How much does camping cost at South Twin Lake Campground?

Camping fees at South Twin Lake Campground range from $29-$64/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

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

South Twin Lake Campground 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 Twin Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! South Twin Lake Campground has 7 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 Twin Lake Campground?

South Twin Lake Campground is open April 10 to October 16. 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 Twin Lake Campground?

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

How many campsites does South Twin Lake Campground have?

South Twin Lake Campground has 100 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at South Twin Lake Campground?

Pets are not allowed at South Twin Lake Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at South Twin Lake Campground?

South Twin Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

South Twin Lake Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at South Twin Lake Campground?

Fire policies at South Twin Lake Campground: 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.

3.33

71 reviews

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

Summer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

407 ft

Price

$29 - $64/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

100 campsites

Season

Open May 23 to Octob...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Deschutes National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

407 ft

Price

$29 - $64/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

100 campsites

Season

Open May 23 to Octob...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Deschutes National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

South Twin Lake Campground

$29.00 - $64.00 / night

Campsite Fees

DOUBLE PREMIUM SITE: $62.00 (+$2.00 holiday); PREMIUM SITE: $31.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD NONELECTRIC-DOUBLE: $58.00 (+$2.00 holiday); STANDARD...

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-323-1746

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to South Twin Lake Campground

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Campground Map

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

South Twin Lake Campground

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

Nearby places

Bend, OR: ~27 miles, ~40-minute drive

La Pine, OR: ~15 miles, ~25-minute drive.

Weather at South Twin Lake Campground

Current alerts(7)

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
NO generator use is allowed in campgrounds between 10:00PM and 7:00AM (36 CFR 261.10). Silent power banks or battery powered devices are allowed.

Best Time to Camp at South Twin Lake Campground

Best season: fall. Early fall (late August–September) is the best time to visit because days are still warm and water activities remain enjoyable while crowds thin and evenings turn crisp. Expect daytime highs around 50–70°F (10–21°C) and cool mornings in the 30s–40s°F (0–5°C), perfect for hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing with clearer air and dramatic volcanic-lighting. Fishing often stays productive into September, and campsites are easier to reserve after the summer peak; be aware that hunting seasons can, Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late Aug–Sept cited as best conditions: milder temps, good paddling and fewer crowds.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 10 to October 16. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 23 to October 18, reservable June 24 to October 18.

About South Twin Lake Campground

South Twin Lake Campground sits in Deschutes National Forest near Bend, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. This large seasonal campground draws visitors for paddleboarding, kayaking, and lakefront access, with flush toilets, potable water, and a camp store on-site. Wildlife sightings are common, and the volcanic landscape offers dramatic scenery during the fall months when crowds thin.

South Twin Lake Campground offers standard nonelectric sites suitable for tents, trailers, or RVs. The sites are available for reservation during the peak season and on a first-come, first-served basis during the shoulder season. Some users reported issues with site layouts and accessibility.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Early fall (late August–September) is the best time to visit because days are still warm and water activities remain enjoyable while crowds thin and evenings turn crisp. Expect daytime highs around 50–70°F (10–21°C) and cool mornings in the 30s–40s°F (0–5°C), perfect for hiking, paddling, and wildlife viewing with clearer air and dramatic volcanic-lighting. Fishing often stays productive into September, and campsites are easier to reserve after the summer peak; be aware that hunting seasons can, Peak months: September, October, August, July Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation407 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground borders South Twin Lake, formed by volcanic eruptions 20,000 years ago. Lava flows and rocky outcrops frame the water. Views extend across the lake to neighboring North Twin Lake and Wickiup Reservoir. The surrounding forest is typical of the Deschutes high country, though the campground itself sits at a surprisingly low 407 feet elevation (likely a data error, as the area's actual elevation is around 4,300 feet). Wildlife sightings are common.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no mention of lodging facilities like cabins or lodges at the campground itself, though there is a nearby resort that may offer additional accommodations.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information provided on cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive nights per visit
28 total nights per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 2 RVs or vehicles per double site
One vehicle per single site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Site SizeSites can accommodate tents, trailers, or RVs. However, some users noted issues with site sizes being too narrow or sloping, particularly on the waterside.

PrivacyThe campground is heavily used with limited privacy, according to user reviews. 'The campground is very heavily used and does not offer any privacy,' one user reported.

Total Campsites100 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near water provide great views but may have leveling challenges. Sites farther from high-traffic areas offer more privacy.

Best CampsitesSites 10, 4, and 18 offer lake views. Waterside sites can be narrow or sloped, so check site dimensions if you're bringing a larger RV.

Need help booking South Twin Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

South Twin Lake Campground offers a variety of amenities for campers. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. The campground provides potable water and flush toilets. There is a nearby boat launch area available (day-use only) for non-motorized water activities. However, some user reviews highlight maintenance issues, such as broken toilets and insufficient water supply at times. 'The bathrooms were disgusting and outdated,' one reviewer mentioned, while another stated, 'All the bathrooms were shut down except for one of them in the campground.' There is a nearby resort with additional amenities like a store and restaurant.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Camp Store

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

South Twin Lake Campground offers various recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, and paddling in the adjacent South Twin Lake. Motorized boating is not allowed. Hiking trails to nearby locations like North Twin Lake and Wickiup Reservoir are available. Reviewers appreciated the lake and wildlife sightings but mentioned overcrowding and noise as deterrents.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Fire PolicyFire 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.

Trash & RecyclingUser reviews highlight insufficient garbage service, with reports of trash bags piling up and being scavenged by wildlife.

Cell CoverageNo official or user-provided information about cell phone service is available.

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

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From Booking Sources

3.3

71 reviews

Mixed Reviews

South Twin Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for South Twin Lake Campground are mixed. Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding area, as well as recreational opportunities like fishing and kayaking. Common complaints focus on poor maintenance of facilities, such as broken toilets and insufficient garbage management, and issues with noise and overcrowding.

Review Summaries

Based on 71 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 71 reviews.

Site #5Mentioned
Site #5 is noted for its proximity to an odorous outhouse.
Site #10Mentioned
Site #10 was a favorite for its location but suffered due to noisy neighbors.
site #8Mentioned
'We were robbed at our site,' one user reported about site #8.
Site #4Issues noted
Site #4 is described as sloping and difficult for RVs.

What Campers Love

Many users praised the lake's beauty, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for water activities. 'The campground and lake are beautiful. We enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking,' one reviewer wrote.

Based on 71 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues with maintenance (e.g., broken toilets, water outages), poor management, and security concerns (e.g., thefts) are frequently mentioned. 'Trash bags everywhere, poop on the toilet seats,...

Based on 71 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and consider a solar shower. Secure your belongings to prevent theft. Be prepared for potential maintenance issues and noise from other campers.

Based on 71 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the campground's busy nature and frequent maintenance issues. Reviews indicate that the lake's water level may drop during peak season, affecting the quality of fishing and...

Based on 71 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The lake was calm with some kayaks and paddleboard activities and fishing.' 2. 'This continues to get worse year after year. Please hire another group.' 3. 'Clean and nice. Right by the beach.'

Based on 71 reviews