Delintment Lake Campground

For Oregonians, the pursuit of the perfect outdoor escape often leads us to discover hidden gems nestled within our state's incredible national forests. While many seek out the bustling popularity of the coast or the towering peaks of the Cascades, a different kind of tranquility awaits in the quieter, yet equally stunning, landscapes of Eastern Oregon. Delintment Lake Campground offers just that – a serene and pristine retreat that promises a truly restorative camping experience.

Delintment Lake Campground is a destination that prioritizes peace and natural beauty. It's a place where the stillness of the lake and the clean mountain air become your companions, providing a much-needed break from the demands of modern life. As highlighted by previous visitors, this campground is known for being "clean and quiet," and can offer significant "privacy on off seasons," making it an ideal choice for those who truly want to disconnect and immerse themselves in the Oregon wilderness.

Nestled within the Malheur National Forest, Delintment Lake offers more than just a place to pitch a tent; it provides a cool, clear refuge on hot summer days and a welcoming environment for fishing, swimming, and quiet boating. For those of us living in Oregon, who appreciate well-maintained sites and a respectful camping community, Delintment Lake Campground perfectly embodies the low-impact, high-reward outdoor experience we seek. In this article, we’ll delve into what makes Delintment Lake Campground a perfectly suitable and highly recommended spot for Oregon locals looking for their next peaceful adventure.

Delintment Lake Campground is situated in Oregon, USA, specifically within the Malheur National Forest in Harney County. The lake itself is an artificial lake, approximately 33 miles northwest of Burns, Oregon. Its remote location contributes significantly to its peaceful and private atmosphere, as noted by visitors.

Access to Delintment Lake Campground is via forest service roads. From Burns, Oregon, the most common route involves traveling west on US Highway 20 to the junction with Burns-Izee Road (County Road 127). You then continue on Burns-Izee Road for approximately 11-12 miles to the junction with Forest Road 41. From there, you follow Forest Road 41 for about 30-31 miles to the campground. While these roads can be long, the access road to the campground from Burns is reportedly paved, which is a significant advantage for a remote forest campground. However, drivers should be prepared for typical forest road conditions, which can vary with weather.

At an elevation of approximately 5,562 to 5,600 feet, Delintment Lake Campground offers a cool retreat during the summer months. Its higher elevation also means it has a distinct seasonal operation, typically opening around May 20th and closing around November 1st, depending on snow conditions.

The remote setting means there are no immediate towns or services right next to the campground. This emphasizes the need for campers to arrive fully prepared with all necessary supplies, including food, fuel, and water. While some sources mention water availability via hand pump, it's always prudent to bring your own or have purification methods. The journey to Delintment Lake is part of the experience, leading you deep into the quiet beauty of the Malheur National Forest, far from the hustle and bustle.

Delintment Lake Campground, managed by the Malheur National Forest, provides essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, albeit rustic, camping experience. The focus here is on enjoying the natural surroundings with basic necessities covered.

• Campsites: The campground offers 29 campsites, including a mix of sites near the shore and higher on the bank. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor meals and traditional campfires (always check for current fire restrictions). Sites are well-maintained and are often described as being private.
• Group Camping Area: In addition to individual sites, Delintment Lake Campground features a group camping area, providing space for larger gatherings or multiple families camping together.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and accessible vault toilets are provided throughout the campground, offering basic sanitation facilities.
• Potable Water: Potable water is generally available at the campground. While some sources mention a hand pump, it's wise to confirm availability and bring backup water or purification methods.
• Natural Non-Motorized Boat Launch: The campground offers a natural launch point for non-motorized boats directly onto Delintment Lake. This caters to kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and small fishing boats with electric motors (5 mph speed limit applies).
• Beach Area: A designated beach area provides a spot for swimming and enjoying the cool lake waters on hot summer days.
• Fishing Pier: For anglers, a fishing pier is available, offering a convenient spot to cast a line without needing a boat.
• Picnic Sites: In addition to campsites, there are 12 dedicated picnic sites, ideal for day-use visitors looking to enjoy the lake and forest for a few hours.
• Camp Hosts: Campground hosts are typically present during the summer months, providing assistance, maintaining facilities, and offering local information.
• No Hookups: It's important to note that Delintment Lake Campground does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual campsites. This is a primitive camping experience, and RVers should be prepared for dry camping.
• No Trash Service: In adherence to Leave No Trace principles, there is no trash collection service. Campers are required to pack out all garbage and waste.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning visitors must arrive early during peak season to secure a spot. While some third-party sites may indicate reservation options, official Forest Service information typically points to first-come, first-served.

