The best ranch 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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near 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% (602)

Top-rated campgrounds near Wickiup Reservoir

1. Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

99%

(129)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR

Shelter at Castle Rock Farm – A Private Sanctuary Camping Paradise Sanctuary Escape | Wildlife Viewing | Pet-Friendly | Covered Shelters | Stunning Scenery | Exclusive and Peaceful 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: We can connect you with local rafting trips, bike/mountain bike rentals, and hiking shuttle services for a hassle-free experience. 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! ✨

2. Calico Princess

99%

(36)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Deschutes River Woods, OR

A peaceful retreat on the ranch, lots of open pasture and wildlife. Multiple RV spaces with electrical and well water, and a few tent sites. Lots of open space and sunshine for walks, clear sky’s for starry nights, a frog pond, larger pond with mature aspen grove and bench, campfires*, motorcycles**. birds, deer passing through. Resident cats, Ike, Rose and Haze can be seen out hunting. Streams and ponds June-Sept. Rpod not included. Cameras onsite, but campsites are not covered. Kid friendly with some playground equipment. Very private, lots of spaces to choose from. Kid friendly, including a climbing dome and a trampoline, and some other obstacle course items. Cows and goats to follow around. Afternoon shade on the bench by the main pond next to the aspen grove and a bit of a trickling creek when the pond is full. 10 minutes from downtown Bend and all it has to offer. 5 mins north on Brookswood to the Old Mill District, and the Deschutes river (and trail). Chickens on site for fresh eggs (starting Sept ‘25)

3. Lucky Six Ranch

100%

(15)

1 site · Tent, RV · Bend, OR

Lucky Six Ranch is located 5 miles from the edge of NE Bend OR surrounded by sagebrush, juniper, pastures, and mountain views. Enjoy the seasonal adventures around the Central Oregon Area including Mt Bachelor, Smith Rock State Park, Tumalo State Park. Grab a bite at one of the many food carts in town and relax under the stars at the ranch. Say hi to the goats and cats and listen to the coyotes, hawks and quail. Stretch, do yoga, mediate in the tipi space. This campsite space works well for self contained camper vans/trucks, tent camping. The tipi space can be used for camping/sleeping in good weather. However- Please note, it is OPEN, un-heated, and during times of rain/snow, it is not weather proof. You are welcome to use your own portable propane or electric heaters at your own risk. No fires or cooking is allowed inside the tipi space.

4. Sam's Farm near Bend

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(120)

2 sites · Lodging · Bend, OR

This is a camping accomodation in an RV that is onsite at our property. You cannot drive it off the property, it remains here at all times. Just bring yourselves and your food and belongings! This 30 foot RV has a queen size bed, seating and dining area, small kitchen space, shower, toilet, refrigerator and electric, wifi and water hookups. Septic dumps are our problem, not yours. Enjoy a fun getaway near Bend for a reasonable price. Up to two dogs allowed. Historic farm property with standing structures from the early 1900's including the schoolhouse in our driveway and smokehouse at the very back of the lot. Our neighbor across the street grows 30 acres of the best alfalfa around, and we also have ranchers nearby raising sheep, top quality cattle, horses, pygmy goats, rehabilitated former race horses and even peacocks! Great Bend proximate camping is hard to find. We offer a safe, secure place to camp 10 minutes outside of town with a beautiful farm pond to enjoy in the backyard. We were so honored to be named one of Oregon's top rated HipCamp sites in 2020 and 2021! Thank you! We have taken a break from hosting the last few years and are happy to be back with this new option. Nearby: Explore trails and Bureau of Land Management (free and open federal property) access nearby for mountain biking, hiking and more. You are welcome and encouraged to explore our property and enjoy all of its peaceful tranquility, including two beautiful ponds. You can walk your dogs without leaving the premises. Kids love our giant tree house. This is a great place for those with dogs and families. We have dogs and cats but they are friendly with other animals. We ask that you never bring a pet with you who might harm one of ours. There are also wild animals here like deer, hawks, quail, coyotes, porcupines, rockchucks, owls and more. If you have a question about our site, please message me and I'm sure to answer with a prompt response, unless it's between 8pm and 7am Pacific. Thanks for your interest and happy camping!

