Tip Top Campground

For Oregonians, the pursuit of tranquility and a deep connection with nature is a way of life. Our state offers an incredible array of outdoor experiences, from rugged coastlines to majestic mountains. Deep within the expansive Malheur National Forest, you'll find a true gem for those who cherish peace and quiet: Tip Top Campground. Often described by visitors as a "Very nice camp ground," this small and newly renovated site offers a refreshing escape into the heart of Eastern Oregon's wilderness.

Tip Top Campground is an ideal destination for campers who prefer a more intimate and less crowded setting, where the sounds of the forest replace the clamor of everyday life. This article will provide a detailed look at what makes Tip Top Campground a suitable and appealing choice for Oregon locals. We'll explore its specific location and accessibility, the essential services it provides, its unique features and highlights, and ultimately, why it stands out as a prime spot for a genuine outdoor retreat.

Tip Top Campground is located in Oregon, USA, specifically within the Malheur National Forest. Its coordinates are approximately 43.89690446 N, 119.64281875 W. More practically, it is situated near Burns, Oregon, approximately a 2-hour and 41-minute drive from Bend and a significant drive from other major Oregon cities, cementing its status as a secluded escape.

Access to Tip Top Campground is notable for its relative ease, particularly for a remote forest campground. The road access to Tip Top is "paved from Burns, Oregon," except for the "last mile," which is likely a well-maintained gravel or dirt road. To reach it from Burns, you typically travel west on US Highway 20 to the junction with the Burns-Izee Road (Forest Road 47). You then turn right onto County Road 127/Forest Road 47, following it for about 11.8 miles to the junction with Forest Road 41. Continue on Forest Road 41 for approximately 27 miles, then turn left to stay on Forest Road 41 for another 5.8 miles to the junction with Forest Road 800. A final left turn onto Forest Road 800 for about 0.5 miles will bring you to the campground, which will be on your right. This relatively straightforward access, with mostly paved roads, makes it more approachable for various vehicle types, including those towing smaller camping trailers, although its tent-only focus suggests a preference for more compact setups.

Tip Top Campground provides a selection of newly renovated services designed to enhance a rustic camping experience. As a small Forest Service campground, its amenities are focused on comfort and basic needs while maintaining a natural feel.

• Campsites: The campground is small and intimate, featuring "3 site" (some sources say 4 sites). These are primarily "tent-only" sites, catering to campers who prefer traditional tent setups over large RVs. Each site has been "newly renovated" and includes a "picnic table" and a "fire ring" with a grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfires (when fire restrictions allow).

• Restroom Facilities: Campers will find "newly renovated restrooms," which typically refer to vault toilets in such a primitive setting. The upgrades ensure a cleaner and more pleasant experience than older facilities.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that Tip Top Campground has "No potable water." Campers must "pack out what you pack in" and bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and other uses. This requires diligent planning and self-sufficiency.

• No Trash Service: Similar to water, "no trash service is provided." Visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all their garbage, ensuring the campground remains pristine for future visitors.

• First-Come, First-Served: Tip Top Campground operates on a "first come, first served" basis, meaning reservations are not typically available. This adds to its low-key, spontaneous appeal but necessitates flexibility, especially during popular seasons.

Tip Top Campground's charm lies in its simplicity, its recent upgrades, and its proximity to natural attractions.

• Newly Renovated Facilities: A key highlight, as repeatedly mentioned in reviews, is the "newly renovated restrooms, picnic tables and fire rings." These upgrades significantly enhance the comfort and appeal of a rustic campground, making it a more pleasant experience for visitors.

• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: The campground is described as "a small peaceful campground" and a "secluded spot." This makes it ideal for those seeking a quiet escape from crowds, allowing for genuine relaxation and immersion in nature. The consistency of "Very nice camp ground" reviews reinforces this positive atmosphere.

• Proximity to Delintment Lake: Tip Top Campground is located "not far from Delintment Lake Campground." Delintment Lake is a popular attraction known for "water lovers that prefer the slower pace of non-motorized boats and swimming in a serene setting." This provides convenient access to additional recreational opportunities like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

• Forested Environment: The campground is set within a forested area, offering a mix of pine and fir trees. This provides natural shade, privacy for campsites, and a refreshing forest ambiance.

• Access to Wildlife Viewing and Hiking: The expansive Malheur National Forest, which surrounds the campground, offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and exploring various hiking trails, including those connecting to the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge and Steens Mountain Wilderness (though these may be a longer drive).

• High Desert and Mountain Views: While the campground itself is forested, the wider region offers stunning landscapes characteristic of Oregon's high desert and mountainous areas, providing scenic drives and broader exploration opportunities.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Tip Top Campground, including current operating status, seasonal openings, and any specific regulations, it is best to contact the managing agency, the U.S. Forest Service.

Address: Oregon, USA (Specifically within the Malheur National Forest, near Burns, OR)

Phone: (541) 573-4300

Mobile Phone: +1 541-573-4300

This phone number corresponds to the Malheur National Forest Supervisor's Office. It is highly recommended to call this number or visit their official website (fs.usda.gov/malheur) before planning your trip. Inquire about road conditions (especially for the last mile of gravel road), fire restrictions, and confirm the lack of potable water to ensure you are fully prepared for your visit to this tranquil spot.

Tip Top Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Oregon locals, especially those who appreciate a no-frills, peaceful, and clean camping experience away from the bustling crowds. Its designation as a "Very nice camp ground" by multiple visitors immediately highlights its quality and appeal among those who have experienced it firsthand. For Oregonians seeking to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of their state's interior, Tip Top Campground offers an ideal setting. Its small size and "low-use" nature ensure a sense of solitude that is increasingly difficult to find in more popular recreation areas.

The recent renovations to its restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the basic comfort of campers, proving that rustic doesn't mean neglected. This attention to detail is a welcome feature for locals who value well-maintained public lands. Furthermore, its location "not far from Delintment Lake Campground" provides the perfect balance: a serene base camp with easy access to additional recreational opportunities like swimming and non-motorized boating, appealing to a variety of outdoor interests.

The fact that the road access is "paved from Burns, Oregon" for most of the way makes it surprisingly accessible for a remote forest camp, reducing travel stress for those driving from various parts of Oregon. For locals, Tip Top Campground represents an authentic slice of Oregon's wilderness – a quiet, beautiful, and well-cared-for spot where they can truly relax, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories without the distractions of larger, more commercialized campgrounds. It’s a testament to the simple, yet profound, outdoor experiences that define life in Oregon.

Tip Top Campground

Oregon, USA