Contorta Flat Campground
3.6531 reviewsPO BOX 208, CRESCENT, OR, 97733, USA
Contorta Flat Campground
$21.00 - $46.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
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
Fees range from $21 to $46 per night depending on campsite type and season. Additional $2 holiday fee applies.
About this campground
Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at Contorta Flat Campground, where 19 thoughtfully placed campsites await along the pristine shores of Crescent Lake. This peaceful sanctuary welcomes every type of outdoor enthusiast—whether you're pitching a tent under the stars, pulling in with your trailer, or settling in for a comfortable RV stay. With most sites just steps from the water's edge, you'll fall asleep to gentle lapping waves and wake to stunning lake views filtering through the forest canopy.
Contorta Flat Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, offering options for tent camping, RVs, and trailers. Several sites are located directly on the waterfront.
Historical SignificanceContorta Flat sits within the storied Deschutes National Forest, a landscape shaped by volcanic forces over millennia. This remarkable region serves as a gateway to understanding the Pacific Northwest's fiery past, with the nearby Newberry National Volcanic Monument standing as a testament to the powerful geological forces that created these stunning landscapes. The forest has long been a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers drawn to its unique volcanic features and pristine wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of the Cascades through every season at Contorta Flat. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and kayaking, punctuated by spectacular afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the lake. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a serene haven with crisp air and smaller crowds—ideal for those seeking solitude. Winter blankets the area in snow and brings freezing temperatures, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here during the colder months.
ElevationNestled in a spectacular glacier-carved basin on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range, Contorta Flat occupies a sweet spot at moderate elevation. This perfect positioning offers the best of mountain camping—cool, refreshing air and stunning alpine scenery—without the challenges of high-altitude conditions that can affect some visitors.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where Crescent Lake's crystal-clear waters meet an enchanting old-growth forest. Towering lodgepole pines stand sentinel alongside mountain hemlocks, while majestic firs and spruces create a verdant cathedral overhead. This thriving ecosystem provides sanctuary for graceful deer that wander through camp at dawn, native fish that ripple the lake's surface, and countless migratory birds whose songs provide nature's soundtrack to your stay.
Geological RegionPerched in the scenic Willamette Pass, Contorta Flat showcases the raw beauty of a glacier-sculpted basin carved into the eastern Cascade Range. Here, the brilliant blue-green waters of Crescent Lake—a glacial masterpiece—lap against sandy beaches that seem almost out of place in this mountain setting. The surrounding forest of lodgepole pine, mountain hemlock, fir, and spruce tells the story of nature's resilience, thriving in soil enriched by ancient volcanic activity and shaped by the slow, patient work of glaciers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features are provided in the source materials.
Sites SizeMost sites are described as 'large,' making them suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are close to one another and lack significant tree cover, reducing privacy. One reviewer described the setup as resembling 'urban camping.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 13 for privacy and water access; Site 15 for quieter ambiance away from the lake.
Best CampsitesSite 13 (Northern Edge) praised for privacy and water access. Site 15 (Southern Edge) noted for peace and quiet.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 nights per visit
- total of 28 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per single tent site. Double sites allow two RVs or two vehicles.
Groups
No specific details about group camping sites are provided in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDivided into Northern and Southern Edge loops. Sites are generally large but not isolated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - September 27 (peak season). First-come, First-served season: September 28 - October 18. Closed October 19 - May 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from September 28 to October 18 during the first-come, first-served season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellation fees include forfeiture of first night's recreation use fee. No refunds after check-in date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Contorta Flat Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around Crescent Lake and its surrounding natural beauty. Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular summer pastimes, while the winter months bring opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Hiking and mountain biking are also highly encouraged along the Summit Lake Trail.
Hiking
The Summit Lake Trail is a highlight for hikers and mountain bikers. It offers stunning views of Diamond Peak across Crescent Lake and is also open to snowmobiling during winter.Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction at Crescent Lake, though specific details regarding fish species or fishing conditions are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity at Crescent Lake, with its brilliant blue-green waters and sandy beaches serving as a significant draw for visitors.Biking
Mountain biking is available along the Summit Lake Trail, which is shared with hikers and snowmobilers during the winter.Boating
Crescent Lake is a prime location for boating activities. Specific details about boat rentals or docking facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to deer, native fish, and migratory birds, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.Beach activities
The campground features sandy beaches along Crescent Lake, ideal for sunbathing and other beach-related activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. The Crescent Lake Snowpark serves as a base camp for these excursions.Water Sports
Water-based activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are implied but not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are prohibited during fire bans. Visitors are urged not to move firewood to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include a rough gravel road for access, low lake water levels, and high mosquito presence during some seasons.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Nearest emergency services can be accessed in Crescent, OR, approximately 25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 27.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but some reviews noted that garbage bins were overflowing at times.
Proximity to water featuresMost campsites are close to Crescent Lake, offering direct access.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include noise from large groups, overflowing garbage, and issues with campground hosts. One user warned about dogs off-leash.
HostMixed reviews about hosts. Some years lacked hosts entirely, leading to enforcement issues. One host reportedly had an off-leash pitbull.
Campground Map
PO BOX 208, CRESCENT, OR, 97733, USA
Driving directionsFrom Crescent, OR: Travel 12.2 miles west on County Road 61/Crescent Cut-off Road, then 3.5 miles north on Highway 58, then 9.9 miles southwest on Forest Road 60.
The campground is located off a gravel road for the last few miles, making access challenging for RVs and trailers. Users have described the road as a 'very bad rough washboard' and 'very, very dusty.'Nearby places
Crescent (approximately 25.6 miles, including multiple highway and forest road segments).
Nearby supplies
Nearby Crescent Lake Resort offers lodging and a general store with supplies and equipment rentals.
Camper Reviews
3.7
31 reviews
Contorta Flat Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Contorta Flat Campground present a mixed picture. While some campers praise its scenic beauty, lakeside access, and peaceful atmosphere, others highlight issues with maintenance, overcrowding, and lack of enforcement of rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the beautiful views of Crescent Lake and Diamond Peak, the spacious campsites, and the peaceful, isolated atmosphere. Reviewers also appreciate the clean vault...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor road conditions leading to the campground, lack of potable water, overflowing trash bins, and noise from rowdy groups due to the absence of a camp host. Several...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient drinking water as there is no potable water on-site. Prepare for mosquitoes, especially in the summer months. The gravel road leading to the campground is rough and dusty, so drive...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Fall is highlighted as an ideal time to visit due to fewer crowds. Summer reviews mention high mosquito activity, while winter brings opportunities for snow-related activities but also extreme cold.
Based on 31 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This campground really is a hidden gem. Just be sure to bring extra drinking water.' (Jeremy S.) 2. 'Great hidden campground. Got lucky with the weather and had spectacular views in the morning.'...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 13 on the Northern Edge loop is frequently praised for its privacy and excellent access to the water. Campsite 15 on the Southern Edge loop is noted for being quiet and further from the lake...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews regarding accessibility features have been identified.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground allows pets, but issues with off-leash dogs are frequently mentioned. One reviewer noted that an off-leash dog jumped on their husband, creating a negative experience.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025