Camp Makualla, B.S.A.

For Oregonians, the call to explore our incredible natural landscapes is a deep-seated one. We live in a state blessed with diverse terrain, from the Pacific coastline to the majestic Cascade Mountains, and embracing the outdoors is a way of life for many. When it comes to fostering a love for adventure, building character, and developing essential life skills in a truly inspiring setting, Camp Makualla, B.S.A. stands out as a beacon of outdoor education and fun.

Nestled in the heart of Oregon's beautiful Deschutes National Forest, Camp Makualla offers more than just a place to pitch a tent; it provides a comprehensive and engaging experience designed to challenge and inspire youth. While it has a rich history with the Boy Scouts of America, its appeal extends to anyone seeking a structured, safe, and exciting outdoor program. Many locals recognize Camp Makualla as a cornerstone for developing resilience, teamwork, and an appreciation for the wilderness that surrounds us.

This camp, with its stunning waterfront on Crescent Lake and access to a myriad of high-adventure opportunities, is a testament to the vibrant outdoor culture we cherish here in Oregon. It’s a place where memorable experiences are forged, friendships are strengthened, and lifelong lessons are learned amidst some of the Pacific Northwest's most breathtaking scenery.

Camp Makualla, B.S.A. is strategically located at 60 Forest Road, Crescent Lake, OR 97733, USA. This prime address places it on the southern shore of Crescent Lake, along the eastern slope of the Cascade Mountains, within the expansive and beautiful Deschutes National Forest. This location is a true asset for Oregon residents, providing a relatively accessible gateway to central Oregon's high country adventures.

The camp is situated at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet, offering stunning views of ponderosa pines and a refreshing mountain climate. Its position on Crescent Lake ensures direct access to water-based activities, making it a fantastic destination for aquatic programs and simply enjoying the clear, inviting waters.

Accessibility for those traveling from across Oregon is straightforward, typically involving a scenic drive through diverse landscapes. While feeling wonderfully secluded, the camp is not overly remote, allowing for convenient travel plans. For groups, particularly those associated with the BSA, shuttle services to and from the Chemult, Oregon train station have been available, highlighting efforts to make the camp reachable for participants even without direct vehicle access.

Furthermore, Camp Makualla serves as an excellent base for exploring some of Oregon's most iconic natural landmarks. It is approximately 55 miles from the majestic Crater Lake National Park, making day trips to this world-renowned natural wonder a feasible and popular activity for campers. The surrounding Deschutes National Forest also provides a vast network of trails and natural features, enhancing the overall experience and providing countless opportunities for exploration and adventure right outside the camp's boundaries. The combination of lakeside tranquility, forest immersion, and proximity to major natural attractions makes Camp Makualla an exceptionally well-located outdoor destination for local users.

Services Offered

• Campsites with Tents: The camp provides canvas wall tents, typically accommodating two persons per tent, within its campsites. Portable dome tents may also be available for larger units.
• Dining Hall Facilities: Camp Makualla features the Fred Hanson Memorial Dining Hall, which provides meal services, with sufficient food options often noted by visitors.
• Shower Facilities: Restrooms with showers are available for campers. While some reviews suggest these facilities may need updating, they are provided for convenience.
• Vault Toilets/Porta Potties: In addition to more permanent restrooms, porta potty facilities are also available throughout the camp.
• Program Areas and Merit Badges: The camp offers a wide array of program areas for Scouts, including Aquatics, Ecology-Conservation, Handicraft, Scoutcraft, Shooting Sports (rifle, shotgun, archery), and Trailblazer (for first-year Scouts). Numerous merit badges are offered to facilitate skill development.
• High Adventure Programs: Specifically designed for older youth (ages 14-17 and Ventures), these programs include activities like whitewater rafting (on the Deschutes River), spelunking (cave exploration), mountain biking (with new bikes often available), rock climbing (at Smith Rock), and various challenging hiking treks (e.g., Cowhorn Mountain, Diamond Peak).
• Waterfront Activities: Situated on Crescent Lake, the camp offers a robust waterfront program including swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and fishing opportunities (targeting kokanee salmon, lake trout, rainbow trout, brown trout, and mountain whitefish).
• Provisional Camping: Scouts who wish to attend camp but whose unit is not attending can often register as provisional campers, either joining other provisional campers in a staff-led unit or being hosted by another troop.
• Camp Store/Trading Post: A trading post is typically available for campers to purchase snacks, drinks, and camp-related merchandise.
• Health Lodge: The camp employs a Camp Health Officer who resides in the Health Lodge and is available around the clock for emergency medical services.
• Shuttle Services: Shuttle services to and from the Chemult, Oregon train station have been offered to facilitate transportation for groups.
• Facility Rentals: Beyond summer camp programs, camp properties, including campsites, A-frames, and the dining hall, are available for use by Scouting units and non-Scouting groups.

