East Lake Campground

Hey, Oregon adventurers! Are you ready to trade city lights for starry nights and the sounds of traffic for the gentle lapping of lake waters? East Lake Campground, located in the stunning caldera of Newberry Volcano within the Deschutes National Forest, offers a quintessential Central Oregon camping experience that’s perfect for locals seeking a true escape. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in a breathtaking landscape, enjoy world-class fishing, and connect with nature at a refreshing 6,500 feet elevation.

East Lake Campground is a gem for those who appreciate more "real camping" while still having access to essential conveniences. It boasts a beautiful setting right on the shores of East Lake, one of two pristine alpine lakes nestled within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The views are incredible, with volcanic landscapes, towering pines, and the sparkling lake reflecting the vast Oregon sky. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, with a tranquil atmosphere that invites relaxation and outdoor exploration.

With 29 single-family campsites, East Lake Campground offers a more intimate setting compared to larger, busier parks. Most sites are either directly on the lake shoreline or just a short walk away, providing easy access to water activities. While it maintains a rustic charm with no hookups, it provides fundamental amenities that make your stay comfortable, proving you don't need all the bells and whistles to have an amazing outdoor adventure in your home state. It's especially appealing for those who appreciate a quiet, less crowded atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

East Lake Campground is situated in Deschutes County, OR 97739, USA, within the expansive and geologically fascinating Newberry National Volcanic Monument, part of the Deschutes National Forest. This high-altitude location, at approximately 6,500 feet, provides cooler temperatures, especially during the summer months, offering a welcome respite from the heat of lower elevations.

For Oregon locals, accessing East Lake Campground is a straightforward, scenic drive. From Bend, you’ll travel south on Highway 97 for about 23.5 miles, then turn east onto County Road 21 (also known as Paulina Lake Road). Continue for approximately 16.6 miles, which will lead you into the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. From La Pine, the drive is about 6.8 miles north on Highway 97, then the same 16.6 miles east on County Road 21. From there, take Forest Road 300 north for about 0.5 miles to reach the campground. The roads leading to the campground are well-maintained, allowing for easy access for both RVs and vehicles towing trailers, though visitors should be mindful of winding mountain roads. Given its elevation, the campground typically operates from late spring (mid-June) through early fall (mid-October), with exact opening and closing dates depending on snow conditions. Always check seasonal closures before planning your trip.

Services Offered

• 29 Campsites: Single-family sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs.
• No Hookups: The campground offers no electrical, water, or sewer hookups, promoting a more traditional camping experience.
• Potable Drinking Water: Community spigots are available for drinking water.
• Flush Toilets: Clean and maintained flush toilet facilities are provided (note: no showers at this specific campground).
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Every site includes a fire ring with a grill grate, perfect for campfires and outdoor cooking (check for current fire restrictions).
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available for access to East Lake (note: water levels can vary, impacting ease of launch).
• Camp Host: A friendly camp host is typically on site, often with firewood for sale.
• Dump Station Access: While not at East Lake Campground itself, a dump station is available at the nearby Paulina Lake Campground for RV waste.
• Reservations: Campsites can be reserved through Recreation.gov, advisable especially during peak season.

Features / Highlights

• Hot Springs Nearby: Located within walking distance or a short drive from natural hot springs along East Lake’s shoreline, perfect for a unique, relaxing soak.
• Lake Frontage and Walkable Shoreline: Many sites offer direct lake access, and you can enjoy walking for miles along the beautiful lake edge.
• Beautiful Mountain-Like Views: Almost every campsite provides stunning vistas of the surrounding volcanic peaks and forested landscapes.
• Excellent Fishing: East Lake is renowned for its fishing, home to rainbow trout, brown trout, and Kokanee salmon. It's considered one of Oregon's best lake fisheries.
• Kayaking and Canoeing Paradise: The lake’s typically calm waters make it ideal for non-motorized boating like kayaks and canoes.
• Quiet and Secluded: Known for being a very quiet campground with campsites not too close to each other, offering a sense of privacy.
• Shady Campsites: Many sites offer good shade from trees, providing relief during sunny days.
• Proximity to Newberry National Volcanic Monument Attractions: Easy access to highlights like the Big Obsidian Flow Trail and Paulina Falls.
• Variety of Site Sizes: Features both pull-through sites (around 50 ft long) suitable for larger RVs and shorter back-in sites (around 35 ft).
• No Cell Service: Provides a true "unplugged" experience, allowing for a complete break from digital distractions.

Contact Information

As East Lake Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Deschutes National Forest, direct contact for the campground specific information can be obtained through the relevant ranger district or the general forest service information.

Address: Deschutes County, OR 97739, USA (located within Newberry National Volcanic Monument)

Phone: For campground inquiries, you can typically contact the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District of the Deschutes National Forest. A common number associated with the area is (541) 383-5300 or (541) 323-1746.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season, and can be made via www.recreation.gov.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

East Lake Campground is an absolute must-visit for Oregon locals who cherish authentic outdoor experiences. Its location within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument makes it incredibly accessible for residents across the state, offering a relatively short drive from Bend, La Pine, and other Central Oregon communities. This convenience means you can enjoy a refreshing high-altitude getaway without extensive travel, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer, leisurely stays.

For those who value a genuine connection with nature, East Lake provides a primitive yet comfortable camping experience. The absence of electrical hookups encourages a return to basics, fostering a stronger appreciation for the natural environment. However, the presence of flush toilets and potable water ensures a comfortable level of convenience, striking an ideal balance for many campers. The beautiful mountain-like views from almost every site and the expansive lake frontage that you can walk for days are unique features that truly allow Oregonians to appreciate the diverse beauty of their home state.

Anglers will find East Lake to be a dream come true, with its reputation for excellent trout and salmon fishing. The calm waters are also perfect for kayaking and canoeing, offering a peaceful way to explore the lake’s shoreline. The nearby hot springs provide a unique natural spa experience, adding an extra layer of relaxation to your trip. For families, couples, or solo travelers, East Lake Campground offers a quiet, beautiful, and engaging natural escape right in Oregon’s backyard, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking tranquility and adventure.

East Lake Campground

Deschutes County, OR 97739, USA