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. Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

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(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. 😊

7. Rags To Rescues Sanctuary

100%

(18)

2 sites · Lodging · Sisters, OR

Welcome to Rags to Rescues! Nestled on our serene 165-acre farm, we offer two unique stays: The Bunkhouse and The Cottage on the Pond. Whether you're seeking a rustic getaway or a peaceful retreat by the water, every stay directly supports our mission of compassionate and sustainable animal care. The Bunkhouse: A cozy, fully furnished space with rustic charm and modern amenities, perfect for solo travelers or couples. The Cottage on the Pond: A charming one-bedroom retreat, ideal for individuals or couples looking for a tranquil escape surrounded by nature. During your visit, you’ll experience the rhythms of farm life—whether you choose to relax in nature or engage in hands-on activities. Your stay helps provide care for our rescued animals and sustains our mission. We are proud to create an inclusive and welcoming space for all, including individuals from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. At Rags to Rescues, diversity is celebrated, and your presence enriches our community. Important Details: *Pet Policy: A pet deposit is required if you're bringing a furry friend. Please add the pet deposit in the “Extras” section when booking. Maximum of 2 dogs allowed. *Cancellation Policy: We offer a 14-day money-back cancellation policy to allow other guests the opportunity to book a stay. Thank you for supporting Rags to Rescues Sanctuary, where relaxation, purpose, and community come together in harmony. We look forward to hosting you! **Tax-ID: 99-1736093

8. Working Ranch just outside Bend

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(162)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bend, OR

Located 9 miles east of Bend our 40 acre ranch is full of open fields and juniper forest. We have cows, chickens, geese and ducks that live on the ranch and you will most likely see them roaming around the fields. The nights are quiet with the exception of frogs and crickets and offer a full night sky without light pollution.

9. 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

10. Coyote Landing

100%

(10)

2 sites · RVs · Bend, OR

All inclusive RV camping on 5 quiet acres with views! Two sites separated by a newly built barn for longer stays. Washer and dryer available, ample privacy and lots of open space. We are a hard working family of 5 with 2 dogs and a number of other small animals. We run a quiet / tidy space with access to public lands and walking trails. The 2 mile loop around the neighborhood is scenic and lush with irrigation during the summer months. The 2 fenced acres immediately north of the camping area are for your enjoyment. All of this and more, only 10 minutes from town. Please note that while good separation exists between your accommodations and our primary residence, you should expect to see and hear us around the property on occasion. Lastly, we are at the far corner of a 2 mile gravel loop, making the drive into our property slow and dusty - and also private!

11. Twisted Juniper Ranch

93%

(20)

2 sites · Lodging · Bend, OR

Come stay in a traditional Mongolian Yurt on this majestic 2.4 acres of land located on a butte with southern exposure facing Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, and Three Sisters Peaks. Enjoy the great views while soaking up plenty of sunshine during the days and excellent star gazing at night. Juniper dominate the landscape with an abundance of black lava, the densest lava found in Central Oregon. There are local mule deer that travel thru the ranch foraging on sagebrush and juniper berries. This campsite is located close to plenty hiking/biking trails and state parks. Whether you enjoy rock climbing, fly fishing, hiking, rock hounding, or spending the day shredding on Mt Bachelor there are activities for everyone nearby. We have a flock of 16 range chickens also. 6 miles-Tumalo State Park 20 miles-Smith Rock State Park 10 miles-Redmond Airport 32 miles-Mt. Bachelor 3 miles-Deschutes River 9 miles-downtown Bend

12. The Honeybee Ranch

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(27)

5 sites · Lodging · Bend, OR

You are just minutes away whether you are Hiking, Biking, walking or riding your horses to our lovely little village of Tumalo for outdoor music, food trucks, fire pits and country store. Located in the golden triangle of Central Oregon, strategic to Bend Sisters and Redmond. The 11 acre Ranch is also surrounded by hundreds of acres of wooded and open fields with trails. You will see resident deer, owls, falcons and coyotes. Come unplug on your slice of "privacy".....and enjoy the view of Pilot Butte in the distance! Two adults-capacity: Includes two twin beds. Bring your own sleeping bags. Small refrigerator/freezer, Full Bathroom (Compost) Bathtub Heater Indoor / Outdoor lights Picnic Table Outdoor Fire Pits and BBQ Five minutes to the Deschutes River for fly fishing and river floating. We will happily share the best places to float, horse-back riding, hikes, bike trails to relax. Need something additional or forgot it? (floats, bike, ice, coffee creamer, s'mores, etc...just ask us!) Property condusive to snow shoeing and cross country skiing when snowy. Campsite is set up for two people. Join us at HoneyBee Ranch, where we value your privacy!

