but heads up in case that’s not your preference because it did sneak its way through the main zipper of the tent. 10/10 would recommend.

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

Our groups backpacking plans changed and this was a great last minute find close to town. It's a great spot and equipped with a lot of amenities to help make your stay more comfortable. Our group was already planning a trip back out for next year!

A

Adriana

October 2025

1 night at Sage Ridge

Wonderful spot just outside of Bend, comfy sleeping pads, and the cutest little kitty that gives unlimited snuggles.

C

Carly

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Sage Ridge

Great Hipcamp! The pictures show what you actually get! The camp was very clean and well maintained! There were tons of activities and amenities! Would be a great place to take the family camping! We had the whole campground to ourselves, it was very quiet and relaxing. We had our two dogs with us and it was very accommodating for them too! The campground cat even came for a few visits! You can tell that the hosts take a lot of pride in their campground and work hard to make it a safe place for all!

B

Bert

October 2025

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

This site was easy to access from the highway. Maybe too easy since we could hear the cars and trucks from the highway, but it was not an overwhelming noise. Otherwise very clean, quiet, and just as the description said. There were only two other campers, I think, so no problems with the toilet capacity.

M

Mandy

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Sage Ridge

Campsite was top notch! Very clean and well maintained and beautiful views! Will definitely try and stay there again.

C

Courtney

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Sage Ridge

Such a lovely spot and site, and my partner and I loved the lil kitty that was roaming around! Definitely will keep this spot in mind when we’re in the Bend area

Erin

October 2025

With kids

1 night at Sage Ridge

Great little place to stay! We had a very warm welcome from not only the camp host but also from their adorable kitty who spent the night with us in the teepee ☺️

Heather

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Experience Heaven

Beautiful, quiet, isolated, yet easy to find spot on East Lake. Close to Bend and LaPine. Lots of ducks and other birds, chipmunks, and we could hear other critters roaming around at night. David was a lovely host. Would definitely stay again.

Melanie

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Pacific Star Ranch LLC.

Immaculate RV site with horses a neighbors. Couldn’t be happier.

J

Jeremy

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

Site is well-configured for privacy while also enabling community space. Not too far from Bend, but far enough to be quiet and have very clear night skies free from light pollution (excellent views of the Milky Way). Main gravel road is well-kept and portable toilet was set up with hand soap and water for hand washing. The site kitties are cute and playful, but I would caution against letting them snuggle up too tightly. One of them got a bit excited and left scents (from glands) on our sleeping bags, and that forced us to abandon open air sleeping for tent camping.

A

Annie

September 2025

19 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

They could not have been kinder and more accommodating. We had the greatest night at Sage Ridge. It’s beautiful and has everything you need.

K

Karen

September 2025

Weekend Trip to STEEP DREAMS

This is a special place with an amazing views, comfortable bed and great shower. Coffee in bed while watching the sun rise. A porch for relaxing. Exactly as advertised, but better!

J

Jessica

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Sage Ridge

The tipi was very cool! It was super convenient being able to camp without having to setup too much. We just brought a pillow and sleeping bag. It was fairly easy to find and we were able to easily navigate there in our Tesla model 3 on the dirt/gravel roads. The area was well lit and the site was very clean. Bring camp chairs for the fire pit! Be aware that it does get pretty chilly overnight being in the desert so make sure you bring a warm enough sleeping bag. Overall it was a cool camping experience!

S

Svea

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

Great facility with beautiful views and well-maintained sites and communal spots. The camp cat was a huge hit! The campsites are spread apart, so they feel private. The only drawback was the road noise from the nearby Highway 20. We would definitely camp here again!

J

Junior

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sage Ridge

This place was exactly what we needed to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Stargazing was amazing on our first night. We were greeted by a kitty there that hung out with us for most of our stay she was great company to have. Communication with host was good. They have plenty of fire wood bundles for sale that came through for us you can pay cash or Venmo. Basically had the whole campground to ourselves.

Raelyn

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

My dog, Panzer, and I had a great stay here! We had originally booked site 4, but due to a no-show Cheryl said we could set-up in site 5, which gave us a ton of room to spread out that I didn't expect. It can be dusty, but I'm used to that in Central Oregon - having the gravel road cuts down on the dust quite a bit too (personally, I packed up my tent in the gravel). I was surprised by the complete lack of bugs, which was a great highlight. And I loved how close the restroom was - even being in the furthest camping spot, it's maybe a 2-minute walk. Once we got the lay of the land, the best part was being able to let Panzer run off-leash - he had a grand ol' time traversing the terrain. It was nice that Cheryl kept checking in on us as well - very personable and a great conversationalist.

S

Samantha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Harmony Farm Sanctuary

Staying at the Tiny House on the Farm Sanctuary was one of the most unique and heartwarming experiences I’ve ever had. Every detail in the house felt intentional and personal—cozy, charming, and full of character. You can feel the love that Robine has put into creating this space. Waking up surrounded by nature and animals was something truly special. Everything was clean, inviting, and just perfect for a grounding weekend escape. I left feeling restored and inspired. Highly recommend this stay to anyone looking for something meaningful and magical.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping in Wickiup Reservoir guide

Notable campgrounds

Best for groups: Gull Point Campground has two group campsites for up to 30 people.
Best for anglers: Reservoir Campground offers direct access to the water.

Tips for snagging a campsite

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.
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.
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.