Point Campground - Deschutes
3.9913 reviews63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, Oregon, 97701, USA
Point Campground - Deschutes
$23.00 - $46.00 / 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 charged $23.00-$46.00 per night, with an additional $2.00 fee for holidays during peak seasons. Out-of-season booking is unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Elk Lake in the heart of Deschutes National Forest, Point Campground offers an authentic Pacific Northwest camping experience where mountain vistas meet crystal-clear waters. This beloved outdoor destination draws adventurers with its exceptional fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, though savvy visitors plan ahead to navigate the peak summer crowds. While the campground's popularity can strain facilities during busy weekends, those who time their visits well are rewarded with unforgettable lakeside memories.
Point Campground accommodates RVs, trailers, and tent campers. There are no hookups available, emphasizing a more primitive camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThe surrounding landscape tells a dramatic story of volcanic forces that shaped Central Oregon. Just a short drive away, the renowned Newberry National Volcanic Monument invites exploration with fascinating interpretive programs that bring the region's fiery past to life. Adventure seekers can descend into Oregon's longest continuous lava tube at Lava River Cave, where ancient geological processes created a mile-long underground passage that maintains a cool 42 degrees year-round.
Weather and SeasonsPoint Campground transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities, though nature's less welcome guests—mosquitoes and yellow jackets—occasionally join the party during peak months. As autumn arrives, the crowds thin and the landscape erupts in color. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, creating a serene wonderland for those equipped for freezing temperatures and backcountry adventures.
ElevationPerched in the Cascade Mountains at an elevation that places it perfectly between the lower valleys and alpine peaks, Point Campground offers that sweet spot where mountain air meets accessible recreation.
Natural Features and SceneryElk Lake serves as nature's mirror, reflecting the majestic profiles of Mt. Bachelor and South Sister on calm mornings. The surrounding landscape weaves together a tapestry of verdant wetlands, dense coniferous forests, and dramatic rocky outcroppings. Early risers might spot deer grazing near the water's edge, while patient observers can witness shorebirds dancing along the marshy margins. The forest comes alive with wildlife—from porcupines ambling through the underbrush to bats swooping at twilight. Lucky campers might even glimpse a black bear foraging in the distance, a reminder of the wild heart that still beats in these protected lands.
Geological RegionPoint Campground sits within the volcanic wonderland of Deschutes National Forest, where ancient lava flows created today's stunning alpine lake system. The commanding presence of Mt. Bachelor and South Sister frame the western horizon, their snow-capped peaks standing as sentinels over a landscape sculpted by fire and ice. This dynamic terrain encompasses everything from marshy wetlands teeming with life to rugged volcanic slopes and pristine mountain lakes that sparkle like jewels in the wilderness crown.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites vary in size. User Jeannette F noted that 'site 2 has a long but narrow driveway with more grade than expected,' which may require leveling adjustments.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels; some sites offer better seclusion while others are more exposed. For example, user Jeannette F described her site as 'large and had some privacy with some sun and shade,' whereas another user mentioned being placed 'between two huge RVs.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviewers suggest avoiding sites near the highway due to noise. Site 002 is described as close to the lake but very dusty, while site 009 offers good views but suffers from noise and maintenance problems.
Best CampsitesNo official mention of 'best campsites.' User reviews highlight site 002 and site 009 as notable but with mixed experiences.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time begins at noon.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay: 14 nights
- Maximum annual stay: 28 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per single tent site. Two RVs with tow vehicle per double site or two vehicles per double tent site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites or capacities were detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Sites accommodate RVs, trailers, or tents, but electric hookups are unavailable.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason Opens: May 30, 2025. Reservable Start Dates: June 24, 2025. Season Closes: September 27, 2025. Out-of-Season dates: September 27, 2025 - May 29, 2026.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov online and app.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites will be held until check-out time (NOON) the day following your arrival date. Walk-up availability is not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be changed before the arrival date for a $10 change fee. Late cancellations will incur a $10 fee and a forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. No changes are allowed once the reservation start date begins.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers can engage in boating (both motorized and non-motorized), fishing, swimming, windsurfing, and water skiing in Elk Lake. Wildlife viewing is also a key activity, with sightings of porcupines, deer, and even a black fox reported.
Fishing
Fishing is popular at Elk Lake, although no specific details about fish species or quality of fishing are mentioned.Swimming
Swimming in Elk Lake is described as enjoyable, though some users preferred nearby campgrounds for better beach access. User Matthew B noted, 'We liked swimming area better at the next campground near the resort and drove there a few times.'Boating
Elk Lake supports both motorized and non-motorized boating. A boat ramp is available, making it convenient for campers to access the water.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include porcupines, deer, and black foxes. A user noted, 'Luckily we ended up seeing the area's lil black fox!'Winter Activities
No details about winter activities were mentioned.Water Sports
Windsurfing and water skiing are noted as popular activities in Elk Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be enforced during dry weather conditions. Campfire rings with grills are available.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include mosquitoes, yellow jackets, and occasional black bears. Some reviews mention camp robbers (birds). Mosquitoes and dusty terrain are common complaints during warmer months.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30, 2025 - September 27, 2025; May 29, 2026 - September 26, 2026.
Trash and recyclingThe campground lacks adequate trash management according to user feedback. One reviewer observed, 'we ended up picking up a lot of trash in the campground left behind by other campers.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located next to Elk Lake, offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. Access to the lake includes a boat ramp.
Common complaintsMany reviews cite maintenance issues (e.g., lack of toilet paper in vault toilets), highway noise, overcrowding in the day-use area, yellow jacket swarms, and rude staff from private management company.
HostSome reviews praise the camp host for being helpful and informative about local wildlife, while other comments criticize private management staff for being rude and unhelpful.
Campground Map
63095 Deschutes Market Road, Bend, Oregon, 97701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bend, OR: Travel about 34 miles west on County Road 46 (Cascade Lakes Hwy).
Accessing the campground involves a 34-mile drive west on County Road 46, also known as Cascade Lakes Hwy. Specific road conditions or seasonal closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
Bend, Oregon: 34 miles west
Newberry National Volcanic Monument: approximately 45 minutes by vehicle.
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.0
13 reviews
Point Campground - Deschutes has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present mixed sentiments. While some appreciate the rustic charm and proximity to Elk Lake, others criticize poor maintenance, lack of running water, and overcrowding from day-use visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments include 'great views of Mount Bachelor and Elk Lake,' 'quiet and clean,' and 'camp host was super nice.' Wildlife sightings like the 'lil black fox' are also appreciated.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback highlights issues such as 'poorly maintained campground,' 'no toilet paper in the vault toilets,' and 'overcrowding from day-use visitors.' Several reviewers also noted mosquito...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as none is available on-site. Plan to arrive early to avoid issues with congested day-use traffic. Consider alternative campgrounds for better beach access or privacy.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer sees the highest use, with complaints about overcrowding and mosquitoes. Mid-September closures were noted as premature by some users, while snow melt delays in early summer restricted access.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It's a nice and simple campground. Enough space to spread and breathe a little.' (Hadley Rudge, 2020)
2. 'Very nice rustic campground. Beware of yellow jackets.' (Gordon Bernloehr, 2019)
3....
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2: 'Long but narrow driveway with more grade than expected.' (Jeannette F, 2021)
Site 5: 'Great sunny beach area for kayak entry and the sites were a perfect balance of sun & shade.' (Kallee D,...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressed accessibility.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences with pets; a user reported that 'off-leash dogs being set loose in the day-use boat launch area' scared their children.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025