Diamond Lake camping options include both developed campgrounds and dispersed sites within the Umpqua National Forest at 5,183 feet elevation. The area receives heavy winter snowfall, with many sites closed from October to May. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-75°F with cool nights even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing for trout: Diamond Lake contains rainbow trout weighing up to 8 pounds. "We came on Sunday with no reservations and found a spot. Only $16 per night! Cell service is decent with around 10-16 Mbps. I have Verizon and Att," notes a visitor to Diamond Lake Campground.
Mountain biking trails: The area offers both gentle terrain and challenging descents on forest service roads. "What more can you ask for? Clear waters, spectacular Mountain Views. Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, the possibilities are endless. Fill the tank, and hit the road," shares one camper about their Diamond Lake experience.
Winter recreation: When snow blankets the terrain, try snowmobiling on designated routes or cross-country skiing. At Thielson Forest Camp, one visitor noted, "Basic place to stop when you have enjoyed the hot springs to long. Nice fire pit. Good little area. Love the watch for wolves signs."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Washrooms at many sites are well-maintained despite their rustic nature. "The bathhouse was well maintained and clean. RV sites were easy to access and hookup, and dump sites were also easy to navigate," reports a camper who stayed at Joseph H. Stewart County Park.
Spacious sites: Most campgrounds offer good separation between sites. A visitor at Crescent Lake Campground notes, "Large sites, friendly hosts, lakefront sites, although many have a steep edge to the beach. If you can't get a site right on the beach near the dock, then it's safer just to drive down there. Easy kayaking."
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Diamond Lake offers solid shelter with basic comforts. "We loved the Glamping tents, new and beautifully appointed, the facilities were well kept and sparkling clean. The bathrooms were clean and newly updated. We will be back," says a visitor to Umpqua's Last Resort & Oregon Mountain Guides.
What you should know
Mosquitoes: Insect repellent is essential, especially in early summer. "The campsite was great, the views of the lake were stunning, minutes from crater lake NP. Be prepared to fend off mosquitoes if you're going in the summer! The showers and bathrooms were clean and well maintained," warns a visitor to Diamond Lake.
Temperature swings: Pack for both warm days and cold nights, even in summer. At Crescent Lake Campground, a camper observed, "Perfect little campsites. It gets cold here at night even in the summer. Waking up by the lake is magical."
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly from July through September. "You can make reservations on line. We found one night available. Was worth it," notes a Diamond Lake camper, highlighting the importance of advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "Love that there are paved walking paths throughout the area and a few playgrounds for kiddos. Great views of Lost Creek Lake just a short walk from the campsite," shares a visitor to Joseph Stewart.
Junior ranger programs: Check with campground hosts about scheduled activities. "Collier also offers many programs to keep the youngens and young at heart busy, very family friendly," explains a camper at Collier Memorial State Park.
Swimming spots: Diamond Lake has relatively warm, shallow water near shore. "The lake is very nice, smooth water and a few mosquitos, but not that bad," writes one camper about their experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site dimensions before booking. At Sunset Cove Campground, a camper advises, "Campground was perfect for a quick road trip night. Got a spot right by the river and it was beautiful. It had a nice boat ramp, picnic table and trails to walk around the river to some fishing spots."
Power availability: Most Forest Service campgrounds lack hookups. "This was a lovely place to camp for the night. There were probably 10-15 campsites, and I was the only one there when I showed up. Campsites have picnic tables and fire pits and there is a pit toilet," reports a visitor to Millsite Forest Dispersed Camping.
Dump stations: Plan ahead as facilities are limited. A Joseph Stewart camper notes, "Sites without hookups are $28, and electric/water sites are $33. There is a dump station at the entrance, free for use by campers only."
