This article about the best camping near Bend, Oregon is brought to you by Midland. Their line of handheld two-way radios add some extra safety and convenience to any camping adventure.
World-renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, Bend is a must-see spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Sitting just 150 miles south-east from Portland, Bend is literally the center of Oregon’s outdoors scene providing year-round hiking, water sports, fishing, and camping. In addition, with over 300 days of annual sunshine, Bend provides you with plenty of opportunities to explore the stunning surroundings including the views from Mt. Bachelor, the rushing Deschutes River, and serene lakes of the Cascades.
To make the most of your trip to central Oregon’s largest city, we’ve rounded up some of the best campgrounds near Bend.
The 4 Best Spots for Camping Near Bend, Oregon
Tumalo State Park
Located on the banks of the Deschutes River, the campground at Tumalo State Park is conveniently close to the town of Bend so you can take in the local culture, while also enjoying outdoor activities away from the hustle and bustle.
It’s packed with amenities including flush toilets and a boat launch, and boasts a variety of camping options from tent-only sites to spacious RV sites and yurts. Due to its accessibility, it is an extremely popular campground so you’ll need to get in early to reserve your spot.
“Tumalo State Park is one of my favorite state parks in one of my favorite areas of the state…There’s an awesome but well-loved day-use area with swimming and barbecues. You can tube along the basalt rock wall and there’s a grassy area for picnics.”- Brian C.
Campground Details:
- Peak season rates – $21 for tent sites, $36 for full-hookup sites, $61 for a yurt
- 23 full RV hookup sites
- 54 tent sites
- 7 yurts including 2 that are pet-friendly
- Universal access sites
- Clean drinking water
- Mini market with firewood available
Elk Lake Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Patti S.
Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest at the north end of Elk Lake is a peaceful 17 site campground ideal for those who want to get away from it all. The rustic sites enable you to get back to nature where you can fish, paddleboard, and swim in the crystal clear waters of the lake, or explore the hiking trails by foot or on horseback. The sites are pet-friendly although animals are prohibited in swimming areas.
“It was full of beauty! Swim or paddle in the quiet waters of the non-motorized lake, go for a great hike with views of multiple Cascade peaks, or just kick back and relax in the campground. Pacific Crest Trail one only mile from the campground.”- Patti S.
Campground Details
- $14 per site, and $8 for each additional vehicle
- Tent-camping only with 17 rustic sites
- All sites have a fire ring with grill and a picnic table
- Non-flushable vault toilets
- Potable water available
- Small market with firewood
Cove Palisades State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Colby T.
Where the Deschutes Crooked and Metolius rivers meet, you’ll find the campgrounds at Cove Palisades State Park. They are situated on the edge of a sheer volcanic basalt gorge providing unparalleled views of the natural wonders of central Oregon.
There are two places to set up camp: the Deschutes campground and the Crooked River campground. Both offer exceptional amenities including full RV-hookups, off-leash dog area, flushable toilets, and warm showers, as well as unlimited access to Lake Billy Chinook and stunning hiking trails that take you past unique geological formations.
“The location of this campsite is surreal. There is a beautiful short hike you can do for sunset to get above the Palisades.” – Colby T.
Campground Details:
- Sites are $20 – $32 per night
- Crooked River campground is designed for RVs with 91 sites with electrical hookup
- Deschutes campground has 87 full RV hookup sites, 93 tent-only sites by the water
- Cafe, convenient store and fish cleaning station near the marina
- Wi-Fi and phone service
- Drinking water, toilets, and showers
North Waldo Lake Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Jen H.
Situated on one of the largest natural lakes found in the state, North Waldo campground offers you the opportunity to experience remote and peaceful camping among the towering Douglas firs. It provides easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail, as well as the Wahanna, Rigdon, and Torrey Lakes wilderness trails for avid hikers and offers deep boat launches to accommodate a wide range of marine craft.
The lake is beautifully clear due to the lack of water vegetation making it a great spot for swimming. Amenities are somewhat limited with no shower, market, or Wi-Fi. However, most of the sites offer full hookup, and with a crackling fire pit and a breathtaking sunset over the lake, what more do you need?
“One of the purest lakes in the world! Wonderful campground on Waldo Lake. Very secluded, basic sites, and close to the lake. Awesome biking and hiking trails all around the lake. Mosquitos can be vicious, but other than that it’s perfect!” – Blaine B.
Campground Details:
- Sites range from $21 – $40 per night
- 58 tent and RV sites
- Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table
- Pet and family-friendly
- Clean drinking water
- Ample firewood available
This article was brought to you by Midland.
Their walkie talkies (aka two-way radios) are the perfect addition to any camping excursion.
