Cinder Hill Campground

For Oregon locals, Cinder Hill Campground offers an exceptional gateway to the stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Situated on the shores of picturesque East Lake, this campground provides a perfect blend of serene lakeside relaxation and thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to cast a line, paddle on the water, hit the trails, or simply soak in the unique geological wonders of a volcanic caldera, Cinder Hill is a prime destination for an unforgettable Central Oregon experience.

This article is designed to be a comprehensive and factual guide to Cinder Hill Campground, drawing upon available public information and insights from fellow campers. We understand that Oregonians value access to clean, well-maintained natural spaces with a variety of activities. Cinder Hill delivers on these fronts, making it an ideal choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the distinct charm of our state's high desert and volcanic landscapes.

Cinder Hill Campground is located within the Deschutes National Forest, on the eastern edge of East Lake, inside the vast caldera of the Newberry Volcano. While the provided address is generally Oregon 97739, USA, specific driving directions are essential given its location within a national monument.

From Bend, Oregon, travelers should head approximately 23 miles south on Highway 97 to County Road 21 (also known as Paulina Lake Road). From there, turn east onto County Road 21 and continue for about 17 miles. Finally, take Forest Road 300 north for approximately 0.5 miles to reach the campground. If you're coming from La Pine, go about 5 miles north on Highway 97 to County Road 21, then follow the same eastbound and northbound directions.

This location places campers right within the heart of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, offering immediate access to the geological wonders of the caldera and the serene waters of East Lake. While it provides a sense of being 'away from it all,' the campground remains accessible via well-maintained forest roads, making it a feasible destination for RVs and trailers, with some sites accommodating vehicles up to 85 feet in length.

Cinder Hill Campground is managed to provide essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience while retaining a natural feel. It caters primarily to self-sufficient campers but offers crucial services that enhance a stay in the wilderness.

• Numerous Campsites: With 108 campsites, including 54 reservable and 3 tent-only sites, Cinder Hill offers ample space for various camping styles. Sites are well-spaced, often with natural screening for privacy.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gathering.
• Flush Toilets: The campground provides flush toilets, a significant convenience for many campers. (Note: Some older reviews mention issues with cleanliness or sufficiency of bathrooms, but more recent information points to flush toilets being available, suggesting improvements or varied experiences.)
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available through convenient water spigots located throughout the campground. The water system is typically turned on from mid-May until late September or campground closure, depending on weather conditions.
• Two Boat Launches: For water enthusiasts, the campground boasts not one, but two boat launches, providing easy access to East Lake.
• Fish Cleaning Station: A practical amenity for anglers, allowing for convenient processing of their catch.
• Dumpsters: Trash disposal facilities are available, encouraging a clean and responsible camping environment.
• Camp Host: A friendly camp host is usually on-site, offering assistance, selling firewood, and providing local information.
• Generator Restrictions: For a more peaceful experience, sites 52-110 have restricted generator use hours (10 a.m. to noon and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily), catering to those who prefer a quieter environment.

Cinder Hill Campground's appeal extends far beyond its basic services, thanks to its extraordinary location and the multitude of activities it facilitates.

• Prime Lakeside Location: Situated directly on the shores of East Lake, many sites offer lake views or easy walking access to the beach. East Lake is known for its clear, comfortable water, ideal for swimming and other water activities.
• Newberry National Volcanic Monument Setting: The campground is nestled within the Newberry Caldera, offering a unique geological backdrop. Visitors can explore volcanic features like the Big Obsidian Flow, the youngest lava flow in Oregon (1,300 years old), and the Lava River Cave, the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon, both nearby.
• Abundant Water Activities: East Lake is a paradise for water sports. Boating (with a 10 mph speed limit), kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and swimming are all popular activities. The provided boat launches make access simple.
• Excellent Fishing: East Lake is well-known for its excellent fishing, supporting rainbow trout, brown trout, and Kokanee salmon. Anglers can fish from boats or the shoreline, making it a great spot for both seasoned and casual fishers.
• Extensive Hiking and Biking Trails: The Cinder Hill Trailhead within the campground provides direct access to the Newberry Crater Trail #3958 and other connecting trails. The Crater Rim Trail, considered one of the finest high country trails in the area, offers vast stretches of forest, deserts, and mountains with numerous access points.
• Proximity to East Lake Resort: A significant convenience is the nearby East Lake Resort, which offers amenities like a store for last-minute essentials, boat rentals, and potentially food options, adding comfort to your wilderness stay.
• Privacy and Spacious Sites: Despite its large size, the campground is designed to offer a good semblance of privacy between sites, often utilizing natural screening. Many sites are spacious, accommodating various setups from tents to large RVs.

For current operating dates, reservation details, alerts, and any specific inquiries about Cinder Hill Campground, it is best to refer to the official sources managed by the Deschutes National Forest or the Recreation.gov platform.

Address: Oregon 97739, USA (Located within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, Deschutes National Forest)

General Information Phone: (541) 383-5300 (Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, Deschutes National Forest)

Reservations Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (via Recreation.gov)

Online Reservations: Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov. The campground typically operates from mid-June to mid-October, with some periods being first-come, first-served. Always check the Recreation.gov website for the most up-to-date operating dates and availability.

For Oregon locals, Cinder Hill Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an ideal hub for experiencing the diverse and captivating landscapes that define our state. Its suitability for residents stems from a perfect blend of accessibility, abundant recreational opportunities, and a strong connection to one of Oregon's unique geological wonders.

Firstly, its location within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument is a significant draw. Oregonians appreciate places that offer both natural beauty and educational value, and the opportunity to camp inside a volcanic caldera, with access to features like the Big Obsidian Flow and Lava River Cave, is truly unique. This allows locals to deepen their appreciation for our state's geological history without traveling far. It provides a distinct outdoor experience that complements the coastal, mountain, and river adventures found elsewhere in Oregon.

Secondly, the sheer variety of activities available directly from the campground makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you're a family looking for safe swimming and easy boating on East Lake, an avid angler hoping to catch trout or Kokanee salmon, or a hiker eager to explore miles of trails that start right at your campsite, Cinder Hill caters to all. The convenience of having boat launches, fishing opportunities, and trailheads immediately accessible from your site means less driving and more time enjoying the outdoors – a key factor for maximizing a local getaway. The provision of life vests for safety on the water further enhances its family-friendly appeal.

Furthermore, the campground’s thoughtful design, with well-spaced sites offering a degree of privacy, and essential amenities like flush toilets and potable water, ensures a comfortable experience. The policy on generator use also shows an understanding of differing camper preferences, allowing both those who need power and those who seek quiet to coexist. For many Oregonians, the balance between natural immersion and convenient facilities is crucial, and Cinder Hill strikes this balance effectively.

In conclusion, Cinder Hill Campground is an excellent choice for Oregon locals because it offers a direct and enriching connection to one of our state's most fascinating natural areas. Its combination of prime lakeside camping, diverse recreational activities, and well-maintained facilities makes it a perfect destination for memorable adventures, easily accessible from various parts of Central Oregon.

Cinder Hill Campground

Oregon 97739, USA