Thompson Reservoir Campground
03 reviewsThompson Reservoir Campground
$2.00 - $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 fee is $6 per night for a single unit, with an additional $2 per night for an extra vehicle.
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About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of the expansive three-square-mile Thompson Reservoir, this hidden gem offers 19 individual campsites and one group site perfect for family reunions or outdoor gatherings. Wake up to stunning views of majestic Hager Mountain reflected in the morning waters, then spend your days casting lines for trophy fish, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing at your campsite equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Hand-pumped potable water and three well-maintained vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay, while the surrounding wilderness provides endless opportunities for adventure and wildlife encounters.
The campground offers 19 individual campsites and one large group site. Accommodations primarily cater to tent camping, with some pull-through sites available for RVs. Primitive camping conditions prevail due to the lack of potable water and electricity.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of high-country seasons at Thompson Reservoir, where spring arrives with wildflower blooms and perfect fishing conditions from May onward. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for swimming and paddling, though water levels gradually recede as the season progresses. Autumn transforms the landscape into a golden tapestry of changing aspen leaves and crisp, star-filled nights perfect for campfire stories. Winter's heavy snowfall creates a peaceful blanket over the reservoir, closing the campground from November through April and allowing nature to rest and renew.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,000 feet above sea level, the campground offers that perfect high-altitude escape where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels refreshing. This elevation provides comfortable temperatures even during summer months and spectacular views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral around your campsite, their vanilla-scented bark and whispering needles providing the perfect soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. Golden aspen groves shimmer in the breeze, creating dappled sunlight patterns across the forest floor. The reservoir serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds, while majestic eagles soar overhead and graceful grebes dive for fish in the crystal-clear waters. This living ecosystem offers endless opportunities for wildlife photography and peaceful nature observation.
Geological RegionDiscover the rugged beauty of the Oregon Outback, where ancient volcanic forces shaped a dramatic landscape of high mountain meadows and dense coniferous forests. This remarkable region showcases nature's resilience, with stately ponderosa pines and quaking aspens thriving in the volcanic soils, creating a unique ecosystem that feels worlds away from everyday life yet remains accessible to adventurous souls seeking authentic wilderness experiences.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not mention specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are standard-sized, with three sites classified as pull-throughs for RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer some privacy due to the presence of trees, but no specific mention of spacing between sites is provided.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesMost campsites have views of the reservoir. Three campsites before the picnic area have undefined parking aprons and are pull-throughs.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Limited to 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not provided.
Groups
The group site is designed for larger groups, though specific capacity details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutContains 19 individual campsites and 1 group site. Gravel parking aprons, and undefined pull-through options for 3 sites near the picnic area.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically opens mid-May and closes mid-October due to heavy snowfall.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; there is no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo site reservation system is available.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Thompson Reservoir Campground include picnicking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Recreational opportunities are enhanced by the reservoir, which is stocked annually with rainbow trout and supports boating. Reviewers have mentioned varying experiences with the lake's water levels, which can affect activities.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are described as 'exploring' and 'day hikes,' though no specific trails or difficulty levels are mentioned.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity due to the annual stocking of rainbow trout. The lake also offers largemouth bass fishing. One reviewer mentioned observing eagles and ospreys fishing in the reservoir.Boating
Boating is supported at the reservoir, with a boat ramp and facilities for carrying down boats. Power boats are limited to 10 mph.Wildlife viewing
The reservoir is a nesting site for migratory shorebirds, including grebes, pelicans, and Sandhill cranes. Eagles and osprey are also frequently seen. A reviewer noted, 'It is a great spot for bird watching where eagles and osprey fish in the reservoir.'Winter Activities
This campground is closed in the winter due to heavy snowfall.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking and canoeing, are possible. Power boating is limited to a 10 mph speed limit.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country; practice safe food storage techniques.
Active alertsTrash overflow and lack of toilet paper were recurring issues as noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.7 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
Closest emergency services are in Silver Lake, Oregon. Specific facilities include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15th to October 15th aligned with regional weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingNo specific mention of trash and recycling facilities, though one review noted 'overflowing trash.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the western bank of Thompson Reservoir; includes a boat ramp.
Common complaintsOverflowing trash cans and vault toilets running out of toilet paper were noted by users. Water levels in the reservoir are low during summer, impacting boating and fishing experiences.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Silver Lake, Oregon, take Oregon highway 31 west for approximately one mile and turn left onto County Highway 4-11 (also known as Marsh Road). County Highway 4-11 will become Forest Service (FS) Road 27. From FS Road 27 take a left onto FS Road 2700287. Thompson Reservoir Campground is at the end of the road.
Road access is via Forest Service roads with gravel aprons, transitioning from paved roads near Silver Lake. Heavy snowfall restricts access in winter and early spring.Nearby places
Silver Lake (40 minutes south, approximately 14 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Silver Lake.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Thompson Reservoir Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the natural beauty and quiet environment of the campground, but some reviewers noted issues with maintenance, such as overflowing trash and a lack of toilet paper.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the scenic views, ample wildlife, and the availability of fire pits and picnic areas. One user stated, 'Loved the picnic areas, pit toilets, and options for safe fire.'
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include low water levels in the reservoir during later months, overflowing trash, and insufficient restroom maintenance.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing mosquito repellent and being prepared for primitive conditions, such as the lack of potable water and potential cleanliness issues with the restrooms.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early summer offer the best experience due to higher water levels in the reservoir. Late summer and fall may see a decline in water-based activities due to water recession.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground was great. Lots of clean toilets. Place was empty.' 2. 'Bring mosquito repellent. Overflowing trash was an issue during my visit.' 3. 'Now the water is way below boat ramps......
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews about particular sites were found.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews were noted.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback on pet policies or experiences was identified.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025