13. Blue Hour Acres

100%

(8)

1 site · Lodging · Tumalo, OR

Welcome to Blue Hour Acres, a cozy and nature-inspired retreat just 15 minutes from downtown Bend, Oregon. Nestled in the high desert landscape, our Lotus Belle tent offers a luxurious glamping experience with the perfect balance of comfort and rustic charm. This spacious tent is thoughtfully appointed for a relaxing vacation rental, surrounded by juniper and sage, making it the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy access to onsite bathrooms, a wood-fired outdoor sauna with a refreshing outdoor shower (coming in November 2025), and private parking just steps from your site. As part of your stay, explore our small working farm where friendly chickens and goats roam and a young apple orchard promises a peaceful place to stroll. You'll be just five minutes from great local restaurants and shopping, and a short drive to Hayden Homes Amphitheater, or Mt. Bachelor for skiing, hiking, and biking. While the Great Horned Owl tent is currently available for booking, four more uniquely named tents—Western Screech Owl, Barn Owl, Northern Pygmy-Owl, and Northern Saw-whet Owl—are coming soon. Whether you’re craving solitude, mountain adventures, or a quiet sauna under the stars, Blue Hour Acres is your gateway to the best of Central Oregon.

14. Tumalo Mountain View Ranch

1 site · Tent, RV · Bend, OR

We have an RV site with full hook ups on our private working ranch. Enjoy the peaceful privacy of our space, with lovely mountain views as you enter the property. We are conveniently located in the beautiful countryside of Tumalo, between Bend, Redmond, and Sisters, Oregon. Highlights include fresh air, delicious well water, and a quiet environment. Cindy is happy to answer questions and offer local recommendations, when asked.

Camper favorites in and near Wickiup Reservoir

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Coyote Landing

100%

(10)

2 sites · RVs · Bend, OR

All inclusive RV camping on 5 quiet acres with views! Two sites separated by a newly built barn for longer stays. Washer and dryer available, ample privacy and lots of open space. We are a hard working family of 5 with 2 dogs and a number of other small animals. We run a quiet / tidy space with access to public lands and walking trails. The 2 mile loop around the neighborhood is scenic and lush with irrigation during the summer months. The 2 fenced acres immediately north of the camping area are for your enjoyment. All of this and more, only 10 minutes from town. Please note that while good separation exists between your accommodations and our primary residence, you should expect to see and hear us around the property on occasion. Lastly, we are at the far corner of a 2 mile gravel loop, making the drive into our property slow and dusty - and also private!

Twisted Juniper Ranch

93%

(20)

2 sites · Lodging · Bend, OR

Come stay in a traditional Mongolian Yurt on this majestic 2.4 acres of land located on a butte with southern exposure facing Mt. Bachelor, Broken Top, and Three Sisters Peaks. Enjoy the great views while soaking up plenty of sunshine during the days and excellent star gazing at night. Juniper dominate the landscape with an abundance of black lava, the densest lava found in Central Oregon. There are local mule deer that travel thru the ranch foraging on sagebrush and juniper berries. This campsite is located close to plenty hiking/biking trails and state parks. Whether you enjoy rock climbing, fly fishing, hiking, rock hounding, or spending the day shredding on Mt Bachelor there are activities for everyone nearby. We have a flock of 16 range chickens also. 6 miles-Tumalo State Park 20 miles-Smith Rock State Park 10 miles-Redmond Airport 32 miles-Mt. Bachelor 3 miles-Deschutes River 9 miles-downtown Bend

The Honeybee Ranch

100%

(27)

5 sites · Lodging · Bend, OR

You are just minutes away whether you are Hiking, Biking, walking or riding your horses to our lovely little village of Tumalo for outdoor music, food trucks, fire pits and country store. Located in the golden triangle of Central Oregon, strategic to Bend Sisters and Redmond. The 11 acre Ranch is also surrounded by hundreds of acres of wooded and open fields with trails. You will see resident deer, owls, falcons and coyotes. Come unplug on your slice of "privacy".....and enjoy the view of Pilot Butte in the distance! Two adults-capacity: Includes two twin beds. Bring your own sleeping bags. Small refrigerator/freezer, Full Bathroom (Compost) Bathtub Heater Indoor / Outdoor lights Picnic Table Outdoor Fire Pits and BBQ Five minutes to the Deschutes River for fly fishing and river floating. We will happily share the best places to float, horse-back riding, hikes, bike trails to relax. Need something additional or forgot it? (floats, bike, ice, coffee creamer, s'mores, etc...just ask us!) Property condusive to snow shoeing and cross country skiing when snowy. Campsite is set up for two people. Join us at HoneyBee Ranch, where we value your privacy!

