Camping cabins near Chemult, Oregon range from basic forest service structures to deluxe accommodations with full amenities. Located in the Fremont-Winema National Forest at approximately 4,700 feet elevation, the area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs in the 80s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Winter cabin rentals require additional preparation as many access roads aren't maintained during snow season.
What to do
Fishing at Diamond Lake: The lake has excellent trout fishing from shore or boat, particularly in mid-summer. "The bites on the fishing is amazing. Have never been skunked on this lake," noted one visitor about Diamond Lake RV Park.
Biking around lake perimeters: Several lakes in the area offer lakeside trails suitable for family cycling. "There is a 12 mile walking/bike path around the lake that is beautiful," reported a Diamond Lake camper. The relatively flat terrain makes this suitable for riders of all abilities.
Visit waterfalls near Lemolo Lake: The surrounding area contains multiple waterfall hiking opportunities within short driving distance. "I wish we had more time to check out the lake and the surrounding waterfalls in the area," commented a visitor at KOA Lemolo Lake/Crater Lake North.
Winter activities: Some cabin locations remain accessible during winter months for snow recreation. Unlike summer camping, winter cabin stays require advance planning for supplies and heating requirements.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary by location: Some cabins offer more seclusion than others, with significant differences between campgrounds. "The tent sites by the lake appeared to be much larger than the ones further up the hill," noted one camper at Diamond Lake Campground.
Lake access from doorstep: Select cabins at certain locations provide immediate water access. "If you are a tent camper and want to camp here, be sure to get walk in sites 30-32 for an enjoyable stay. If you do, you'll enjoy your own private beach secluded from any neighbors on any sides," advised one camper about KOA Lemolo Lake.
Star viewing opportunities: The distance from urban centers creates exceptional night sky visibility. "The stars looked so nice at night, no light pollution!" shared a visitor to Lemolo Lake KOA, highlighting one of the benefits of this remote location.
Quiet surroundings: The relative isolation of many cabin locations provides peaceful experiences. "Campground was very quiet. Amenities close by," noted a visitor to Mazama Village Campground at Crater Lake National Park.
What you should know
Cell service varies significantly: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations, even within the same campground. "Cell service is decent with around 10-16 Mbps. I have Verizon and Att," reported one camper at Diamond Lake, while another noted "Disappointing, and for us a disadvantage, there was no cellphone reception and no internet access possible" at a different part of the same lake.
Prepare for mosquitoes: Insect activity can be intense, particularly in early summer. "Lots of mosquitoes and ticks especially in the early summer months," warned a camper at Crescent Lake Campground.
Supply limitations: Most locations require bringing all necessities. "Plan ahead because it seems the secret is out - these sites fill up 2 months + in advance. The RV sites seem ok but none of them are lakefront," advised one camper about Lemolo Lake. Another noted "when they say you're 'away from it all', that means stock up on supplies BEFORE you get to your campsite."
Distance between facilities: Bathroom locations may require planning at some sites. "The only downside for the walk-in sites is that the bathroom is far away; it's maybe an 8 minute walk to the flush toilets and showers," noted a Lemolo Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Consider morning activities: Early day recreation often provides the best experiences. "Arriving to the rim for the first time was jaw dropping. We took a morning drive around the rim and were awestruck by the views of snow capped mountains in the far distance on the left, and the deep, sparkling, blue lake to our right," shared a visitor to Mazama Village Campground.
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabins offer nature watching possibilities. "The wildlife is so cool. Great spot for birdwatching! Be wary of bears though. Each site provides a bear box to help ward them off," noted a camper at Mazama Village.
Pack for temperature variations: Despite summer day heat, nights can be surprisingly cold. "It gets cold here at night even in the summer. Waking up by the lake is magical," advised a visitor to Crescent Lake Campground.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between cabin locations. "Bathrooms are a long walk in the middle of the night so I should have chosen a cabin with a bathroom, my mistake," reported a camper at LaPine State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Not all RV-compatible cabins offer the same benefits. "We stayed at site 23 South loop in early Sept 2020. Nice campground. Sites are a bit closer to each other than we would have liked but there were still some trees between them, which was nice," shared an RVer at LaPine State Park.
Consider size limitations: Cabin access may restrict larger vehicles. "It's hard to get bigger rigs in here," noted a visitor to Crescent Lake Campground about the access routes.
Verify hookup availability: Services differ between locations. "Dry camping but there is water to fill up a tank and a dump station and showers," explained a Diamond Lake camper, highlighting the need to confirm utility connections before arrival.
