East Bay Campground

For us Oregonians, the call of the high desert and its unique landscapes is just as compelling as the coastal rainforests or the Cascade peaks. East Bay Campground, nestled in the Fremont-Winema National Forest near Silver Lake, offers a quintessential high desert camping experience. It's a place where the wide-open skies, rugged terrain, and the tranquility of Thompson Reservoir (when full) create a truly distinct and memorable outdoor adventure.

East Bay Campground is a testament to the diverse natural beauty found across our state. While it offers a more rustic experience, it provides essential amenities that allow for a comfortable stay amidst stunning views of Hager Mountain and the surrounding ponderosa pines and aspens. It’s a popular spot for those who appreciate fishing, boating, and exploring scenic trails. It’s also a place where you truly connect with the natural cycles, as evidenced by the varying water levels of the reservoir, reminding us that nature operates on its own terms. Whether you're seeking quiet solitude or an active base for your high desert explorations, East Bay Campground provides an authentic Oregon experience that many of us cherish.

East Bay Campground is strategically located within the expansive Fremont-Winema National Forest, approximately 40 minutes south of Silver Lake, Oregon. The address, Silver Lake, OR 97638, USA, places it in Lake County, a region characterized by its high desert plateaus, expansive forests, and numerous lakes and reservoirs. Specifically, the campground is situated at the base of Hager Mountain and right on the scenic Thompson Reservoir, offering picturesque views and direct water access when the reservoir holds water.

Access to East Bay Campground is generally via paved roads leading into the area, with campground roads also being paved. However, it's crucial for prospective campers to note that conditions can vary significantly with the season. A recent review from April 11, 2025, indicated "some snow on campground roads" and specified that "4-wheel drive and high clearance needed." This highlights that while the roads are paved, weather conditions, particularly in shoulder seasons (spring and late fall), can impact accessibility. It's always advisable to check current conditions with the Fremont-Winema National Forest Silver Lake Ranger District before you head out.

Despite potential seasonal challenges, the paved access routes make East Bay more approachable than many truly primitive sites. Its relative proximity to Silver Lake, a small but important community hub, means that basic supplies are not too far away. This blend of remote natural beauty with reasonably maintained access makes East Bay Campground a compelling option for Oregonians looking to explore the high desert landscape.

East Bay Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offers a range of essential amenities designed to provide a comfortable, rustic camping experience. It’s important to note the variability of some services, particularly regarding water levels of the adjacent reservoir.

• Campsites: The campground features eighteen spacious campsites that can accommodate both tent and RV camping. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically accepted. This encourages early arrival, especially during popular times.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and other activities.

• Fire Rings: Fire rings are provided at each site, allowing campers to have campfires. However, visitors must always check current fire restrictions and regulations for the Fremont-Winema National Forest before lighting any fires, especially during dry periods.

• Potable Water: East Bay Campground typically offers potable water. This is a significant amenity for a Forest Service campground. However, one review explicitly stated "no water available" at the time of their visit, which could be due to seasonal closures, drought, or system issues. It is crucial to verify water availability before your trip.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides three vault toilets (also known as pit toilets) for camper convenience. These facilities are regularly maintained by the Forest Service.

• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsites. Campers should be prepared for a dry camping experience, particularly if the main water system is also closed.

• Boat Ramp Access: While there is currently no dock, boaters can easily back their boats down the ramp into Thompson Reservoir, when water levels permit.

• Fee Area: There is a fee for camping, typically $10 per night for a single unit, with an additional $5 per night for an extra vehicle.

• Open Season: The campground generally operates from May 15 to October 15 with full services, and is open with reduced services from October 16 to May 14. Winter access can be limited by snow and requires appropriate vehicles.

• Scenic Location on Thompson Reservoir: East Bay Campground's prime location on Thompson Reservoir offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding landscape, including Hager Mountain. This is a significant draw for its picturesque setting.

• Views of Hager Mountain: Campers can enjoy gorgeous views of Hager Mountain, which adds to the natural grandeur of the area and provides a scenic backdrop for their outdoor activities.

• Shady Campsites: The presence of ponderosa pines and aspens provides welcome shade for many campsites, offering a comfortable retreat from the sun, especially during warmer months in the high desert.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Thompson Reservoir is annually stocked with rainbow trout, making East Bay a desirable campground for anglers. While one review mentioned the lake being dry, when full, it offers excellent fishing.

• Boating Access: Campers can enjoy boating on Thompson Reservoir, with a boat ramp available for easy launching, provided water levels are adequate. A 10 mph speed limit helps maintain a peaceful environment on the lake.

• Hiker Trail to Hager Mountain Summit: The campground offers convenient access to a hiking trail that leads to the summit of Hager Mountain, approximately 4 miles one way. This provides a rewarding challenge for hikers and offers panoramic views from the top.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite being a developed campground, East Bay is often noted for its quiet and peaceful ambiance, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in nature.

• Popular with Hunters: In the fall, East Bay Campground becomes a popular base for hunters, indicating its prime location for accessing hunting opportunities in the surrounding national forest.

• Accessibility for RVs and Tents: With 18 spacious sites, the campground accommodates both tent and RV campers, making it versatile for different camping preferences, although it lacks hookups.

East Bay Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically under the Fremont-Winema National Forest. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, especially concerning current conditions, road accessibility, and water availability, it's best to contact the relevant Ranger District.

Address: Silver Lake, OR 97638, USA (Located 40 minutes south of Silver Lake, at Thompson Reservoir)

Phone: (541) 576-2107 (This is the phone number for the Silver Lake Ranger District, which oversees East Bay Campground.)

You can also try the main Fremont-Winema National Forest Headquarters:

Fremont-Winema National Forest Headquarters

Phone: (541) 947-2151

It is highly recommended to call the Silver Lake Ranger District directly before planning your trip to inquire about current conditions, including water levels at Thompson Reservoir (as it has been known to be dry), road accessibility (especially in shoulder seasons due to snow), and any fire restrictions in place.

For us Oregonians, East Bay Campground offers a compelling reason to venture into the high desert and experience a different facet of our state’s incredible natural diversity. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that resonate with our outdoor ethos. First, the balance of paved roads leading into the campground (though sometimes requiring 4x4 in certain conditions) makes it relatively accessible for many, bridging the gap between truly primitive sites and highly developed ones. This means we can get there with our tents or smaller RVs, enjoying a rustic feel without too much hassle.

The core appeal lies in its recreational opportunities when the reservoir is full: the promise of excellent rainbow trout fishing in Thompson Reservoir and convenient boating access are huge draws for our fishing and boating community. The challenging yet rewarding hike up Hager Mountain also speaks to our love for exploration and scenic vistas. Even when the lake is dry, as noted in one review, the "quiet with a few mosquitoes" and the overall peacefulness make it a spot for genuine relaxation and immersion in the unique high desert environment. It’s a reminder that even in its cycles of wet and dry, nature here offers something profound.

East Bay Campground embodies the self-reliant spirit that many Oregonians appreciate in their outdoor pursuits. It’s a first-come, first-served campground that provides the basic necessities – potable water (usually), vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings – allowing us to connect with nature without excessive frills. Whether it’s for a hunting trip in the fall, a fishing excursion, or simply a tranquil escape under vast Oregon skies, East Bay Campground stands out as an authentic and cherished destination for local adventurers.

East Bay Campground

Silver Lake, OR 97638, USA