Blue Hour Acres

100%

(8)

1 site · Lodging · Tumalo, OR

Welcome to Blue Hour Acres, a cozy and nature-inspired retreat just 15 minutes from downtown Bend, Oregon. Nestled in the high desert landscape, our Lotus Belle tent offers a luxurious glamping experience with the perfect balance of comfort and rustic charm. This spacious tent is thoughtfully appointed for a relaxing vacation rental, surrounded by juniper and sage, making it the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy access to onsite bathrooms, a wood-fired outdoor sauna with a refreshing outdoor shower (coming in November 2025), and private parking just steps from your site. As part of your stay, explore our small working farm where friendly chickens and goats roam and a young apple orchard promises a peaceful place to stroll. You'll be just five minutes from great local restaurants and shopping, and a short drive to Hayden Homes Amphitheater, or Mt. Bachelor for skiing, hiking, and biking. While the Great Horned Owl tent is currently available for booking, four more uniquely named tents—Western Screech Owl, Barn Owl, Northern Pygmy-Owl, and Northern Saw-whet Owl—are coming soon. Whether you’re craving solitude, mountain adventures, or a quiet sauna under the stars, Blue Hour Acres is your gateway to the best of Central Oregon.

Tumalo Mountain View Ranch

1 site · Tent, RV · Bend, OR

We have an RV site with full hook ups on our private working ranch. Enjoy the peaceful privacy of our space, with lovely mountain views as you enter the property. We are conveniently located in the beautiful countryside of Tumalo, between Bend, Redmond, and Sisters, Oregon. Highlights include fresh air, delicious well water, and a quiet environment. Cindy is happy to answer questions and offer local recommendations, when asked.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Becky

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Calico Princess

Fantastic host, great property, and a cat that I can pretend is my new best friend. 10/10 Brett was great! Made sure we had everything we needed, and we felt like we had plenty of privacy.

A

ANGELA

October 2025

18 ft campervan

1 night at Calico Princess

Brett was great! Beautiful, clean property and lovely farm animals. We will definitely be back here! Thanks Brett!

C

Cassidy

October 2025

2 nights at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

The tent was cozy and the campgrounds were beautifully maintained. Richard was helpful and the kitchen and tent were well stocked with small amenities like dish soap and a battery-powered vacuum.

T

Tim

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Rags To Rescues Sanctuary

We stayed in the Bunkhouse. The listing definitely undersells how beautiful this place is. Super spacious, well appointed kitchen, super comfy everything, awesome hot tub, and animal friends! When we weren't relaxing or staring at the stars while having a soak, we got to know the cute critters that call this place home. Bonnie is a fantastic host and I love that the proceeds from our stay went to the sanctuary. We will definitely be staying again.

A

Ahndreah

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

This was such a great campsite! Very peaceful and had everything we needed. We will definitely be coming back! All the firewood you could possibly need, a clean outhouse. It felt very secluded but was close to some restaurants and Belknap hot springs. Awesome find!

K

Kate

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

Rich’s property is absolutely beautiful. We arrived and found everything pretty easy to find. As soon as we pulled up Rich drove down to greet us, showed us around the site, and had a chat before it started raining — which was no problem as he’s done a really great job covering the tent, sitting area, and kitchen at the big maple site. It’s clear that the host has thought through just about every camping amenity that you might need. I was constantly finding little things around the site and kept shouting things like “he even has marshmallow toasting sticks!! Firewood is covered and organized by size just feet away from the site. That’s the kind of convenience you’ll have here. The rain cleared up and the stars came out and we managed to start a fire and have an incredibly cozy night with our pup. There were no other campers while we were there - so it really felt like we had complete privacy and the place to ourselves. a short walk away is a second campsite next to a huge open meadow which is where we went on our morning walk and it was absolutely stunning and serene. Saw a bunch of wildlife (the whole property is a sanctuary for it) and reluctantly packed up and continued our road trip. The whole area is ridiculously beautiful so if you’re coming from far away just know the drive alone makes it worthwhile. 10/10 would camp again!

