This has to be one of the finest lookouts in the PNW that you can actually stay in. The views are simply stunning, especially of Mt. Jefferson. The hike up to the lookout is not long, but it is actually really steep. I dragged a very heavy cooler up there, which is not advised at all. There are two cots, one bed platform, a wood burning stove, and a cooking stove up there. There is also a detached outhouse. Just bring your food, cooking fuel, pots/pans, and a sleeping pad and bag and you are all set!
Big Lake Campground is a great place to visit in all seasons, although you would need snowshoes, skis, or a snowmobile to get there in the Winter. The views of Mt. Washington over the lake are truly stunning. My only knocks on it is that mosquitoes can be vicious in the summer, and most of the forest in view is burnt.
Visiting the Alvord Desert Campground is a must in Eastern Oregon. If you book a campsite, you have private access to drive out on the desert playa, and that also includes access to the hot springs. Well worth it. The stars out there are incredible. Be sure to check the weather before heading out on the playa, because if it has been raining it will be incredibly muddy and very easy to get your car stuck in.
Cove Palisades State Park is one of my favorite Central Oregon destinations. Lake Billy Chinook is simply stunning, and there is a great hike, the Tam-A-Lau trail, that goes right from the campsite.
The Detroit Lake campsite is really nice because it is right on the water, with an incredible view of Mt. Jefferson on a clear day. It is worth noting that the water level here fluctuates quite a bit, and if you visit in late summer or early fall, the lake level is usually so low that it is not really as scenic, or as good to swim in. There are great facilities at the campsite that are very clean. They sell firewood there as well.
This popular lakeside campsite is perfect for your water-based adventures. The reservoir is really pretty and has great fishing. Some of the campsites have really nice shade, while others have stunning views over the lake. The cabins are super nice and reasonably priced too.
This tent-only site is often overlooked because it does not really have any amenities. It is super cheap though, and gives the vibe of a backcountry experience while still having tent sites a short walking distance from your car. This is a perfect spot if you want to catch a stunning sunrise!
This is a really nice campground, with access to Paulina Lake and some really great hikes. Definitely an underrated National Monument in my opinion. The stars out here are absolutely nuts too!
This is a very peaceful campsite, with tall ponderosa pines everywhere. There are some nice amenities as well and you arent too far from town, but definitely not walking distance or really biking distance for that matter. It is also quite expensive, but maybe expected from a luxury RV park.
All of the amenities you would expect from a popular campsite, but some really incredible views over Diamond Lake, toward Mt. Bailey.
Pretty darn good National Park Campsite, but nothing over the top here. I went in early Fall and was the only one there. I have heard that is not the case in peak summer months. Good shade in the campground, but no sweeping views or anything like that. You have to drive about 15 mins to the Crater Rim to get the good stuff!
As far as RV parks go, this is the coolest one I have ever been to. They have RV pads that you can bring your own trailer to, or you can rent one of their beautifully restored vintage trailers or tiny homes that they have on site. They have a pretty central location in town, so although you won't feel immersed in the wilderness, you will be walking distance from several great breweries and restaurants. This is the perfect respite after camping in the boondocks for several days.
They have a really great common area with a gas fire pit, 2 gas grills, tables, and corn hole. They also have heated bathrooms and laundry trailers. You can't be a great business without great staff, and the staff at The Camp Bend is really top notch. They are a great resource about fun things to do in the area, and are always friendly. 10/10 would recommend.