Bunker Hill Campground

For Oregonians yearning for a truly tranquil and intimate camping experience amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Umpqua National Forest, Bunker Hill Campground offers an ideal retreat. Tucked away on the northwest shore of the serene Lemolo Lake, this small campground provides a genuine escape from the everyday, perfect for those who cherish peace, quiet, and direct access to nature's wonders. Unlike larger, more bustling campgrounds, Bunker Hill promises a more secluded ambiance, making it a cherished spot for locals seeking to unwind and reconnect with the pristine Oregon wilderness.

Recent visitor experiences paint a clear picture of what makes Bunker Hill so special. One camper happily noted, "Stayed there in mid June, not many folks there that time of year. we were the only campers at Bunker Hill that entire weekend." This highlights the campground's appeal for those seeking solitude. Another review echoed this sentiment, describing it as "small and intimate," with certain sites offering more seclusion than others. Site 2, in particular, comes highly recommended for its "unrestricted views of the lake" and "best access" to the water.

While the natural setting is undeniably beautiful, visitors are also candid about what to expect. The presence of "hoards of mosquitos" at dusk, followed by the welcome appearance of "bevy of bats" at dark, speaks to the active wildlife around the lake. Sightings of "eagles," "deer," and the sounds of "large wild animal panting heavily outside our tent at night, likely a wolf or coyote," underscore the rich biodiversity that campers can experience here. Despite the mosquitoes (which are described as "not overwhelming" by one reviewer), the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive: "We enjoyed the heck out of our stay." This authentic feedback confirms Bunker Hill Campground as a fantastic, rustic choice for adventurous Oregonians.

Bunker Hill Campground is located in the beautiful Umpqua National Forest, specifically on the northwest shore of Lemolo Lake, near Idleyld Park, OR 97447, USA. This places it in Southern Oregon, within the scenic Cascade Mountains, a region celebrated for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and abundant recreational opportunities. For Oregon locals, the journey to Bunker Hill is a part of the adventure, winding through picturesque landscapes that prepare you for the tranquility of the campground.

To reach Bunker Hill Campground from Roseburg, Oregon, travelers typically embark on a scenic drive. You would travel east on OR-138 / NE Diamond Lake Boulevard for approximately 72 miles. This main highway is well-maintained. After this stretch, you turn left onto Forest Road 2610, also known as Bird's Point Road. You'll continue on this road for about 5.5 miles, crossing the impressive Lemolo Lake Dam. Finally, turn right onto Forest Road 2612, and the campground will be located on the right side of the road, on the north shore of Lemolo Lake.

While the main highway is paved, the forest service roads (2610 and 2612) are typically gravel. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved sections, which can be bumpy, as noted by some campers regarding nearby roads. However, the campground is accessible to both tents and RVs up to 25 feet. It's always advisable to check current road conditions with the U.S. Forest Service, especially during adverse weather or the shoulder seasons, as conditions can change. The relative remoteness contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, ensuring a true escape into nature.

Bunker Hill Campground offers essential, yet basic, services designed for a rustic camping experience. Visitors should arrive prepared for a largely self-sufficient stay, embracing the simpler side of outdoor living.

• Campsites: The campground features five standard campsites. These sites are equipped with picnic tables for dining and campfire rings with grills, allowing for safe campfires (when conditions permit) and outdoor cooking.

• Vault Toilets: For restroom facilities, Bunker Hill provides vault toilets. These are basic, non-flushable toilets, but they are maintained for visitor convenience. There are no flush toilets or showers at this campground.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for all visitors to understand that Bunker Hill Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring their entire water supply for drinking, cooking, and washing. Alternatively, they should have a reliable method for filtering or purifying water from Lemolo Lake if necessary.

• Limited Garbage Disposal: While some sources indicate limited garbage disposal, the Umpqua National Forest generally encourages a "pack it in, pack it out" policy for remote campgrounds. Campers should be prepared to remove all their trash to help keep the area pristine.

• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at any of the campsites, making it ideal for tent campers and self-contained RVs.

• Reservations: All five sites at Bunker Hill Campground are available by reservation only, which can typically be made through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance. This helps ensure a spot, especially during peak season.