Ashleigh

September 2025

2 nights at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

I recently stayed at this campsite with my dog, and we both had a great experience. After a full day of exploring the area, she was completely worn out and slept soundly in the tent, lulled to sleep by the sound of rain on the roof. Luckily, we stayed perfectly dry thanks to the well-built structure covering our setup—it made all the difference. The site was fully equipped with everything we needed, including cooking tools, which made meals super convenient. The property itself was stunning—peaceful, natural, and full of wildlife. I spotted around 10 deer during our stay and more wild turkeys than I could count. It was such a refreshing escape. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking to unplug, enjoy nature, and still have a few comforts of home! Dog Approved!

Cynthia

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Rags To Rescues Sanctuary

What an incredibly special place! We would absolutely stay there again when visiting the area. Wonderful hosts and wonderful space.

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.

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Lyndsay

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

This campsite was amazing! I was lucky enough to get to stay at both the Big Maple site and Tall Timber the weekend I stayed. It was just me on this trip, and it was nice to have it all to myself and enjoy the hammock and firepit but it is definitely a great spot for a group of friends to stay at too. Made for a great location while I did some hikes and exploring along the McKenzie River including Koosah and Sahalie Falls. There is so much space and privacy and its in such a beautiful setting- Very relaxing. The vacuum is nice for self cleaning, makes it super quick and easy and Rich clearly takes good care of the grounds and his guests. I loved it here so much!

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Lisa

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lucky Six Ranch

Pretty spot. There is a small stream (irrigation ditch) on the property as well. Close to town. The portapotty was clean. Hammock was nice.

E

Emily

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

I really enjoyed this spot. It was secluded, had lots of great little details included such as firewood starter, water with a sink, walking sticks, table to cook on, etc. We truly enjoyed relaxing at this spot and wish we had even more time! Would love to come back in the future. The spot is located close to the Cougar Rocks Hotspring! Again, I think the host did a great job on the little details that made this place a great one to stay at!

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Forest

September 2025

2 nights at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

Very accommodating and responsive host. He also turned me on to several interesting spots to check out as well as a great place to eat. The property is impeccably well maintained and as beautiful as an oregon rainforest can be.

Merrill

September 2025

24 ft Class B

2 nights at Working Ranch just outside Bend

Picturesque and peaceful! This site was clean and well marked. Beautiful ranch and high desert country. Ask about purchasing a jar of their home grown honey!

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Crystal

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

This place was so cute and perfect for our short stay! Easy to find with the directions from our host and included everything we needed! We hiked Sahalie and Koosah Falls and went to Tamolitch Blue Pool which was really close to this spot! We will definitely stay again next summer when we return to the area! There were deer and an owl above the tent that we couldn’t see but sounded like it was only feet away.

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.

D

Dyllan

September 2025

With kids

1 night at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

We were lucky to have nobody else camping in the surrounding spots, but the complete emersion in nature was the best part for us! The big maple spot is amazing. Totally quiet at night besides the bugs and frogs, beautiful property in the early morning. We were even lucky enough to see deer, owls, and a blackbear in the late evening. Everything we needed was provided to make our stay so easy.

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Deborah

September 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Tom's Rest Canyon Retreat Center

Cheryl was a wonderful host!! Her campsites are amazing and super clean! She was very responsive to all our questions and needs!! We are hoping to stay with her again soon!!

S

Sally

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

This spot is perfect! Exactly as advertised. A ton of space, very clean & well kept property & camping space. We are avid backpackers so this felt like glamping with the shelter, platform, & lighting. A ton of wildlife (large flocks of wild turkeys + herds of deer, hawks, songbirds) & beautiful scenery. We took all 4 of our dogs for a quick overnight for my wife’s birthday & it was perfect for a chill, fun evening. Great short walking paths. Richard is very nice & welcoming! Would stay again :~)

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Dorothy

September 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Shelter at Castle Rock Farm

We stayed here with 6 friends for a birthday celebration and Richard was so nice and accommodating! The space is perfect for small or large group hangs, we really enjoyed the fire pit area and covered awning/kitchen set up. A few friends stayed in their big tent and others set up tents on the grass. Richard provided firewood and was great at communication. He’s also got 2 cute dogs that stopped by. The grounds were beautiful and super close to local hikes and hot springs! Would highly recommend and will be returning!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best ranch 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.