Ogden Group Camp

For groups of Oregonians looking to create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning landscapes of the state's high desert, Ogden Group Camp stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled within the expansive Deschutes National Forest, near the charming town of La Pine, this large group campground is specifically designed to accommodate sizable gatherings, from family reunions and scout troops to school outings. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ample space, and convenient access to some of Central Oregon's most iconic geological and recreational attractions, making it a premier destination for communal outdoor adventures.

Ogden Group Camp provides a fantastic opportunity to gather your loved ones or organization in a serene outdoor setting. With its capacity to host hundreds of people across two spacious sites, it ensures plenty of room for activities, relaxation, and privacy. Unlike individual campsites, Ogden Group Camp fosters a communal atmosphere while still allowing for individual tent or RV setups. It's a place where the fresh scent of pine fills the air, the stars shine brightly, and the vastness of the Central Oregon landscape inspires exploration. For those seeking a dedicated group camping experience with a wealth of outdoor activities right at their fingertips, Ogden Group Camp promises a delightful and memorable escape.

Ogden Group Camp is ideally located in the high desert region of Central Oregon, near La Pine, OR 97739, USA, placing it within the scenic Deschutes National Forest. Its position on the beautiful Paulina Creek provides a picturesque backdrop for your group's adventure. The campground is relatively easy to access, making it a convenient destination for many Oregon residents.

To reach Ogden Group Camp:

• From Bend: Drive south on Highway 97 for approximately 22 miles. Then, head east onto Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road) for about 3 miles. Ogden Group Camp will be on your left.

• From La Pine: Drive north on Highway 97 for about 6.8 miles. Then, turn east onto Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road) for approximately 3 miles. Ogden Group Camp will be on your left.

Paulina Lake Road (Road 21) is typically a well-maintained paved road, making access straightforward for various vehicle types, including RVs and trailers. The campground's location on this road also means it’s a gateway to the spectacular Newberry National Volcanic Monument, further enhancing its accessibility to unique natural features. While the area is known for its high desert climate, visitors should always check local weather conditions, especially during shoulder seasons, as access to higher elevations or certain trails might be impacted by snow or other weather events. The ease of access combined with its remote feel makes Ogden Group Camp a prime spot for group gatherings.

• Spacious Group Sites: Ogden Group Campground features two expansive group sites, each capable of accommodating at least 150 people. Both sites can be reserved simultaneously to host up to 350 people, offering exceptional privacy for very large gatherings.

• Tent and RV Camping: The campground is suitable for both tent and RV camping, providing flexibility for diverse group needs. While RVs are permitted, specific hookups (electric, water, sewer) are not available, so campers should be prepared for a dry camping experience.

• Picnic Tables: Ample picnic tables are available at each group site, providing comfortable dining and gathering areas for large groups.

• Vault Toilets: Vault toilets are conveniently available at the campsite, offering essential restroom facilities.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at the campsite, a significant convenience for group camping, reducing the need to transport large quantities of water.

• Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with fire rings, perfect for campfires, cooking, and communal gatherings (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire, especially in dry seasons).

• Wide Open Space: The campground is noted for its "wide open space," which is perfect for hosting activities and games for large groups, such as scout troops or school trips.

• Proximity to Newberry National Volcanic Monument: A major highlight is the campground's strategic location near the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. This allows visitors easy access to incredible geological features, including cinder cones, basalt flows, rhyolite flows of obsidian, and the vast Newberry Crater, a 17-square-mile caldera. Paulina Peak, the highest point in the monument, offers breathtaking views of the Oregon Cascades and the High Desert region.

• Access to Paulina Creek: The campground is situated on the scenic Paulina Creek. The Peter Skene Ogden National Scenic Trail is accessible from the campground and parallels Paulina Creek, offering a beautiful 8.5-mile ascent to Paulina Lake, passing several waterfalls along the way.

• Diverse Recreational Opportunities: The surrounding Deschutes National Forest and Newberry National Volcanic Monument provide a wealth of activities. Popular options include boating, swimming, and fishing in clear, cold lakes and streams (abundant with salmon and trout) during warmer months, and skiing and snowmobiling in winter.

• Extensive Hiking and Backpacking Trails: Hikers and backpackers have access to a variety of trails, including several within Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The Crater Rim Trail is a favorite, boasting vast stretches of forest, deserts, and mountains. The Peter Skene Ogden Trail also offers stunning views and waterfall sightings.

• Lava Lands Visitor Center & Lava River Cave: The nearby Lava Lands Visitor Center in Bend serves as an excellent starting point for learning about the area's history and diverse landscape. Visitors can also explore the Lava River Cave, Oregon's longest continuous lava tube, providing a unique underground adventure.

• Ideal for Large Groups: The sheer size and capacity of Ogden Group Camp make it an unparalleled choice for large gatherings, offering enough space for multiple tents and vehicles, and providing a sense of privacy even with a large party.

Address: Oregon 97739, USA (specifically within the Deschutes National Forest near La Pine)

For campground inquiries and reservations, it is best to contact the Deschutes National Forest office.

Deschutes National Forest (Supervisor's Office) Phone: (541) 383-5300

Reservations for Ogden Group Camp are typically made through Recreation.gov. It is always recommended to check Recreation.gov or call the Forest Service directly for the most up-to-date information on availability, pricing, rules, and any fire restrictions.

For Oregon residents, Ogden Group Camp offers a unique and highly desirable solution for large-scale outdoor gatherings. Its dedicated group sites provide the space, privacy, and essential amenities that are often hard to find in other campgrounds, making it perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or any large collective looking to spend quality time together in nature. Its central Oregon location within the Deschutes National Forest makes it reasonably accessible from many parts of the state.

What truly sets Ogden Group Camp apart for locals is its unparalleled access to the wonders of the Newberry National Volcanic Monument and the surrounding high desert. This means that a camping trip here isn't just about the campsite; it's an opportunity to explore fascinating geological formations, hike diverse trails that showcase Oregon's unique volcanic history, and engage in a wide array of outdoor activities from fishing in pristine lakes to exploring lava caves. The availability of potable water on-site is a significant convenience for large groups, simplifying logistical planning.

Whether your group seeks adventure, relaxation, or simply a beautiful setting for shared experiences, Ogden Group Camp delivers. It encourages a deeper appreciation for Oregon's diverse landscapes and provides a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories with friends, family, or community members. For locals, it's not just a campground, but a gateway to a wealth of outdoor education and recreation right in their own beautiful state.

Ogden Group Camp

Oregon 97739, USA