Bunker Hill Campground, despite its small size and rustic amenities, boasts several compelling features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for campers in Oregon. Its natural setting and the opportunities it provides for wildlife interaction are particularly notable.

• Lemolo Lake Shoreline Access: The campground clings to the northwest shore of Lemolo Lake, offering direct access to the water. While some sites may have slightly more difficult access due to terrain, site 2 is noted for having the "best access," providing unrestricted views and an easy path to the lake for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.

• Peaceful and Intimate Atmosphere: Being a small campground with only five sites contributes to a quiet and intimate setting. Visitors often report being the only campers, or one of very few, enhancing the sense of seclusion and tranquility.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Lemolo Lake is popular with anglers. It's home to various trout species, including German brown trout, Eastern brook trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon. The lake can reach depths of up to 100 feet, providing ample habitat.

• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The Umpqua National Forest is rich in wildlife. Campers at Bunker Hill frequently report seeing bald eagles soaring above, deer walking through the camp, and a variety of birds. The presence of bats at night helps manage the mosquito population, a natural ecological balance. Some visitors have even heard larger animals like coyotes or wolves, adding to the wilderness experience.

• Scenic Views: Campsites, particularly site 2, offer "unrestricted views of the lake," providing stunning vistas of the water and the surrounding heavily wooded lodgepole pine forest beneath Bunker Hill.

• Proximity to Hiking Trails: The Umpqua National Forest boasts numerous trails. Nearby, the Lemolo Falls Trail offers a steep descent to view the impressive 150-foot Lemolo Falls, and access to segments of the North Umpqua Trail and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail are also within reach.

• Low Boat Traffic: Being "near the dam," the lake access from Bunker Hill often experiences mostly fishing boat traffic, keeping the waters calm and peaceful compared to areas with more recreational motorboat activity.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Bunker Hill Campground, including its current operational status, any alerts, fire restrictions, or specific road conditions, it is essential to contact the U.S. Forest Service office that manages this area within the Umpqua National Forest.

Address: Idleyld Park, OR 97447, USA (This is the general address for the campground's vicinity.)

Phone: (541) 498-2531 (This is the phone number for the Toketee Ranger Station, which manages the area including Bunker Hill Campground and Lemolo Lake.)

For reservations, which are required for all sites at Bunker Hill Campground:Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov National Reservation Line)Website: Recreation.gov (Search for "Bunker Hill Campground, Umpqua National Forest")

It is highly recommended to check the official Umpqua National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/umpqua) before planning your trip. This website provides vital information on forest conditions, road closures (especially for Forest Roads 2610 and 2612), fire danger status, and any temporary closures or restrictions that might affect your visit. Given the secluded nature of the campground and the possibility of encountering wildlife, being well-informed ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

For Oregonians, Bunker Hill Campground represents a quintessential taste of the state's magnificent natural offerings, perfectly tailored for those who cherish a quiet, intimate connection with the outdoors. Its location on Lemolo Lake within the Umpqua National Forest is a draw for many locals, providing a relatively accessible yet wonderfully secluded escape from the more populated areas. The affordability and reservation-only system also make it a reliable choice for planning a peaceful getaway.

The detailed reviews from fellow Oregonians highlight exactly why this campground resonates so strongly with the local population. The ability to find a site with "unrestricted views of the lake" and "best access" to the water for kayaking or fishing speaks to the kind of direct engagement with nature that many Oregonians seek. The rich wildlife encounters—from bald eagles soaring overhead to deer wandering through camp and the intriguing sounds of wild animals at night—offer an authentic wilderness experience that goes beyond mere camping, fostering a deeper appreciation for the state's biodiversity.

While the mention of mosquitos encourages preparedness, it's a small concession for the privilege of experiencing such a serene environment. The tranquility, the opportunities for excellent fishing, and the chance to witness Oregon's wildlife firsthand make Bunker Hill Campground a true gem. It's a place where locals can truly unwind, disconnect, and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of the Umpqua National Forest, proving that sometimes, the best adventures are found in the most intimate and natural settings. For any Oregonian seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat, Bunker Hill Campground is an exceptional choice.

Bunker Hill Campground

Idleyld Park, OR 97447, USA