Lava Lake Campground

Star3.91
186 reviews
63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR, 97701, USA
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,740 ft

Price

$28 - $56/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

44 campsites

Season

Open season begins M...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Deschutes National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Lava Lake Campground
$28.00 - $56.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary based on site type and season. Peak season rates are $28 for most tent sites and $56 for some RV sites. Additional $2 per night for holiday...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
541-323-1746
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What Campers Say

3.91

Mixed Reviews

Based on 186 reviews

175 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsspaciouslakefriendly

"Reviews highlight the campground's beautiful scenery, lake access, and recreational activities. However, issues such as algae blooms, mosquitoes, and maintenance problems are common complaints."

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Campground Map

63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR, 97701, USA

Lava Lake Campground

63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR, 97701, USA

Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel 38.4 miles southwest on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46), then 1.0 miles east on Forest Road 4600 500.
Roads are paved along Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway and then Forest Road 4600 500. Seasonal access may depend on snow or fire conditions.
Nearby places
Bend (38.4 miles, approximately 40 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available at Lava Lake Resort store near the campground
larger shopping options in Bend, 38.4 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Lava Lake Campground

Summer at Lava Lake delivers a delightful contrast of sun-warmed days perfect for water activities and refreshingly crisp nights that demand cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. As autumn approaches, occasional wildfire smoke may drift through the valley, painting dramatic sunsets across the mountain peaks. When winter arrives, this alpine wonderland transforms into a snow-covered sanctuary, blanketed in pristine powder that creates an entirely different landscape for those brave enough to venture into the backcountry.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Peak season with warm days and crisp nights; popular for water activities but mosquitos and algae common.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Early fall offers cooler temps, fewer crowds and fresher lake water; campground closes late Sep for reservable sites.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Opening in late May; early-season visits noted for fresher lake water but temperatures can be chilly.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground is closed to reservable sites in winter; season runs May–Sep (FCFS shorter extension).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 to September 27.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season begins May 23 and closes September 27 for reservable sites. Adjusted period for first-come-first-serve sites runs through October 18.
  • Current Alerts: Smoke advisories and water system failures have been noted in past reviews. Algae blooms may impact lake usability.

About Lava Lake Campground

Nestled along the spectacular Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, Lava Lake Campground beckons adventurers to experience Central Oregon's pristine wilderness from its coveted waterfront location. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters at dawn, exploring mountain bike trails through ancient forests, or simply soaking in the majesty of the Cascade Range from your campsite, this high-altitude retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits. From hiking volcanic landscapes to horseback riding through alpine meadows, every day brings new discoveries along this legendary scenic corridor.
Lava Lake Campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, with some accommodating trailers. The campground also has tent-only sites and a few double sites for larger groups.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
NOON
Check-out
NOON
Stay Limit
  • Maximum consecutive stay of 14 days per visit
  • maximum 28 days annually.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Lava Lake Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, and scenic drives. The lake provides opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions like Little Lava Lake and Hosmer Lake expand the range of outdoor activities.
HikingSeveral trails are accessible directly from the campground, including routes to Little Lava Lake and other nearby destinations. Trails are suitable for casual hikers and provide scenic views of the surrounding area.
FishingFishing at Lava Lake is a popular activity, though some reviews note algae blooms and low water levels affecting the experience. Fish species and other details are not provided.
SwimmingSwimming is available, but some reviewers highlight concerns about water quality due to algae blooms.
BikingMountain biking opportunities are available in the area, with old roads and trails suitable for casual rides.
BoatingThe campground features a boat ramp, and activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Winds can pick up in the afternoons, making mornings a better time for water activities.
Wildlife viewingVisitors report sightings of various bird species, including ospreys, bald eagles, and great blue herons. The campground's natural setting offers opportunities for observing local wildlife.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquito activity is high during peak season. Occasional wildfire smoke impacts visibility and air quality. Wildlife like bears may require food precautions.
Active AlertsSmoke advisories and water system failures have been noted in past reviews. Algae blooms may impact lake usability.

Weather at Lava Lake Campground

Reviews

3.9
186 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Lava Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's beautiful scenery, lake access, and recreational activities. However, issues such as algae blooms, mosquitoes, and maintenance problems are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 186 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the scenic setting, spacious sites, and access to recreational activities. "Fantastic campground hosts - informative, friendly, and the spaces were spotless" and "Beautiful...
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Based on 186 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include algae blooms affecting water activities, mosquitoes, and inconsistent maintenance of vault toilets. Some reviewers also criticized the lack of potable water and noisy or...
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Based on 186 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent, and consider visiting earlier in the season to avoid algae blooms. Campers also recommend bringing extra water and being prepared for cold nights, even during summer.
Based on 186 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees high activity, with mosquito issues and algae blooms frequently mentioned. Early-season visits offer fresher lake water and cooler temperatures, while late-season visits can be chilly but...
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Based on 186 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We couldn’t stay due to the heavy smoke out there unfortunately!" "Pot water was surprisingly good," and "We loved our campsite spot (#26)."
Based on 186 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #037 is noted for its lake views, while Site #035 is described as spacious with good shade. Tent-only sites like #018 offer proximity to trails but are less private.
Based on 186 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews are provided, but general comments about site spacing and terrain suggest limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 186 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but reviews do not specifically address pet-friendly features. One user mentioned keeping their dog safe during kayaking trips.
Based on 186 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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