East Lake Campground

4.14

146 reviews

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,300 ft

Price

$27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open Season: June 13...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,300 ft

Price

$27/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open Season: June 13...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

East Lake Campground

$27.00 - $27.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season fee of $27 per night for Standard Nonelectric sites with an additional $2 holiday fee. No discounts, taxes, or incremental charges are...

Standard Site Fee$27.00

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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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-383-5300

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What Campers Say

4.14

Satisfactory

Based on 146 reviews

9 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanlakesites

Some mention

noisecrowded

"Overall, East Lake Campground is appreciated for its scenic beauty, access to the lake, and various recreational activities. However, operational issues such as flush toilet failures, water shutoffs, and overcrowding are recurring themes in user reviews."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

East Lake Campground

43.7177, -121.2113

Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel 23.5 miles south on Hwy 97, then 16.6 miles east on County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road). From LaPine travel 6.8 miles north on Hwy 97, then 16.6 miles east on County Road 21 (Paulina Lake Road).

The campground is accessible via paved roads, but accessibility may vary depending on weather conditions. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.

Nearby places

Bend is approximately 23.5 miles south on Hwy 97, LaPine is 6.8 miles north on Hwy 97.

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are not provided in the authoritative content or user reviews.

Best Time to Camp at East Lake Campground

Pack your favorite fleece even in July—at this elevation, crisp mountain mornings give way to warm afternoons before temperatures drop again as stars emerge in the clear volcanic sky. Summer brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the caldera, painting spectacular light shows above the lake. Fall transforms the campground into a photographer's paradise with golden larches and crimson understory, though nights turn decidedly frosty and winds whip across the exposed volcanic slopes. Smart campers come prepared for mountain weather's quick changes, regardless of the season.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season offers warm afternoons, full activity access but also crowding and noise issues.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

2.5 / 5

Early fall can be windy and cold; crowds drop but campground closes mid-late fall.

Spring(Mar-May)

Not recommended

Site closed until mid-June; spring access not available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 19–Jun 12; not available winter season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 13, 2025 - September 27, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open Season: June 13, 2025 - September 27, 2025 (Peak). Closed Season: October 19, 2025 - June 12, 2026.
Current Alerts: No current advisories; however, infrastructure and water issues (e.g., restrooms and water supply) are noted from user reviews.

About East Lake Campground

Perched on the pristine shores of East Lake, this remarkable campground offers a front-row seat to one of Oregon's most extraordinary natural phenomena—camping inside an ancient volcanic caldera. Wake up to mirror-like waters reflecting towering pines, enjoy modern amenities including flush toilets and fresh drinking water, and set off directly from your campsite onto trails that wind through this geological wonderland. Whether you're here for the excellent fishing, wildlife watching, or simply to disconnect in nature's embrace, East Lake Campground provides the perfect basecamp for your Newberry Volcano adventure.

East Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.

Historical SignificanceYou're camping in the heart of Newberry National Volcanic Monument, where the earth's dramatic story unfolds beneath your feet. This isn't just any lake—it's a window into our planet's fiery past, formed when massive eruptions created this unique caldera ecosystem thousands of years ago. Indigenous peoples have long recognized this area's power and importance, and today scientists study these volcanic features to better understand our dynamic Earth. Every sunrise here connects you to both ancient geological forces and the ongoing story of this living landscape.

Weather and SeasonsPack your favorite fleece even in July—at this elevation, crisp mountain mornings give way to warm afternoons before temperatures drop again as stars emerge in the clear volcanic sky. Summer brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the caldera, painting spectacular light shows above the lake. Fall transforms the campground into a photographer's paradise with golden larches and crimson understory, though nights turn decidedly frosty and winds whip across the exposed volcanic slopes. Smart campers come prepared for mountain weather's quick changes, regardless of the season.

ElevationAt 6,300 feet above sea level, East Lake Campground sits in Oregon's high country, where the air is crisp, clean, and noticeably thinner. Many visitors find themselves catching their breath a bit more on hikes—a gentle reminder that you're camping more than a mile high. This elevation blessing brings cooler temperatures perfect for escaping summer heat, spectacular views across the caldera rim, and some of the clearest night skies you'll find anywhere in the Pacific Northwest.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where nature showcases its full creative portfolio within a single volcanic caldera. Ancient lava flows frame crystal-clear waters where osprey dive for trout, while black bears amble through huckleberry patches in late summer. The surrounding landscape reads like a geology textbook come to life—obsidian flows glisten in the sun, hidden hot springs bubble mysteriously, and waterfalls cascade over volcanic cliffs. During migration seasons, the lake becomes a vital stopover for countless birds, turning your campsite into a front-row seat for one of nature's great journeys.

