Delintment Lake Campground

4.78

28 reviews

265 Highway 20 South Hines, OR 97738

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Oregon Fishing Camping Oregon Boating Camping Oregon +2 more

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Emigrant Creek Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

23 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Emigrant Creek Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Delintment Lake Campground

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$10 per night for single sites; additional vehicle fee: $5/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single...

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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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USFS

Provider

541-573-4300SM.FS.malpubinfo@usda.gov

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What Campers Say

4.78

Top-Rated

Based on 28 reviews

20 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanfriendlywell-maintained

"User reviews consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness, tranquility, and spacious campsites. The lake and surrounding pines add to the peaceful atmosphere."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

265 Highway 20 South Hines, OR 97738

Delintment Lake Campground

265 Highway 20 South Hines, OR 97738

Driving directionsIn Hines, OR (south side) at the intersection of US Rts. 20/395 and Hines Logging Rd (County Rt. 127), turn west onto Hines Logging Rd and go 12.1 miles to Delintment Lake sign. Turn left at sign, onto Forest Rt. 41, and go 26.9 miles to an intersection. Turn left, staying on Forest Rt 41, and go 4.8 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.

Road access is paved up to the campground from Burns, Oregon. However, although paved, Forest Rt 41 is single-lane with turnouts for the last 15.8 miles.

Nearby places

Burns, Oregon (approximately 40 miles away, including 15.8 miles of single-lane road)

Nearby supplies

Chevron Gas Station on US Rts. 20/395 (located at the border of Burns and Hines) for RV waste station and potable water (available for a fee). Nearby supplies can also be found in Hines, Oregon.

Best Time to Camp at Delintment Lake Campground

Mountain weather here dances to its own rhythm, shifting from sun-drenched mornings to afternoon thundershowers in the span of hours. Plan accordingly and pack layers for every possibility. The campground transforms with the seasons – water flows freely from hand pumps during the warm embrace of late May through early October, but winter's approach brings a different character. As temperatures drop in mid-October, water systems hibernate until spring's return, and early season visitors might wake to find their tent dusted with unexpected snow. These shoulder seasons offer their own rewards: fewer crowds and a landscape painted in spring wildflowers or autumn gold.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in OR

Peak season mid-May–mid-Nov; summer popular for clean lake and cooler mountain retreat.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Seasonal quiet and privacy in shoulder season; pleasant mountain weather expected.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Open starting mid-May; variable conditions with snow possible into June.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (open mid-May to mid-November).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Mid-May through mid-November.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from mid-May to mid-November (weather-dependent). Closed during colder months.
Current Alerts: Delintment Creek Trail is closed due to storm damage. Contact the ranger district office for status.

About Delintment Lake Campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Delintment Lake, this serene 29-site campground invites you to choose your perfect escape – whether you prefer waking up to gentle lapping waves at a lakeside spot or enjoying panoramic vistas from a hillside perch. Each thoughtfully spaced site comes equipped with a picnic table and fire pit, creating your own private basecamp for adventure. Modern restrooms and hand-pump water stations are conveniently located throughout, while friendly campground hosts are on hand during summer months to ensure your stay is memorable. Here, the art of camping returns to its roots – where the rustling pines provide nature's soundtrack and the starlit skies become your evening entertainment.

The campground accommodates tents, small RVs (20 ft or less), and group camping. The sites are large and well-separated, offering privacy.

Historical SignificanceDelintment Lake Campground stands as a testament to nature's resilience. When the Silver Fire swept through the region just a few years ago, fate spared this pocket of forest, creating a living classroom of ecological contrast. Today, visitors can witness firsthand the dramatic story of fire and rebirth by exploring the Delintment Creek Trail, where untouched old-growth giants stand sentinel beside areas showcasing nature's remarkable recovery. This unique juxtaposition offers a rare opportunity to understand the vital role fire plays in forest ecosystems.

Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances to its own rhythm, shifting from sun-drenched mornings to afternoon thundershowers in the span of hours. Plan accordingly and pack layers for every possibility. The campground transforms with the seasons – water flows freely from hand pumps during the warm embrace of late May through early October, but winter's approach brings a different character. As temperatures drop in mid-October, water systems hibernate until spring's return, and early season visitors might wake to find their tent dusted with unexpected snow. These shoulder seasons offer their own rewards: fewer crowds and a landscape painted in spring wildflowers or autumn gold.

ElevationPerched at 5,600 feet where the air grows crisp and pine-scented, Delintment Lake Campground offers a refreshing retreat from summer's heat. At this elevation, morning mist often clings to the lake's surface while afternoon breezes whisper through the forest canopy. The altitude brings cooler temperatures that transform summer camping into a comfortable adventure – expect nights cool enough for campfire gatherings and days perfect for hiking without the oppressive heat of lower elevations.

