Dispersed camping near Summer Lake, Oregon offers access to remote desert landscapes at elevations between 4,200-4,500 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between day and night, particularly from late spring through early fall. Camping options range from basic forest service sites with vault toilets to developed campgrounds with hookups, with several locations providing direct reservoir access for fishing and boating.
What to do
Fishing at reservoirs: Duncan Reservoir Campground provides bank fishing opportunities at a small BLM site about 5 miles down a gravel road. "Free. Nice location... There were a few folks bank fishing. Volcanic rock is everywhere; may make tent camping in some spots hard," notes Fred S. The campground features pull-through sites along the water.
Hot springs soaking: Summer Lake Hot Springs offers developed camping with access to natural hot springs. "The pools are well cared for and kept up. Dressing rooms and showers provided," reports Mama J. The facility features both indoor pools in a barn-like structure and outdoor soaking options, with clothing optional after 9pm.
Stargazing and wildlife viewing: BLM near Summer Lake provides dispersed camping with minimal light pollution. "Right off Hwy 31. BLM road has 2 areas marked but room for more. Keep right to parallel the highway and you get out of sight and sound," shares Shane K. The area is known for clear night skies and abundant bird watching opportunities.
What campers like
Quiet, remote setting: Silver Creek Marsh Campground offers peaceful camping in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. "Quiet Forest Service campground... On a warm June night, it's a pleasure to have a campground like this entirely to one's self," writes Leland. The campground features well-spaced sites and clean pit toilets.
Unique geological features: Thompson Reservoir Campground provides access to interesting volcanic terrain. "Camped three nights along with hiking the trails near by. Our site was very large and had a beautiful view of the reservoir. We had two eagles that were hanging out in a tree right next to us," Ann W. reports.
Reservation cabins: Fremont Point Cabin offers an alternative to tent camping. "You have to reserve this well in advance, but it's worth it. Propane stove/oven, lights, and fridge provided. Bring your own sleeping supplies," advises T D. The cabin includes a vault toilet but requires advance booking.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads can become difficult to navigate in wet conditions. At Bunyard Crossing Forest Camp, "Accessible by almost any vehicle. Can be stuck there if it rains, and FS Rd 413 has huge potholes that fill with water and become almost impassable, even with a 4WD," cautions Michael and Karen M.
Water availability: Many camping spots near Summer Lake, Oregon have limited or no potable water. At Silver Creek Marsh, Kelly H. notes: "Lovely walks and hikes to be had. Beautiful stargazing. Clean pit toilets and clean overall campground. There were corrals at one end for horse camping. No cell service."
Supplies and groceries: Ana Reservoir RV Park provides camping near basic services. "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," advises Anne P.
Tips for camping with families
Reservoir activities: Duncan Reservoir provides family-friendly water activities. "Such a lovely unexpected find. Travel down a gravel road for approx 5 miles mostly smooth a few wash out spot but easy to navigate around to arrive to a sparkling oasis," describes Mama J. The small boat launch allows for paddling opportunities.
Kid-friendly amenities: Ana Reservoir RV Park includes features for children. "This place has great little grassy areas next to each pull through—each one has a newly planted tree and a picnic table. There's a little playground for kids, as well as a warm, clean bathroom with showers," shares Anne P.
Wildlife observation: Look for birds and animals around Summer Lake area. At Thompson Reservoir, Ann W. mentions, "We had two eagles that were hanging out in a tree right next to us. It was a real treat to watch the eagles for a few days."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Silver Lake RV park provides maintained spaces for RVs. "Small RV park in Silver Lake. Well maintained level sites with grass in between. Quiet. Full hookups. Bathrooms and showers are clean but could use some minor TLC," according to Rich J.
Dump stations: East Bay Campground offers basic camping near Thompson Reservoir. Michael and Karen M. note: "Thompson Reservoir has shrunk considerably. There is no access to the water from this campground. Last time we camped there we saw 2 other campers. Outhouses, picnic tables, fire rings."
Alternative camping styles: Summer Lake Hot Springs accommodates various camping preferences. "Everything from full-service cabins to rent and RVs, down to what we used, tent camping. Beautiful but spartan tent camping area, portable toilets (clean), and cable spools used as tables," explains Greg B.
