Big Lake

For those of us in Oregon who crave mountain majesty, crystal-clear waters, and the thrill of outdoor adventure, Big Lake Campground near Sisters is a quintessential summer destination. Nestled high in the Willamette National Forest, at the top of Santiam Pass, this beloved campground offers an immersive experience in the heart of Oregon's stunning Cascade Mountains. It's not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub of activity, where the gentle lapping of the lake meets the dramatic backdrop of towering volcanic peaks. Whether you're a seasoned paddler, an avid angler, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views, Big Lake provides an unforgettable escape that many Oregonians return to year after year.

Big Lake is renowned for its unique characteristics that make it exceptionally appealing to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. The lake itself is famously shallow and warm, making it incredibly inviting for swimming, kayaking, and paddle boarding – perfect for families and those who prefer a more leisurely water experience. But it's the views that truly capture the heart: waking up to the iconic silhouettes of Mount Washington and Three Fingered Jack across the water is a sight that defines the Oregon high country. While it's a popular spot, particularly in the summer, the abundance of activities and the sheer beauty of the surroundings ensure that every visit feels like a true adventure. It perfectly encapsulates the diverse outdoor spirit that defines our beloved state.

Big Lake Campground is situated at the top of Santiam Pass, near Sisters, OR 97759, USA. This prime location places it within the vast and beautiful Willamette National Forest, approximately 30 miles east of McKenzie Bridge. For Oregonians, its position offers relatively convenient access from various parts of the state, bridging the gap between Western Oregon's lush valleys and Eastern Oregon's high desert.

Access to Big Lake Campground is typically via well-maintained state highways. From Eugene, for instance, you would take Highway 126 east for about 90 miles to Santiam Pass. At the top of the Pass, you turn right onto the access road (signed for Hoodoo Ski Area, Big Lake Road, & Benson Sno-Park) and then continue for a few miles on Forest Service Road 2690 to reach the campground entrance. The entire route, including the campground road, is generally paved, making it accessible for both cars and RVs up to 35 feet in length, depending on the specific site. While it's a journey into the mountains, the accessibility is excellent, allowing Oregonians to easily reach this high-elevation gem for a refreshing escape. It's important to note that the campground is seasonal, typically open from May through September, and current conditions (including snow or potential closures) should always be checked, especially in the shoulder seasons.

Big Lake Campground provides a range of essential services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for its visitors:

• Campsites: The campground offers 49 individual campsites suitable for both tent and RV camping. These sites are a mix of reservable (over half, via Recreation.gov) and first-come, first-served options, providing flexibility for planners and spontaneous adventurers alike.
• Drinking Water: Piped drinking water is available throughout the campground, sourced from the lake and filtered, ensuring convenient access to potable water for campers.
• Toilets: Both vault toilets and flush toilets are provided and maintained, offering more comfortable restroom facilities than many primitive campgrounds.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing campers to prepare meals and enjoy traditional campfires (always checking for current fire restrictions).
• Boat Ramp: A paved boat ramp is available, providing easy access for launching motorized and non-motorized watercraft onto Big Lake.
• Accessible Facilities: Big Lake Campground includes accessible vault toilets and at least one accessible campsite, catering to visitors with disabilities.
• Day Use Area: Adjacent to the campground, the Big Lake Day Use Area offers additional facilities for day visitors, including picnic areas and parking.
• Fee Station: Fees for campsites, extra vehicles, and day use can be paid via an automated self-pay station (cash or check for first-come, first-served sites, or via the Recreation.gov app).

Big Lake Campground is celebrated for a multitude of features and highlights that make it a truly special Oregon destination:

• Iconic Mountain Views: The stunning backdrop of Mount Washington and Three Fingered Jack visible directly from the lake and many campsites is a defining feature, providing spectacular photographic opportunities and a profound sense of being in the heart of the Cascades.
• Warm, Shallow Lake: Big Lake's shallow depth means its waters warm up considerably in the summer, making it ideal for swimming, wading, and families with young children. This also makes it perfect for non-motorized activities.
• Paddle Sports Paradise: The lake is incredibly popular for paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing, offering serene glides across its clear waters, often with fewer large powerboats compared to other lakes.
• Motorized Boating & Waterskiing: While popular for paddling, Big Lake also accommodates motorized boats and waterskiing, providing a diverse range of water recreation options for different preferences.
• Proximity to OHV Trails: The campground is adjacent to the Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area, making it a popular base camp for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts looking to explore extensive trail systems (with restrictions on OHV use within the campground itself).
• Access to Wilderness & Hiking Trails: Nearby Patjens Lakes Trail offers easy access to the Mt. Washington Wilderness, providing excellent opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and exploring pristine alpine environments, including a loop back to the campground. The Pacific Crest Trail is also nearby.
• Forested, Alpine Setting: Surrounded by alpine fir, hemlock, and lodgepole pine, the campground offers a beautiful, high-elevation forest environment, providing shade and a refreshing escape from summer heat.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem means opportunities to spot various wildlife, though visitors should always be bear aware and store food properly.
• Historic Significance: Big Lake is situated on the historic Santiam Wagon Road, adding a layer of historical interest for visitors.

For reservations, current conditions, or more detailed information about Big Lake Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: Sisters, OR 97759, USA (Located within Willamette National Forest, exact physical address often refers to the broader area)

Reservations & General Inquiries Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is Recreation.gov's national reservation line for federal campgrounds)

For facility-specific information or local ranger district inquiries: McKenzie River Ranger Station - (541) 822-3381 (This is for the managing district within Willamette National Forest)

Big Lake Campground is an absolutely ideal destination for Oregonians seeking a quintessential mountain and lake camping experience. Its location at Santiam Pass offers a relatively accessible yet wonderfully immersive escape into the Cascades, making it a perfect weekend getaway or longer vacation spot for families, adventurers, and nature lovers from across the state. The unique combination of a shallow, warm lake perfect for all kinds of water activities – from tranquil paddle boarding to invigorating waterskiing – ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy on the water.

Beyond the lake, the immediate access to the Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area caters to Oregon's enthusiastic OHV community, while nearby wilderness access and hiking trails, including the Patjens Lakes Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail, beckon those who prefer to explore on foot. The breathtaking views of Mount Washington and Three Fingered Jack provide a stunning backdrop to every moment, reminding us of the unparalleled natural beauty we have in our state. With well-maintained facilities, reservable sites, and a diverse range of recreational opportunities, Big Lake Campground consistently delivers the kind of authentic, memorable outdoor adventure that Oregonians cherish. It’s more than just a place to camp; it’s an active hub for experiencing the very best of our state's mountains and waters.

Big Lake

Sisters, OR 97759, USA