South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Star3.95
86 reviews
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
Scenic ViewsFishingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,977 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open May 30 - Septem...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Recreation.gov site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

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January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard rate is $25 per night during peak season (May 30 - September 27, 2025). A holiday surcharge of $2 applies. Rates do not include discounts,...
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Standard Site Fee$25.00
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

3.95

Mixed Reviews

Based on 86 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spaciouswaterlakesites

Some mention

noisedusty

"User reviews for South Campground at Hosmer Lake are mixed. Highlights include the scenic beauty of the lake, the opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing, and the spacious campsites. Complaints often focus on the lack of potable water, uneven terrain, and poorly maintained vault toilets. Noise from other campers and overcrowding during peak seasons are also frequently mentioned."

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Campground Map

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA

South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA

Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel 35.5 miles southwest on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46), then 1.3 miles east on Forest Road 4625. South Campground will come up on the right side first and then Mallard Marsh.
Accessible from Cascade Lakes Hwy, primarily paved roads; last stretch on Forest Road 4625 is likely unpaved. Accessibility is good, but seasonal challenges like snow may impact access.
Nearby places
Bend: ~36.8 miles, ~50 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Bend, Oregon (~36.8 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Summer days at Hosmer Lake unfold with gentle warmth and cool mountain breezes, creating ideal conditions for outdoor pursuits. As darkness falls, temperatures drop significantly, reminding campers to pack warm layers for starlit evenings around the campfire. Early summer visitors (June-July) should come prepared with insect repellent, as mosquitoes make their seasonal appearance. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though access becomes challenging and temperatures plummet well below freezing.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Ideal boating, fishing and warm days; mosquitoes and crowds peak in June–July.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Off-peak likely quieter with good views; campground closes late Sept so brief fall window.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Late spring opening; cool temps, mosquitoes may start in June, limited season window.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 30 - Sept 27 season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 30 - September 27, 2025 (Peak Season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 30 - September 27, 2025, reservable starting June 24, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Potential fire restrictions during dry weather.

About South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Nestled along the pristine shores of Hosmer Lake, South Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive camping haven serves as your gateway to one of Oregon's most celebrated fly-fishing destinations, where crystal-clear waters reflect the towering silhouettes of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the simple comforts of vault toilets and rustic facilities that encourage a deeper connection with nature.
South Campground offers a rustic camping experience with options for tent camping and RV camping. Sites are non-electric and designed for a more primitive experience, with no water or sewer hookups available.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Reserved sites held until noon the day after scheduled arrival date.
Check-out
Reserved sites must be occupied by checkout time on the day following arrival to maintain reservation.
Stay Limit
  • Maximum 14 consecutive nights per visit
  • maximum total stay of 28 nights per year.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

South Campground at Hosmer Lake provides a range of activities, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Fly fishing is a major draw, as Hosmer Lake is a fly-fishing-only destination known for its clear waters and visible fish species such as Atlantic salmon and brook trout. Boating is also highly recommended, with many campers bringing kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards. Hiking and horseback riding opportunities are available nearby. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with osprey, eagles, river otters, and various bird species often spotted. However, the lake is less suited for swimming due to limitations in shoreline access and marshy vegetation.
HikingHiking trails are available nearby, offering opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Details on specific trail lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.
FishingHosmer Lake is a fly-fishing-only lake, renowned for its large Atlantic salmon, brook trout, and rainbow trout. "The fish are huge but catch-and-release only," stated one review.
BoatingBoating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, are highly recommended. "Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe, rowboat, or electric boat for the best views of the lake," suggested one reviewer.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a popular activity, with sightings of osprey, eagles, river otters, and other bird species frequently reported.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquito season peaks June-July. Uneven campsites and dusty conditions noted. Wildlife like otters and eagles present but pose minimal danger.
Active Alertsaccess is limited due to marshy vegetation. | Potential fire restrictions during dry weather.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Reviews

4.0
86 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for South Campground at Hosmer Lake are mixed. Highlights include the scenic beauty of the lake, the opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing, and the spacious campsites. Complaints often focus on the lack of potable water, uneven terrain, and poorly maintained vault toilets. Noise from other campers and overcrowding during peak seasons are also frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 86 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praised the lake's beauty and activities: "Hosmer Lake is truly amazing" and "The water is extremely clear and not very deep." Campsites were often noted as spacious and private....
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Based on 86 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring issues include the absence of potable water, uneven campsites, and poorly maintained vault toilets. One reviewer stated, "Bathrooms are scary bad." Additionally, overcrowding and noise from...
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Based on 86 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing sufficient water and leveling equipment for trailers. "Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe, rowboat, or electric boat for the best views of the lake," advised one reviewer. Bug...
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Based on 86 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquitoes are reported as a significant issue during June and July. The campground becomes crowded during peak summer months, particularly on weekends. Off-peak visits offer a quieter experience.
Based on 86 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The fish are huge but catch-and-release only." 2. "Vault toilet stunk quite a lot." 3. "Hosmer Lake is one of the primo kayaking or canoeing lakes in Oregon." 4. "Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe,...
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Based on 86 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback includes issues with uneven terrain (e.g., Site 7) and positive remarks about privacy and proximity to the lake (e.g., Site 21).
Based on 86 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific comments on accessibility were provided by reviewers.
Based on 86 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some complaints arose about off-leash dogs at neighboring sites.
Based on 86 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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