Cinder Hill Campground

Nestled within the breathtaking Newberry National Volcanic Monument, on the shores of the serene East Lake, Cinder Hill Campground offers an unparalleled natural escape for locals across Oregon. This popular destination, situated in the vast Deschutes National Forest near La Pine, provides a truly immersive outdoor experience, inviting campers to explore a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic forces and abundant natural beauty. Whether you're an avid angler, a family seeking lakeside fun, or a hiker eager to explore unique geological features, Cinder Hill Campground offers a rustic yet rewarding base for your Central Oregon adventures.

Oregonians cherish their state's diverse landscapes, from the rugged coastlines to the majestic Cascades, and Cinder Hill Campground provides a quintessential high-desert, volcanic, and lakeside experience. While some past reviews have noted the absence of showers and limitations of the toilet facilities, it's important to recognize that Cinder Hill delivers on its promise of a prime location and access to an incredible array of recreational activities that truly make it "a very nice location." The value here is found in the stunning natural surroundings and the opportunities for outdoor recreation, rather than luxury amenities. This article will guide you through the essential details of Cinder Hill Campground, highlighting its stunning location, available services, key features, and why it remains a cherished destination for local Oregonians seeking to connect with their state's remarkable natural heritage.

Cinder Hill Campground is ideally located at La Pine, OR 97739, USA. More specifically, it sits right on the edge of East Lake, within the caldera of Newberry Volcano, which is part of the expansive Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the Deschutes National Forest.

Accessibility to Cinder Hill Campground is straightforward from Central Oregon's major population centers. From Bend, a common starting point, travel approximately 23 miles south on Highway 97 to County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road). Turn onto County Road 21 and proceed about 17 miles east. Then, take Forest Road 300 north for approximately 0.5 miles to reach the campground. For those coming from La Pine, the drive is about 5 miles north on Highway 97 to County Road 21, then follow the same eastbound and northbound directions. While the final stretch involves Forest Roads, they are generally well-maintained for vehicle access, including RVs and trailers up to 65 feet, as the campground accommodates them. The elevation here is around 6,400 feet, so visitors should be aware of potential changes in weather and temperature, even in summer. This location offers a sense of being deep in nature while remaining relatively accessible from towns like Bend and La Pine, providing convenient access to gas stations and grocery stores before heading into the monument. Public transportation is not available to this remote area, so a personal vehicle is essential for visiting Cinder Hill Campground.

Cinder Hill Campground provides essential amenities for a comfortable camping experience within its natural setting. While it offers a rustic charm, it includes important services for most campers:

• Campsites: The campground features 109 campsites, with 55 of these being reservable. Sites are suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs (accommodating lengths from 30 to 65 feet). Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grate.
• Drinking Water: Potable (drinking) water is available, ensuring campers have access to fresh water during their stay.
• Flush Toilets: The campground provides flush toilets for guest convenience. However, it's worth noting a review's specific comment about a "single (hardly working toilet)" and the facilities not being renovated for "50 years," suggesting that while available, conditions might vary or be dated.
• No Showers: It is confirmed by multiple sources and reviews that Cinder Hill Campground does not have showers. Campers should plan accordingly or consider local resorts for shower facilities if needed (though public access is not guaranteed).
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is typically available for purchase from the friendly camp host, convenient for campfires (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Boat Launch/Ramp: The campground offers a boat ramp, providing direct access to East Lake for boating activities.
• Restricted Generator Use: To maintain a peaceful environment, sites 52-110 have a restricted generator use policy: generators may only operate between 10 a.m. and noon, and 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily.
• Camp Host: A friendly camp host is typically on-site to assist visitors and manage the campground.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times, with owners cleaning up after them.

Cinder Hill Campground offers an array of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon, particularly those drawn to unique geological landscapes and water activities.

• Lakeside Location on East Lake: The campground's primary highlight is its stunning position on the shores of East Lake, within the Newberry Caldera. Several campsites are very close to the beach, offering direct access for swimming, sunbathing, and launching small watercraft.
• Boating and Water Sports: East Lake is perfect for boating, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake has a 10 mph speed limit, ensuring a peaceful environment for non-motorized and slow-moving boats. The on-site boat ramp makes launching convenient.
• Exceptional Fishing: East Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities, supporting rainbow trout, brown trout, and Kokanee salmon. Anglers can fish from boats or the shoreline, with September often seeing abundant Kokanee activity.
• Newberry National Volcanic Monument: The campground is nestled within this incredible monument, offering unparalleled access to its unique geological features. Highlights include:
  • Big Obsidian Flow Trail: A fascinating 1-mile interpretive trail that takes you onto a 1,300-year-old lava flow of obsidian (black volcanic glass) and pumice, the youngest lava flow in Oregon.
  • Crater Rim Trail: Considered one of the best high-country trails in the area, offering vast stretches of forest, deserts, and mountains with many access points.
  • Lava River Cave: A nearly mile-long lava tube, the longest continuous one in Oregon, offering unique subterranean exploration.
  • Paulina Lake: Adjacent to East Lake within the caldera, offering additional recreational opportunities.
  • Paulina Peak: The highest point in the monument, providing panoramic views of the caldera and beyond.
• Scenic Views: Campers are treated to stunning views of the caldera, East Lake, and the surrounding ponderosa pine forests. The elevation provides clear skies for incredible stargazing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including black bear, deer, native fish, and migratory birds, offering opportunities for nature photography and observation.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With lake access, boating, fishing, and nearby interpretive trails, Cinder Hill provides a wealth of activities suitable for families.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or more specific information about Cinder Hill Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: La Pine, OR 97739, USA (located within Newberry National Volcanic Monument near East Lake).
• Campground Inquiries Phone: (541) 383-5300 (This number connects to the Deschutes National Forest office that manages the campground).
• Reservations Phone: 1-877-444-6777 (This is the national reservation line for Recreation.gov).

Campsites at Cinder Hill Campground can be reserved through Recreation.gov. Reservations are accepted for arrivals between August 1st and September 29th and are released on a 6-month rolling basis. Outside of these dates, campsites may be available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but it's always wise to check current operating seasons (typically late May – early October) and availability. It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular summer weekends. Before your visit, always check for current fire restrictions (as dry conditions are common), weather forecasts, and any alerts regarding the Newberry National Volcanic Monument or Deschutes National Forest. The main park phone number (541) 383-5300 can also provide up-to-date information regarding conditions and accessibility.

Cinder Hill Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Oregon, offering a quintessential Central Oregon outdoor experience right in their backyard. For Oregonians, this campground provides an accessible yet immersive escape into one of the state's most geologically fascinating and recreationally rich areas. Its location within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument allows locals to easily explore unique natural wonders like the Big Obsidian Flow and Paulina Peak, offering educational and adventurous outings close to home.

The opportunity for lakeside camping directly on East Lake is a significant draw, enabling popular activities such as fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, and Kokanee salmon, as well as peaceful kayaking, canoeing, and sailing on the "no-wake" waters. While past reviews mention limitations regarding showers and toilet conditions, the primary value for Oregonians lies in the incredible natural setting and the wealth of outdoor activities available at their fingertips. The convenience of having a camp host, drinking water, and firewood for sale, despite the rustic feel, enhances the camping experience. Cinder Hill Campground embodies the spirit of Oregon's outdoor lifestyle, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities for families, anglers, and adventurers to create lasting memories in the heart of their home state.

Cinder Hill Campground

La Pine, OR 97739, USA