South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)
3.9552 reviews63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or)
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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 rate is $25 per night during peak season (May 30 - September 27, 2025). A holiday surcharge of $2 applies. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Hosmer Lake, South Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This primitive camping haven serves as your gateway to one of Oregon's most celebrated fly-fishing destinations, where crystal-clear waters reflect the towering silhouettes of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the simple comforts of vault toilets and rustic facilities that encourage a deeper connection with nature.
South Campground offers a rustic camping experience with options for tent camping and RV camping. Sites are non-electric and designed for a more primitive experience, with no water or sewer hookups available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Hosmer Lake unfold with gentle warmth and cool mountain breezes, creating ideal conditions for outdoor pursuits. As darkness falls, temperatures drop significantly, reminding campers to pack warm layers for starlit evenings around the campfire. Early summer visitors (June-July) should come prepared with insect repellent, as mosquitoes make their seasonal appearance. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though access becomes challenging and temperatures plummet well below freezing.
ElevationPerched high in the heart of the Cascade Range, this alpine sanctuary sits at an elevation where mountain air grows thin and crisp, offering that distinctive high-country atmosphere that refreshes the soul and challenges the lungs.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering evergreens frames your camping experience, occasionally parting to reveal jaw-dropping vistas of volcanic peaks piercing the sky. The shallow, glass-clear waters of Hosmer Lake serve as nature's amphitheater, where osprey dive for fish, bald eagles soar overhead, and playful river otters leave ripples in their wake. This paddler's paradise invites exploration by canoe or kayak, rewarding quiet observers with intimate wildlife encounters and a symphony of bird calls echoing across the water.
Geological RegionYour campsite rests within the dramatic volcanic landscape of the Cascade Range, where ancient lava flows created the porous rims that now cradle alpine lakes like precious gems. This geological wonderland showcases nature's raw power through the majestic profiles of Mt. Bachelor, South Sister, and Broken Top – dormant volcanoes that stand as sentinels over this pristine wilderness, their snow-capped peaks creating a photographer's dream backdrop.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information regarding accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some pull-through options available. However, reviews mention uneven terrain and difficulties in leveling trailers.
Sites PrivacySites offer a reasonable amount of privacy, with trees and vegetation providing separation between sites. "The sites are roomy and private," one review noted.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 007 due to uneven terrain. Site 021 noted for privacy and proximity to boat launch.
Best CampsitesSite 001 praised for privacy and shade. Sites 013 and 014 recommended for lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Reserved sites held until noon the day after scheduled arrival date.
Check-out
Reserved sites must be occupied by checkout time on the day following arrival to maintain reservation.
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 consecutive nights per visit
- maximum total stay of 28 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle or one vehicle per tent site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRustic layout featuring back-in and pull-through sites. Sites are spacious and well-shaded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 30 - September 27, 2025, reservable starting June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website, contact center, and app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up/first-come-first-serve availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies, plus forfeiture of first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee if dates are completely outside original booking. Modification policies vary after the reservation start date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
South Campground at Hosmer Lake provides a range of activities, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Fly fishing is a major draw, as Hosmer Lake is a fly-fishing-only destination known for its clear waters and visible fish species such as Atlantic salmon and brook trout. Boating is also highly recommended, with many campers bringing kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards. Hiking and horseback riding opportunities are available nearby. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with osprey, eagles, river otters, and various bird species often spotted. However, the lake is less suited for swimming due to limitations in shoreline access and marshy vegetation.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, offering opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Details on specific trail lengths or difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Hosmer Lake is a fly-fishing-only lake, renowned for its large Atlantic salmon, brook trout, and rainbow trout. "The fish are huge but catch-and-release only," stated one review.Boating
Boating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, are highly recommended. "Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe, rowboat, or electric boat for the best views of the lake," suggested one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with sightings of osprey, eagles, river otters, and other bird species frequently reported.Winter Activities
No information on winter activities is provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular at Hosmer Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires and charcoal fires restricted during dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are No generator use allowed between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito season peaks June-July. Uneven campsites and dusty conditions noted. Wildlife like otters and eagles present but pose minimal danger.
Active alertsPotential fire restrictions during dry weather.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Bend, Oregon (~36.8 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30 - September 27, 2025 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingNo specific details on trash and recycling facilities are provided. However, reviews did not mention any significant complaints regarding waste management.
Proximity to water featuresSituated adjacent to Hosmer Lake, offering a boat ramp for access.
Common complaintsVault toilets reportedly smell bad, sites often uneven or dusty. Some campers noted noise from neighbors and challenges leveling trailers.
HostHosts described as friendly and helpful, maintaining facilities and providing assistance.
Campground Map
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel 35.5 miles southwest on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46), then 1.3 miles east on Forest Road 4625. South Campground will come up on the right side first and then Mallard Marsh.
Accessible from Cascade Lakes Hwy, primarily paved roads; last stretch on Forest Road 4625 is likely unpaved. Accessibility is good, but seasonal challenges like snow may impact access.Nearby places
Bend: ~36.8 miles, ~50 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Bend, Oregon (~36.8 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.0
52 reviews
South Campground - Hosmer Lake (Or) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for South Campground at Hosmer Lake are mixed. Highlights include the scenic beauty of the lake, the opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing, and the spacious campsites. Complaints often focus on the lack of potable water, uneven terrain, and poorly maintained vault toilets. Noise from other campers and overcrowding during peak seasons are also frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the lake's beauty and activities: "Hosmer Lake is truly amazing" and "The water is extremely clear and not very deep." Campsites were often noted as spacious and private....
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Recurring issues include the absence of potable water, uneven campsites, and poorly maintained vault toilets. One reviewer stated, "Bathrooms are scary bad." Additionally, overcrowding and noise from...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water and leveling equipment for trailers. "Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe, rowboat, or electric boat for the best views of the lake," advised one reviewer. Bug...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Mosquitoes are reported as a significant issue during June and July. The campground becomes crowded during peak summer months, particularly on weekends. Off-peak visits offer a quieter experience.
Based on 52 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The fish are huge but catch-and-release only." 2. "Vault toilet stunk quite a lot." 3. "Hosmer Lake is one of the primo kayaking or canoeing lakes in Oregon." 4. "Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe,...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes issues with uneven terrain (e.g., Site 7) and positive remarks about privacy and proximity to the lake (e.g., Site 21).
Based on 52 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific comments on accessibility were provided by reviewers.
Based on 52 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some complaints arose about off-leash dogs at neighboring sites.
Based on 52 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025