Natural Features and SceneryTowering Ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral above the campground, their vanilla-scented bark and sprawling branches filtering sunlight into a gentle, dappled pattern across the forest floor. Below these gentle giants, a unique grass-only understory creates park-like settings between campsites, offering both privacy and easy walking. The lake itself beckons with its intriguing shoreline – a paddler's paradise where kayaks and canoes can explore hidden coves and quiet inlets without the intrusion of motor noise. This pristine setting provides the perfect backdrop for photography, wildlife watching, or simply losing yourself in a good book beneath the shade of ancient trees.

Geological RegionRising from the heart of the Malheur National Forest at 5,600 feet, Delintment Lake Campground showcases the volcanic legacy that shaped Eastern Oregon's landscape. The surrounding terrain tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient lava flows gave way to forests of stately Ponderosa pines. These magnificent trees thrive in the well-drained volcanic soils, creating an unusual and beautiful ecosystem where grassy meadows carpet the forest floor instead of the typical tangle of understory shrubs. This unique combination creates an almost park-like atmosphere rarely found in natural settings.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum number of guests per site is not specified.

Groups

Adesignated group camping area is available, but details about the number of people and vehicles allowed are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo unnamed loops stretch along the shoreline of Delintment Lake.

Reservation PlatformsReservations not available. Sites may be first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified, but the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not specified.

AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair-friendly. Specific details on other accessibility features are not provided.

Site SizeThe campground can only accommodate camp trailers 20 ft in length and under, with parking aprons made of gravel.

PrivacyCampsites are well-separated, providing good privacy. 'Lots of space between campsites,' as noted in a user review.

Total Campsites23 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose lakeside sites for picturesque views and easy access to water activities. Hillside sites offer higher elevation and additional privacy.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Delintment Lake Campground offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, non-motorized boating, wildlife viewing, and hiking. There is also a natural beach area for relaxation.

HikingThe Delintment Creek Trail is 3.2 miles long and suitable for foot traffic. However, it is currently closed due to storm damage. Contact the Emigrant Creek Ranger District for updates.

FishingFishing is available in the lake, including opportunities to catch trout. A user noted catching 'a bunch of small planted rainbows' when fishing from a boat.

BoatingBoating is limited to non-motorized boats or power boats operating at a maximum speed of 5 mph. The launch ramp is gravel.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities are available, but specific details on common species are not mentioned.

Beach activitiesA natural beach area is available for relaxation, but no specific activities like sunbathing or volleyball are detailed.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWarmer weather can bring blue-green algae blooms to the lake. Visitors are advised to read guidelines to identify and respond to algae blooms.

Active AlertsDelintment Creek Trail is closed due to storm damage. Contact the ranger district office for status.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyFire pits are available at sites for campfires.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmigrant Creek Ranger District Office (265 Highway 20 South, Hines, OR 97738, Phone: (541) 573-4300).

Trash & RecyclingNo trash service is provided; visitors must pack out their trash, including cans, bottles, and cigarette butts.

Water FeaturesDirect access to Delintment Lake (35 acres). The lake features a gravel boat ramp and is suitable for non-powered boating and fishing.

Camp HostCamp hosts are available onsite during summer months, ensuring clean facilities and helpful guidance to visitors.

Weather at Delintment Lake Campground

Reviews

4.8

28 reviews

Top-Rated

Delintment Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews consistently praise the campground for its cleanliness, tranquility, and spacious campsites. The lake and surrounding pines add to the peaceful atmosphere.

Review Summaries

Based on 28 reviews

What Campers Love

Cleanliness, well-maintained campsites, good spacing between sites, clean vault toilets, and friendly camp hosts are frequently highlighted. One user remarked, 'Nice tall pines, good access, large...

Based on 28 reviews

Common Concerns

No significant complaints were noted in the reviews, though it is highlighted that visitors must pack out their own trash.

Based on 28 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own trash bags as no trash service is provided. Keep dogs on a leash at all times. Be aware that blue-green algae blooms can occur in warmer weather.

Based on 28 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is described as very private during the off-season. Summer is popular for its clean lake and cooler retreat from the heat. One reviewer mentioned snow as late as June, suggesting...

Based on 28 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Very secluded, restful, quiet spot.' - Jason Riipinen 2. 'Bathrooms were very clean, just remember if you have a dog, it must be on a leash.' - Kassy 3. 'Nice little lake! Nice campground!' -...

Based on 28 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites near the lake offer views of the water, while those higher on the bank provide elevated perspectives. Specific site numbers are not mentioned in the reviews.

Based on 28 reviews