The best camping near LaPine State Park

Straddling the banks of the Upper Deschutes and Fall rivers, LaPine State Park offers easy access to outdoor recreation no matter the season. It's popular for hiking, fishing, and floating in the summertime, while winter activities include snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. The park is home to the largest ponderosa pine in Oregon, which measures around 162 feet in height and has a circumference of 326 inches. The pet-friendly LaPine Campground is well equipped with a mix of full hookup sites, electrical sites with water, and log cabins, some with deluxe features such as TVs and microwaves.

1. Cabins and campsites are released for reservation at 6am daily, six months in advance, and are available for reservation up to one day in advance. Reservations can be made online using the Oregon State Parks reservation system or over the phone.
2. Same-day reservations are sometimes available on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early in the morning for the best chances of securing a spot.
3. Campsites in the North and Middle Loops are closed from October through April. All but eight of the South Loop Campsites are available only on a first-come, first-served basis during that time.

LaPine State Park is open for camping and day use throughout the year, and it's at its most popular between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend. Because of its location in the high desert, temperatures can get quite hot at the peak of summer and dip dramatically during wintertime, but the area is generally dryer than elsewhere in Oregon. If you want to take advantage of pleasant weather without the summer vacation crowds, consider visiting in May, September, or October.

• Bans on open flames and fire pits are common at the park, particularly during the summer months, when the risk of forest fires is at its highest. During periods of extreme risk, bans on propane cooking stoves are also sometimes put into place.
• The closest spot to pick up supplies and groceries is the town of La Pine; the main drag where most shops are located is about 10 minutes away by car.
• Four of the campsites at the park and six of the cabins are ADA accessible. The campground also features accessible showers and flush toilets.