South Twin Lake Campground
3.3041 reviews63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
South Twin Lake Campground
$29.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$29.00
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 $29 to $62 per night depending on the season and site type. Holiday surcharges of $2 may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of South Twin Lake, this enchanting campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Oregon's volcanic wilderness. Here, where ancient lava flows have sculpted a dramatic landscape, modern adventurers find the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and outdoor excitement. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, launching your kayak at dawn, or simply unwinding by your campfire under star-studded skies, South Twin Lake delivers an authentic Pacific Northwest escape complete with convenient amenities including fresh drinking water and modern restroom facilities.
South Twin Lake Campground offers standard nonelectric sites suitable for tents, trailers, or RVs. The sites are available for reservation during the peak season and on a first-come, first-served basis during the shoulder season. Some users reported issues with site layouts and accessibility.
Historical SignificanceStep back 20,000 years at South Twin Lake, where violent volcanic eruptions once shook the earth and reshaped the landscape forever. These cataclysmic explosions carved out the stunning lake basin you see today, leaving behind a geological time capsule that tells the explosive story of the Cascade Range's fiery past. Every rock formation and shoreline curve serves as a testament to the incredible forces that created this natural sanctuary, making your camping experience not just a getaway, but a journey through deep geological time.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Central Oregon's mountain climate at South Twin Lake. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise, with long, warm days perfect for swimming and water sports under brilliantly clear skies. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to golden afternoons, though occasional rain showers and gusty winds remind visitors to pack layers. Winter blankets the volcanic landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here, while spring's unpredictable mix of sunshine and showers breathes new life into the surrounding forest.
ElevationPerched at the ideal elevation within the Deschutes National Forest, South Twin Lake Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where summer temperatures remain delightfully comfortable. This strategic positioning provides the perfect escape from sweltering valley heat, with crisp morning air that invigorates and afternoon breezes that cool, creating an alpine atmosphere that rejuvenates both body and spirit.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where fire and water have conspired to create extraordinary beauty. The campground showcases nature's artistry through volcanic formations that rise dramatically from South Twin Lake's mirror-like surface, each rocky outcrop telling its own 20,000-year-old story. Panoramic vistas encompass not only the serene waters of your lakeside home but also stretch to include the expansive Wickiup Reservoir and the neighboring North Twin Lake, creating a water wonderland framed by ancient lava flows and verdant forest that changes with each passing hour of sunlight.
Geological RegionWelcome to one of the Pacific Northwest's most fascinating volcanic playgrounds within the majestic Deschutes National Forest. South Twin Lake stands as a shimmering jewel in a crown of volcanic peaks and ancient lava fields, its very existence a reminder of the earth-shattering eruptions that occurred here 20,000 years ago. This unique geological setting offers campers an extraordinary opportunity to sleep, play, and explore within a landscape that dramatically showcases the awesome power of our planet's volcanic forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information provided on accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate tents, trailers, or RVs. However, some users noted issues with site sizes being too narrow or sloping, particularly on the waterside.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is heavily used with limited privacy, according to user reviews. 'The campground is very heavily used and does not offer any privacy,' one user reported.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near water provide great views but may have leveling challenges. Sites farther from high-traffic areas offer more privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsites with lake views such as #10, #4, and #18 are often praised.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in starts at noon.
Check-out
Campers must check out by noon.
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights per visit
- 28 total nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 2 RVs or vehicles per double site
- One vehicle per single site.
Groups
No information provided on group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized in loops with sites offering varying levels of privacy and proximity to water. Some sites may be narrow or sloped.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 to October 18, reservable June 24 to October 18.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during off-peak season (April 10 - May 21, 2026).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee, in addition to forfeiting the first night's fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
South Twin Lake Campground offers various recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, and paddling in the adjacent South Twin Lake. Motorized boating is not allowed. Hiking trails to nearby locations like North Twin Lake and Wickiup Reservoir are available. Reviewers appreciated the lake and wildlife sightings but mentioned overcrowding and noise as deterrents.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails around the lake, to North Twin Lake, and across the street at Wickiup Reservoir. 'Take the short trail to North Twin Lake for a nice view,' one user recommended.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with good opportunities for catching trout. 'Fishing from a boat or offshore is good,' one reviewer noted.Swimming
The lake is suitable for swimming, though no designated swimming areas or safety measures are mentioned.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed. 'The lake was calm with some kayaks and paddleboard activities,' a user mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, hawks, osprey, bald eagles, ducks, and geese. 'The daily sightings of eagles, osprey, deer, otter, and little critters enchanted the experience,' one reviewer shared.Winter Activities
No information provided on winter recreational options.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are mentioned as popular water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings except during fire restriction periods.
- Quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters (chipmunks, bears) and water safety concerns.
Active alertsNo current alerts listed.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7 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
Nearest hospital: St. Charles Medical Center in Bend (~27 miles). Local police and fire services: Bend Police Department and Bend Fire Department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 18, 2025.
Trash and recyclingUser reviews highlight insufficient garbage service, with reports of trash bags piling up and being scavenged by wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to South Twin Lake, near Wickiup Reservoir and North Twin Lake.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include noisy campers, lack of active camp host oversight, unclean facilities, and ongoing maintenance issues.
HostReviews vary regarding hosts; some complaints about lack of presence during incidents.
Campground Map
63095 DESCHUTES MARKET ROAD, BEND, OREGON, 97701, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bend, travel 26.8 miles south on Hwy 97 to Wickiup Junction, then 11.0 miles west on County Road 43, then continue 4.6 miles west on Forest Road 42, and finally 2.0 miles south on Forest Road 4260.
Accessible via paved roads. Roads include highways and county roads, transitioning to Forest Roads that may vary in condition. Seasonal limitations may apply due to fire restrictions and weather conditions. Keep updated with road conditions at the campground and surrounding area.Nearby places
Bend, OR: ~27 miles, ~40-minute drive
La Pine, OR: ~15 miles, ~25-minute drive.
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available at Twin Lakes Resort (~0.5 miles away). Additional supplies available in Bend (~27 miles away).
Camper Reviews
3.3
41 reviews
South Twin Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for South Twin Lake Campground are mixed. Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding area, as well as recreational opportunities like fishing and kayaking. Common complaints focus on poor maintenance of facilities, such as broken toilets and insufficient garbage management, and issues with noise and overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 41 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the lake's beauty, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for water activities. 'The campground and lake are beautiful. We enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking,' one reviewer wrote.
Based on 41 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues with maintenance (e.g., broken toilets, water outages), poor management, and security concerns (e.g., thefts) are frequently mentioned. 'Trash bags everywhere, poop on the toilet seats,...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and consider a solar shower. Secure your belongings to prevent theft. Be prepared for potential maintenance issues and noise from other campers.
Based on 41 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's busy nature and frequent maintenance issues. Reviews indicate that the lake's water level may drop during peak season, affecting the quality of fishing and...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The lake was calm with some kayaks and paddleboard activities and fishing.' 2. 'This continues to get worse year after year. Please hire another group.' 3. 'Clean and nice. Right by the beach.'
Based on 41 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is noted for its proximity to an odorous outhouse. Site #4 is described as sloping and difficult for RVs. Site #10 was a favorite for its location but suffered due to noisy neighbors. 'We...
Based on 41 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility directly.
Based on 41 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or features.
Based on 41 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025