Campers exploring La Pine, Oregon can find options across the high desert landscape between 4,150-6,500 feet elevation. This central Oregon location serves as a gateway to the Newberry Volcanic Monument with campgrounds scattered among ponderosa pines and along rivers. Water temperatures at some lakes remain surprisingly comfortable despite the elevation due to geothermal activity.
What to do
Hot springs access: Paulina Lake Campground connects to natural hot springs along the shoreline. "Hike in about 3.5 miles and you'll be able to soak in the hot springs and take a dip in the lake. Trail was pretty flat so definitely kid + dog friendly," notes Amanda W.
Volcanic exploration: Venture to obsidian flows and volcanic features throughout the area. "The whole thing is on the Newberry Volcanic monument which is super interesting geologically and historically," shares Pepper V. about the unique landscape surrounding Paulina Lake.
River activities: Bull Bend Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities with its riverside location. "The Dechutes River bends around this campground and it is perfect for kayaking or paddle boarding. The sites are HUGE and could easily accommodate more than one family," reports Laurie M.
Short hiking trails: Find walking paths through forests and meadows near most campgrounds. "There is a beautiful walk along the creek just down the hill from the campsites that you can make a loop out of," shares Amanda and Blaine K. about Prairie Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample room between sites. "The back sites are very spacious. Pull through sites offer little privacy and some of those are awkward to situate your RV," reports Jeff M. about LaPine State Park Campground.
Lakefront access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. "Sites are a little uneven and there is just a pit toilet. For the price of $21 I would like there to be a water spout," notes Matthew K. about Fall River Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Some campgrounds remain uncrowded even during peak season. "The thing I liked most about this campground was the fact that there were not many people here," shares Ross F. about Prairie Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many sites provide access to rivers and lakes known for trout fishing. "This camp is a fly fisherman's dream. Choose from one of the many sites just off the bank of the Fall River, and you'll find yourself wandering aimlessly along the River looking for trout," says Jake R.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "Basic campground- picnic tables, fire rings and pit toilets. Not much privacy, but everyone was pretty quiet so overall a nice place to spend a night or two," explains Karen about Little Crater Campground.
Water supply issues: Not all campgrounds have reliable water sources. "$16 per night. No hookups. No water during my visit," reports Steve V. about Prairie Campground. Always bring backup water.
Insect concerns: Ants can be problematic at some sites. "We had a beautiful tent spot right up next to the lake but had to leave because the ants were insane. It was like the ground was moving. There were ant hills two feet tall," warns Sophie J. about Crane Prairie Campground.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. "The road into the campground was dirt with a fairly long section that was very washboard so be prepared for some bumps along the way!" cautions Carly E. about Mckay Crossing Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver offers numerous family activities. "My kids are helping us out with reviews for parks. 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!" shares Nicole R.
Group camping areas: Some campgrounds have dedicated loops for larger family gatherings. "The yellow loop is great for big groups, with 15 spots separated from the rest of the campground. There's a small private beach beside the boat ramp, and a bigger, more sandy beach near the day use area," explains Rhiannon S. about Crane Prairie Campground.
Hiking difficulty levels: Many trails are suitable for children. "Simple trails right from the campsite," mentions Kim G. about LaPine State Park, making it easy for families with young hikers.
Temperature preparation: Prepare for significant day-night temperature swings. "In August, it was warm during the day and cool at night," shares Amelia A. about Mckay Crossing Campground, emphasizing the need for layered clothing.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Crane Prairie Campground, experienced campers recommend specific areas. "We prefer the blue loop sites 120 and up. And the even number ones on the ridge like 138 are supreme because they back up to open wilderness and can accommodate several tents and RV," advises Debb.
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have awkwardly positioned utility connections. "The hookup plugs were really far away though from the spot itself," warns Denis K. about Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal needs. "They have no dump station on site," notes Bri about Cascade Meadows RV Resort, requiring RVers to find alternatives.
Off-season considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "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 staying at LaPine State Park during colder months.
