Camp at Lava Lake

Deschutes County, Oregon

4.5/5

based on 2 reviews

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Out-and-Back

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Added by Nienna Komorebi

Free Campsite outside of Sisters, Oregon that parallels a trailhead for the Pacific Crest Trail.

Beautiful spot to set your tent up for a night or longer.About 12 spots scatter the immediate campground area, but while hiking we spotted several more dispersed throughout the towering Ponderosa Pine trees. Most of the spots circle a small lake. The ground in this site is a VERY soft dirt, perfect for earthing! I couldn't help but be barefoot the entirety of our visit there.A short walk downhill & left from the campsite you'll come across the McKenzie Pass for the Pacific Crest Trail. There are permits for day use and overnight use at the trailhead. Heading left on the trail eventually leads you to a crystalline lake and back country campground which I highly recommend making the trek to. Would be a lovely spot for a picnic and is very remote.

We saw three people the entirety of our hike.This area is dog friendly. I didn't see a time frame for allowed camping but please don't overstay your welcome. Be prepared to pack out your garbage with you.Spot does get too snowy in winter, so if you're planning a visit in spring call Sisters Ranger Station at 541-549-7700 to check the snow situation.

Directions: From Sisters, Oregon head West on HWY 242 for 14.6 miles. Campsite will be off the road on the left. Once you turn left follow the road, staying straight, until you get to the site. (you'll see a camp bulletin board and bathroom)

Happy Camping!!!

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Forest

Lake

Picnic Area

Camp at Lava Lake Reviews

Clayton Lukens

Camp at Lava Lake

07/01/20

We camped here about two years ago and it was fun to chat up all the PCT hikers. I’m hoping to do the PCT someday as well

4.0

Megan Sutley

Camp at Lava Lake

08/13/18

We stayed at lava camp than hiked the 1.25 miles to Matthieu Lake and camped at site 5 of 7 sites located around the lake. Great area.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Matthieu Lakes via Lava Camp Lake Trail

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Camp at Lava Lake

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Camp at Lava Lake Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Matthieu Lakes via Lava Camp Lake Trail

Dee Wright Observatory

Summit Black Crater

Backpack the Obsidian Area

Summit Middle Sister via Renfrew Glacier

Camp at Scott Lake

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