Deadhorse Lake Campground
03 reviewsDeadhorse Lake Campground, Paisley, OR
Deadhorse Lake Campground
$6.00 - $6.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$6.00
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
The camping fee is $6 per night for a single unit. Extra vehicles are charged $2 per night.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Perched high in the mountains near Paisley, Oregon, Deadhorse Lake Campground offers an escape to pristine wilderness at 7,400 feet elevation. This intimate mountain retreat welcomes adventurers with nine well-appointed tent and trailer sites alongside seven spacious group camping areas perfect for family gatherings or outdoor clubs. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire grills where stories are shared under starlit skies. A reliable hand pump provides fresh mountain water, adding to the authentic camping experience. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, this hidden gem fills quickly during summer weekends and holidays as word spreads among those seeking solitude in Oregon's high country.
Deadhorse Lake Campground caters to various camping preferences, offering options for tent, trailer, and group camping. All sites are first-come, first-served.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through mid-October, Deadhorse Lake transforms from a snow-locked winter wonderland into a summer paradise. The seasonal window opens May 15th when wildflowers begin dotting the meadows, and closes October 15th as golden aspens herald winter's approach. Summer brings gloriously dry days with crisp, comfortable temperatures that make both hiking and lounging equally appealing. The high elevation ensures cool nights perfect for campfire gatherings, while winter's heavy snows create a dramatic backdrop that melts into rushing streams come spring.
ElevationAt 7,400 feet above sea level, Deadhorse Lake Campground sits in Oregon's thin-air country where the sky seems impossibly blue and stars shine with extraordinary brilliance. This lofty perch brings refreshingly cool temperatures even during summer's peak, offering relief from valley heat. Visitors should prepare for the altitude's effects - activities may feel more strenuous, but the payoff comes in spectacular views and an invigorating mountain atmosphere that cleanses both lungs and spirit.
Natural Features and SceneryDeadhorse Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel in its mountain setting, its 31 acres of crystal-clear water inviting anglers to try their luck with the regularly stocked rainbow trout. Gentle grassy shores alternate with pebbled beaches, creating perfect spots for afternoon picnics or quiet contemplation. Towering Lodgepole pines form a protective embrace around the campground, their straight trunks creating natural cathedral columns that filter sunlight into dancing patterns. The forest floor, carpeted with pine needles and wildflowers, provides habitat for curious chipmunks and melodious mountain birds.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of the Fremont-Winema National Forest, Deadhorse Lake Campground occupies a spectacular high-mountain basin carved by ancient geological forces. This elevated sanctuary at 7,400 feet showcases the dramatic landscape of Oregon's volcanic past, where pristine mountain lakes fill depressions left by glacial activity. The surrounding Lodgepole pine forests thrive in this unique ecosystem, their presence telling the story of fire, regeneration, and adaptation. Grassy meadows blend seamlessly with pebbled shorelines, creating a diverse tapestry of mountain habitats that support an abundance of wildlife and offer endless exploration opportunities for curious naturalists.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes wheelchair-friendly vault toilets and is accessible to some extent, though the gravel roads may pose challenges for mobility-impaired visitors.
Sites SizeThe campsites have a mix of sizes, designed to accommodate tents and trailers.
Sites PrivacyCampsites in the lakeshore section are well-separated, providing good privacy, while those in the hilltop section are more clustered.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe second section of the campground is closer to the lake and provides better views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
The maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Groups
The campground features seven group sites, some of which are larger and located away from the lakeshore for added privacy.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has two sections. The first section is on a hilltop with no lake views. The second section is closer to the lake and offers better privacy with more dispersed campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally from May 15 to October 15.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll camping is first-come, first-served. Weekends and holidays are typically full.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Deadhorse Lake Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities set amidst the scenic backdrop of a high-mountain lake. Popular activities include fishing for rainbow trout, non-motorized and electric-powered boating, swimming, and hiking on trails like the Lakes Loop Trail. The area also provides opportunities for picnicking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Hiking
The Lakes Loop Trail (#140), Dead Cow Trail (#141), and Dead Horse Rim Trail (#139) offer options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. These trails vary in length from 3 to 9 miles.Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction here, with the lake stocked with rainbow trout. Anglers have opportunities to fish from the shoreline or from boats.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in the lake, which features grassy and pebble beaches that are ideal for wading and water activities.Biking
All three trails—Lakes Loop, Dead Cow Trail, and Dead Horse Rim Trail—are open to mountain biking, providing diverse terrain for riders.Boating
Boating is allowed with restrictions. Only non-motorized or electric-powered boats are permitted, with a 5 mph speed limit. A boat launch is available on-site.Beach activities
The lake's grassy and pebble beaches accommodate a range of activities like sunbathing and casual water play.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and paddleboarding are popular due to the lake's restrictions on motorized boats.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, so safe food storage is required.
Active alertsNo active alerts were mentioned.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.3 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 based in nearby Paisley, OR, which is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes away. Specific details about hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates under a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy, meaning visitors are expected to take their trash and recyclables with them.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on Deadhorse Lake, a 31-acre high-mountain lake ideal for fishing and non-motorized boating. There is a boat launch available.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues regarding unclear communication about seasonal closures.
Campground Map
Deadhorse Lake Campground, Paisley, OR
Driving directionsFrom Paisley, OR, follow Highway 31 north toward Silver Lake, OR. Turn left on County Highway 2-08, Mill Street, and continue left on Forest Service (FS) Road 33. At its junction with FS Road 28, turn right. Follow FS Road 28 then take a left on FS Road 033. Continue to campground.
The campground is accessible via FS Road 033, which is gravel and single-lane intermittently for the last 18.8 miles.Nearby places
Paisley, OR: 1 hour 20 minutes (approximately 24 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Paisley, OR, 1 hour 20 minutes away. Specific details about availability of groceries, camping supplies, or fuel were not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Deadhorse Lake Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's serene environment, suitability for family outings, and recreational opportunities. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of updated information about closures.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the scenic views, fishing opportunities, and the peaceful setting. The area is also praised for family-friendly activities such as picnicking and sunset viewing.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
A key complaint mentioned by users is the lack of updated information about the campground's status, leading to wasted trips. Accessibility for motorized vehicles on some roads is also a concern.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the campground tends to fill up. Safe food storage is emphasized due to the presence of bears.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Visitors find the summer and early fall months most enjoyable due to pleasant weather and fully operational facilities.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Love to ride my quad from our cabin to Dead Horse Lake, best family memories with our friends, love to fish and watch sunsets here.' - Maxine Addington
2. 'Great place to camp.' - Barb Young
3....
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The lakeshore campsites are more popular due to their proximity to the water and better privacy, whereas the hilltop sites are noted for being closer to trails but lack water views.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are available, but the gravel roads may pose challenges for visitors with mobility limitations.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific pet-related reviews are available.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025