Dispersed camping near Lakeview, Oregon centers around the Fremont National Forest, which spans over 1.2 million acres with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 9,800 feet. This high desert region features stark temperature variations, with summer nights dropping into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach the 90s. Many forest service roads become impassable in winter months due to snow accumulation at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing at multiple sites: Both Drews Creek and Junipers Reservoir offer fishing opportunities within a short drive from Lakeview. At Drews Creek Campground, you'll find a "small quiet campground near, but not on Drews creek" with space for "about 4 maybe 5 RVs" according to Bill T., though cell service is nonexistent.
Wildlife viewing: The region surrounding Lakeview provides excellent opportunities for spotting local wildlife. A camper at Goose Lake State Recreation Area noted they "saw two deer and a ton of quail" during their stay, making it a good spot for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.
Hiking nearby trails: Several campgrounds offer access to hiking trails. The Fremont National Forest Mud Creek Forest Camp area has "many hiking trails and peace and quiet if that is what you are searching for," according to Kelly N., who also mentions "a trailhead a mile up the road with parking."
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the no-cost sites in the area. Forest T. described Drews Creek as a "Clean no frills FREE campground," while Ariel & John W. noted that Mud Creek Campground has "large private sites with fire rings and ginormous picnic tables plus vault toilets."
Dark sky stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes this region excellent for astronomy enthusiasts. Matt S. described his stay at Oregon Outback RV Park as having an "Amazing night sky" and mentioned the "scenery was awesome."
Clean facilities: Many campers mention the well-maintained facilities at established campgrounds. Michelle H. noted Goose Lake State Recreation Area has "Clean bathrooms, lots of shade" and is "Very peaceful," while Durango H. found the "bathrooms with showers very clean" at Junipers Reservoir RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Many water features in the area fluctuate dramatically or dry up completely. Kelly N. was confused about Goose Lake State Recreation Area, asking "Where is the lake?" and noting "This lake must be seasonal because we could not find it while traveling around this campsite." Michelle H. confirmed "The lake is completely dried up."
Mosquitoes can be intense: Insect activity varies by location and season but can be severe. Mike W. warned about Mud Creek Campground, saying "plan to stay inside the entire time" because "if you dare to go outside you'll be eaten alive spray or not I tried."
Limited services: The remote nature means facilities are often basic. At Lake County Fairgrounds, Sheri K. noted "There really isn't anything here besides the fairgrounds" and warned about the "very uneven" gravel parking lot, adding that while there's "a great area for exercising your dogs," many owners "do not pick up after their dogs."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious group areas: Some campgrounds offer ample space for family gatherings. Nancy M. had a "FANTASTIC place to camp with Family in RV or tent" experience at Oregon Outback RV Park, where "the owners went above and beyond by reserving the entire park exclusively for our family."
Recreation amenities: Look for campgrounds with built-in activities. Rich J. described Junipers Reservoir RV Resort as having a "Large grassy area with volleyball, horseshoes, and cornhole" and "Lots of hiking trails."
Wildlife education opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe wildlife safely. Michelle H. noted Goose Lake State Recreation Area is a place where families can see deer and "a ton of quail," making it educational for children interested in nature.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: RV drivers should be aware of tight clearances on forest roads. Mike W. warned about Mud Creek Campground: "I'm towing a 30 foot TT and my roof was touching the tree branches on the way in" and later "noticed tears on my rubber roof," adding "I would not recommend a 5th wheel or anything longer."
Overnight convenience spots: Several locations serve well as quick stopovers. Christine G. described Camas Sno-Park as "Just a big paved area" that's "Not bad for what it is," making it suitable for car camping with "A small outhouse" and noting it's "Right off of the 140 so will hear the traffic."
Hookup availability: RV sites with utilities vary widely across the area. Steve N. found Mile High Trailer and RV Park an "Easy stop" where "you get power, water, sewer and trash" though "you need to back in" and there are "Only 6 spots here."
