Just a quick 26-mile drive from Bend you'll find Sparks Lake, where shallow water, amazing lakeside camping grounds, and the possibility of catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis make for some of the best weekend camping in Oregon.

Pay for a site or park along the road before you come to the "Camping Fee" signs and carry in your gear. You're guaranteed to come across an epic spot and spend the day hiking, canoeing, and sitting around the fire. Come nightfall, lean back and look up at the stars.