Hyatt Lake Recreation Area
4.1199 reviews7975 Hyatt Prairie RD, Ashland, OR, 97520
Hyatt Lake Recreation Area
$7.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$95.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard sites at Hyatt Lake Campground cost $12/day on weekdays and $15/day on weekends. Wildcat Campground sites are $7/day. Equestrian campsites are $10/day. Group facilities like Mountain View Group Shelter and Osprey Kitchen cost $100/day and $95/day, respectively.
About this campground
Escape to Hyatt Lake Recreation Area, where mountain air meets endless adventure in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Whether you're arriving with a tent, trailer, horses, or a group of friends, this versatile destination welcomes all outdoor enthusiasts with modern amenities including hot showers, flush toilets, and convenient boat launches. Families will love the playground while water lovers can explore the pristine lake from multiple boat ramps, creating memories against a backdrop of towering evergreens.
Hyatt Lake Recreation Area accommodates a variety of camping styles. Standard campsites are available in loops A, B, and C. Wildcat Campground offers primitive camping, while equestrian campers have a dedicated area with corrals and trail access. Group sites like Mountain View Group Shelter provide options for larger gatherings.
Historical SignificanceHyatt Lake sits within the remarkable Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument, a landscape so ecologically unique that it earned federal protection for its extraordinary biodiversity and historic treasures. This special designation recognizes the area as a crossroads where diverse ecosystems meet, creating a living laboratory of natural history that has captivated scientists and nature lovers alike.
Weather and SeasonsAt this mountain retreat, summer brings refreshingly cool temperatures that offer a welcome escape from valley heat, making it perfect for those seeking relief from scorching summer days. When winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the recreation area becomes a paradise for snowshoeing adventures, exhilarating sledding runs, and peaceful cross-country skiing through silent forests.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 5,200 feet above sea level, Hyatt Lake offers a natural air-conditioned escape where summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even when valleys below swelter. This high-altitude haven provides the perfect climate for comfortable camping and outdoor activities throughout the warmest months.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering firs and pines create a cathedral-like canopy around your campsite at 5,200 feet, where the majestic Mt. McLoughlin dominates the horizon like a sentinel watching over the forest. Wildlife thrives in this elevated ecosystem—keep your eyes peeled for deer grazing in meadows, birds of prey circling overhead, and the occasional glimpse of more elusive mountain residents moving through the shadows of ancient trees.
Geological RegionThe Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument represents one of the most biologically diverse regions in the nation, where the Cascade Mountains create a unique convergence of geological wonders, pristine watersheds, and varied ecosystems. This extraordinary landscape serves as a living bridge between different biological provinces, resulting in an unparalleled diversity of plant and animal life found nowhere else in the Cascades.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible flush toilets and playgrounds. The Cascade Boat Ramp features a wheelchair-accessible fish cleaning station.
Sites SizeCampgrounds vary in size, with some sites suitable for larger groups or RVs. However, some users reported difficulty backing into sites, especially with larger trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies between sites. While some are described as secluded, others are close to roads and neighboring sites, reducing privacy.
Total Campsites44 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop B is ideal for its proximity to trails and shade; Wildcat campsites offer quiet and seclusion.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include Loop B (#22, #28) and Wildcat (#11, #12) for privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay: 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limits vary
- group sites allow up to 120 people.
Groups
Group facilities include the Mountain View Group Shelter (up to 120 people) and Osprey Kitchen (up to 40 people), featuring amenities like cooking areas and fire rings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout44 campsites in three loops (A, B, and C). Group and equestrian sites are separate.
Open and Closed SeasonMain campground opens late May and closes after Labor Day. Wildcat Campground opens late May and closes October 1 (weather permitting).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are generally not indicated; all sites require advance reservation via Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations for individual sites forfeit the first night's fee plus a $10 cancellation fee. Group facilities follow similar rules with additional fees for cancellations less than 14 days before arrival.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Hyatt Lake Recreation Area provides diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and biking. Seasonal activities like sledding and snowshoeing are available in winter. The lake offers opportunities for fishing trout and smallmouth bass, though water levels and algae blooms can limit boating and swimming. Access to the Pacific Crest Trail enhances hiking options.
