95% (70 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Deschutes National Forest adventure.
Swim, boat, ski, and hike your way through this sunny Central Oregon expanse.
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Top-rated campgrounds near Deschutes National Forest
99%
(838)
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. The Hipcamp is on the South Shore of East Lake
Pets allowed, toilets on site, campfires permitted when burn ban is not in place.
This being the 5th year, things are excellent and I certainly don't have any issues to deal with.
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 not to the point yet of saying no big dogs. Talk to me if you think your "big dog" might not fit in. 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 loud music. I have changed quiet time to 9:00 PM. 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.
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.
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$50
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Shelter at Castle Rock Farm
3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR
Castle Rock Farm was established as a homestead 1893, and sits at the base of Castle Rock. Quite, not on the highway. Stay on grassy pasture nestled in-between the edge of old growth forest under a magnificent big Maple Tree, nearby a small babbling brook passes by accompanied by the chorus of songbirds. You might catch a glimpse of the Great Gray owls. A birder's paradise, over 150 nesting boxes on the property. During your stay enjoy the wind whispering through the trees, birds singing, owls hooting and abundant wildlife. There are Great Gray owls, Pileated woodpeckers, and many various bird species and wildlife that pass by.
You will not be camping or glamping next to someone's house in their yard, gravel parking lot, by a busy road, a pile of gravel or wood chips mislead by false pictures. Shelter at Castle Rock farm is extremely private, inclusive, perfect for relaxing and to decompress. A short stroll away you can feed the native wild cutthroat trout in the fish pond. On the way feel free to sample some of the wild native strawberries growing in the natural pasture. There are two extremely friendly yellow labs on the property, one very old, one young, they do go on walks with me past the Big Maple site on the trail in the morning and the evening.
King Castle Trailhead is 4 minutes down the road from entrance to Shelter at Castle Rock.
Upon request , Big Maple site can accommodate extra tents, group site, from 0 to 20 tents, for special events, birding groups, weddings, biking groups, runners, ect.
Also we have contacts from other lodging facilities in the area that provide rafting trips, bike and mountain bike shuttles, bike rentals, hiking shuttles to pick you up and return.
Castle Rock Farm was established as a homestead 1893, and sits at the base of Castle Rock. For the last 37 years it has been maintained as private wildlife and birding preserve. The original fruit orchards are over a 125 years old. No herbicides or pesticides of any kind are used. Only private led tours by birding experts and wildlife viewing has been allowed. Castle Rock farm is known throughout the Mckenzie community as the one of the most spectacular one of a kind properties in Mckenzie Bridge.
All wood used in construction and furniture was milled at Castle Rock Farm with a vintage Heritage Cut pattern circle sawmill from sustainably sourced fire killed trees and windblown downed trees. All campfire wood is sustainably sourced also.
Site was built by our family of Journeymen Craftsmen that build Custom Homes in the area, so everything is professionally built with attention to detail, not a DIY campsite.
Camping/glamping site is outfitted with a large 10' by 14' heavy deluxe canvas tent, upgraded with extra windows, sewn in heavy vinyl floor, No-See-Um netting, on a wood platform. Tent area is covered so foul weather will not spoil your camping adventure.
Custom built with our Heritage cut lumber , one large Porta Potty with premium biodegradable tank treatment.
Included with Big Maple site is. Unlimited firewood usage (no charge) kindling, fire starters, 1 large fire pit, 1 Solo fire pit on the deck, 4 quality camping chairs, 2 camping swinging chairs, 8 solar flicker lanterns, solar string lights, 2 led solar lanterns, large handmade hammock , 3 camping hammocks, handmade wood furniture & table. Campfires are allowed until regulations forbid campfires of fire danger, you can bring your own propane fire pit when fire season is in affect and no campfires are allowed.
Inside the tent, 2 large washable Tumble rugs, 2 large oversized cots, 3 handmade night stands. Led rechargeable lantern. Portable battery bank to charge electronic devices You will have to bring your own bedding and camp mattress.
Outdoor covered cooking station, includes 2 stoves, misc supplies, water jugs with electric faucet, cooking gas canisters, butcher block cutting table, 2 dry sinks, dish rack, 2 percolator coffee pots, 3 large citronella candles, small trash bags, trash cans, dog waste bags, dog waste bin.
I probably missed something, but that about sums it up. Proceed to gate for Shelter access, open the gate, close gate behind you, proceed following the signage with arrows until you reach Big Maple Campsite and enjoy your stay.
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(6)
McKenzie River Forest Retreat
6 sites · Tents1 acre · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR
**No RV's or camper trailers! You may message if you have something very low profile like a teardrop and depending on current occupancy, you may be able to stay. We just don't have room or good access!**
Welcome to our enchanting Outdoor Stay Area, nestled among the tall, mystical firs of McKenzie Bridge in the breathtaking McKenzie River Valley. Enjoy nature's embrace with a walk-in camp site or car camp site. Message a special request if you are seeking a group site or event booking for multiple sites or to book campsites plus a short term stay in the Hygge A-Frame (listed on AirBnB and VRBO). Special rates offered for booking all, multiple sites or multiple stays.
