Soda Creek Campground
4.1843 reviews63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
Soda Creek Campground
$24.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
Peak season nightly rate is $24.00, with an additional $2.00 fee for holidays.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the gentle waters of Soda Creek, this peaceful campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience just minutes from the stunning Sparks Lake. While you won't find modern hookups here, the simplicity is part of the charm—each site comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening storytelling sessions under the star-filled Oregon sky. This is camping as it was meant to be: just you, your tent, and the incredible wilderness that surrounds you.
Soda Creek Campground offers primitive camping experiences with options for tent and RV camping. While most sites are suitable for smaller vehicles or tents, some can accommodate larger trailers. The lack of modern facilities reinforces the campground's rustic appeal.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring delightful warmth that invites exploration, while evenings cool dramatically—perfect for cozying up around the campfire with that extra layer you packed. Early season visitors should come prepared with insect repellent, as the local mosquito population is particularly enthusiastic about greeting newcomers in June and early July. During the driest months, fire restrictions help protect this pristine landscape, so always check current conditions before your visit.
ElevationPerched high in the Cascade Mountains, the campground sits at an elevation where the air is crisp and clear, offering that refreshing mountain atmosphere that makes every breath feel rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views that will take your breath away—the jagged peaks of Broken Top and the majestic South Sister dominate the horizon, their snow-capped summits glowing pink in the dawn light. Your campsite rests in an expansive meadow where wildflowers dance in the summer breeze, all set atop ancient volcanic lakebeds that tell the story of Central Oregon's fiery past. This unique landscape creates a natural amphitheater of beauty that changes with every passing hour.
Geological RegionYou're camping atop one of nature's most fascinating geological features—the porous volcanic lakebeds of Central Oregon, where crystal-clear streams born on the slopes of Broken Top mountain disappear and reappear through the ancient lava rock. This remarkable volcanic landscape serves as a natural water filter and creates the unique ecosystem that makes this area so special for both wildlife and visitors alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly list accessibility features, but user reviews suggest potential issues with restroom accessibility and campsite layouts.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally described as well-sized, with some accommodating larger trailers up to 34 feet. A user review states, 'We stayed in #2 with our 34ft trailer and had plenty of room.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the sites, with some reviews mentioning good spacing and quiet, while others critiqued lack of privacy and noise from nearby campers. For example, one user commented, 'Extremely quiet, lots of space,' whereas another stated, 'Campsites not private at all. Loud neighbors.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 7 is described as exposed and unlevel, suitable for smaller vehicles, and Site 5 offers proximity to a meadow and stream.
Best CampsitesSites 2, 3, and 5 are mentioned positively in user reviews for space, privacy, and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites held until NOON the following day after check-in date.
Check-out
NOON
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights per visit and 28 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site, with accommodation for one extra vehicle for an additional fee.
Groups
Group site information is not explicitly provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground layout with limited RV-friendly sites. Mixed reviews on campsite privacy and proximity to toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 30th through September 27th, reservable starting June 24th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are held until check-out time at noon the day following the arrival date. First-come, first-serve may occupy available sites if not reserved.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations carry a $10 fee and additional penalties for late cancellations (one night’s recreation use fee). No modifications are allowed after the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Soda Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Popular activities include hiking, photography, paddling at Sparks Lake, and stargazing. The nearby Ray Atkeson Trailhead provides access to iconic views, while Soda Creek and Sparks Lake offer chances for wildlife observation. Several reviewers have highlighted the area's scenic beauty, with one saying, 'Wake up early to see the beautiful alpenglow on South Sister and Broken Top.'
Hiking
Nearby hiking options include the Ray Atkeson Trailhead and trails leading to stunning views of South Sister and Broken Top. The trails are described as offering easy to moderate difficulty levels and access to picturesque landscapes.Swimming
Swimming is available at Soda Creek, though Sparks Lake is described as shallow and not ideal for swimming. A user review states, 'The creek was perfect swimming for our 2-year-old and had deeper swimming holes for older children.'Boating
Sparks Lake is a popular destination for paddling and boating. A user mentioned, 'We chose this destination for the excellent paddling at nearby Sparks Lake.'Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to various wildlife, including deer and birds, offering opportunities for observation. A user noted, 'Located near the meadow, which is stunning and beautiful, with deer and birds and a babbling brook.'Winter Activities
Winter activities were not highlighted in the source materials.Water Sports
Paddling and canoeing are popular water sports activities at Sparks Lake, noted for its clear water and mountainous backdrop.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during dry weather. Campfires and charcoal fires might be prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito presence is significant during summer months. Vault toilets have mixed reviews for cleanliness.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Emergency services are available in Bend, Oregon, which is 26.2 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30 - September 27 (peak season rates apply).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their location or pickup schedules are not provided. A user noted, 'Nice to have access to garbage can and recycling.'
Proximity to water featuresSoda Creek flows through the campground and Sparks Lake is nearby (approximately 2 miles away).
Common complaintsMosquito prevalence during summer, fine volcanic dust, proximity to roads causing noise, and the lack of privacy in some campsites.
HostReviews mention that camp hosts are warm and helpful.
Campground Map
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel 26.2 miles west on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46).
Access is straightforward via Cascade Lakes Hwy. However, user reviews mention that the access road is in need of grading.Nearby places
Bend, Oregon (26.2 miles, approximately 40 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
Supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping equipment are accessible in Bend, Oregon, 26.2 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
43 reviews
Soda Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Soda Creek Campground generally praise its scenic beauty, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to hiking and paddling opportunities. However, common complaints include mosquitoes, dusty campsites, and issues with vault toilet maintenance. The sentiment ranges from glowing admiration, such as 'Beautiful breathtaking campground,' to critiques of privacy and facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned by users include breathtaking views of South Sister and Broken Top, proximity to Sparks Lake and trails, and quiet, well-spaced campsites. One user described it as,...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common user complaints include poor vault toilet maintenance, mosquitoes, dusty campsites, and lack of privacy. For example, one user mentioned, 'Stinky vault toilet, but nothing better was...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing bug spray due to heavy mosquito presence, packing extra water as there is no potable supply, and arriving early to secure a site during busy periods. Several users...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that mosquitoes are particularly problematic early in the summer, while cold nights and windy conditions are common during transitional seasons. A user stated, 'Freezing cold and...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Wake up early to see the beautiful alpenglow on South Sister and Broken Top!' (User Review) 2. 'Amazing views of South Sister and Broken Top right from the camp sites.' (User Review) 3....
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 is praised for its spaciousness and suitability for large trailers, while sites #7 and #8 are critiqued for being unlevel and less suited for certain vehicles. Multiple users note issues with...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews highlight challenges such as poor vault toilet access and layout issues requiring campers to walk through other sites. One review stated, 'You have to walk through other sites...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some users expressed concerns about off-leash dogs disturbing others. For instance, one noted, 'Dogs off leash. When asked to please keep dogs out of my campsite I was told...
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Last updated August 10, 2025