Lakeside sites with open sightlines toward Mt. Washington set Big Lake West apart from its larger neighbor, Big Lake, which sits less than a mile across the water. Sites are large and positioned directly on the lake, though trailers must park on the road with slides kept clear of the pavement. The access road is rough, the season runs June 15 through October 14, and mosquitoes can be heavy in early summer. Campers who don't mind the drive-in conditions and arrive prepared for bugs will find a smaller, less crowded base with full lake access and the Patjens Lake Trailhead at the far end of camp.
Description
Overview
Big Lake West Campground offers sites located on the shores of Big Lake, situated at the top of the Santiam Pass. Opportunities to enjoy the outdoors are numerous and range from off-highway vehicle exploring, boating, swimming and hiking. There are 11 tent only double campsites. There is one single and one double vault toilet. Drinking water is available through the system shared with Big Lake Campground. There are no parking spurs; vehicles must park along the road's edge. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. All sites are by reservation. Campfires allowed until and unless otherwise posted. Fire bans are common during summer months. Please plan accordingly. Reservations may be made up to 6 months in advance of arrival date by reserving online at RECREATION.GOV or by calling 877-444-6777.
Facilities
This tent only campground has vault toilets, drinking water, a boat ramp and swimming area. Ice and firewood are also available. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (541) 967-3917.
Nearby Attractions
The major activities in the Big Lake area revolve around motorized use. Boats frequent the lake and off highway vehicles (OHVs) us the adjacent Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area. Other attractions include Mt. Washington Wilderness and associated access trails, historic Santiam__Wagon Road, McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass National Scenic Byway, Pacific Crest Trail, and Sand Mountain Lookout.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Fire restrictions are currently in effect that prohibit all fires as well as charcoal usage and smoking (except in an enclosed vehicle). Only gas stoves, grills, and lanterns allowed.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBig Lake West Campground is located in Oregon near Camp Sherman
Public CampgroundDirections
From Eugene, Oregon, take I-105 east to McKenzie Highway 126. Travel east on Hwy 126 for 90 miles to Santiam Pass. At the top of the Pass, turn right onto the access road (sign says Hoodoo Ski Area, Big Lake Road & Benson Sno-Park). Travel one mile to the fork in the road and stay left on Forest Service Road 2690. Continue for 4 miles to the entrance to Big Lake West Campground.
Coordinates
44.3721639 N
121.8827417 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/28/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 8/28/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Bend, OR
- 2 hrs 1 min from Albany, OR
- 2 hrs 3 min from Eugene, OR
- 2 hrs 23 min from Salem, OR
