How much does camping cost at South Campground - Hosmer Lake?

Camping fees at South Campground - Hosmer Lake are $25 - $27/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is South Campground - Hosmer Lake first-come first-served or reservation?

South Campground - Hosmer Lake accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at South Campground - Hosmer Lake before I book?

Yes! South Campground - Hosmer Lake has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit South Campground - Hosmer Lake?

South Campground - Hosmer Lake is open May 29 to September 25. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at South Campground - Hosmer Lake?

South Campground - Hosmer Lake does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at South Campground - Hosmer Lake?

Fire policies at South Campground - Hosmer Lake: Fire Restrictions: Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does South Campground - Hosmer Lake have?

South Campground - Hosmer Lake has 22 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at South Campground - Hosmer Lake?

Yes, pets are allowed at South Campground - Hosmer Lake. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at South Campground - Hosmer Lake?

South Campground - Hosmer Lake offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

3.85

86 reviews

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

CReport Card

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsFishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds Oregon

Quick Facts

4,977 ft

Price

$25 - $27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open May 30 - Septem...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,977 ft

Price

$25 - $27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Open May 30 - Septem...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

$25.00 - $27.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $25.00 (+$2.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

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

South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

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

Nearby places

Bend: ~36.8 miles, ~50 minutes drive.

Weather at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Current alerts(8)

access is limited due to marshy vegetation.
Camping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive calendar days is prohibited.
Don't Move Firewood : Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests.
During your time in Central Oregon, you can find wildfire, prescribed fire and smoke information at centraloregonfire.org

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

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm, stable weather (daytime highs typically in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F, nights dropping into the 30s–40s°F at ~5,000 ft) and full access to lake recreation, making it ideal for fly-fishing, boating, hiking and peak mountain views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister and Broken Top. Hosmer Lake is at its clearest and warmest in July–August, so boat fishing and shoreline casting are at their best while trails are fully snow-free. Expect moderate use on holiday and Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: warm days and full access; popular and can be crowded, mosquitoes June–July.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 29 to September 25. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 30 - September 27, 2025, reservable starting June 24, 2025.

About South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

South Campground sits on Hosmer Lake in Deschutes National Forest, a mid-elevation lake known for exceptionally clear water and fly-fishing beneath views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top. The Forest Service operates this small campground with spacious, private sites accommodating tents, RVs, and primitive camping. Visitors come for the lake's clarity, wildlife sightings including eagles and otters, and summer access to boating and hiking.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of warm, stable weather (daytime highs typically in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F, nights dropping into the 30s–40s°F at ~5,000 ft) and full access to lake recreation, making it ideal for fly-fishing, boating, hiking and peak mountain views of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister and Broken Top. Hosmer Lake is at its clearest and warmest in July–August, so boat fishing and shoreline casting are at their best while trails are fully snow-free. Expect moderate use on holiday and Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation4977 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies volcanic terrain shaped by ancient lava flows, where porous rims now cradle Hosmer Lake's shallow, crystal-clear water. Towering conifers shade most sites, breaking occasionally to frame the three volcanic peaks that dominate the skyline. The lake itself is a wildlife hub. Reviews mention bald eagles, ospreys diving for fish, and river otters playing near shore. One camper described the water as "extremely clear and not very deep," ideal for spotting fish from a kayak or canoe. The setting rewards quiet observation more than adrenaline.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodge or other accommodations are available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned as being available at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 consecutive nights per visit
maximum total stay of 28 nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

One RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site.

Groups

No designated group camping sites are available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website, contact center, and app.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some pull-through options available. However, reviews mention uneven terrain and difficulties in leveling trailers.

PrivacySites offer a reasonable amount of privacy, with trees and vegetation providing separation between sites. "The sites are roomy and private," one review noted.

Total Campsites22 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid site 007 due to uneven terrain. Site 021 noted for privacy and proximity to boat launch.

Best CampsitesSite 001 gets praise for privacy and shade. Sites 013 and 014 sit closer to the lake and offer better water views, though reviews don't specify how much better. Most sites are spacious, but several campers noted uneven ground that made leveling trailers difficult. If you're bringing an RV, pack leveling blocks and patience.

Need help booking South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

South Campground at Hosmer Lake offers a variety of amenities suitable for both tent campers and RV users. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, providing basic facilities for cooking and dining outdoors. The campground features vault toilets that, while functional, have received mixed reviews for cleanliness and odor. "Bathrooms smelled badly inside, and far for the bldgs, too," noted one guest. Importantly, there is no potable water available, and campers are advised to bring their own water supply. A boat ramp at the site provides day-use access to Hosmer Lake, although parking for the boat launch requires a separate recreation fee. Overall, the campground is rustic, with no modern facilities such as electricity, Wi-Fi, or dump stations.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

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.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Lake is a wildlife hub with osprey, eagles, river otters and frequent wildlife sightings.

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayaking/canoeing/paddleboarding repeatedly recommended; clear water and boat launch support paddling.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Clear water, wildlife and three volcanic peaks provide excellent photo opportunities at sunrise/sunset.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; the campground features vault toilets instead.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.9

86 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....

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...

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

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...

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,...

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

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

$25.00 - $27.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $25.00 (+$2.00 holiday). Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746

Go if

You want spacious lakefront sites with exceptional water clarity for fly-fishing and wildlife watching near Bend.

Skip if

You need flush toilets, level RV pads, or guaranteed quiet from neighboring campers.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.1

(70)

Mallard Marsh Campground

63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD

Mallard Marsh Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Deschutes National Forest near Bend, Oregon. Operated by the Forest Service, this small campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors come for kayaking and canoeing on nearby Hosmer Lake, fly-fishing, marsh wildlife viewing, and clear mountain views.

South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Campground Map

Weather at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Current alerts(8)

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

Planning Tips

About South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

RV information

Directions

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Current alerts(8)

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

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)?

Amenities available

Things to do at South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews