Camping In Central Oregon
Is there anything more Central Oregon than pitching a tent near an alpine lake or in the midst of a ponderosa pine forest, cooking dinner, and enjoying a quiet night under the stars?
We think notwhich is why were lucky to boast more than a million acres of National Forest, several state parks, upscale campgrounds, and plenty of fully equipped RV parks all over the region. Whether you rolled into Central Oregon with your own lodging or want to spend a night outdoors, youll find plenty to love about RV parks and campgrounds in Central Oregon.
Wherever you decide to stay, youre always close to your next adventure. Want to explore the many lakes in Central Oregon? The Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, chock-a-block with rustic campgrounds, is named for its close proximity to cool mountain lakes. You can also discover the mountains of Central Oregon from campgrounds and RV parks in the likes of Sisters and La Pine, where Cascade peaks and still-active shield volcanoes are mere minutes away. And our close proximity to public lands means youre generally close to national and state parks in Central Oregon as well.
So as you make your plans for a night under the stars, were happy to share some of our favorites, along with a few ideas for things to do in Central Oregon while enjoying the great outdoors.
What People Are Saying About Crooked River Ranch Rv Park
One of the quietest parks with freshest air weve been to- no thru traffic. Beautiful view of the gorge. Good management. We drove around the other area RV parks. This is by far the best in the area, unless you prefer the crammed in, paved parking lot style. Karen, Google Review
Location
- Wi-Fi: Yes
Expo Center Rv Park Redmond Oregon
Amenities Wifi Pet-Friendly
Suppose youre looking for a place to park your RV close to your Oregon destinations and youre not interested in all the perks associated with the resort-type experience. In that case, the Expo Center RV Park in Redmond may be an excellent option for you.
Located in the Deschutes County Fairgrounds, 25 minutes north of Bend, the Expo Center RV Park offers a great place to set up your rig while you explore all of the natural beauty that Central Oregon has to offer.
Although the Expo Center does not offer the typical scenic views and natural greenery you might expect when camping in Central Oregon, it provides a great location and the basic amenities you would hope for when parking your rig. This includes full hookups, restrooms, and showers.
You can check pricing and availability for the Expo Center RV Park here.
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Mineral Camp Campgroundumpqua National Forest
Image from The Dyrt camper TJ B.
This tiny campground along Sharps Creek in Umpqua National Forest is open year-round and has three individual campsites surrounded by towering Douglas Firs. There are fire pits, picnic tables and vault toilets, but no drinking water or garbage disposal.
This is a very small remote campground past Dorena lake near Bohemia Mountain. If you can luck out, or go in the off season, this is a nice far out spot, off the beaten path to just relax by Sharps Creek. I liked how this place is small and more primitive than others, while still being a legit campground. The Dyrt camper TJ B.
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The Camp In Bend Oregon
The Camp, formerly known as Keystone RV Park, is right in the middle of town with close access to everything. Along with restored vintage trailer rentals, each remodeled with a unique theme, The Camp also has about 30 RV sites with full hookups .
Their long-standing RV park has been around since the 1950s and has been completely renovated with all-new facilities. They also have a community area with a group fire pit and BBQ grills.
The Camp in Bend, OR. Photo via Campground Reviews
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Cook Creek Campsites Nehalem
Cook Creek Campsites are in a state forest that sits in the town of Nehalem. The road is narrow and a little bumpy but navigable if you take your time. This is a hidden Oregon gem that offers several designated free camping sites off the road.
Its important to note that as of August 2021, Cook Creek Road closed at the four-mile mark. So if youre planning to stay here, youll want to make sure you choose a site before reaching this point.
The reviews for this site are slim, but only because it hasnt hit the radar for many boondockers. Once other boondockers discover the waterfalls, caves, and many areas to explore while camping here, its sure to gain popularity.
Rv Parks And Resorts For Camping Near Bend Oregon
If you are looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery that Oregon offers while also sleeping in luxury and convenience, then you likely have your RV loaded and ready to hit the road.
For those of you wondering where you can park your camper on your trip to bend, the list below is some of our favorite options.
Each RV park offers an impressive list of amenities, and these amenities come at a range of prices. Before deciding on where to park your rig, consider what type of experience you want to have. All of the following RV parks will be near the incredible sights that Central Oregon offers, but each offers a slightly different experience when you get back to camp.
Where can I park my RV in Bend?
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Camping In And Near Bend Oregon
Bend is often called a paradise for any avid adventurer or lover of the outdoors, and the reasons are simple. Bend has incredible weather, boasting plenty of sunny days throughout the year, making camping in Central Oregon more enjoyable. Visitors and locals alike love to spend their time in amongst the many mountains, forests, lakes and rivers before resting their heads under the stars. Read on for some of the best camping around Bend and Central Oregon.
