Big Lake

Star4.21
144 reviews
P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR, 97408, USA
Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,600 ft

Price

$28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

49 campsites

Season

Open from June 5 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Linn County Parks and Recreation site

Official Website
Get Directions

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
Big Lake
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard and tent-only sites are $28 per night during reservable and first-come, first-served seasons. Extra vehicle fee is $9. Day-use/boat launch...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
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) 967-3917
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What Campers Say

4.21

Satisfactory

Based on 144 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsspaciouslakewell-maintained

Some mention

noisemosquitoes

"User reviews highlight the campground's stunning views of Mount Washington and Big Lake, the spacious campsites, and the diverse activities available. However, mosquito infestations, noise from OHV trails, and some maintenance issues are common complaints."

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Campground Map

P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR, 97408, USA

Big Lake

P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR, 97408, USA

Driving directionsFrom Eugene, Oregon, take I-105 east to McKenzie Highway 126. Travel east on 126 for 90 miles to Santiam Pass. At the top of the Pass, turn right onto the access road (sign says Hoodoo Ski Area, Big Lake Road, & Benson Sno-Park). Travel one mile to the fork in the road and stay left on Forest Service Road 2690. Continue for 2 miles to the entrance to Big Lake Campground on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Forest Service Road 2690 leads to the campground and is generally in good condition. Seasonal closures may occur, and navigation challenges due to signage issues have been reported.
Nearby places
Coburg (distance unavailable), Sisters (35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies such as ice and firewood are available on-site from the camp host. Black Butte general store is nearby for more extensive provisions.

Best Time to Camp at Big Lake

Summer transforms Big Lake into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless outdoor adventures, though evening visitors should come prepared for the mosquitoes that thrive in this lakeside ecosystem. As wildfire season peaks, campfire restrictions often take effect to protect this precious landscape. Early June and late September bookend the season with dramatic weather shifts—expect refreshing rains and crisp mountain air that can surprise unprepared campers with genuine alpine chill.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is sun-drenched with warm swimming and boating; early-summer mosquitoes are an issue.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Late summer/early fall quieter and scenic; campground open through Nov 2 for fall visits.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Mostly closed in spring; season opens June 5 (reservations start June 25).

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed Nov 2 to May 15; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 5 to November 2 (2025-2026 peak season dates).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from June 5 to November 2 with reservable sites available starting June 25. Closed season from November 2 to May 15.
  • Current Alerts: Water shortages have occasionally occurred. Fire bans are common during summer.

About Big Lake

Nestled at 4,600 feet in the heart of the Cascades, Big Lake Campground invites adventurers to claim one of 49 generously-sized sites perfect for both RV travelers and tent enthusiasts. Wake up to mirror-like reflections of majestic Mt. Washington across Big Lake's pristine waters, where morning mist dances above the surface. This well-appointed mountain retreat provides all the essentials—clean vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and convenient boat launch access—while keeping you connected to the raw beauty of the high country.
Big Lake Campground offers a range of accommodations, including sites for tent camping and RV use. A mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites are available.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
  • 14 nights maximum stay during a visit
  • maximum 14 nights within a rolling 60-day period.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Big Lake Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities. Popular activities include hiking, swimming, water skiing, non-motorized boating (kayaking, paddleboarding), canoeing, and fishing. The campground is also a hub for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, with nearby trails accessible.
HikingThe Patjens Lakes Trail provides excellent hiking opportunities. This trail loops, passing Big Lake and entering the Mt. Washington Wilderness, offering scenic views of the Patjens Lakes.
FishingFishing is available in Big Lake, though some reviewers describe it as suboptimal. The lake is suitable for both experienced and casual fishers.
SwimmingThe lake features shallow, warm waters ideal for swimming. Many campsites offer easy access to beaches or the lake.
BikingBiking is supported in the area, though specific trails are not highlighted.
BoatingBoating activities, including water skiing and sailing, are popular here. A boat ramp is available for convenient lake access.
Beach activitiesCampsites near the lake often provide access to small beaches. Activities like sunbathing and paddleboarding are common.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are the most common nuisance, with users frequently reporting their abundance. The terrain at some sites is steep and narrow. Wildlife precautions include storing food in vehicles or approved containers.
Active AlertsFire bans are common during summer months. | Campfires allowed until and unless otherwise posted. | Water shortages have occasionally occurred. Fire bans are common during summer.

Weather at Big Lake

Reviews

4.2
144 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Big Lake is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's stunning views of Mount Washington and Big Lake, the spacious campsites, and the diverse activities available. However, mosquito infestations, noise from OHV trails, and some maintenance issues are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 144 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers widely praise the picturesque setting, including views of Mount Washington and Three Fingered Jack. Many enjoy direct lake access, spacious sites, and well-maintained vault toilets. "Great...
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Based on 144 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes are a recurring issue, particularly in early summer. Some campers noted steep or narrow sites, problems with water availability, and noise from OHVs. "The lake is swarming with...
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Based on 144 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visit later in the season to avoid mosquito issues. Bring ample bug spray, firewood, and water (just in case). Plan your site selection carefully; some sites are steep or distant from the lake.
Based on 144 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Mosquito problems peak in early summer, while late summer offers quieter conditions. Early summer and late fall might see reduced activities due to weather.
Based on 144 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The mosquitoes were non-stop...even the repellent didn’t work." - Crystal C. 2. "Great views, quite and beautiful lake." - Stacey B. 3. "The Patjens Lakes Trail offers excellent hiking...
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Based on 144 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 9, 19, and 32 receive glowing reviews for lake access and scenic beauty. Sites 22, 23, and 24 are criticized for steep slopes.
Based on 144 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility-specific reviews; however, steep slopes at many sites may pose challenges.
Based on 144 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not explicitly mentioned, so no specific reviews on pet policies.
Based on 144 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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