Gather around our central communal "campfire" area, adorned with rustic log benches. Cook on the swing out grill over a complementary wood fire when allowed.
As summer matures, and burn bans no doubt crop up, we provide a propane campfire ring which you may cook on as needed, until it is no longer allowed. This can occur quickly, so we request that mid-June through the first rains, please bring your own approved liquid fuel stove for use in the gravel area on fold out tables. Message before booking to confirm any campfire details or requests. I'm always happy to answer any questions. I live on site but generally the Outdoor Stay Area is self-serve unless I have a special request to cater.
Tent sites are covered with wood chips for a comfortable night's rest.
Hose water is readily available for your convenience, and we provide a porta-potty as well.
During your stay explore the wealth of outdoor activities in the McKenzie River Valley, from hiking and fishing to relaxing by the river (1/2 mile walk), biking, golf, a soak in one of three hot springs in our area or visit historical sites. View waterfalls or book a white water adventure with a local guide!
The area's wildlife, including deer, elk, grey fox and various bird species, provide a daily delight. If you like birds, you will adore the Swainson’s Thrush birdsong that paints the air in the mornings and evenings here.
Our Outdoor Stay Area is a gateway to adventure and a haven of peace, with towering firs and lush greenery creating an enchanting atmosphere. Whether seeking solitude or company, our campsite is perfect for your retreat. By respecting guidelines and mother earth, we maintain the beauty and integrity of this special place together. Thank you in advance .
Welcome to your oasis in the enchanted wilderness of McKenzie Bridge. Relax, explore, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty, make lasting memories in this magical corner of the McKenzie River Valley.
Near by areas of interest or activity:
Terwilliger/ Cougar Hot Springs
Belknap Hot Springs
Deer Creek Hot Springs
McKenzie River
Horse Creek
Cougar Reservoir
Carmen Reservoir
Pacific Crest Trail
Koosah Falls
Sahalie Falls
Tokatee Golf Course
O'Leary Trail Complex
Raft, swim, fish, bike, hike, golf, paddle, soak...
Or just relax, read, or meditate...
Get away from it all...
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$33
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(14)
Picnik Place
1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Bend, OR
Hi and welcome to Picnik Place! This is a 20 acre farm, so there is plenty of land to roam free and explore, as well as having your privacy from the primary residents. With this spot, you are nestled under a juniper tree with a lava rock backdrop and can watch the sun dip below the volcanos in the distance. This spot is very simple and tucked away. There is an off-grid solar power hook-up that you can use, but it will not be enough power to run the AC and toaster oven at the same time! While feeling remote and removed from the Bend tourism, it only takes 15 minutes to get downtown, where there are ample restaurants, shops, coffehouses, etc. It takes 7 minutes to get to Trader Joe's and Home Depot, and 10 minutes to get to St. Charles Hospital.
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$30
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(6)
Festival Fun
22 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Redmond, OR
We recently relocated to Redmond and LOVE being here! It has allowed us the opportunity to enjoy everything Central Oregon has to offer and we hope you too can experience and enjoy it as much as we do. It's all about making memories. It's also perfect for Fall/Winter fun and avoiding the summer crowds. Simply stay on our 5 acre property with complete hook ups if you're looking to avoid the bustle of downtown and it's hotel prices!
Learn more about this land:
Pitch a tent out in the pasture, near the canal that runs through the property. We are a perfect location to the fairgrounds for the Farewell Festival and Equinox festivel. We are 4 mile to the festival sights in Redmond and 20 min to Bend. We offer shuttle rides to and from the festivities so just enjoy the ride, enjoy to show and come home for a relaxing evening under the stars.
If you are bringing an RV or trailer with have hookups for electric.
We are close to Bachelor for skiing, Smith Rock for hiking, Sisters for shopping, too many lakes to name and 20mins to all Bend has to offer and so much more!
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$110
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99%
(86)
Big Rock Ranch
2 sites · Lodging30 acres · Terrebonne, OR
Nathaniel and Raina Potter purchased this 30-acre ranch in 2016 and aptly named it "Big Rock Ranch." The modest ranch layout with the wildly immodest views of a giant rock outcropping jutting out of coyote butte was the immediate draw and continual wonder to Nathaniel, Raina, and all who visit. Big Rock Ranch runs cattle in the irrigated pastures and chickens for meat and eggs.
Stay at Big Rock Ranch...Stay in a 12x14 ft canvas tent on a working regenerative family farm in the high desert. Enjoy views of a 300+ ft Tuff rock formation, Cascade Mountains, and irrigated pasture views all from the tent. Cook your own meals in the outdoor kitchen, outfitted with propane burners and a sink. Eat meals from the tent deck or the picnic table under native junipers surrounded by sagebrush, bitterbrush, and native grasses and tuff boulders. Collect farm fresh eggs and greens seasonally with the opportunity to enjoy meat raised at the ranch.
