Bull Bend Campground, near Bend, Oregon, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature along the Deschutes River. This primitive campground offers a unique experience with spacious sites that provide a sense of privacy while still being close enough for a friendly gathering.

The campground is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, with easy access to the river right from your site. Visitors have raved about the beautiful surroundings, noting the diverse wildlife and lush riparian habitat. One camper shared, “This is what a healthy river looks like,” highlighting the vibrant ecosystem you can enjoy while you’re there.

While the amenities are basic—think pit toilets and no drinking water—campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to disconnect. The dirt road leading to the campground can be a bit tricky, so make sure to follow the right directions to avoid any detours. Whether you're floating down the river or just soaking in the scenery, Bull Bend Campground is a solid choice for a relaxing outdoor getaway.

## Overview

 Bull Bend is located along the Deschutes River just below the Wickiup Reservoir Dam.
## Recreation

 Bull Bend Campground offers a great location for fishermen. Fishing access is best found along the banks or using a non-motorized boat. Motorized boating is not permitted in the area.
## Facilities

 Bull Bend Campground offers a great location for fishermen. Fishing access is best found along the banks or using a non-motorized boat. Motorized boating is not permitted in the area.
## Natural Features

 Bull Bend Campground is located on a small peninsula lined by the Deschutes River. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Visitors can explore wilderness areas, rivers, lakes and reservoirs, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Newberry National Volcanic Monument offers a glimpse into Central Oregon\'s rich geologic history. Travel 25 miles to Lava Lands Visitor Center to explore exhibits at the interpretive center, attend a ranger talk, take in scenic views from the top of Lava Butte and travel one-mile underground through Lava River Cave. Travel 30 miles to Newberry Caldera to visit Paulina and East Lake, Paulina Peak and Paulina Falls. Bull Bend Campground offers easy access to the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway which weaves through multiple high lakes with views of South Sister, Broken Top and Mt. Bachelor.

Bull Bend Campground

Searching for the best camping near La Pine, OR? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—La Pine is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near La Pine and user-submitted reviews.

La Pine

The Best Camping Near La Pine, Oregon

This site is nice and secluded in Deschutes NF. There are only a few sites to choose from but they are on a pennisula surrounded the the river. The spaces are still spaced enough to have privacy but close enough to party if you want.  The site even has a small boat ramp if needed and plenty of swimming space for anyone. Quiet, peaceful and secluded. Only drawback is one toilet for the entire place, so if it's packed it could be a problem if you need to use it. Otherwise it's a great place to visit and camp!

Waterfront and shaded

My husband and I stayed here to celebrate our anniversary. We were only able to stay for one night, but we are already planning our next trip back! The Dechutes River bends around this campground and it is perfect for kayaking or paddle boarding. The sites are HUGE and could easily accommodate more than one family. We loved it!

Hidden Gem perfect for Kayaking!

My husband and I visited here earlier in the month and we just had to take the kids and dogs back! We got two new toys...paddle boards, so we took those and the kayaks to float the river. We had the campground completely to ourselves on the 2nd night of our stay! This time we chose site #5, of of two adjoining group sites because of it's own little boat launch area...so easy to launch the paddle boards and kayaks any time you wished! We had a blast as usual and will be back again!

Perfect Kayak and Paddle Board location!

**Note** that forest service road 4370 is gated closed between Wyeth Campground after the boat launch to the intersection of 6599 near Bull Bend Campground.

  

Perfect for a short float around the campground or longer 2 mile,  1 hour float to Wyeth Campground.

  

It's popular for groups since are fairly large.

  

One pit toilet. No water spigot, but plenty of clean water from the Deschutes River.

  

Beautiful riparian habitat with birds, beaver, fish, and plant diversity on this stretch of the Deschutes River. This is what a healthy river looks like.

Secluded spot on the Deschutes River for a short float or paddle

This is a lovely and primitive campground inside a horseshoe bend of the river.  
Getting there is confusing--follow the directions from recreation.gov. Do\*NOT\* take Road 4370(West River Road) as it is closed past Wyeth Campground. Instead take County Road 43 to Road NF-100 (with a"Bull Bend" sign). Head south 1 mile then the road heads east 1.5 miles to the campground. It is a dirt road with washboards.

Photos of Bull Bend Campground

Real photos from real campers