Features / Highlights

• Stunning Lakefront Location: The camp's position on the southern shore of the clear and beautiful Crescent Lake is a major highlight, offering incredible views and direct access to a wide range of water sports and activities.
• Diverse High Adventure Opportunities: Camp Makualla is particularly renowned for its robust high adventure programs, which attract older Scouts and provide thrilling experiences like whitewater rafting, caving, challenging mountain biking trails (often with new equipment), and rock climbing.
• Dedicated and Enthusiastic Staff: Reviews frequently praise the camp's staff for being enthusiastic, friendly, and dedicated to providing a positive experience for campers, ensuring safety, particularly at the waterfront.
• Scenic Old-Growth Forest Environment: The camp is covered in mature Douglas fir and Ponderosa Pines, many of which are over 100 years old, creating a beautiful and immersive forest setting ideal for outdoor activities and reflection.
• Well-Run Dining Hall: The dining hall consistently receives positive feedback for being well-managed and offering enough food options to cater to various preferences.
• Excellent Shooting Ranges: The camp is equipped with well-regarded rifle, shotgun, and archery ranges, providing a safe and effective environment for skill development in these areas.
• Proximity to Natural Landmarks: Its location near Crater Lake National Park allows for enriching day trips, while the surrounding Deschutes National Forest provides countless opportunities for hiking and exploring.
• Historical Significance: Founded in 1938, Camp Makualla has a long-standing tradition of serving youth in outdoor education, celebrating over 80 years of impactful programming.
• Focus on Experiential Learning: Beyond traditional merit badge completion, the camp emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning opportunities in various program areas.

Contact Information

Address: 60 Forest Road, Crescent Lake, OR 97733, USA

Phone: (800) 888-1273 (General Information and Reservations for Crater Lake Council)

Mobile Phone: +1 800-888-1273

For specific inquiries regarding camp programs, reservations, or seasonal operations, it is recommended to contact the Crater Lake Council directly via the provided phone number or their official website.

For Oregon locals, Camp Makualla, B.S.A. represents a truly exceptional opportunity to engage with our state's unparalleled natural environment in a structured and enriching way. While historically a Boy Scout camp, its facilities and programs offer immense value for any youth group, school, or even families (during designated rental periods) seeking a robust outdoor experience. The camp's location on Crescent Lake, nestled within the majestic Deschutes National Forest and conveniently close to Crater Lake National Park, makes it a premier choice for immersing oneself in the heart of Oregon's wilderness.

What makes Camp Makualla particularly suitable for us Oregonians is its emphasis on high-adventure activities that truly leverage our state's diverse terrain. From navigating the exhilarating rapids of the Deschutes River through whitewater rafting, to exploring the geological wonders of local caves via spelunking, or tackling the challenging mountain biking trails with high-quality equipment, the camp provides access to experiences that many locals seek for personal growth and thrilling recreation. These are not just activities; they are opportunities to build resilience, develop leadership skills, and foster a deeper appreciation for the unique landscapes that surround us.

Beyond the thrill of adventure, the camp offers a serene and beautiful setting. Waking up surrounded by towering old-growth pines, with the clear waters of Crescent Lake at your doorstep, is an experience that resonates deeply with our appreciation for untouched nature. The staff's dedication and enthusiasm, often highlighted by past visitors, ensure a positive and supportive environment, making it a place where youth can safely push their boundaries and discover new capabilities.

While some reviews mention a need for facility updates, the core experience—the breathtaking location, the challenging programs, and the spirit of adventure—remains paramount. For locals, Camp Makualla provides a valuable resource for fostering outdoor skills, environmental stewardship, and a lasting connection to Oregon's wild heart. It’s a place where young Oregonians can truly grow, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime, all within the familiar and cherished landscapes of our home state.

Camp Makualla, B.S.A.

60 Forest Road, Crescent Lake, OR 97733, USA