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Dispersed Camping

Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping

Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping, near Bend, Oregon, is a stunning location for those who crave a backcountry experience surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. With no amenities to speak of, this area is perfect for campers looking to truly immerse themselves in nature, offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy the great outdoors.

Visitors rave about the incredible scenery, with peaks like South Sister and Broken Top framing the landscape. Many campers have noted the stunning sunrises and sunsets, making it a fantastic spot for photography or simply soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. One reviewer highlighted, “You are surrounded by peaks in every direction,” which captures the essence of this place.

Accessing the campsites requires a bit of effort, as there's a two-mile uphill hike involved. However, the reward is well worth it, with sites tucked under tree cover and offering a peaceful retreat. Just remember to pack in your own water and supplies, as there’s no potable water available. As one camper advised, “Make sure to bring bug spray as the mosquitoes love that chilly lake.”

For those looking to tackle the summit of South Sister, this area serves as an excellent base camp. With its remote feel and stunning vistas, Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the wild beauty of Oregon's high country.

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Location

Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.0619 N
121.7612 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Fair
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Pets

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

Contact

General Info

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Reviews

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4.5

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 30, 2021

Adventure

Roof tent and the dry camp area near river and lake, view sunrise and sunset.

Site2 to 4 days
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Sep. 27, 2017

Wonderful backpacking sites

This place is amazing!

You are surrounded by peaks in every direction and can easily access multiple different points of interest depending on the adventure you want.

There are spread out campsites that you can pop your tent at and it was not crowded when I was there. Because you are at higher elevation it does get rather cold at night so keep that in mind and check the weather since it can change rather quickly.

Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Sep. 7, 2017

Beautiful views of Broken Top and South Sister

Wonderful backcountry camping accessed by a mostly uphill 2 mile hike. You are surrounded by the peaks of South Sister and Broken Top and are welcomed each morning and night with the gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. These camping sites make for a perfect spot to catch some rest before making the hike up to the summit of South Sister. The lake sits below the Lewis glacier and, like many alpine lakes, the lake stays frozen for several months out of the year and the trail can be packed with snow as late as August.

Campsites are located above the lake on two sides and are under tree cover for those rainy nights. To reach the sites you will need to take a right at 1.5 miles in on the trail. There is no potable water nearby. Pack in and out all waste and everything you will need for the night. Make sure to bring bug spray as the mosquitoes love that chilly lake.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2017

Great South Sister base camp

Hiked up on Friday night and got the last spot. No amenities, and a 2 mile straight uphill hike to get here. Theres a map of the campsites, but they are hard to find. None are near te lake so fill upwater in bulk! Stunning sunsets and sunrises. Made for a nice striking point to the summit. Gets busy. Have bug spray handy!

Site5
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping by Erin P., August 7, 2017
  • Review photo of Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping by Erin P., August 7, 2017
  • Review photo of Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping by Erin P., August 7, 2017
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping?

    Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping is located at 6543 feet.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is fair, and T-Mobile is unknown.