Little Crater Campground

For Oregonians seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience that combines stunning volcanic landscapes with the tranquility of pristine waters, Little Crater Campground at Paulina Lake is an absolute gem. Nestled within the expansive Deschutes National Forest and part of the breathtaking Newberry National Volcanic Monument near La Pine, this campground offers a truly immersive escape into Central Oregon's unique geological and natural wonders. It’s a destination that promises both peaceful relaxation and thrilling adventure, making it a favorite among local outdoor enthusiasts.

Paulina Lake, a stunning caldera lake, is the centerpiece of this incredible area. Surrounded by towering pines and the remnants of ancient volcanic activity, the lake offers crystal-clear waters perfect for a variety of recreational pursuits. Little Crater Campground is strategically positioned to provide direct access to this natural marvel, allowing campers to wake up to spectacular lake views and immediately dive into the day's adventures.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive and factual overview of Little Crater Campground, helping our local Oregon users discover why it's a prime location for their next camping trip. From its well-maintained sites to its proximity to unique geological features and abundant recreational opportunities, Little Crater Campground truly embodies the spirit of Central Oregon's wilderness. We'll cover everything from how to get there to the specific amenities available, ensuring you have all the information needed for a memorable and enjoyable stay.

Location and Accessibility

Little Crater Campground is located at Little Crater Campground Rd, La Pine, OR 97739, USA. More precisely, it is situated directly on the shore of Paulina Lake, within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which is part of the larger Deschutes National Forest. This places it approximately 23.5 miles south of Bend, OR, on Highway 97, followed by 14.5 miles east on Paulina Lake Road (Forest Road 21), and then a short 0.5 miles north on Forest Road 2100 570. For those coming from La Pine, it's about 6.8 miles north on Highway 97 before taking Paulina Lake Road.

The drive to Little Crater Campground is scenic and generally well-maintained. Paulina Lake Road (Forest Road 21) is a paved route that winds through the beautiful forest, making it accessible for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers. However, as it is a mountain road, visitors should always be aware of potential wildlife crossings and exercise caution. While the campground is in a natural setting, its proximity to Paulina Lake Road ensures relatively easy access.

It is crucial for visitors to note that while the campground itself has potable water, an RV dump station and water fill station are located about five miles down the road, just past the Paulina Lake Visitor Center. This means campers should plan to fill up their fresh water tanks before arriving at the campground, particularly for longer stays. The accessibility for RVs is generally good, with most sites being ample sized for both tents and RVs/trailers, accommodating spur lengths up to 40 feet. The setting offers a balance of natural beauty and reasonable convenience for campers looking to explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument area.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Little Crater Campground boasts 49 single campsites, many of which are located directly on or within a minute's walk to the water's edge, offering stunning lake views. Sites are generally spacious and suitable for both tents and RVs/trailers, with maximum spur lengths of 40 feet. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground, with the water system typically turned on from May depending on weather conditions, and turned off no later than September 30.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained vault toilets are provided for guest use throughout the campground.
• Boat Launch/Ramp: The campground features a boat launch within its premises, providing convenient direct access to Paulina Lake for motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
• Firewood: While not explicitly stated as sold on-site, it is common for national forest campgrounds to have firewood available for purchase from a camp host or nearby vendors.
• RV Dump Station/Water Fill: As noted by past visitors, an RV dump station and water fill station are conveniently located approximately five miles down Paulina Lake Road, just past the visitor center. Campers are advised to fill their water tanks before arriving at the campground.
• Reservations: Campsites at Little Crater Campground can be reserved online via Recreation.gov or by phone. During certain periods, particularly towards the end of the season (e.g., October 1 until closing), sites may become available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is advisable to book well in advance due to its popularity.

