RV camping opportunities near Fremont-Winema National Forest range from lakeside resorts to high-desert getaways across Lake County's 8,270 square mile expanse. Elevation varies from 4,200 feet in Lakeview to nearly 6,000 feet at some campgrounds, affecting temperature ranges by 20-30 degrees between summer days and nights. Cell service varies significantly throughout this remote region, with strongest signals typically found near Highway 395 and the larger towns.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at refuges: Summer Lake Wildlife Area sits just minutes from Ana Reservoir RV Park, where visitors can observe migratory birds. "This park is very near the Summer Lake Wildlife Refuge, which is a great place for birdwatching. Lots of little quail were hanging out in the park on my recent visit," shares Anne P.
Fishing at local reservoirs: Multiple campgrounds provide access to fishing opportunities with minimal crowds. At Junipers Reservoir RV Resort, one camper noted, "You drive down a gravel road right through a 6,000 acre working cattle ranch. There are 40 pull through RV sites with electric, water, and some sites have sewer."
Stargazing under dark skies: The Oregon Outback region offers exceptional night sky viewing. Matt S. from Oregon Outback RV Park reports, "Amazing night sky. Owner is very friendly and accommodating. Site was huge and spaced out. Bathrooms were clean. Quiet. It was amazing."
Hot springs exploration: Several natural hot springs are accessible from camping bases in the region. The Oregon Outback RV Park provides convenient access to nearby geothermal features. "We wanted to visit the Oregon Dark Sky Sanctuary and found this incredible RV park! It's in a beautiful area," writes Kimberly M.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Waterwheel RV Park & Campground offers direct access to the Williamson River. "Right on the Williamson River, this campground is beautiful. The owners are very nice and accommodating. The river is great for fishing, and in the late summer you can catch crawdads for a delicious crawdad boil," says Lacy M.
Wide-open spaces: The expansive landscapes provide a sense of solitude at many campgrounds. At Junipers Reservoir RV Resort, "Peaceful and beautiful RV park about 8 miles west of Lakeview Oregon. All pull-thru level sites. Clean bathrooms/showers/laundry. Large grassy area with volleyball, horseshoes, and cornhole. Lots of hiking trails and even a lake with fishing," notes Rich J.
Ranch-based camping: Some rv sites near Fremont-Winema National Forest are situated on working ranches. "Very nice out of the way stop. Very friendly camp hosts and good directions in and out. Facilities are older but well maintained. Lot's of acreage to wander and beautiful vistas in every direction," says Brian A. about his stay at Junipers Reservoir.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained restrooms at several parks. "The bathrooms/showers are super nice and clean. The owner met us at check in and was so friendly! They have Starlink so we even had WiFi!" says Kimberly M. about Oregon Outback RV Park.
What you should know
Limited groceries and supplies: The nearest full grocery stores are often 70+ miles away. As Anne P. notes about staying near Ana Reservoir RV Park, "If you need supplies, head over to the Summer Lake store, which has a very friendly owner. Otherwise the nearest real grocery store is about 72 miles away."
Weather extremes: The high desert climate brings significant temperature fluctuations. Joseph from Lake County Fairgrounds explains, "Since this visit was during the heatwave of July 2022, it was VERY nice to have power for the night, and we had our rig A/C on all night long."
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds require additional effort to level RVs. At Lake County Fairgrounds, one reviewer observed, "The gravel parking lot is very uneven, so prepare accordingly."
Seasonal operation: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Junipers Reservoir RV Resort operates "from May through mid-October," while others like Wild Goose Meadows remain open year-round but with reduced amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Waterwheel RV Park & Campground, "The kids loved playing in the water and the playground. The bathrooms were extremely clean," notes Christopher O.
Water recreation options: Reservoirs and rivers provide swimming opportunities during summer months. Lacy M. shares about Waterwheel: "The river is great for fishing, and in the late summer you can catch crawdads for a delicious crawdad boil. In the office they have outdoor games such as corn hole and ladder ball you can use."
Group camping arrangements: Some parks can accommodate family reunions with advance planning. At Fish Lake Resort, "We are traveling in a 20' van. We are at lake view. Big rigs around us, but we don't feel crowded. Trails around. Fishing and just relaxing," reports Kirsten G.
Wildlife viewing for kids: Young campers can observe small wildlife at several campgrounds. Kevin H. noted at Waterwheel RV Park: "Easy walk to Williamson River where there is a dock and boat ramp. The spaces were very close together however."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RVers should verify specific power options before booking. At Wild Goose Meadows RV Park, "It's not a bad little park. Has electricity and water at the sites. Almost all are drive-through. Cost is $35 a night," reports David B.
Budget alternatives: Fairgrounds provide economical overnight options. At Lake County Fairgrounds, "There are a few sites, all on dirt/gravel slots, no trees in the parking area. Nearest to the shower-bath house are double sites, a plug, 30-amp power and water for each site," explains Joseph.
Cell coverage information: Working remotely is possible at select locations. "Cell signals from AT&T and Verizon provided enough connectivity for us to work during the week. AT&T, in particular, had a very good and strong signal," notes one camper about Waterwheel RV Park.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full-hookup sites. Joseph explains, "It costs $5.00 to dump if you don't pay for full or just need to stop and dump," regarding Lake County Fairgrounds facilities.