Platinum Full Hookup Rv Site
Enjoy a stay on our platinum RV sites that provide full hookups with 30- or 50-amp electric for your comfort and convenience. These back-in sites are situated further back in the park, offering more privacy, and feature brick paver pads that can accommodate up to 72 feet with room for slide-outs, plus a brick storage locker for bikes, golf clubs and more. Each site also comes with cable and WiFi access to keep you entertained and connected during your stay at Crown Villa, and includes garbage and recycling pickup at your site.
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What People Are Saying About Dexter Shores Rv Park
Love this place! Nice environment and a good view of the lake. This is a more natural place than most, with abundant wildlife and trees. Management is colorful and professional, making a friendly vibe in the park without letting things go sideways. The restaurant next door makes good food by my measure, and the atmosphere is fun if you like rustic. Don, Google review
Location
Image Source:https://www.yelp.com/biz/schw…
Schwarz Park COE is an Army Corp of Engineers park that is about 12 miles southwest of Eugene. It is very near Dorena Lake, which is perfect for anglers and outdoor adventurers. Theres also an on-site playground to keep the kids happy.
Barnhouse Campgroundochoco National Forest
Set in a ponderosa pine forest a few miles from the main highway through the Ochoco National Forest, the Barnhouse campground is wonderfully tranquil and serene. There are six campsites with fire pits, grills and picnic tables, some of which can accommodate vehicles up to 25 feet.
This is truly a great little campground! It is first come first serve as they require no fee. Tucked away in the hills and the woods, with numerous hiking trails from the campground to explore the surrounding areas. It is quiet and a great way to see the Painted Hills that are close by. The Dyrt camper Katy T.
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What People Are Saying About Meadowlark Rv Park
I have been here at this park for some time now and I couldnt be any happier, the owners and park managers are super, very helpful, very polite and very nice, a nice little store with food, drinks and RV supplies. Nice laundry facility as well. Richard, Google review
Location
Image Source:http://dextershoresrv.com/
Dexter Shores RV Park is six miles southeast of Eugene in the city of Dexter. As a mid-sized campground, this property has plenty of spacious sites. It also has reasonable rates for such a beautiful setting.
River Rim Rv Park Llc
Image Source:http://www.riverrimrvpark.com
If you have never sat out under the stars on the rim of a mighty river, youre missing out. This is exactly the type of experience that you can have at River Rim RV Park. The park is settled right close to the Cascade Mountains with an amazing view of Central Oregon, and youll enjoy seeing golden eagles, rabbits, deer, and maybe even the mysterious mountain mouflon sheep.
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Free Campsites For Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park has a beautiful and serene environment that has been surrounded by ancient nature and blessed by mother nature with the Chisos mountains. Big Bend allows people to enjoy various animals and plants that enhance its beauty. The variation of the desert temperatures gives the park a unique feeling. Viewing the existence of plants in the park enables one to appreciate the work of nature and view life positively. Read on to learn more about Big Bend and the reasons why you should plan to visit.
Thousand Trails Sunriver Oregon
Amenities Pool and Spa Plenty of recreational activities, including pickleball, basketball, mini-golf, and more Pet-Friendly
We also spent several months living at the Thousand Trails Sunriver campground in Sunriver, Oregon. Upon arrival, you will notice that this campground has all the amenities and recreational offerings of a resort, nestled into over 283 acres along the Deschutes River.
Whether you want to hit the slopes of Mt. Bachelor or drop a line into the river, you are only minutes away from an endless list of recreational activities. We loved our stay here, and its exciting to learn that they will be opening a brand new pool and spa area in the summer of 2022.
You can review the recreational activities list and reserve your site here.
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Black Pine Dispersed Camping
Black Pine is an unofficial campground that offers a selection of nice dispersed campsites. It is located just off Three Creek Lake Road, about halfway between Sisters and Three Creek Lake. Many forest roads and hiking/biking trails can be found nearby providing for recreational opportunities. Black Pine is a good choice for those looking to save on campsite fees, or unable to find an available spot at one of the campgrounds at Three Creek Lake.
There are about 10 campsites in the main area at Black Pine, but more options for camping exist further up the dirt road. Sites are large, but most dont offer much privacy if there happen to be neighbors. A preexisting fire ring can be found at most sites. There are no amenities here, please practice leave no trace principles and keep the campsites clean for future campers. Black Pine Spring is located just behind the camp and offers a natural water source.
Our Picks For The Best Camping Near Bend Oregon
This article about the best camping near Bend, Oregon is brought to you by Midland. Their line of handheld two-way radios add some extra safety and convenience to any camping adventure.
World-renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, Bend is a must-see spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Sitting just 150 miles south-east from Portland, Bend is literally the center of Oregons outdoors scene providing year-round hiking, water sports, fishing, and camping. In addition, with over 300 days of annual sunshine, Bend provides you with plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning surroundings including the views from Mt. Bachelor, the rushing Deschutes River, and serene lakes of the Cascades.
