Glamping experiences across Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests situate at elevations between 3,000-7,000 feet, creating significant temperature shifts between day and night year-round. Even summer visitors should pack warm clothing for evenings when temperatures can drop below 40°F. The high desert landscape features volcanic formations, alpine lakes, and ponderosa pine forests that provide distinctive seasonal backdrops for luxury camping accommodations.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: East Lake Resort offers excellent access for anglers targeting kokanee salmon. "Caught some Kokanee had someone in the campground with a smoker he gave us a smoked Kokanee," reports one visitor who appreciated the lakeside access and fishing community.
Hiking volcanic features: Paulina Lake Lodge Cabins provides direct access to unique geological formations. "We went to the big Obsidion Flow down the road it was cool to go hike on it, Lava that looks like black glass," notes a camper who explored the distinctive volcanic landscape.
Mountain biking trails: The region offers extensive trail networks for cyclists. "Loved these dispersed sites close to the town of Bend. Extensive mountain biking trials throughout as well," mentions a visitor to BEND FS 4610 Dispersed camping area, highlighting the accessibility of trails from primitive campsites.
Winter activities: Several glamping options maintain availability during winter months. "I stayed here alone the night before I hiked up South Sister. There are a decent amount of people who come this way, even on the SS trail... except when you start at 3AM there is no one," shares a visitor about Devils Lake Campground, noting its year-round accessibility.
What Campers Like
Stargazing conditions: Prineville Reservoir Main Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing. "This is also a dark sky park and if the moon is not bright the stars are amazing," notes a spring visitor who appreciated the astronomical viewing conditions.
Proximity to urban amenities: Many campers value the balance of nature with nearby conveniences. "This spot was close enough to town that we could call an Uber to Hayden Homes after we set up, then Uber back when the concert finished," explains a visitor to BEND FS 4610 Dispersed, highlighting the unusual blend of wilderness camping with access to entertainment.
Educational programming: Ranger-led activities enhance glamping experiences at select sites. "The educational programs are outstanding! The amenities are well cared for and the surroundings are incredible!" writes a visitor to Prineville Reservoir, describing the structured learning opportunities that supplement the luxury camping experience.
Family-friendly layouts: Thoughtful site arrangements create comfortable group experiences. "The individual sites are pretty spacious and have a decent amount of trees," reports a visitor to Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver, noting the balance between privacy and community.
What You Should Know
Temperature variations: Prepare for significant temperature drops at night regardless of season. "I had a great time, but make sure to bring warm clothes though--it can get pretty cold!" advises a visitor to Tumalo State Park Campground, emphasizing the need for layered clothing even during summer months.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking, particularly during peak season. "Must book on ReserveAmerica.com. Drove around to select potential sites then confirmed open and booked online," explains a Tumalo visitor, describing the booking process.
Seasonal limitations: Facility availability changes throughout the year. "Website says limited opening June 9, 2020," notes a pandemic-era visitor to Tumalo State Park, highlighting the importance of verifying seasonal operations.
Dust conditions: The high desert environment creates dusty conditions at many sites. "Super super dusty. It just gets all over everything. Spent an extra hour packing up just to wipe things down," warns a visitor to BEND FS 4610 Dispersed, describing the practical challenges of the environment.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options: LaPine State Park Campground offers river access for family activities. "We had a lot of fun here. Hiking. Fishing. Exploring. There's a few cool attractions we didn't know about. HUGE tree! Campsites are spread out. Pet friendly," shares a visitor who appreciated the diversity of family-friendly activities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer nature observation possibilities. "We camped next to a field that was home to a mom cat and her kittens," reports a Tumalo State Park visitor, while another camper at East Lake Resort noted, "We had deer out back, pikas & pretty yellow birds with redheads."
Recreation facilities: Some glamping sites include structured activities for children. "The kids (mostly teens) found plenty to do with the pool, putt putt, pump track, etc," explains a visitor to Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver, describing the organized recreation options beyond natural exploration.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides different experiences. "This time of year I sleep in my car and so having full bathroom facilities is nice. A great horned owl visited the tree next to my site at 1:00 am and hooted away," shares a spring visitor to Prineville Reservoir, highlighting the wildlife encounters possible during quieter seasons.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different connection options across the region. "Spot itself is nice, firepit with table. The hookup plugs were really far away though from the spot itself," notes a visitor to Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver, providing practical site-specific information.
Dump station access: Not all glamping sites with RV accommodations have onsite dump facilities. "If have tent site, nearest dump station is CampingWorld... only a few miles away at north side of Bend. Dump station list provided at entry gate is outdated," advises a Tumalo State Park visitor, sharing critical practical information.
Site selection strategy: Terrain and seasonal conditions affect site quality. "Unfortunately when it rains, sites in B loop flood which makes camping a muddy mess. Stay with the A loop for trailers or C loop for tents," recommends a Devils Lake camper, providing specific navigational advice based on experience.
