Sunset Cove Campground
3.7843 reviewsPO BOX 208, CRESCENT, OR 97733, USA
Sunset Cove Campground
$25.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $25 to $50 per night, with a $2 holiday surcharge. Additional fees apply for reservation changes ($10) and cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Odell Lake, Sunset Cove Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and aquatic adventure. Wake up to the gentle lapping of crystal-clear waters and spend your days casting lines for trophy trout, exploring hidden forest trails on foot or bike, or launching your boat into the sapphire expanse of one of Oregon's most beloved alpine lakes. As evening falls, the majestic silhouette of Diamond Peak transforms into a canvas of alpenglow, creating the unforgettable sunsets that give this special place its name.
Sunset Cove Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, accommodating RV, trailer, and tent campers. However, there are no water or electrical hookups available.
Historical SignificanceSunset Cove sits within the storied Deschutes National Forest, a landscape shaped by volcanic forces over millennia. Just a scenic drive away, the otherworldly formations of Newberry National Volcanic Monument tell tales of ancient eruptions and lava flows, while the mysterious depths of Lava River Cave invite exploration into Oregon's volcanic past. This corner of the Cascades has long served as a crossroads between the high desert and temperate rainforest, creating a unique ecosystem that has captivated visitors for generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Sunset Cove reveals its full splendor under blue skies and gentle sunshine, with daytime temperatures perfect for swimming and evening coolness ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest erupts in golden hues, while winter brings a hushed transformation as snow blankets the landscape, creating a wonderland for the adventurous few who venture here in the quiet season. Spring awakens the forest with wildflower blooms and the return of migrating birds, making every season a unique chapter in the Sunset Cove story.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation where the air is crisp and the stars shine brilliantly, Sunset Cove offers that perfect high-country atmosphere without the challenges of extreme altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted forest where towering Douglas firs and white firs create a natural cathedral, their branches intertwining with mountain hemlocks and stately ponderosa pines. Morning mist often drifts through this verdant tapestry, while shafts of sunlight illuminate the forest floor carpeted with ferns and wildflowers. Wildlife thrives in this protected haven – watch for graceful deer browsing at dawn, listen for the bugle of elk echoing across the lake, and keep an eye out for the elusive pine marten darting through the canopy. Black bears occasionally wander through, reminding visitors of the wild heart that still beats in these ancient woods.
Geological RegionThe Deschutes National Forest showcases nature's dramatic volcanic artistry, where the snow-capped pinnacle of Diamond Peak dominates the horizon like a sleeping giant. This remarkable landscape tells a story written in lava and ash, then softened by millennia of forest growth. The diverse elevation changes have created distinct ecological zones, from the dense stands of Douglas and white fir at lower elevations to the hardy mountain hemlocks clinging to rocky outcrops, with aromatic ponderosa pine groves providing sunny interludes. Each tree species has found its perfect niche in this volcanic terrain, creating a living museum of Pacific Northwest forest ecology.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details provided about accessibility options for disabled campers.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size; some are described as spacious while others are noted as small or unlevel.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Some campsites offer good privacy due to landscaping, while others are described as tightly packed.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from Highway 58 for reduced noise. Premium sites offer better lake access and views.
Best CampsitesSite-specific reviews mention sites 7, 12, and 15 for good lake views but caution about proximity to the highway.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights during a visit
- 28 nights total in a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- One RV with tow vehicle or one tent per single site
- additional vehicle incurs fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes loops with 15 sites and a boat ramp. Sites are smaller and some are uneven.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23 to October 18 for reservations; closed outside of peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up sites; first-come, first-served boat slips available.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservation dates incur a $10 fee. Cancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit reservation fees. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sunset Cove Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities, focusing primarily on water-based and outdoor activities. Boating, fishing, and windsurfing are popular on Odell Lake. Hiking and biking are available nearby, and the surrounding area provides scenic opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the nearby Deschutes National Forest, which features approximately 1,600 miles of trails. Specific trail details were not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is excellent at Odell Lake, with both motorized and non-motorized boats allowed. Boats are considered the most effective method for fishing the lake.Biking
Biking opportunities are available, though no specific trails or terrain descriptions were provided.Boating
The campground features a boat ramp for access to Odell Lake. Both motorized and non-motorized boating is allowed, with afternoon winds potentially making the lake rough.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes deer, elk, pine martens, ravens, and native fish. Occasional black bear sightings have been noted.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were mentioned; however, the campground is at a high elevation and snow may impact accessibility during colder months.Water Sports
Wind surfing is highlighted as a popular activity on Odell Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed unless fire restrictions are in place due to dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears and road noise from nearby Highway 58.
Active alertsNo active alerts provided.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.3 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 likely located in Crescent, OR (nearest town). No specific information about hospitals, police stations, or ranger stations was provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - October 18
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are provided on-site. Specific details on recycling services were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is directly adjacent to Odell Lake, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about highway noise and unlevel campsites. Some reviewers note issues with camp hosts and site reservations.
HostHost service quality varies; some reviewers praise friendliness while others criticize lack of involvement.
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 6.2 miles north and west on Highway 58.
Roads leading to the campground are paved, but road noise from Highway 58 is frequently mentioned in user reviews. Seasonal conditions may include snow during winter months, affecting accessibility.Nearby places
Crescent (12.2 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
A nearby resort on Odell Lake offers camping supplies including snacks, coffee, and fishing licenses.
Camper Reviews
3.8
43 reviews
Sunset Cove Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment score of 3.58 for campgrounds-specific reviews. Positive aspects include its scenic beauty, proximity to Odell Lake, and cleanliness, while recurring complaints focus on highway noise, unlevel campsites, and limited amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Users often praised the clean facilities, scenic views, and opportunities for fishing. Several reviewers mentioned that the camp hosts were friendly and helpful. One user noted, 'The stars at night...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Highway noise was the most common complaint, with some users describing it as 'almost unbearable.' Other concerns included unlevel campsites, small site sizes, and issues with rowdy campers or lack...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate highway noise and plan for small or unlevel campsites. Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience. Boats are highly recommended for fishing.
Based on 43 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most favorable season for camping, although mosquitoes are common. Snow during early and late seasons may impact tent camping. Highway noise is described as a constant issue regardless...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilets were pretty clean and not stinky.'
2. 'Odell Lake is amazing. The sunset cove campground is really nice with two exceptions. One, our site (12) was very slanted. Two, the location...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14: 'Nice boat ramp and slips, clean bathrooms but very near the highway.'
Site #7: 'Great lake views but noisy due to highway.'
Site #12: 'Slanted site not level at all.'
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit mentions of pet policies, but reviews included mentions of dogs off-leash causing issues, suggesting that pets are allowed but not always monitored.
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025