Discover the best campgrounds in Wickiup Reservoir with wildlife watching

United States
—
Oregon
—
Wickiup Reservoir

96% (1353 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Wickiup Reservoir

Dog-friendly getaways

Under $50

98%

(22)

Pollack Pines Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Bend, OR

Our Campsites are located on 1/2 acre set outside of Sunriver attracting outdoor enthusiasts with year-round sunshine and easy access to some of the most spectacular natural areas for boating, kyaking, fishing, hiking mountain biking, and skiing, not to mention the abundance of wildlife to see. The Deschutes River is accessible within a mile of the campsites. Surrounded by Lakes and Mt Bachelor just minutes away. Sunriver is just 5 minutes away from the campsites and is only a short drive away from Bend and Lapine. While outdoor fun reigns supreme here, it’s also a bit of a foodie destination, with a wide range of local breweries. One of Central Oregon's biggest draws, the Deschutes River and its tributaries, lakes, and reservoirs attract boaters and paddlers, particularly in the summer months. Private and public camping opportunities abound near the river, Anns Butte, Bachelor, Sisters, LaPine State Park, and Tumalo State Park, a riverside gem with canyon trails, swimming holes, and excellent rainbow trout fishing. Unfortunately, this pristine spot is no secret—book early to secure your spot in the summer. We have an awesome circular driveway for arriving and leaving. "On your honor" bikes to use and an "on your honor" game bin - all complimentary!

Wild River Sanctuary

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Crescent, OR

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.

Great Spot for a Quick Rest

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acres · La Pine, OR

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. Learn more about this land:Hi everyone! Our property is pretty full right now, but if you need a place to crash for the night and you have a small rig, hit us up! we love to meet new people traveling through! Thanks!Port-O-Potty outside for your convenience and water refills if you need em.

Escape at the Deschutes

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Three Rivers, OR

Nestled in the embrace of Deschutes National Forest, our property beckons outdoor enthusiasts to a haven of adventure. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of Central Oregon, this campsite offers a gateway to nature's wonders. Awaken to the crisp mountain air and immerse yourself in the tranquility of towering pines, with landmarks like the majestic Three Sisters and the iconic Deschutes River weaving through the terrain. Explore scenic trails by day, whether you're hiking or mountain biking, and unwind under the starlit sky by night. Your escape to nature's beauty begins here, amidst the splendor of Central Oregon. Site Highlights: *Extended stays welcome* -Full service sites -50 Amp service (30 Amp RV/trailer please have step-down adapter) -Gravel driveway -Electric, sewer, water and garbage included -Nice, quiet setting -Wildlife sitings such as elk, deer, rabbits, birds and squirrels -Quick access to the Cascade Lakes Highway -Short commute to Sunriver Village

Experience Heaven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents157 acres · La Pine, OR

8 campsites and 2 original Mongolian Gers. The season for the camp sites is from June 1st to October 15 and the Gers are all 12 months. Pets allowed, toilets on site, campfires permitted when burn ban is not in place. This being the 4th year, things have gotten a little out of hand. So let's regergitate some things and make sure everyone understands how it is. If you aren't capable of practicing the 5 P's, then you need to book somewhere else. Proper Preperation Prevents Poor Performance. If you can't get here and have your camp set up by 8:00PM, showing respect to the other Hipcampers that are already set up and enjoying the PEACE AND QUIET, then you need to book somewhere else or don't come until the following morning. No driving down to the campsites/the lake after 8::00PM. Period. Communicate with me. If you leave Portland at 5:00 PM with the intention of spending the night in Heaven then you need to alter your plans. No more than 4 adults at each campsite. I am almost to the point of saying no BIG DOGS. If you got big dogs, my suggestion is you go book someplace else. Talk to me. It is a given they willl need to be on a tethered throughout your time in Heaven. Take them for walks along the lake, not having them run thru everyone elses camp sites. No Yappers, no barking dogs, no yippers, no pain in the butts. Why would you drive by 46 grocery stores and forget to bring ice? No music. I have changed quiet time to 9:00 PM. You need to listen to 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. The chipmunks, the squirrels, all the different birds, the eagles, the osprey, the fish jumping, the deer roaming, the timber martins running thru the trees, the snowshoe rabbits and the occasional black bear. Then there is the silence. The best part of “Heaven”. So, while you are here, take a deep breath, close your eyes at the appropriate moment and ask yourself, am I on the right path? Is what I am doing fulfilling me? Am I showing my family and friends how much I love them? Do I really need all that crap I got? Where do I go from here? My intention was for each one you to not just go camping, or to stay in a Mongolian Ger but to have an “Experience” that just might lead you to a more fulfilling and happier life.

