East Davis Lake Campground

Hello, Oregon adventurers! If your perfect escape involves truly disconnecting from the daily grind, immersing yourself in pristine natural beauty, and embracing a more rustic, no-frills camping experience, then East Davis Lake Campground might just be the tranquil haven you've been seeking. Nestled on the east side of Odell Creek as it flows into the renowned Davis Lake, this campground offers a unique opportunity to unplug and reconnect with the serene landscapes of our beautiful state.

East Davis Lake Campground is celebrated for its secluded atmosphere, a quality highly prized by Oregonians looking for genuine peace and quiet. While it's true that you won't find extensive amenities here, that's precisely part of its charm. It's a place where the focus shifts from conveniences to the calming sounds of nature, the sparkle of the lake, and the simple joy of being present in the moment. It’s an ideal spot for those who are self-sufficient and prefer their camping adventures to be a pure, unadulterated wilderness experience.

As locals, we appreciate direct access to our state's incredible fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities, and East Davis Lake delivers on all fronts. Davis Lake itself is famous as a fly-fishing-only lake, drawing anglers from across the region in pursuit of trophy-sized rainbow trout and largemouth bass. Beyond the angling, the surrounding area bursts with opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of the Deschutes National Forest.

In this article, we'll provide you with all the essential details about East Davis Lake Campground. From its tranquil location and accessibility to the basic services it provides and its outstanding natural features, we aim to give you a comprehensive understanding of what makes this campground a truly special spot for an authentic Oregon outdoor getaway. Please note that while we strive for the most current information, campground conditions, especially regarding closures due to natural events, can change. Always check official sources before you go.

East Davis Lake Campground is wonderfully situated along NF-850, near Crescent, OR 97733, USA. This places it deep within the heart of the Deschutes National Forest, a vast and diverse region of the Oregon Cascades known for its volcanic landscapes, extensive pine forests, and numerous lakes and rivers.

The campground is located specifically on the east side of Odell Creek where it enters Davis Lake. This unique positioning provides direct access to the lake's waters and the soothing sounds of the creek. Davis Lake itself is a notable natural feature, formed in a lava flow, which gives the surrounding area a distinct geological character.

Access to East Davis Lake Campground typically involves traveling on Forest Service roads, which, while maintained, might be unpaved in sections, adding to the remote feel of the area. From Crescent, Oregon, you would generally travel west on County Road 61, then north on Highway 46, and finally west on Forest Road 4600 850 (or NF-850 directly, depending on your approach). These routes lead you directly into the secluded setting of the campground. While the roads are generally navigable for RVs and trailers up to 50 feet, it's always wise to check current road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons.

The elevation of the campground is around 4,399 feet, offering pleasant, cooler temperatures during the summer months, a welcome respite from the heat of lower elevations. Its location within the Deschutes National Forest also means it’s surrounded by a landscape rich in biodiversity, with opportunities to see a variety of wildflowers and bird species, making every visit a chance for discovery. This setting provides an ideal base for exploring the diverse recreation opportunities that the eastern Cascade Range has to offer.

East Davis Lake Campground embraces a more traditional, rustic camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that support an unplugged getaway. While it does not offer extensive modern conveniences, it provides the fundamental services for a comfortable stay in nature.

• Campsites: The campground features 17 single-family campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 50 feet in length. These sites are equipped with basic, but crucial, camping facilities.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for dining, preparing meals, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
• Fire Rings with Grates: Every site includes a fire ring with a grate, allowing campers to safely enjoy campfires for cooking, warmth, and classic campfire ambiance (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, offering a basic and maintained restroom facility. Campers appreciate that these are generally kept clean and sanitary.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at the campground. However, it’s important to note that the water system is seasonal and turned off to prevent damage from cold temperatures, typically no later than September 30. One review also mentioned difficulties with getting water flowing, so it’s always wise to have a backup plan or bring extra water.
• No Hookups: Importantly, there are no electric, water, or sewage hookups available at the campsites, reinforcing the rustic and off-grid nature of the experience.
• Garbage and Recycling Bins: The presence of garbage cans and recycling bins is a helpful amenity that contributes to keeping the campground clean and well-maintained.

East Davis Lake Campground boasts several key features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for those seeking a tranquil and nature-focused camping experience in Oregon.

• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: One of the most consistently praised aspects of East Davis Lake Campground is its secluded and quiet nature. Campers often highlight the peaceful environment, allowing for true relaxation and an escape from noise. While some sites might not be overly secluded due to a past forest fire, the overall ambiance remains very tranquil.
• Ideal for Unplugging: With no mention of cell service or Wi-Fi, this campground is perfect for those who truly wish to "unplug completely" and enjoy a digital detox. This encourages a deeper connection with nature and companions.
• Premier Fly-Fishing Destination: Davis Lake is renowned as a "fly-fishing-only" lake, making East Davis Lake Campground a dream spot for anglers. It's known for producing abundant trophy-sized rainbow trout and largemouth bass, offering a world-class fishing experience.
• Riverside/Lakeside Access: Situated on the east side of Odell Creek as it enters Davis Lake, many campsites are very close to the water. Campers can paddle down the creek to the lake, enjoy views, and participate in boating, canoeing, and kayaking. A boat launch/ramp is available within the campground.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to see a variety of animals, including the chance to spot a bald eagle. Bird watching is also a popular activity due to the diverse bird species present.
• Nature Immersion: Surrounded by a beautiful stand of mature pine forest and a tall grass marsh, the campground offers a serene natural setting ideal for enjoying chipmunk antics and the sounds of birds.
• Hiking and Mountain Biking: Beyond the water activities, the surrounding Deschutes National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring nearby lava flows and nature trails.
• Stargazing Opportunities: With limited light pollution, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

For up-to-date information, reservations, and inquiries regarding East Davis Lake Campground, contacting the managing authority is the best approach. East Davis Lake Campground is part of the Deschutes National Forest and is managed by Vista Recreation.

Address: NF-850, Crescent, OR 97733, USA

Phone: (541) 383-5300 (Deschutes National Forest)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-383-5300 (Deschutes National Forest)

For campground-specific inquiries and the most current operational status, especially concerning seasonal closures or issues like downed trees, it is highly recommended to call the Deschutes National Forest directly using the provided phone number. While the phone number listed (541-383-5300) might be a general Deschutes National Forest line, it is the best starting point for information about East Davis Lake.

Reservations are typically made through Recreation.gov. It is advisable to check their website for availability and to confirm the tentative opening and closing dates for the season (e.g., mid-April to mid-October).

Please note: As mentioned in recent reviews, the campground has faced closures due to natural events (like over 100 trees being down). Always verify the current operating status with the Deschutes National Forest before planning your trip.

For Oregonians, East Davis Lake Campground represents the quintessential unadorned outdoor experience we often seek—a true escape from the clamor of everyday life. Its suitability for locals stems from its commitment to offering a peaceful, secluded environment where the natural world is the star, not a backdrop for human-made amenities.

The ability to "unplug completely" is a major draw. In our increasingly connected world, finding a place where cell service is non-existent is a luxury. East Davis Lake provides this much-needed digital detox, allowing us to truly reconnect with family, friends, or simply the quiet solitude of nature. This focus on being present, free from notifications and screens, is a profound appeal for those of us living in Oregon who value genuine outdoor immersion.

Furthermore, the campground's setting on Davis Lake, a renowned fly-fishing-only lake, is a significant advantage for local anglers. This dedicated fishing environment, combined with opportunities for boating, kayaking, and enjoying the tranquil waters of Odell Creek, makes it a prime spot for water-based recreation that aligns with Oregon's active outdoor culture. The abundant wildlife and bird-watching opportunities also cater to the deep appreciation for nature that is characteristic of our state's residents.

While the lack of extensive amenities means more self-sufficiency is required, this is often seen as a positive by seasoned Oregon campers who prefer a more rustic experience. The clean vault toilets and available drinking water provide essential comforts without detracting from the wild feel. The spacious campsites, often offering private creek frontage or views, ensure that even without formal seclusion from every angle, there’s a sense of personal space amidst the natural beauty.

In conclusion, East Davis Lake Campground is a perfect fit for Oregonians seeking a peaceful, unplugged, and nature-rich camping adventure. It’s a place where you can truly slow down, cast a line, observe wildlife, and create lasting memories in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest. Despite potential temporary closures due to natural events, its enduring appeal as a quiet, natural sanctuary makes it a gem worth discovering for any local looking for an authentic Oregon camping experience.

East Davis Lake Campground

NF-850, Crescent, OR 97733, USA