One queen bed in a canvas tent, one folding cot, and access to a 2-person tent if needed to accommodate a family or two couples. Bedding is NOT supplied beyond the queen bed.
Recreation Activities: Limited hiking available onsite but only 8 minutes from Smith Rock State Park for hiking and climbing. Only 25 minutes from Lake Billy Chinook for water recreating. Just 15 minutes from mountain biking at Skull Hollow. A 10-minute drive to swimming in the Deschutes River at Borden Beck Wildlife Preserve. Bend and Sisters are both 30-minutes away.
Night rates are offerings to our family and ranch.
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$140
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97%
(85)
B:30 Desert Destination
3 sites · Tents10 acres · Prineville, OR
Enjoy Cascade Mountain views during the day and unlimited stargazing at night. Camping is situated on 10 acres and just 10 minutes from the Crooked River, Prineville Reservoir and Millican Valley OHV Trail System . A 15 minute drive will take you to a very scenic hike at Chimney Rock Trail. Bend and Prineville are both a 30 minute drive away.
The group tent site has two separate-12' x 14' flat gravel pads and will accommodate tents of all reasonable sizes. Also includes an outdoor shower/compostable toilet, BBQ with picnic area, and propane fire pit.
The other two separate tent sites are roughly 20'x20' flat gravel pads and will accomodate 2 individual tents if needed. Also includes shared compostable toilet and individual propane fire pit.
Wood fire bans are in effect year round. We do provide propane fire pits at each site as an alternative. Propane tanks are also included.
Group site outdoor shower available Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
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$40
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87%
(102)
Alex E.’s Land
6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · 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.
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$65
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93%
(240)
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.
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(8)
Central Oregon Private Oasis
15 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Redmond, OR
We bought the property almost 2 years ago and are in the process of revamping the yard and outdoor spaces. To include weed removal and rock relocating haha. It’s been a labor of love so please excuse our mess as we do this.
We live on property and would love to tell you where to go for local experiences that may not be as well advertised.
We are 3.3 miles away from Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center, 13 miles from Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and 11 miles from Smith Rock State Park.
No matter the time of year there is always something to do.
We have hose water available to fill tanks or just drink. We have an outhouse on site. We have generator available for rent.
Small items available to purchase for those forgotten items.
Oregon is a 21 and older state. Everyone needs to be 21 years old to smoke cigarettes, marijuana, or drink alcohol so please obey state laws. That being said feel free to partake just be respectful with your cans and butts.
Most nights only 1 night stay is required however there are some blocked out days or extended stays (only a couple times a year)
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(46)
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.
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$30
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96%
(28)
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
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The best camping near Deschutes National Forest guide
Overview
About
On the eastern side of the Cascade Mountain Range in Central Oregon, the Deschutes National Forest is made up of 1.8 million acres of trails, mountains, and waterways. It's home to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, comprising lava flows and caves, as well as three National Scenic Byways and segments of the National Wild and Scenic River System. The forest also features many of Oregon’s prettiest rivers and lakes—including the crystalline Cascade Lakes—as well as Mt. Bachelor, one of the most popular ski resorts in the state.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for jet-skiing: Cultus Lake Campground sits on one of the few lakes where motorized watersports are allowed.
- Best for backwoods biking: Indian Ford Campground offers direct access to forested biking and hiking trails.
- Best for boating: Trapper Creek Campground has direct access to Odell Lake and a boat ramp.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- You can book campsites up to six months in advance through the Forest Service website. Reservations go live each day at 7am Pacific Time. Cabins, in particular, book up fast and are sometimes reserved immediately upon being made available.
- If you’re looking for a first-come, first-served (FCFS) spot, try to arrive by Thursday to avoid the weekend rush.
- Consider alternative campgrounds. If you’re having difficulty securing a reservation through the Forest Service, look into nearby Hipcamps or try your luck with FCFS camping on BLM land.
When to go
The Deschutes National Forest does not have one distinct climate, and while the western parts of the forest tend to get a lot of rainfall much of the year, other parts are hotter with less precipitation. As a general rule of thumb, July and August are the best months to visit. This is the one time of year in Oregon when rain is not regularly on the forecast and the weather is usually warm enough for boating and swimming.
Know before you go
- Cell service can be spotty in parts of the forest. Download offline maps before you head out of range.
- Bans on campfires and even camping stoves are common during the summer months. Make sure to check ahead and be prepared to change up your meal plans accordingly.
- There are five protected wilderness areas in the Deschutes National Forest. These areas are off limits to motorized vehicles, but can be visited on day hikes or overnight backpacking trips. To visit, you'll need to secure a permit ahead of time.
- Deschutes National Forest
Safety at Hipcamp
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