12 top campgrounds in Wickiup Reservoir with wildlife watching

97%

(19)

Escape at the Deschutes

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Three Rivers, OR

Nestled in the embrace of Deschutes National Forest, our property beckons outdoor enthusiasts to a haven of adventure. Surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of Central Oregon, this campsite offers a gateway to nature's wonders. Awaken to the crisp mountain air and immerse yourself in the tranquility of towering pines, with landmarks like the majestic Three Sisters and the iconic Deschutes River weaving through the terrain. Explore scenic trails by day, whether you're hiking or mountain biking, and unwind under the starlit sky by night. Your escape to nature's beauty begins here, amidst the splendor of Central Oregon. Site Highlights: *Extended stays welcome* -Full service sites -50 Amp service (30 Amp RV/trailer please have step-down adapter) -Gravel driveway -Electric, sewer, water and garbage included -Nice, quiet setting -Wildlife sitings such as elk, deer, rabbits, birds and squirrels -Quick access to the Cascade Lakes Highway -Short commute to Sunriver Village

Wild River Sanctuary

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Crescent, OR

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.

Experience Heaven

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents157 acres · La Pine, OR

8 campsites and 2 original Mongolian Gers. The season for the camp sites is from June 1st to October 15 and the Gers are all 12 months. Pets allowed, toilets on site, campfires permitted when burn ban is not in place. This being the 4th year, things have gotten a little out of hand. So let's regergitate some things and make sure everyone understands how it is. If you aren't capable of practicing the 5 P's, then you need to book somewhere else. Proper Preperation Prevents Poor Performance. If you can't get here and have your camp set up by 8:00PM, showing respect to the other Hipcampers that are already set up and enjoying the PEACE AND QUIET, then you need to book somewhere else or don't come until the following morning. No driving down to the campsites/the lake after 8::00PM. Period. Communicate with me. If you leave Portland at 5:00 PM with the intention of spending the night in Heaven then you need to alter your plans. No more than 4 adults at each campsite. I am almost to the point of saying no BIG DOGS. If you got big dogs, my suggestion is you go book someplace else. Talk to me. It is a given they willl need to be on a tethered throughout your time in Heaven. Take them for walks along the lake, not having them run thru everyone elses camp sites. No Yappers, no barking dogs, no yippers, no pain in the butts. Why would you drive by 46 grocery stores and forget to bring ice? No music. I have changed quiet time to 9:00 PM. You need to listen to 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. The chipmunks, the squirrels, all the different birds, the eagles, the osprey, the fish jumping, the deer roaming, the timber martins running thru the trees, the snowshoe rabbits and the occasional black bear. Then there is the silence. The best part of “Heaven”. So, while you are here, take a deep breath, close your eyes at the appropriate moment and ask yourself, am I on the right path? Is what I am doing fulfilling me? Am I showing my family and friends how much I love them? Do I really need all that crap I got? Where do I go from here? My intention was for each one you to not just go camping, or to stay in a Mongolian Ger but to have an “Experience” that just might lead you to a more fulfilling and happier life.

Pollack Pines Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Bend, OR

Our Campsites are located on 1/2 acre set outside of Sunriver attracting outdoor enthusiasts with year-round sunshine and easy access to some of the most spectacular natural areas for boating, kyaking, fishing, hiking mountain biking, and skiing, not to mention the abundance of wildlife to see. The Deschutes River is accessible within a mile of the campsites. Surrounded by Lakes and Mt Bachelor just minutes away. Sunriver is just 5 minutes away from the campsites and is only a short drive away from Bend and Lapine. While outdoor fun reigns supreme here, it’s also a bit of a foodie destination, with a wide range of local breweries. One of Central Oregon's biggest draws, the Deschutes River and its tributaries, lakes, and reservoirs attract boaters and paddlers, particularly in the summer months. Private and public camping opportunities abound near the river, Anns Butte, Bachelor, Sisters, LaPine State Park, and Tumalo State Park, a riverside gem with canyon trails, swimming holes, and excellent rainbow trout fishing. Unfortunately, this pristine spot is no secret—book early to secure your spot in the summer. We have an awesome circular driveway for arriving and leaving. "On your honor" bikes to use and an "on your honor" game bin - all complimentary!

Great Spot for a Quick Rest

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acres · La Pine, OR

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. Learn more about this land:Hi everyone! Our property is pretty full right now, but if you need a place to crash for the night and you have a small rig, hit us up! we love to meet new people traveling through! Thanks!Port-O-Potty outside for your convenience and water refills if you need em.

98%

(21)

Forests/working farm. RV & tent.

