Bend camping offers diverse options in Oregon's high desert at 3,600 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 80°F during days and can drop to 40°F at night. The volcanic terrain around Bend creates unique camping environments ranging from forested sites along the Deschutes River to open desert landscapes with juniper and sagebrush.
What to do
Explore the Deschutes River: Located minutes from Tumalo State Park Campground, the river provides excellent recreation opportunities. "Must book on ReserveAmerica.com. Drove around to select potential sites then confirmed open and booked online. Well paved streets and campsites. Very good restrooms and showers," notes Leonard H., who also enjoyed "the Deschutes Brewery tour and High Desert Museum."
Mountain biking: The trail systems near Deschutes Forest NFD 4600-120 Dispersed Camping attract outdoor enthusiasts. "Free for 14 days, state land. Many other trailers and RVs parked throughout. Lots of mountain bikers, plenty of places to ride and also a paved path that runs alongside the road," reports Alex P., who spent nearly a week enjoying the area.
Winter camping: For year-round access, consider lower elevation spots. "We stayed here in the winter in our camper van and enjoyed the electrical hook up for hearing and cooking inside our van. Only one loop of the campground is open in the winter and water is turned off at the sites except for one central location," explains Emma A. about winter camping at LaPine State Park.
What campers like
Urban convenience: The Camp offers unique urban camping. "Located in Bend, close to a Safeway grocery store, Walgreens, Starbucks and Dutch & Bros plus a lot of other places...easy drive to the freeways so you can go explore around," writes Vivi W., who appreciated the "common area with gas grills, a gas fire pit with blankets available, two tables with umbrellas and chairs."
Desert solitude: The Oregon Badlands Dispersed area provides a different experience. "Close to Bend, easy to get to and find, quiet, views for miles. The dogs loved romping around here," Jennifer R. explains, though she warns about "dust and wind" that can make tent camping challenging.
Spacious sites: When staying at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver, Christie U. found "the individual sites are pretty spacious and have a decent amount of trees." The campground offers "a swimming pool, mini golf course, tennis courts, horseshoe rings, and more," according to Stephanie N., making it popular with families.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Summer fire bans are common in this high desert region. For FR 9710 Dispersed Roadside Camping, Amy notes: "Just look for established fire rings to find a spot. The only sign I saw that indicated you are allowed to camp here was one about putting out your fire."
Cell service: Connectivity varies by location. At FR 9710 Dispersed Roadside Camping, campers report "okay cell service" near the entrance areas. Aaron M. confirms "2-3 bars LTE on AT&T and Verizon even further in where you can camp" at Deschutes Forest dispersed areas.
Seasonal challenges: Summer heat and dust affect camping comfort. "The dust just sticks on everything. I've been to lots of disbursed campsites and never had dust like this before," Chelsie reported about FS 4610 Dispersed. Winter camping requires preparation for freezing temperatures, with most campgrounds reducing services.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate campgrounds with activities. Nicole R.'s children helped review Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver: "Kids loved Sunriver-Bend Thousand Trails because there is bunnies, bullfrogs, mini-golf, a great little river to float on or swim in, ladderball, bingo, movies outside, and some pretty great pools!"
Consider cabin options: For those not ready for tent camping, cabins provide comfort. Meara H. found The Camp offered "Incredible vintage RV's you can rent. Clean bathrooms and showers. Park is clean and tidy- friendly staff." These accommodations work well for families needing more structure.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Bend: Many sites welcome pets but have different rules. "The Camp is a small and cozy parking lot campground in the middle of Bend Oregon," where Berton M. noted dogs are welcome with "a gated pet area which is great for the dogs to be off leash for a bit."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads: Crown Villa RV Resort offers premium surfaces. "It would be a 5-star rating if it were situated in a pristine natural forest. Alas, it's surrounded by suburbia," writes Tai W., who appreciated the "extraordinarily LARGE FLAT sites built with pavers."
Water and dump stations: Plan ahead for these services. Robert S. advises: "Getting here is a challenge but follow the camps directions, NOT Apple or Google (low bridge) but once here - it's worth it." For dispersed sites, pack extra water and know where dump stations are located.
Dog friendly RV parks near Bend: Look for sites with space for pets. At Crown Villa RV Resort, Tai W. noted "manicured grass between the sites (dog lover's heaven)" while Julie mentioned you must "Pay More or Get Weeds" as premium sites are better maintained than budget options.
