LaPine State Park Campground sits approximately 30 minutes from Sunriver, offering campers spacious sites under aromatic Ponderosa Pines at an elevation of 4,150 feet. Winter camping options remain available near Sunriver when many other facilities close, though higher elevations experience significantly colder temperatures than nearby Bend. Several forest service roads provide free dispersed camping alternatives within a 10-20 minute drive of Sunriver's amenities.
What to do
Natural hot springs exploration: Paulina Lake features naturally occurring hot springs accessible via a 3.5-mile hike around the lake shoreline. "From there the next day you can hike to the north side of the lake for the hot springs which are hand dug out," notes Ryan R. about Paulina Lake Campground.
Obsidian flow hiking: The unique volcanic landscape near Sunriver offers distinctive geological features to explore. "The trail was lined with beautiful obsidian. Hike in about 3.5 miles and you'll be able to soak in the hot springs and take a dip in the lake," reports Amanda W. about her visit to the area.
Winter camping adventures: Unlike many areas that close seasonally, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "We stayed here in the winter in our camper van and enjoyed the electrical hook up for hearing and cooking inside our van. Only one loop of the campground is open in the winter," explains Emma A. from LaPine State Park Campground.
Waterfall discovery: Creek-side camping offers waterfall access at certain locations. "Easy access, nice hike to some natural water slides, a variety of sites along the water," shares Daniel H. about Mckay Crossing Campground. Another camper adds: "Follow it through the campsite and you'll find a secret waterfall!"
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site selection varies greatly between campgrounds, affecting privacy levels. "The individual sites are pretty spacious and have a decent amount of trees," notes Christie U. about her experience at Thousand Trails. Campers at LaPine State Park similarly appreciate that "the back sites are very spacious."
Volcano crater camping: The unique opportunity to camp inside a collapsed volcano crater draws many visitors. "Amazing spot to visit. The lake is great for fishing, hiking, and has amazing hot springs on one side. The whole thing is on the Newberry Volcanic monument which is super interesting geologically," explains Pepper V. about Little Crater Campground.
Convenient overnight locations: For travelers passing through, accessibility to main roads matters. "This is a GREAT spot for small and large rigs looking for a boondocking spot near Bend, OR. Big open areas spot semi shade and campfires. Easy access from main road. Easy 10 min drive to downtown," reports Jules S. about dispersed options.
Well-maintained facilities: State park campgrounds offer reliable amenities. "Campground, bathrooms, and showers are kept very clean. Campsites have plenty of room and some have shade depending on location," writes Brandie W. about her experience camping in the area.
Guide