Delintment Lake Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Oregon.

• Clean and Quiet Atmosphere: This is a consistent highlight from visitor reviews. The campground is known for its peaceful environment and well-maintained sites, providing a serene escape from noise and crowds.
• Pristine Lake Environment: Delintment Lake itself is a major draw. Described as "very clean and cool retreat for hot summer days," it offers a refreshing experience. The lake is artificial, constructed by the Forest Service to enhance recreation.
• Excellent Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for fishing, known for naturally reproducing trout. The presence of a fishing pier and easy boat access (for non-motorized and electric boats) enhances the angling experience.
• Non-Motorized Boating Paradise: With a 5 mph speed limit and a natural boat launch, Delintment Lake is ideal for quiet water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and float tubing. This ensures a peaceful experience on the water, free from the noise of large motorboats.
• Abundant Privacy (especially in off-season): The campground's design and location allow for significant privacy between sites, particularly during less crowded times, perfect for those seeking solitude.
• High Elevation Retreat: Situated at over 5,500 feet, the campground provides cooler temperatures during the summer, offering a welcome respite from the heat of lower elevations.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The surrounding Malheur National Forest is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to spot deer, elk, various bird species, and other forest animals.
• Access to Malheur National Forest: The campground serves as a gateway to exploring the broader Malheur National Forest, providing opportunities for hiking on nearby trails and experiencing the unique landscapes of Eastern Oregon.
• Well-Maintained Sites: Reviewers consistently praise the "well-maintained" condition of the campsites, ensuring a pleasant and tidy environment for campers.

For Delintment Lake Campground, contact information is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the Malheur National Forest. While a general "Oregon, USA" address is provided, it's essential to route inquiries through the managing forest office.

Address: Oregon, USA (Nearest major reference point: Approximately 33 miles northwest of Burns, Oregon, within the Malheur National Forest)

Phone: (541) 573-4300 (This is the main phone number for the Malheur National Forest Supervisor's Office or the Emigrant Creek Ranger District, which oversees the area including Delintment Lake Campground.)

It is highly recommended for prospective visitors to contact the Malheur National Forest directly before planning their trip. They can provide the most current and accurate information regarding:

• Current operating season dates, as these are dependent on snowmelt and weather conditions (typically May to November).
• Road conditions leading to the campground, especially important for remote forest roads.
• Any active fire restrictions or closures, which are common in Oregon during dry periods.
• Water availability status at the hand pumps.
• Expected crowd levels, particularly since sites are first-come, first-served.
• General area alerts or safety advisories, including bear safety.

Checking the official Malheur National Forest website is also a good resource for maps, current conditions, and updates before heading out to this tranquil destination.

For Oregonians, Delintment Lake Campground offers an incredibly suitable and appealing option for their outdoor adventures, particularly for those seeking genuine tranquility and a deep connection with nature away from the state's more heavily trafficked areas. It embodies the essence of what many locals cherish about Oregon's diverse landscapes.

Firstly, its reputation as a "clean and quiet campground" with opportunities for "privacy on off seasons" is a significant draw. In a state where popular spots can quickly fill up, Delintment Lake provides a refreshing escape where the sounds of the forest and the gentle lapping of the lake replace urban noise. This peaceful environment is ideal for Oregonians looking to truly unwind, fish without interruption, or simply enjoy the solitude of the high desert and forested landscapes. It caters to a preference for serene immersion over bustling activity.

Secondly, the lake itself is a major highlight, serving as a "cool retreat for hot summer days" and an excellent spot for fishing, swimming, and quiet, non-motorized boating. For many Oregonians, spending time on a clean, pristine lake is a quintessential summer activity, and Delintment Lake delivers this experience without the crowds or noise of larger, more developed reservoirs. It allows for a more intimate and personal connection with the water.

Furthermore, the primitive nature of the campground, with vault toilets and hand-pumped water, aligns perfectly with the self-reliant and environmentally conscious ethos often found among Oregonians. The expectation to "pack it in, pack it out" reinforces a shared responsibility for preserving the beauty of our national forests. For those who enjoy a more rustic experience but still appreciate well-maintained sites, Delintment Lake provides the perfect balance. It’s a true testament to Oregon's commitment to natural preservation and offers a quiet, beautiful sanctuary for any local looking to recharge amidst the pristine wilderness.

Delintment Lake Campground

Oregon, USA