Established Camping
Little Lava Lake
Little Lava Lake, near Bend, Oregon, is a charming spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. This campground offers a peaceful atmosphere with well-spaced sites, making it a great choice for families and friends wanting to unwind in nature.
The lake is a highlight here, perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors have enjoyed the tranquility, often finding themselves with the water to themselves, especially during sunset when the reflections are simply breathtaking. As one camper noted, “Before sunsets were the best with mirror-like reflections and great views.”
While the amenities are basic, with vault toilets and no electric hookups, the campground is pet-friendly and allows campfires, which adds to the cozy vibe. Many campers appreciate the clean environment and the chance to connect with wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
If you're up for some adventure, there are hiking trails nearby, and a short drive will take you to a lodge market for any supplies you might need. Just keep in mind that the campground is small, so it’s wise to arrive early to snag a good spot. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Little Lava Lake is a solid choice for a laid-back camping experience.
Description
National Forest
Deschutes National Forest
Overview
Little Lava Lake Campground is located along the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway in the Central Oregon Cascades.
Recreation
Little Lava Lake Campground provides recreation opportunities for fishing, paddling, swimming and hiking. For anglers, the 130-acre Little Lava Lake offers a quiet alternative to its larger neighbor to the north, Lava Lake. Reaching a maximum depth of 20 feet, the lake supports planted Rainbow trout, some Brook trout, and self-sustaining populations of Whitefish and Tui Chub. Bait, lures, flies, still fishing and trolling are all acceptable angling methods.
Natural Features
Little Lava Lake is located on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range at an elevation of 4,740 feet. The small lake is surrounded by mature pine forests with bull rushes and lava outcroppings lining its shores.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors can explore wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, lakes and reservoirs and approximately 1,600 miles of trails within the Deschutes National Forest.Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, and the unique geological landscape of Newberry National Volcanic Monument draw visitors to the region as well.Visitors will also enjoy traveling the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway which climbs into the Cascades over a 66-mile drive through snow-capped peaks and alongside alpine lakes.A nearby resort on Lava Lake offers lodging and a limited selection of groceries.
Charges & Cancellations
Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
Location
Little Lava Lake is located in Oregon
Directions
From Bend, travel 38.4 miles southwest on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46), then 0.7 miles east on Forest Road 4600 500, and then 0.4 miles east on Forest Road 4600 520.
Address
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD
Bend, OR 97701
Coordinates
43.9101167 N
121.7616972 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobilePoor
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
