Best Tent Camping near Summer Lake, OR

Tent camping near Summer Lake, Oregon provides rustic options in the high desert landscape of central Oregon. The Fremont National Forest offers several tent-only campgrounds, including Rock Creek Forest Camp near Paisley and Upper Buck Creek near Silver Lake. Green Mountain Campground, situated at higher elevation with expansive views of the surrounding lava fields, provides walk-in tent sites with basic amenities. Crack-in-the-Ground, a unique geological formation, offers hike-in tent camping opportunities for those seeking more primitive tent camping experiences.

Most tent campgrounds in the Summer Lake region operate seasonally from May through October, with some sites like Deadhorse Lake only accessible from July to October due to snow conditions. Vault toilets are available at select locations including Green Mountain Campground and Crack-in-the-Ground, but potable water is not provided at any of the tent campsites. Campers must bring all necessary water supplies. Fire rings are present at some locations, though fire restrictions are common during summer months. The terrain varies from sandy soil near the Christmas Valley Sand Dunes to rocky surfaces at higher elevations, requiring appropriate tent stakes and ground pads.

Backcountry tent camping in this region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. According to reviews, Green Mountain Campground provides "outstanding views" and "incredible night skies," though the access road requires careful navigation with "rocky places" that may challenge vehicles without good clearance. Wildlife sightings are common, with one camper at Horseglade Trailhead noting they "listened to birds and coyotes and enjoyed being under the canopy of stars." Summer temperatures can be extreme, with daytime highs frequently exceeding 90°F while dropping significantly at night. The Lost Forest/Dunes area offers primitive tent camping with "spacious and beautiful views" but campers should be aware that "wildlife including cougars and coyotes" may wander through after dark.

Best Tent Sites Near Summer Lake, Oregon (36)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 36 campgrounds

Recent Tent Camping Photos near Summer Lake, OR

7 Photos of 36 Summer Lake Campgrounds


Tent Camping Reviews near Summer Lake, OR

78 Reviews of 36 Summer Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Summer Lake

Tent camping near Summer Lake, Oregon, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area. With a variety of campgrounds available, you can find the perfect spot to set up your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for tent camping near Summer Lake

  • The Summer Lake State Wildlife Area allows fires and is pet-friendly, making it a great choice for families and furry companions.
  • For a more secluded experience, consider the Hanan Sycan Trailhead Campground, which offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities at the Pikes Crossing, as it lacks firewood and picnic tables, but it provides a true back-to-nature experience.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • The Deadhorse Lake campground is well-reviewed for its scenic views, although campers should bring tarps for shade due to the surrounding dead forest.
  • At the Green Mountain Campground, visitors enjoy spacious sites and a clean pit toilet, perfect for those seeking a basic yet comfortable camping experience.
  • The Upper Buck Creek campground is free and offers a chance to connect with nature, though be ready to deal with mosquitoes during the warmer months.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

  • Camping at the BLM Christmas Valley Sand Dunes is free, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers looking for adventure.
  • The Antler Horse Camp offers a no-cost camping experience, ideal for those who want to explore the area without spending a dime.
  • For a nominal fee, the Farm Well Horse Camp Trailhead provides a designated area for tent camping, perfect for equestrian enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Summer Lake, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Summer Lake, OR is Fremont National Forest Rock Creek Forest Camp with a 2-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Summer Lake, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 tent camping locations near Summer Lake, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.