This boat-in campground requires watercraft access across Cultus Lake, with limited trailer parking available at the launch ramp. The US Forest Service manages this site within Deschutes National Forest, where campers can reserve spots and bring pets. One visitor described the beach area as resembling "little Jamaica" and noted morning wake boats departing around 7:30 AM for calm water conditions.
Fishing produces occasional trout, though trolling success varies by season. Weekend crowds increase significantly with both campers and day-use visitors arriving by Friday. For those exploring the broader region, campgrounds around Deschutes National Forest provide additional forest camping options.
Description
Overview
Cultus Lake is one of the few lakes along the Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway that allows high sped motorized water craft. Cultus Lake West Campground offers opportunities for waterskiing, windsurfing, swimming, sailing and jet skiing, as well as, access to trails leading into the Three Sisters Wilderness.
Facilities
Cultus Lake Boat In - West Campground is one of three boat-in or hike-in only campgrounds on the north side of Cultus Lake. The campground is in a very rustic setting next to the water with twelve sites available.
Natural Features
Cultus Lake is a natural glacier-formed lake. This is a recreational lake and is popular for water skiing, sailing, jet skiing, and boating.
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCultus Lake Boat In - West Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
From Bend, OR: Travel 46 miles southwest on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46), then west on Forest Road 4635 for 2 miles. There is a large paved parking area with a dock and two boat ramps which is adjacent to the Cultus Lake Campground.
Coordinates
43.83895 N
121.8903 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Bend, OR
- 3 hrs from Eugene, OR
- 3 hrs 27 min from Albany, OR
- 3 hrs 35 min from Corvallis, OR







