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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99%
(891)
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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100%
(36)
Shelter at Castle Rock Farm
5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Mc Kenzie Bridge, OR
Pet Friendly Here!!! Both camps have COVERED shelters and covered gathering space for tents, chairs, relaxing. Camp dry, and out of the dirt/grass and in comfort, COVERED for all weather conditions, to make your trip enjoyable. Castle Rock Farm was established as a homestead 1893, absolutely stunning property setting and sits at the base of Castle Rock. Extremely private and exclusive. King Castle trail is 2 minutes away. Big mountain biking/cycling/hiking/rafting/paddle boarding area. Blue Pool world renowned site is 15 minute away. Many Hot Springs, trails, waterfalls, sights and lakes nearby. Way to much to list.
Quite, peaceful, private, 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 ( per added firewood ) on EXTRAS BUTTON $15.00 per day, kindling, fire starters, 1 large fire pit, 5 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 butane canisters (1) per stove per day, if more are used, click the EXTRA BUTTON to purchase, butcher block cutting table, 2 dry sinks, dish rack, 1 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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$45
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100%
(25)
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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97%
(94)
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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$32
/ night
93%
(246)
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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$30.60
/ night
92%
(13)
Ponderosa Pine Sanctuary
3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Deschutes River Woods, OR
1 acre shaded by 30 mature ponderosa pine trees. This is a magical, rustic property on a paved road that is incredibly quiet. See the deer and birds go by on their migratory path. Hang out on the hammock and hydrate with the tastiest artesian well water you'll ever drink.
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$27
/ night
100%
(2)
The Camp Campground
28 sites · RVs13 acres · Bend, OR
Welcome to The Camp, Bend's premier RV park where adventure meets comfort in the heart of Oregon. Situated less than a mile from downtown Bend and just off Highway 97, we offer fully renovated sites with stunning mountain views, modern amenities, and easy access to the city's top attractions. Join us for a unique camp-cation experience that promises relaxation and adventure for the whole family, pets included.
At The Camp, we cater to all adventurers with a variety of back-in RV sites tailored for everything from vans to larger RVs, offering dimensions to suit every need. Each site boasts full hookups, gravel pads with concrete and artificial grass lounging areas, and access to top-tier amenities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay amidst Bend's natural beauty.
The Camp offers an array of amenities to enhance your experience, including a spacious community area with a fire pit and BBQ grills, clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. We prioritize your comfort with WiFi access, family-friendly spaces, and a dedicated onsite dog area, ensuring a welcoming environment for all our guests.
Bend, Oregon, uniquely merges urban appeal with the thrill of the outdoors, boasting a vibrant mix of cultural sites, like the Deschutes Historical Museum, and top-notch dining, including the acclaimed Ariana Restaurant. Adventurers can scale Smith Rock, kayak the Deschutes River, or explore the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, offering endless exploration opportunities. The culinary scene is equally diverse, from the innovative dishes of Ariana Restaurant to the craft brews of Deschutes Brewery, highlighting Bend's dedication to quality, creativity, and local tastes, appealing to both food lovers and casual diners.
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$94
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(6)
STEEP DREAMS
2 sites · Lodging17 acres · Sisters, OR
RELAX!!.... Or hike, or bike, or swim or simply recharge your batteries!
Stay the night in our tipi or cabin while taking in the peaceful views of mountains and the treetops. Camps are located on the top of a canyon where you can see for days on this one of a kind central Oregon property. Camps are located next to county and BLM land if you want to hike, bike or take a dip in the pond. 20 minutes to Bend, 15 minutes to Redmond and only 10 minutes to Downtown Sisters.
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$50
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95%
(11)
Twisted Juniper Ranch
2 sites · Lodging2 acres · 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 5 free range chickens that you are likely to encounter, they are very friendly.
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
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$115
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95%
(54)
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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94%
(18)
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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$25
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99%
(94)
Harmony Farm Sanctuary
1 site · Lodging10 acres · Bend, OR
Absolutely breathtaking mountain views from the tiny house and all over the property. Located on an active farm sanctuary. You will wake up to the sights, sounds and smells of our rescued farm animal friends.
Learn more about this land:
Tiny house with stunning mountain views located on a farm animal sanctuary, Harmony Farm Sanctuary. You will wake up in the morning to the sound of roosters crowing and our crew of friendly animal residents. It can be noisy at times but we find it delightful! The tiny house has huge, direct views of the Three Sisters mountains and Broken Top and plenty of outdoor sitting space to enjoy it and a little propane fire pit to enjoy the sunsets. The tiny house offers an amazing "glamping" experience and a unique opportunity to learn more about what we do at our animal sanctuary and even take a tour!
The Space: Our hand made tiny house offers a double sized mattress (bedding included) in the upstairs area (access via an attached ladder!). Room for an additional person across from double bed also in upstairs area or put provided mat on the floor. Please note: the space is small for 3 people.
The Kitchen: Tiny house kitchen area has a small refrigerator, small counter space for meal prep, a tea kettle for hot water, water jug for fresh water, french press coffee pot and coffee/tea, hot plate for cooking, popcorn maker and popcorn, pots and pans, silverware, napkins, bottle openers, etc. We now have a new small outdoor kitchen with a two burner propane stove!
The Facilities: The tiny house offers a composting toilet for night time pee pee needs and offers a port-a-potty for all other uses please! If you want to know a secret river dipping spot or where to go to find showers please let me know!
The Location: Aside from the farm sanctuary we are conveniently located between beautiful Bend, Oregon and Sisters, Oregon. We have hiking and biking trails within .3 of a mile! We also have books to recommend 100's of other hiking, biking, nordic skiing and alpine skiing nearby! And, since we are outdoor enthusiasts ourselves, we are happy to recommend places to ski, hike, mountain bike, float or paddle!
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$115
/ night
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
Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.