Geological RegionWelcome to camping inside Newberry Volcano, one of the largest and most accessible volcanic calderas in North America. This Deschutes National Forest gem tells a 500,000-year story through its dramatic landscape—from massive lava flows frozen in time to steaming fumaroles that remind visitors this volcano merely sleeps. The twin lakes filling the caldera, including East Lake, create a unique high-elevation aquatic ecosystem surrounded by volcanic peaks and ancient obsidian flows. It's a place where you can touch volcanic glass formed in prehistoric eruptions and soak in naturally heated springs, all while camping in one of Oregon's most geologically fascinating destinations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Reserved sites are held until noon the day following check-in.

Check-out

Sites must be vacated by noon.

Stay Limit

Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights. Maximum Stay: 28 nights total per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle beyond the reservation fee, which is charged on-site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSmall campground with loops, most sites within walking distance to the lake.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, via mobile apps, and through the contact center for additional fees.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis during the shoulder season (September 28, 2025 - October 19, 2025). Walk-up availability does not exist during peak season.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed up to midnight on the day before check-in; late cancellations subtract the $10 fee and the first night's recreation fee. No changes/cancellations after the reservation start date.

AccessibilityAccessibility features not explicitly detailed in authoritative content or user reviews.

Site SizeUser reviews suggest a mix of small sites near the entrance and spacious campsites elsewhere: "Site spaciousness, such as site 24, offers good views and sufficient space" (Gayle S).

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are inches from parking areas: "multiple other sites are literally inches from a large parking lot" (BD H). Sites near the lake offer calmer atmospheres.

Recommended SitesAvoid sites near dumpsters or entrances for quieter experiences. Select flat sites for easier camping setup. Site 16 is noted as particularly challenging due to uneven ground and exposed roots.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

East Lake Campground provides a variety of activities including boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Reviewers frequently appreciate these offerings, particularly fishing and the lakefront access. However, swimming was noted to be less appealing due to cold water and mosquito presence.

HikingThe Crater Rim Trail is highlighted as "one of the finest high country trails in the area," with access points connecting to other trails. User reviews underscore the trail's scenic beauty, featuring forests, deserts, and mountain views.

FishingFishing is a popular activity with rainbow trout, brown trout, and Kokanee salmon available. September is noted for Kokanee spawning at Paulina Lake's outlet. User feedback on fishing varies from "rewarding with Rainbows, Kokanee, and Browns available in nice size and numbers" (John R) to instances of fair fishing during low lake levels.

SwimmingSwimming areas are available but received mixed reviews: "The water isn’t swim-friendly" (Erica H).

BikingBiking paths are accessible, but biking is not as heavily emphasized in reviews.

BoatingA boat ramp is available with a 10 mph speed limit on the lake. User reviews highlight issues during low water levels, such as "we couldn’t use the boat launch because the water was too low" (Andrew C).

Wildlife viewingNumerous wildlife species can be observed, including black bear, bighorn sheep, deer, native fish, and migratory birds. User feedback highlights encounters with fearless wildlife near sites.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe area includes exposed tree roots and uneven ground (site-specific issues like site 16), as well as wildlife risks such as black bears.

Active AlertsNo current advisories; however, infrastructure and water issues (e.g., restrooms and water supply) are noted from user reviews.

Fire PolicyFire restrictions may be imposed during periods of hot, dry weather. Campfires and charcoal fires might be banned during these restrictions.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are not explicitly mentioned, but Bend or LaPine likely have facilities for emergencies due to their proximity.

Trash & RecyclingTrash services are available but recycling bins are not consistently provided, as noted by: "Second year with no bins for recycle cans and bottles. Why not?" (Barbara M).

Water FeaturesLocated on East Lake, which supports recreational activities like boating and fishing. The nearby Paulina Lake is also accessible.

Camp HostCamp hosts are noted for their excellence in maintaining cleanliness and providing helpful guidance. Hosts like Barbara and Greg have been specifically praised in reviews.

Weather at East Lake Campground

Reviews

4.1

146 reviews

Satisfactory

East Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, East Lake Campground is appreciated for its scenic beauty, access to the lake, and various recreational activities. However, operational issues such as flush toilet failures, water shutoffs, and overcrowding are recurring themes in user reviews.

Review Summaries

Based on 146 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive highlights include clean campsites, flush toilets, and helpful camp hosts. Scenic lake views and proximity to wildlife also add to its appeal.

Based on 146 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include operational issues with toilets and water systems, overcrowding, noise from generators and motorboats, low water levels affecting boat ramps, and mosquito presence.

Based on 146 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing firewood, a fishing pole, bug spray, and possibly a floatie. Wheels for coolers and kayaks are recommended for easier transport. Planning ahead for water storage is advised due...

Based on 146 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season reviews note overcrowding and noise, while off-season reviews highlight tranquility and reduced crowds. Cold and windy conditions are often reported in fall and winter.

Based on 146 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The camp sites on the lake have astonishingly lovely views." (BD H); "Lovely spot and not crowded but lots of mosquitos." (Erica H); "The water level is down pretty far, but boating is still...

Based on 146 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews mention: Site 1 and 2 are too close to boat launch; site 16 is dangerous due to uneven ground and tree roots. Site 24 is spacious with good views. Site 4 offers proximity to the...

Based on 146 reviews