Thompson Reservoir Campground

Star4.50
8 reviews
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$2 - $6/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Typically opens mid-...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Fremont-Winema National Forest site

Official Website
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Thompson Reservoir Campground
$2.00 - $6.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee is $6 per night for a single unit, with an additional $2 per night for an extra vehicle.
Standard Site Fee$6.00
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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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 8 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

views

"Users generally appreciate the natural beauty and quiet environment of the campground, but some reviewers noted issues with maintenance, such as overflowing trash and a lack of toilet paper."

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Campground Map

Thompson Reservoir Campground

42.9614, -121.0928

Driving directionsFrom Silver Lake, Oregon, take Oregon highway 31 west for approximately one mile and turn left onto County Highway 4-11 (also known as Marsh Road). County Highway 4-11 will become Forest Service (FS) Road 27. From FS Road 27 take a left onto FS Road 2700287. Thompson Reservoir Campground is at the end of the road.
Road access is via Forest Service roads with gravel aprons, transitioning from paved roads near Silver Lake. Heavy snowfall restricts access in winter and early spring.
Nearby places
Silver Lake (40 minutes south, approximately 14 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Silver Lake.

Best Time to Camp at Thompson Reservoir Campground

Experience the full spectrum of high-country seasons at Thompson Reservoir, where spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect fishing conditions from May onward. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for swimming and paddling, though water levels gradually recede as the season progresses. Autumn transforms the landscape into a golden tapestry of changing aspen leaves and crisp, star-filled nights perfect for campfire stories. Winter's heavy snowfall creates a peaceful blanket over the reservoir, closing the campground from November through April and allowing nature to rest and renew.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm, sun-drenched summers with boating and fishing; note possible late-season low water.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Late summer and fall may see declining water levels that reduce water-based activities, though scenery remains.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers, higher water levels and excellent fishing from May onward—best season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground typically closed mid-Oct to mid-May due to heavy snowfall; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15th to October 15th aligned with regional weather conditions.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Typically opens mid-May and closes mid-October due to heavy snowfall.
  • Current Alerts: Trash overflow and lack of toilet paper were recurring issues as noted in user reviews.

About Thompson Reservoir Campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of the expansive three-square-mile Thompson Reservoir, this hidden gem offers 19 individual campsites and one group site perfect for family reunions or outdoor gatherings. Wake up to stunning views of majestic Hager Mountain reflected in the morning waters, then spend your days casting lines for trophy fish, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing at your campsite equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Hand-pumped potable water and three well-maintained vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay, while the surrounding wilderness provides endless opportunities for adventure and wildlife encounters.
The campground offers 19 individual campsites and one large group site. Accommodations primarily cater to tent camping, with some pull-through sites available for RVs. Primitive camping conditions prevail due to the lack of potable water and electricity.
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Stay Limit
Limited to 14 days.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Thompson Reservoir Campground include picnicking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Recreational opportunities are enhanced by the reservoir, which is stocked annually with rainbow trout and supports boating. Reviewers have mentioned varying experiences with the lake's water levels, which can affect activities.
HikingHiking opportunities are described as 'exploring' and 'day hikes,' though no specific trails or difficulty levels are mentioned.
FishingFishing is a popular activity due to the annual stocking of rainbow trout. The lake also offers largemouth bass fishing. One reviewer mentioned observing eagles and ospreys fishing in the reservoir.
BoatingBoating is supported at the reservoir, with a boat ramp and facilities for carrying down boats. Power boats are limited to 10 mph.
Wildlife viewingThe reservoir is a nesting site for migratory shorebirds, including grebes, pelicans, and Sandhill cranes. Eagles and osprey are also frequently seen. A reviewer noted, 'It is a great spot for bird watching where eagles and osprey fish in the reservoir.'
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear country; practice safe food storage techniques.
Active AlertsTrash overflow and lack of toilet paper were recurring issues as noted in user reviews.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Thompson Reservoir Campground

Reviews

4.5
8 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Thompson Reservoir Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the natural beauty and quiet environment of the campground, but some reviewers noted issues with maintenance, such as overflowing trash and a lack of toilet paper.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include the scenic views, ample wildlife, and the availability of fire pits and picnic areas. One user stated, 'Loved the picnic areas, pit toilets, and options for safe fire.'
Based on 8 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include low water levels in the reservoir during later months, overflowing trash, and insufficient restroom maintenance.
Based on 8 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing mosquito repellent and being prepared for primitive conditions, such as the lack of potable water and potential cleanliness issues with the restrooms.
Based on 8 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early summer offer the best experience due to higher water levels in the reservoir. Late summer and fall may see a decline in water-based activities due to water recession.
Based on 8 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground was great. Lots of clean toilets. Place was empty.' 2. 'Bring mosquito repellent. Overflowing trash was an issue during my visit.' 3. 'Now the water is way below boat ramps......
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Based on 8 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific reviews about particular sites were found.
Based on 8 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility-specific reviews were noted.
Based on 8 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific feedback on pet policies or experiences was identified.
Based on 8 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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