Carter Lake

Star4.16
129 reviews
Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, 855 HWY 101, REEDSPORT, OR 97467, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

100 ft

Price

$22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

The campground opera...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Siuslaw National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Carter Lake
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season nightly rates for standard and RV sites are $22. This does not include taxes or additional charges.
Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
541-271-6000
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What Campers Say

4.16

Satisfactory

Based on 129 reviews

44 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanlakebeach

Some mention

cell service

"Reviews of Carter Lake Campground are generally positive, with visitors appreciating the peaceful atmosphere and recreational opportunities. Negative feedback often revolves around the lack of cell service, showers, and occasional maintenance issues."

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Campground Map

Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, 855 HWY 101, REEDSPORT, OR 97467, USA

Carter Lake

Oregon Dunes Visitor Center, 855 HWY 101, REEDSPORT, OR 97467, USA

Driving directionsFrom Florence, travel south on Highway 101 for about 10 miles. The entrance to Carter Lake Campground is on the west (right) side of Highway 101.
The entrance to the campground is accessible via Highway 101, a major paved road. However, some user reviews mention potholes on the road leading into the campground.
Nearby places
Florence (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Reedsport (20 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Coos Bay (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Florence (10 miles) offers groceries, fuel, and camping supplies. Options for dining and shopping are also available.

Best Time to Camp at Carter Lake

Carter Lake enjoys the Oregon Coast's signature mild climate, where morning mists give way to sun-dappled afternoons and gentle ocean breezes keep temperatures comfortable year-round. While refreshing rain showers occasionally sweep through, bringing that distinctive coastal freshness, summer emerges as the golden season here—when warm days invite endless outdoor adventures and evening campfires glow beneath star-filled skies.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and busiest May–Sept; reviewers cite favorable summer weather and activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Early fall open with fewer crowds but cooler weather; campground closes Sept 30.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring opens May 1; rhododendron blooms and pleasant weather draw visitors.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (seasonal operation ends Sept 30).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 to September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground operates seasonally from May 1 to September 30.
  • Current Alerts: Some reviews mention recovery efforts from past flooding, with upgrades such as new tables and fire pits.

About Carter Lake

Discover your perfect Pacific Northwest escape at Carter Lake Campground, where towering coastal forests meet tranquil waters in the heart of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This hidden gem welcomes families seeking adventure and solitude alike, offering pristine lake access for fishing, swimming, and peaceful morning paddles. Just beyond the campground, miles of non-motorized trails wind through ancient dunes, while the rhythmic crash of Pacific waves beckons from nearby shores.
Carter Lake Campground provides options for both tent and RV camping. The campground is small but well-maintained, making it ideal for shorter stays or quieter vacations. Most campsites are suited for tents or small trailers, and there are no hookups for RVs.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 14 nights per visit.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Carter Lake Campground offers a mix of recreational options such as fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking. The Carter Dunes Trail is particularly popular. Activities are generally family-friendly, and the variety of options makes it appealing to both adventure seekers and those looking for relaxation.
HikingHiking trails, including the Carter Dunes Trail, are available and well-received by campers. "Hike the Carter Dune Trail, which attracts campers and locals alike" is part of the official description. Trails to the nearby beach are noted as beautiful but challenging at times.
FishingFishing is a popular activity at Carter Lake, particularly for rainbow trout. Steven Gray notes: "First time at Campground beach or dock area to bottom fish and caught my limit in trout."
SwimmingSwimming is a favorite activity. The lake features shallow areas suitable for children, and water temperatures are generally described as pleasant. "Jumped into the lake and swam after getting camp set up. Many of the Rhodies were in bloom," shared one camper.
BoatingBoating activities like canoeing and kayaking are encouraged. Kathy Schmutzler states: "Excellent for paddle board, canoeing, etc." Powerboats are rare, and the focus is on non-motorized watercraft.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight. Visitors have reported sightings of birds like osprey, and deer. "Watched Osprey fishing out of their nest," said one reviewer.
Beach activitiesBeach activities include sunbathing and walking along the shore. The beach is accessible via a trail and is described as beautiful and less crowded.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include mosquitoes, hornets, and steep steps at certain campsites.
Active AlertsSome reviews mention recovery efforts from past flooding, with upgrades such as new tables and fire pits.

Weather at Carter Lake

Reviews

4.2
129 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Carter Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Carter Lake Campground are generally positive, with visitors appreciating the peaceful atmosphere and recreational opportunities. Negative feedback often revolves around the lack of cell service, showers, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 129 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects commonly mentioned include the peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and scenic surroundings featuring lush trees and a pristine lake. "Great little campground. Nice beach on the...
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Based on 129 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of showers, spotty cell service, and some maintenance issues, such as overgrown vegetation and fire pits full of ash. "Road into campground full of potholes," noted one...
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Based on 129 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing all necessary supplies due to the isolated location and selecting smaller tents for easier campsite navigation. Some advise visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Based on 129 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, as reviewers often mention blooming rhododendrons and favorable weather for lake activities. Fall sees fewer crowds but may bring cooler temperatures.
Based on 129 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Been camping here since I was a child. 30+ yrs later it's still one of my favorite places to go." - Christopher Harwood. "Nice little campground. Stayed in site 16 that has an awesome view of the...
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Based on 129 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 16: "Awesome view of the lake and is tucked down by the water for privacy." - Vanessa K.; Site 13: "Secluded, quiet, and clean...but there are some steep steps." - Shawn W.
Based on 129 reviews

Accessibility Features

Steep stairs to certain campsites are noted as a challenge. A reviewer mentioned, "Steep steps make access difficult for disabled individuals."
Based on 129 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but specific reviews often don't comment extensively on pet-related amenities or issues. Generally regarded as pet-friendly.
Based on 129 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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