Hiking
The Pacific Crest Trail runs through the area, providing excellent hiking options. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes, offering views of Mt. McLoughlin.Fishing
Fishing is available for lake trout and smallmouth bass. Some reviews noted challenges due to low water levels and algae.Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an activity, but low water levels, algae blooms, and swimmer's itch warnings have been noted in user reviews.Biking
Biking is allowed, but bicycles are prohibited on the Pacific Crest Trail. The terrain is suitable for various skill levels.Boating
Boating is supported with a 10 mph no-wake limit. Two boat ramps are available, but low water levels and algae blooms may restrict activity.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with sightings of deer, bald eagles, and other bird species commonly reported.Beach activities
Limited beach-related activities are possible due to fluctuating water levels. Some users noted muddy or inaccessible lake areas.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible, although water conditions may limit activity.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during fire season; always check local alerts.
- Quiet hours are enforced but exact times are not listed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife (e.g., bears), steep terrain, and lake conditions such as toxic algae blooms during droughts.
Active alertsSeasonal lake level warnings, algae blooms caution, and fire restrictions are common.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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: Ashland Hospital (~20 miles); local ranger station at entrance booth (services limited).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 6 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are provided, but some reviews note overflowing bins during busy periods.
Proximity to water featuresHyatt Lake is adjacent, but water levels are frequently low, limiting recreational use. Nearby Little Hyatt Lake offers alternatives.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include low lake levels, steep and narrow roads, and occasional host unavailability.
HostMixed reviews about hosts: Some describe them as friendly and helpful; others mention rude behavior. Hosts are typically visible and active.
Campground Map
7975 Hyatt Prairie RD, Ashland, OR, 97520
Driving directionsFrom Ashland, Oregon (Interstate-5 Exit 14): Turn on Highway 66 toward Klamath Falls. Follow Highway 66 for 17 miles until you reach the Green Springs Inn. Turn north onto the Bureau of Land Management's East Hyatt Lake Road. Follow the road for approximately 3 miles until you reach the Hyatt Lake Recreation Area. Stay to the right on East Hyatt Lake Road; an entry booth, located at the entrance to the campground, has visitor camping information.
The campground is accessible via paved roads; however, user reviews caution about steep, narrow switchbacks that may be challenging for large RVs. Seasonal closures occur during the winter.Nearby places
Ashland (20 miles, approximately 40 minutes by car)
Medford (~35 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Jacksonville (~40 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies: Green Springs Inn (~17 miles)
Ashland (~20 miles) for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.1
99 reviews
Hyatt Lake Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User opinions on Hyatt Lake Recreation Area are mixed. While many praise the scenic beauty, clean facilities, and friendly camp hosts, issues such as low water levels, maintenance, and reservation system inefficiencies are also mentioned. The lack of cell service and seasonal amenity availability are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 99 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the peaceful environment, clean and well-maintained facilities, and excellent camp hosts. The proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail and opportunities for wildlife viewing...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include low water levels, algae blooms, and maintenance issues with bathrooms and showers. Some users reported challenges with the reservation system and site accessibility for...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of firewood and plan for cold nights, even in summer. Confirm water availability before visiting, and prepare for a lack of cell service. For equestrian camping, ensure you have a horse...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer, but drought conditions have reduced water-related activities. Winter offers unique recreation like snowshoeing but may limit access.
Based on 99 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The camp hosts were incredibly friendly and helpful.' 2. 'The bathrooms were clean and well-maintained.' 3. 'The lake was very low, making boating and swimming difficult.' 4. 'Wildlife viewing...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 34 in Loop C: Lacks privacy and has uneven ground. Campsites 09 and 12 in Wildcat Campground: Well-maintained and praised for their primitive charm. Group site Mountain View: Spacious but...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets and accessible facilities like the fish cleaning station are available, but some users noted challenges with uneven terrain and site access for larger vehicles.
Based on 99 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but toxic algae in the lake may pose risks to dogs. Several users appreciated the pet-friendly environment.
Based on 99 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025