Bull Bend Campground
4.0036 reviews63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR, 97701, USA
Bull Bend Campground
$23.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
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
Standard Nonelectric sites are $23.00 per night during all seasons, with an additional $2.00 charge during holidays. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away on a peaceful peninsula where the Deschutes River flows free below Wickiup Reservoir Dam, Bull Bend Campground offers an intimate escape for those seeking solitude in nature. This hidden gem welcomes anglers and paddlers to its quiet shores, where the gentle rhythm of the river sets the pace for unhurried days. While you won't find the bells and whistles of larger campgrounds here—just simple picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets—what Bull Bend lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in tranquility. Pack your water and leave your expectations of hookups behind; this is camping at its most authentic.
Bull Bend Campground supports RV, trailer, tent, and primitive camping. Group camping, cabins, or glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Bull Bend places you at the crossroads of Central Oregon's most spectacular natural and cultural treasures. Just a scenic drive away, the otherworldly landscapes of Newberry National Volcanic Monument tell the story of our planet's fiery past through obsidian flows and cinder cones. The renowned Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway winds through this region like a ribbon of discovery, connecting pristine alpine lakes and revealing the deep cultural heritage of the Cascade Range, from ancient Native American fishing grounds to the logging history that shaped modern Oregon.
Weather and SeasonsBull Bend transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own character to this riverside retreat. Summer unfolds with warm, golden days perfect for casting a line or gliding across the water in your kayak. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons ideal for riverside relaxation. Winter, however, reminds visitors of Central Oregon's alpine nature—heavy snows blanket the landscape and temperatures plunge, making this truly a fair-weather destination best savored during the warmer months.
ElevationNestled in the high country of Central Oregon's Cascade Range, Bull Bend sits at an elevation where pine-scented mountain air carries the promise of adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mist rising off the Deschutes River as it curves around your campsite on this intimate peninsula. Bull Bend's natural amphitheater of water and forest creates what visitors rightfully call 'a hidden gem'—a place where the river's gentle current provides the soundtrack to your stay. The campground's waterfront setting offers front-row seats to nature's daily performances: osprey diving for trout, deer coming to drink at twilight, and spectacular sunsets painting the river in shades of gold and crimson. This is the Central Oregon that photographers dream about and memories are made from.
Geological RegionBull Bend Campground sits at the heart of Central Oregon's remarkable volcanic landscape, where the life-giving waters of the Deschutes River flow through a region shaped by fire and ice. Positioned strategically below the Wickiup Reservoir Dam, the campground offers a gateway to explore a geological wonderland of ancient lava flows, pristine wilderness, and the string of jewel-like lakes and reservoirs that define the eastern Cascades. The nearby Newberry National Volcanic Monument serves as a dramatic reminder of the powerful forces that sculpted this land, creating the diverse tapestry of rivers, forests, and volcanic features that make this corner of Oregon utterly unique.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly detailed. Campsites provide basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire pits.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some capable of accommodating large RVs and trailers. Reviewers praised spacious camp areas but noted tight spots in certain locations.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying degrees of privacy. Some reviews mentioned large and secluded sites, while others noted closeness and lack of privacy.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite #03 is recommended for its river view. Reviews suggest avoiding campsites with parking issues or missing amenities, such as campsite #02, which lacked a fire pit.
Best CampsitesCampsites with river views are highly praised, such as campsite #03 mentioned in reviews for its view.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit and 28 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 12 sites organized in a loop. Sites vary in size and some provide pull-through options for RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 27 during reservable periods; first-come, first-served availability from September 28 to October 18. The campground is closed for reservations from October 19 to May 7.
Reservation PlatformsAvailable through Recreation.gov online or via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during first-come, first-served season (September 28 - October 18). Limited availability and no reservations during these times.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the date of arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations start from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in and will incur the first night's recreation use fee. No modifications or changes are allowed once the reservation start date has begun.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bull Bend Campground provides a quiet and scenic environment for outdoor activities. Popular pursuits include fishing, floating along the river, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also enjoy nearby hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The lack of motorized boating ensures a peaceful experience on the Deschutes River.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available nearby across hundreds of miles of trails in surrounding wilderness areas. Specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity at Bull Bend Campground. Access is best along the river banks or with non-motorized boats. However, some users reported poor fishing experiences.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available nearby, and visitors have praised the area for its suitability for biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible. Specific species or viewing areas are not detailed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and tubing are popular. Users described the river as calm and ideal for these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted unless fire restrictions are in place due to dry weather.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsThe rough, narrow dirt road leading to the campground poses challenges for access. Wildlife and mosquitoes are common in the area, with user reviews frequently mentioning mosquitoes as a nuisance.
Active alertsReviews mention garbage service issues, overflowing trash cans, and occasional theft, including stolen kayaks.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 27, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash services are limited, with occasional reports of overflowing bins. Recycling options for glass and cans are available, according to user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along the Deschutes River, offering easy access for kayaking, tubing, and fishing.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include generator noise disrupting the intended primitive camping experience, mosquitoes, and the lack of potable water. One user stated, 'No potable water. Road to get to the campground is rough, dusty and narrow,' while another mentioned, 'Flying drones and generators killed the mood.'
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Campground Map
63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, OR, 97701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bend, OR: Travel 26.8 miles south on Highway 97 to Wickiup Junction, then 10.5 miles west on County Road 43, turn left on the 100 road. There is a sign there for Bull Bend. Follow the 100 road south approximately one mile and turn left at the sign which directs you to Bull Bend. Travel east about 1.5 miles until the road dead ends. Make a left and then in about a quarter mile you will turn right into the campground.
The road to the campground includes rough gravel/dirt roads and is narrow in some spots. User reviews frequently describe it as 'long' and 'rough,' with one stating, 'The road into the campground is crap,' and another mentioning, 'Wow, was it rough.' Some reviews also advise driving slowly due to road conditions.Nearby places
Bend (approximately 26.8 miles, 35-40 minutes drive time)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.0
36 reviews
Bull Bend Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bull Bend Campground are mixed, with common themes including the beautiful setting and peaceful environment. Negative feedback focuses on road conditions, lack of potable water, generator noise, and reservation system frustrations.
Review Summaries
Based on 36 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's scenic setting, peaceful atmosphere, and recreational opportunities like floating on the Deschutes River. Spacious sites and good cell phone coverage from Verizon were...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include narrow and rough dirt roads, lack of potable water, noisy and overbearing generator use, flies in the vault toilets, frustration with reserved but unused sites, and theft incidents.
Based on 36 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and toilet paper. Be prepared for mosquitoes during evenings and mornings. Float and paddle activities on the river are highly recommended. Verizon users should try hot spots for...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highly rated for floating and water activities, but mosquitoes can be bothersome. Cooler seasons bring quiet and fewer visitors but may also feature rough weather and limited amenities.
Based on 36 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful campground, a bit out of the way on a long rough gravel/dirt road." "No phone service here if you have T-Mobile." "Sites are very close together. Views of the water are great." "Fun but...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site details include complaints about missing amenities such as fire pits (site #2) and challenges with generators (site #10). Sites near the water are highly rated for views and river...
Based on 36 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not provided.
Based on 36 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users mentioned the need to clean up after animals and keep them leashed.
Based on 36 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025