Camping at Lava Lake Campground in Bend
Adventure Destination

Camping at Lava Lake Campground in Bend

Located about 30 miles from Bend, Oregon, the Lava Lake Campground offers 16 campsites and is perfect for camping, fishing, and kayaking. Experience the beauty of the Cascade Mountains with easy access in this family-friendly spot.

Camping7.8/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Camping

Typical Duration

Overnight

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Camping at Lava Lake Campground offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Bend area. Surrounded by the stunning Cascade Mountains and a pristine lake, this campground is essential for experiencing Central Oregon's natural beauty. With its abundant recreational activities, it becomes a perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.

Editorial Assessment

Lava Lake Campground in Bend offers a picturesque setting with clear waters and stunning mountain views, making it appealing for outdoor adventures like camping, fishing, and boating. While beautiful, it's not quite unique enough to be considered among the world's most iconic natural landmarks.

Camping at Lava Lake Campground in Bend

Adventure Guide to Camping at Lava Lake Campground in Bend

1

Lava Lake Recreation Area

  • Details:

    This site is situated about 30 miles from Bend, providing access to beautiful fishing spots and hiking trails. Visitors can catch rainbow trout and brook trout, adding excitement to any fishing experience. The scenic vistas from the trails are nothing short of breathtaking. Camping Amenities

  • Details:

    The Lava Lake Campground features 16 campsites that accommodate tents and RVs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and access to potable water and restrooms. The close proximity to Lava Lake allows visitors to enjoy water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Wildlife Watching

  • Details:

    This area is abundant with wildlife, including deer, eagles, and various birds. Early mornings or late evenings provide the best opportunities for sightings. Bringing binoculars can enhance your experience as you observe animals in their natural habitat.

2

Local Insights

  • Overview:

    Lava Lake has historical significance as it was formed by volcanic activity from the Oregon Cascade Range. The Deschutes National Forest, where the campground is located, offers rich cultural practices of the Indigenous peoples and has been a local gathering place for centuries.

3

Visitor Tips

  • Details:

    Best Times to Visit: Late spring through early fall is ideal for camping at Lava Lake. Summer offers the warmest temperatures but can be crowded.

  • Details:

    What to Bring: Essential items include water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first-aid kit. Don’t forget your fishing gear!

  • Details:

    Driving Directions: From Bend, take Cascade Lakes Highway (Highway 46) towards the lake. The drive takes approximately 35 minutes and offers stunning views along the way. Camping at Lava Lake Campground serves as a perfect base for adventures while immersing visitors in Oregon's rich natural and cultural landscapes.

Reviews

C
C Prueitt (Vivacity Spirits)5 months ago

It is a beautiful, magical place with amazing views. Perfect for relaxing.

C
Courtney Luchs5 months ago

Beautiful

Z
Zachary Laforet5 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

K
Kari Perry6 months ago

My husband and I are trying to understand the rating of this camp ground. If you are looking for a camping experience where you are eaten alive by mosquitos this is the place for you! We arrived on a Friday evening and as soon as we jumped out of the car we had to completely cover up which didn’t even help. They wouldn’t leave my dog alone so we packed up and left not even an hour in. ABSOLUTELY NO AMOUNT OF BUG SPRAY WORKED NOR DID LIGHTING A FIRE. After reading the other reviews we can’t even speak to condition of the bathrooms or the lake as we didn’t even get the chance to use or experience any amenities.

D
Dylan Lundy5 months ago

If I could give less stars I would. Aside from the views, this crowded campground sucks. Don’t bring your dog here because they’re not aloud to play off leash AT ALL:( Barley aloud to have a fire built with out the very old, rude and snarky camp supervisor throwing a tantrum. Not great water access and again very crowded. Terrible fishing. Over all this was a horrible experience and the creepy old man who runs it makes it that much less welcome. Please don’t waist you’re 24$ a night here ☠️ this place is a joke. 0 Stars and a big thumbs down 👎🏼

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Adventure Destinations

View All Destinations →
Fishing at Lava Lake in Bend, Oregon7.80.14 mi
Bend

Fishing at Lava Lake in Bend, Oregon

Enjoy fishing at Lava Lake near Bend, Oregon. This serene spot is perfect for anglers seeking rainbow and brook trout. Accessible with a short drive, offering options for both shore and boat fishing. Ideal in spring and fall. Remember your fishing license.

View Details →
Fishing at Hosmer Lake in Bend7.53.38 mi
Boat Ramp

Fishing at Hosmer Lake in Bend

Experience fishing at Hosmer Lake, located 30 minutes from Bend, Oregon. Enjoy a serene, scenic backdrop perfect for fishing and kayaking. Quiet year-round, the lake requires a fishing license. Early summer or fall is best for trout fishing.

View Details →
Kayaking on Hosmer Lake in Bend, Oregon7.54.00 miEasy
Beach Picnic Area

Kayaking on Hosmer Lake in Bend, Oregon

Explore Hosmer Lake, 30 miles from Bend, Oregon. Known for clear waters ideal for easy kayaking and wildlife viewing. Enjoy views of Mount Bachelor with activities perfect for adventure seekers in spring and summer.

View Details →
Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

The Last Fling Before The Ring!15.2 mi
Kelowna, British Columbia

The Last Fling Before The Ring!

Experience the rush of whitewater rafting on the region’s dramatic rivers with Sip & Anchor. Whether you're after adrenaline or scenic views, every trip promises excitement and adventure.

15.2 miView Trips & Details →
Deschutes by Day: A Full‑Throat Run Through Canyon, Petroglyphs and a Natural Waterslide24.5 mi
Bend, Oregon

Deschutes by Day: A Full‑Throat Run Through Canyon, Petroglyphs and a Natural Waterslide

A 7‑hour, 14‑mile descent run by Nate's Rogue Adventures that combines rapids, riverside lunch, petroglyphs and canyon scenery—this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

24.5 miView Trips & Details →
Shorelines and Steelhead: A Day on the Lower Deschutes24.5 mi
Bend, Oregon

Shorelines and Steelhead: A Day on the Lower Deschutes

An eight-hour shore-based fishing day targeting native red-side trout and migrating steelhead on the protected Lower Deschutes—this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

24.5 miView Trips & Details →
Bend’s Workhorse Trailer: 7,710 Pounds, 20 Feet and a 12k Winch24.7 mi
Bend, Oregon

Bend’s Workhorse Trailer: 7,710 Pounds, 20 Feet and a 12k Winch

A heavy‑duty utility trailer from Bend Trailer Rentals — 20 feet overall with drive‑over fenders and a 12,000‑lb winch — offered in 4‑hour, 24‑hour and 7‑day rental terms.

24.7 miView Trips & Details →
Built to Carry: Bend’s 102" x 20' Heavy-Duty Car Hauler24.7 mi
Bend, Oregon

Built to Carry: Bend’s 102" x 20' Heavy-Duty Car Hauler

A practical, specification-led guide to renting Bend Trailer Rentals’ 102" x 20' hauler—covering capacity, included winch, and available rental durations.

24.7 miView Trips & Details →
Lower Deschutes Ultimate Day: A full‑throttle, high‑desert river day that threads petroglyph cliffs, waterfalls and class‑3 whitewater24.8 mi
Bend, Oregon

Lower Deschutes Ultimate Day: A full‑throttle, high‑desert river day that threads petroglyph cliffs, waterfalls and class‑3 whitewater

A 7‑hour, 21‑mile guided rafting day from Harpham Flats to Sandy Beach that combines rapids, riverside lunch and a natural waterslide—this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.

24.8 miView Trips & Details →