To make the most of your trip to central Oregons largest city, weve rounded up some of the best campgrounds near Bend.
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Best Bend Oregon Campgrounds
Part of Elk Lake Resort, the Elk Lake Campground sits right on the banks of Elk Lake. This campground offers visitors access to the water for boating and swimming, along with access to miles of trails for hiking and biking with views of nearby mountain peaks. The resort features a restaurant for any day you dont feel like camp food, along with a full-service bar in their historic lodge. The campgrounds feature nineteen sites that can each be reserved ahead of time and include a fire pit, a picnic table and communal water pumps for fresh water. The campgrounds are typically under an hours drive from Bend, depending on the road conditions.
La Pine State Park is only 30 minutes south of Bend, and can be found on this list of state parks near Bend. The campground here is considerably larger than many others in Central Oregon, with 133 campsites and ten cabins. The Deschutes River runs right through the state park, adjacent to the campground. This campground includes a mix of reservable spots and first-come, first-served campsites. The trout-filled waters of the upper Deschutes tend to attract fishers to this campground, while the multitude of nearby hiking and biking trails bring adventurers of all kinds.
For a multitude of other campgrounds, consider exploring the Deschutes National Forest, which has more than 80 campgrounds to choose from. These campgrounds come in all shapes and sizes, and many of them can accommodate RV and trailer camping.
Lapine State Park Campground
Why you should stay: Easy access to recreation along the Deschutes River corridor.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
- RV hook-ups: Yes
Towering pine and the twisting Deschutes River encircle the LaPine State Park Campground in High Cascade heaven. Here, legendary fly fishing and epic mountain biking are just the tip of the areas recreational iceberg.
This fully-equipped campground holds dozens of tent sites, full-service RV camping, hot showers, deluxe cabins and more. Theres no shortage of places to stay, and thats because La Pine State Park rests at the eastern foothills of the majestic Cascade Range where adventurers from around the world come to play.
Alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks wait just around the bend, but youll be hard-pressed to run the gambit of outdoor fun within the confines of the park itself. The Deschutes River, known for stellar fishing and whitewater rafting, cuts right through the campground, and a plethora of trails traverse the dramatic topography of the surrounding forest.
Why you should stay: Chill by a lovely lake surrounded by a volcanic landscape.
- Reservations accepted: Yes
- Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
- RV hook-ups: Yes
The most popular camping area within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Paulina Lake Campground features waves of lava beds, hidden hot springs, and the beautiful lake itself.
Why you should stay: Convenient river-side camping near town.
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Bonney Meadow Campgroundmount Hood National Forest
In addition to popular Mount Hood National Forest campgrounds like Trillium Lake and Lost Lake, theres also amazing free Oregon camping in the same area. At Bonney Meadow, six individual campsites and horse corrals cater to self-sufficient hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. Sites can accommodate vehicles of maximum 16 feet in length.
This awesome untrafficked campground is perfect for people who really want to get away from people. Its often mostly empty and sits on the edge of a stunning meadow. The Dyrt camper Leaha W.
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Scandia Rv & Mobile Park
Just south of Bend along US-97 is Scandia RV & Mobile Park with nightly and monthly rates. They have three sections with full hookup RV sites that are often full throughout the summer months. Call ahead early to make reservations, especially if you want one of their 14 pull-through sites.
Their basic amenities include WiFi, cable, and laundry facilities. Restaurants are within walking distance and the Bend Factory Outlet stores are less than a mile away.
Scandia RV & Mobile Park. Photo by Coopsecondact
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The Wrap Up: Camping Near Bend Oregon
Bend, Oregon offers so many incredible adventures it is no wonder why so many people visit each year. This is precisely why we recommend finding a place to camp near Bend on our next family vacation.
Whether you want to rough it at a more primitive campsite, spend the week at an RV resort with all sorts of activities for the family, or find a unique stay in a Mongolian Ger overlooking a lake, there are endless options to suit your specific needs and desires.
Im confident that if you choose any of the camping options listed above, you and your family will have an incredible time in Bend, Oregon and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Crown Villa Rv Resort
A short drive south of Bend and far from the highway noise of Interstate 97 is the popular Crown Villa RV Resort. In addition to their spacious RV sites, they also have a one-bedroom vacation rental. Their RV sites include 110 full hookups and 10 partial hookup sites with water/electricity only.
Other luxurious amenities include a clubhouse, a custom hot tub, steam rooms, a fitness center, laundry and shower facilities, an off-leash dog area, and a large courtyard with gas fire pits. The resort abides by the ten-year rule, though exceptions can be made with photo submission and management approval.
Crown Villa RV Resort: Peaceful camping near Bend
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