Best Camping near Bend, OR
Camping near Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of camping experiences that cater to everyone from tent campers to RV travelers. Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Bend is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including lush forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, camping near Bend provides the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure.
From established campgrounds with modern amenities to more rustic, dispersed camping options, the Bend area has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore some of the top campgrounds near Bend, what you can do while camping, what campers like and dislike, and tips for families and RVers to make the most of their camping experience.
What to do
Camping near Bend offers a plethora of activities for outdoor lovers. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the campfire, there's something for everyone.
One of the must-visit spots is Smith Rock State Park Campground, known for its world-class climbing and beautiful scenery. Leslie R. mentions, "Right next to world-class climbing! Can get a little crowded in peak months, but you can't beat the price, and great amenities" (source).
For those who love water activities, Little Crater Campground offers lakeside camping with opportunities for kayaking, sunbathing, and hiking. Jen shares, "We have a pop-up camper, nothing uber fancy, but bring lots of toys (kayaks, paddleboards, bikes) and our kids love it" (source).
If you're into hiking, the trails around Paulina Lake Campground are a must. Berton M. highlights, "The Lake Paulina trail runs through the campground. The trail circumnavigates the lake and is approximately 8 miles long" (source).
What campers like
Campers appreciate the variety of camping options near Bend, from well-maintained campgrounds with modern amenities to more secluded, natural settings.
Many campers rave about the cleanliness and convenience of Tumalo State Park Campground. Jade A. says, "The bathrooms were clean and awesome. They had fire pits, everyone was friendly. I would 100% stay again!" (source).
The peaceful and scenic environment of LaPine State Park Campground is another favorite. Heather K. notes, "My site was huge! The showers and bathrooms were clean. People were quiet for the most part" (source).
For those seeking a more rustic experience, Oregon Badlands Dispersed offers a unique and isolated camping experience. Ann W. shares, "Enjoyed exploring the badlands steps from our campsite. Convenient to many trails. Very quiet and relaxing" (source).
What you should know
While camping near Bend offers many benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Some campgrounds, like Smith Rock State Park Campground, can get crowded during peak months. Leslie R. mentions, "Can get a little crowded in peak months, but you can't beat the price, and great amenities" (source).
Noise can be an issue at some campgrounds, such as Creekside Sisters City Park. Dave H. points out, "A bit noisy from being so close to the highway, but the plus side of this campground is the location" (source).
Additionally, some campgrounds, like Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver, do not have sewer hookups. Terry G. notes, "The only reason I did not give this park 5 stars is the lack of sewer. But everything else in the property was top notch" (source).
Tips for camping with families
Camping with families near Bend can be a rewarding experience, with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are some tips to make the most of your family camping trip.
Choose a campground with family-friendly amenities, like LaPine State Park Campground. Becbecandbunny O. shares, "We opted to rent a cabin due to snow and we're so happy we did. Cabin was heated making our stay very cozy" (source).
Look for campgrounds with easy access to activities for kids. Jen recommends Little Crater Campground, saying, "Paved pathway for the kids to safely bike on while you're setting up or cleaning up" (source).
Consider campgrounds with nearby attractions. Amber highlights LaPine State Park Campground, noting, "It's convenient to both hiking in the surrounding area and the city to check out a brewery in the evening" (source).
Tips from RVers
RV camping near Bend offers a comfortable and convenient way to explore the area. Here are some tips from experienced RVers to help you make the most of your trip.
Choose a campground with spacious sites and good amenities, like Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort. Stephen M. says, "Access is easy for even large rigs. All sites are paved. Space between sites is reasonable" (source).
Look for campgrounds with clean and well-maintained facilities. Amy D. praises Bend / Sisters Garden RV Resort, saying, "Site 11 is perfect for those who prefer to be near a spa-like bath house in an RV park. Heated floors, huge showers. Fantastic" (source).
Consider the availability of essential services. Terry G. notes that Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver has "good cell phone reception for Verizon and ATT" and "clean bath houses" (source).
Camping near Bend, Oregon, offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to adventurous hikes and climbs. With the right preparation and a bit of local knowledge, you're sure to have an unforgettable camping trip in this beautiful part of the Pacific Northwest.