3 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · La Pine, OR

Learn more about this land:We can accommodate 2 RVs w/o hook ups. Camp sites are in quiet wooded sites or in the open. Working goat dairy farm. We milk twice/day. No dogs. Thanks

83%

(6)

R Wilde Retreat

1 site · RV1 acre · La Pine, OR

R Wilde Retreat is a 1.15-acre oasis located in a peaceful and tranquil forest setting. We are surrounded by pine trees, buttes and local wildlife, and are in the middle of Central Oregon with access to all that this beautiful region has to offer. Hike or ride (on mountain bikes, ATVs or snowmobiles) on miles of dirt roads right from the property, or visit the local swimming hole for a refreshing dip in or float on the Little Deschutes River. Stay put and enjoy the forest and local deer family, or venture out and visit the Cascade Lakes (less than an hour's drive from the scenic Cascade Lakes Byway), Mt. Bachelor ski area (45-minute drive) or the amazing Crater Lake (65 miles from property). We are 40 miles from Newberry National Volcanic Monument if exploring the lava lands interests you, and Paulina Lake is 30 miles from here. We are 45 minutes from Bend, 30 minutes from Sunriver, and 10 minutes from the town of La Pine, which has three grocery stores, a large drug store, restaurants and anything else you might need. This is a quiet residential neighborhood comprised of small acreages, and this property is on a small cul-de-sac that backs up to the forest. Come park your RV and enjoy this little slice of paradise!

100%

(120)

Ruby’s Cabin

1 site · Lodging90 acres · Westfir, OR

Grandpa had a dream of building cabins for his granddaughters. Ruby is the first grandchild and this cabin was built for her. Jay and Tamara (Ruby’s grandparents) bought this acreage in 1998 and are excited to share their special place with other people who love the outdoors while being with family and friends.This is a rustic, off the grid, cabin experience that you will never forget. Almost 200 acres of forest are available to explore. Winter, our second granddaughter is expecting grandpa to get her cabin finished soon.Cabin with loft can sleep 6. Think of it as camping with walls and extras thrown in. Air beds provided, bring your own sleeping bags. Outhouse provided. Additional tents and people are allowed for an additional 15.00 per tent/2 people. Additional RV’s are allowed for 15.00 per RV. Area for tents and RV’s is large grassy wooded area. Great for large gatherings of friends or family who enjoy camping. Fire pit and bar-b-que provided, pavilion for shelter at fire pit area is in the process of construction. Mountain bike/hiking trails run throughout property as well as National forest trails within a few miles. North Fork River swimming 10 minutes away. Golf course across Westoak Rd. Sit on the porch and enjoy the solitude only minutes from Oakridge. Grocery store, etc... all available in Oakridge. Beautiful, safe and secluded. Elk, deer, and other forest critters live here too. Well behaved dogs are welcome.

91%

(17)

Home Life In The Woods - HERMOSA

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Bend, OR

SunRiver and Bend camping with nearby attractions like Mount Bachelor Skiing and Hiking, Deschutes River Kayaking floating and white water rafting, Fishing, Quad'ing and Motorcycling, Lava Tube Caves, Climbing Buttes, High Desert Museum, and numerous other tourist attractions in the nearby area. The Hermosa Site has only 3 RV spots, allowing you some privacy with a well kept dirt road and woods around you, yet is only 4 miles from downtown Sunriver, allowing you to be close to activities, food, and entertainment.

100%

(15)

Upriver Paradise-Private group site

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR

The Upriver Paradise site is a private, gated RV campground for you and your guests to enjoy. It is an approximately 1/2 acre site that is gated for privacy and security. Included are two RV sites with 50, 30, and 20-amp outlets, water and WIFI. No Septic on site but there is a dump station less than a mile away. There is also a portable toilet on site for your use during your stay. Upon request, we can accommodate additional RV sites if needed, with the same amenities as above, for an additional fee. Located just on the edge of McKenzie Bridge, Oregon. The site is on the McKenzie River with 150 ft. of riverbank to enjoy and explore. It is forested and beautiful with many spectacular views with seating available to relax and enjoy the wildlife, sights and sounds. This space has everything you need to relax and unwind in the privacy of the woods while also being centrally located to explore and experience the beautiful McKenzie Valley with all it has to offer. The site is at the end a loop which has two Airbnb rentals and one other small house, but the spot is separate and private.

97%

(33)

Cray Cray Farm

1 site · RV7 acres · Bend, OR

Our farm is a 7 acre farm just outside city limits in Bend, Oregon. We raise chickens and goats year round, with other animals during the summer. We have a canal on three sides of our property, so you can hear running water as if you were camping on the river. There is a beautiful view of the mountains from your spot and you are less than 15 minutes away from Downtown Bend. There are so many amazing things to do in Central Oregon that are less an hour away including hiking, mountain biking, floating the river, and much more.

83%

(23)

River Oasis Farm

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Sisters, OR

A 3 acre farm on the Whychus Creek. We grow biodynamic and organic food along with medicinal herbs. We run a botanical skincare and herb business and are happy to share some of our products with our guests. We have had chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, and goats. However, you may or may not see them with the changing seasons. We do have a couple farm dogs around the farm that roam free so bring a leash if you bring your dog.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

95%

(70)

Deschutes National Forest

Three Rivers, Oregon

90%

(41)

Willamette National Forest

Prospect, Oregon

94%

(45)

Umpqua National Forest

Prospect, Oregon

67%

(3)

Fremont-Winema National Forest

Camping in Wickiup Reservoir with wildlife watching guide

Overview

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.

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.