I was shocked to find Deer Mountain mostly empty in the middle of summer. It doesn’t have the amenities of some state parks, but nearby Lake Francis SP is available for showers, etc. This is a great location for those who want to get away from the crowds and noise. There’s a wide variety of birds for those who are interested.
Site 28 is worth the short hike to get there. Don’t be put off if you don’t have backpacking gear: there is a wagon to help haul stuff to the site and back.
A few things to know, though: the trees have grown and the view from the tent platform no longer looks like the photos on ReserveAmerica. It’s a much more limited water view, but still gorgeous. There are no trees suitable for hammock camping with a view. And much of the site and surrounding area is a giant Canada Goose latrine. (Imagine a dog park where no one has ever cleaned up after their pets.)