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Camper submitted image from Moraine Lake Dispersed CampingView 5 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Deschutes National Forest, Oregon

Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping

4 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Deschutes National Forest's high Cascade terrain frames Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping, a hike-in site managed by the US Forest Service that sits below the Lewis Glacier near the flanks of South Sister and Broken Top. Getting here requires a roughly two-mile uphill trail, and campers should expect snow on the route as late as August. No amenities wait at the top. There is no potable water on site.

Campsites are distributed above the lake on two sides and sit under tree cover, which provides some shelter on wet nights. They are not adjacent to the lake itself, so anyone relying on the water for cooking or filtering should fill containers in bulk before settling in. Reviewers consistently mention mosquitoes as a significant presence around the lake. Several also note that sites fill quickly on weekends, with one camper arriving on a Friday evening and securing the last available spot.

Heather C. notes that the camp functions well as a staging point: "These camping sites make for a perfect spot to catch some rest before making the hike up to the summit of South Sister." The elevation also means cold nights regardless of season, so layering is essential. Nearby, Devils Lake Campground - Deschutes National Forest and Green Lakes Campground give campers with vehicles drive-in alternatives in the same corridor, and those researching dispersed options outside Deschutes National Forest can find additional no-fee sites across the region. Arrive early on summer weekends and pack out all waste.

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Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy. Please check with the campground before making a reservation.

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Map & DirectionsMoraine Lake Dispersed Camping is located in Oregon near Deschutes National Forest

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

44.0619 N
121.7612 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
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  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

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.

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping

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5 Stars

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4.5

out of 5

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
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Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities are available at Moraine Lake Campground?

Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping offers a true backcountry experience with no amenities or facilities. There are no toilets, potable water, trash services, or established fire rings. Campers should be prepared to pack in all necessary supplies and pack out all waste. The campsites are primitive and not located directly adjacent to the lake, so filling water containers in bulk is recommended. This is dry camping at its most basic, requiring complete self-sufficiency and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

Can you camp at Moraine Lake in Oregon?

Yes, you can camp at Moraine Lake in Oregon at the Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping area. This is a backcountry camping destination with multiple dispersed campsites. The sites are spread out and provide stunning views of surrounding mountain peaks. Note that accessing this camping area requires a challenging 2-mile uphill hike, making it best suited for backpackers and those seeking a more remote camping experience. The lake and surrounding mountains create a spectacular setting for overnight stays.

How do I find Moraine Lake Campground in Oregon?

Moraine Lake Dispersed Camping is accessed via a 2-mile uphill trail from the Moraine Lake trailhead near Sisters, Oregon. While there is a map of the campsites at the trailhead, the individual sites can be difficult to locate. The camping area sits at higher elevation surrounded by South Sister and Broken Top peaks. The campsites are scattered throughout the area, not immediately adjacent to the lake. This location serves as an excellent base camp for those planning to summit nearby peaks or explore the surrounding wilderness.

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