Features / Highlights

• Lakeside Location: The most significant highlight is its direct placement on the shore of Paulina Lake. Many campsites offer "heavenly" lake views, as described by satisfied campers, providing immediate access for water activities.
• Kayaking and Canoeing Paradise: Paulina Lake is "primo for kayaking," according to reviews. Its calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for non-motorized boating, allowing for peaceful exploration of the lake.
• Access to Hot Springs: A unique feature is the presence of hot springs across Paulina Lake, accessible by paddling or hiking. Visitors can enjoy a "fun reward" after a cross-lake paddle, offering a unique natural spa experience.
• Excellent Hiking Opportunities: The area around Little Crater Campground and Paulina Lake offers "lots of hikes," with "stellar" views from trails ascending to overlooks. These trails cater to various levels, from casual strolls along the lakeshore to more challenging climbs up Paulina Peak.
• Fishing: Paulina Lake is known for its fishing, with species like rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. The lake’s depth and clarity make it a popular spot for anglers.
• Proximity to Newberry National Volcanic Monument: Campers are within a short distance of the Monument's other geological wonders, including the Newberry Volcano, Lava Cave, Obsidian Flow, and Big Obsidian Flow, offering unique educational and exploratory opportunities.
• Beautiful Scenery: The campground is praised for its "beautiful" setting, surrounded by the Deschutes National Forest's diverse trees and the volcanic landscapes characteristic of Central Oregon.
• No Cell Phone Coverage (Generally): For those truly looking to disconnect, the general lack of cell service in this area allows for an authentic wilderness experience, free from digital distractions.

Contact Information

For current information, reservations, or specific inquiries about Little Crater Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Little Crater Campground Rd, La Pine, OR 97739, USA

Phone: (541) 383-5300 (This number typically connects to the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District, which manages the Deschutes National Forest campgrounds in this area. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-383-5300

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the official federal campground reservation system: Recreation.gov. You can search for "Little Crater Campground" on their website. Additionally, the Deschutes National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/deschutes) is an excellent resource for general information, alerts, and detailed maps of the area, including road conditions and operating seasons. Given the popularity of this campground, especially its lakeside sites, booking well in advance is often necessary, particularly during peak summer months.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Oregon, Little Crater Campground at Paulina Lake is not just another camping destination; it’s an iconic Central Oregon experience that perfectly encapsulates the adventurous spirit and natural beauty of our state. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique combination of accessibility, breathtaking scenery, and abundant recreational opportunities that cater to a wide range of outdoor interests.

Firstly, the convenience of its location near La Pine, within a reasonable drive from Central Oregon's major communities like Bend, makes it an ideal spot for quick weekend getaways or longer family vacations without extensive travel. This ease of access encourages more frequent visits, allowing Oregonians to truly make the most of their leisure time in their own backyard. Whether it’s a spontaneous decision to paddle across Paulina Lake or a planned hiking trip to a scenic overlook, the proximity means more time enjoying and less time driving.

Secondly, the campground offers a quintessential Oregon outdoor experience. The direct lakeside access means waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore and unparalleled views, which, as customer reviews attest, are truly "heavenly." For those who love kayaking, the calm waters of Paulina Lake are an open invitation to explore. The unique feature of easily accessible hot springs across the lake provides an adventurous and relaxing reward after a day of paddling or hiking – a distinctly Oregonian experience. This blend of water and volcanic landscapes is a hallmark of our state's geological diversity.

Moreover, Little Crater Campground serves as a fantastic basecamp for exploring the wider Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Locals can delve into the fascinating history of volcanic activity at the Lava Cave, marvel at the Obsidian Flow, or embark on numerous trails that offer stunning panoramas of the caldera. These educational and recreational opportunities deepen one's appreciation for Oregon's dynamic natural environment.

Finally, the "beautiful campground" atmosphere and its popularity among those who appreciate tranquility underscore its value as a local treasure. It’s a place where communities gather, families create memories, and individuals find solace in nature. Despite its popularity, the well-maintained sites and the vastness of the surrounding national forest ensure that a sense of peace and natural immersion remains. For any Oregonian eager to embrace the state's outdoor heritage, Little Crater Campground at Paulina Lake is an undeniable must-visit, promising adventures and memories that truly capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest.

Little Crater Campground

Little Crater Campground Rd, La Pine, OR 97739, USA