Three Creeks Lake Campground
4.1645 reviewsP.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Three Creeks Lake Campground
$26.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Peak season nightly rate is $26, with an additional $2 fee for holiday dates. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or other incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled high in the Cascade Mountains at 6,550 feet, Three Creeks Lake Campground offers an intimate alpine escape where crystal-clear waters mirror towering evergreens and volcanic peaks. This hidden gem welcomes adventurers seeking solitude, whether casting a line into the pristine lake, exploring winding hiking trails, or simply breathing in the crisp mountain air. While the campground embraces simplicity—offering spots for tents, RVs, and trailers without water or electric hookups—its proximity to the charming town of Sisters ensures modern conveniences remain within reach when needed.
Three Creeks Lake Campground caters to tent campers, RVs, and trailers but lacks modern conveniences such as hookups and potable water. It is particularly popular during the warmer months.
Historical SignificanceThe campground serves as a gateway to the legendary Tam McArthur Trail, where hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Oregon's iconic Three Sisters—ancient volcanic sentinels that rank as the state's third-, fourth-, and fifth-highest peaks. These majestic mountains have watched over the Cascade wilderness for millennia, their snow-capped summits serving as both landmarks and inspiration for generations of explorers and mountaineers.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, Three Creeks Lake dances with the seasons in dramatic fashion. Summer arrives late but rewards patience with gloriously mild days under sapphire skies, perfect for lakeside adventures. As September's golden light filters through the forest, morning frost begins to paint the meadows silver—a gentle reminder of the alpine setting. By October, winter stakes its claim, blanketing the landscape in snow until June's warm embrace returns. One seasoned park ranger aptly described it: 'Winter holds court here from October through June,' making those precious summer months all the more magical.
ElevationPerched at 6,550 feet above sea level, Three Creeks Lake Campground inhabits that sweet spot of alpine recreation where the air is crisp enough to invigorate your senses but not so thin as to leave you breathless. This elevation creates a natural air conditioning system during summer's heat while painting spectacular frost patterns across tent walls during shoulder seasons—a photographer's dream and a reminder to pack that extra layer.
Natural Features and SceneryCradled within an ancient glacial cirque beneath the dramatic Tam McArthur Rim, this 28-acre alpine jewel sparkles with waters that plunge to depths of 28 feet near the southern cliffs. Old-growth sentinels stand guard around the lake's varied shoreline, where gentle meadow slopes give way to dramatic rocky precipices. Morning mist often reveals wildlife theater: deer tiptoeing to the water's edge, bald eagles surveying their domain from towering perches, chipmunks chattering territorial disputes, and waterfowl creating ripples across the mirror-like surface.
Geological RegionThree Creeks Lake tells a story written in stone and ice, carved by ancient glaciers into a perfect mountain amphitheater below Tam McArthur Rim. This geological masterpiece, part of the greater Deschutes National Forest, showcases the raw power of volcanic and glacial forces that shaped the Cascade Range. The lake's impressive 28-foot depths near the south cliffs hint at the tremendous forces that scooped this basin from solid rock, creating today's serene alpine sanctuary within a landscape born of fire and ice.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite 11 is noted to be less ideal for those with limited mobility due to its layout and incline, but no additional accessibility features have been highlighted.
Sites SizeCampers noted a mix of spacious and tightly arranged sites. Some sites are described as "spacious," but others, like sites 6 and 7, are very close together, with one review mentioning that trailers were only 3 feet apart.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited in some areas due to close proximity between sites. For example, one reviewer mentioned, "Squeezed in next to another site with cars and campers on top of each other" (campsite: 006, Loop: Loop 1). However, tree screening provides some seclusion in certain spots.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews advise avoiding sites near busy day-use areas to minimize noise. Sites across the road from the lake are considered less desirable than those bordering the water.
Best CampsitesSites 005, 008, and 009 are frequently praised for proximity to the lake, scenic views, and tranquility. However, site 011 is described as challenging for mobility and privacy due to its layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
After 11:00 AM
Check-out
By 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Maximum stay within a year is 28 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle for an additional per night fee collected onsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized in a single loop with some sites close together, limiting privacy. Sites across the road from the lake are less desirable than those by the water.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens June 13 and closes September 27 during peak reservable months. The campground is closed for reservations from September 27 to June 12.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov, either through the website, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityA small number of spots are not reservable and available for walk-up campers. User reviews confirm availability of non-reservable sites for spontaneous arrivals.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations, defined as after 12:00 AM facility local time the day before check-in, also result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. No modifications are possible once your reservation start date has begun.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of outdoor activities can be enjoyed at Three Creeks Lake Campground, including fishing, hiking, non-motorized boating, and wildlife viewing. However, overcrowding and noise from day-use visitors may detract from the experience for some campers.
Hiking
The Tam McArthur Trail, located near the neighboring Driftwood Campground, is a popular hiking option offering expansive views of the Three Sisters volcanic peaks. Other unmarked trails, such as the one leading to Little Three Creek Lake, provide seclusion and tranquility.Fishing
Fishing is popular at Three Creeks Lake, particularly from boats as only non-motorized watercraft are permitted. Shore and wading fishing are also possible, with one reviewer noting, "The lake is absolutely stunning and the fishing is great, if you know how to fish for trout."Swimming
Swimming is possible in the lake, which is described as an "alpine gem" with clear and pristine waters. The beach area, however, can become crowded during the day.Biking
The nearby Metolius-Windigo Trail, more than 100 miles long, is open to bikers and offers an alternative to the Pacific Crest Trail.Boating
Only non-motorized boating is allowed at Three Creeks Lake. Activities like canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding are popular, with one user calling the lake "a great spot to SUP, kayak, swim, etc."Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently report wildlife sightings, including bald eagles, deer, and chipmunks. One reviewer described the experience of seeing a bald eagle as "a beautiful and mindfulness moment."Beach activities
The small, kid-friendly beach is a highlight for families, though it can become busy with day-use visitors. One reviewer noted, "The beach area did get pretty busy with families driving up for the day."Winter Activities
The area is inaccessible during winter due to snow, as noted by a park ranger who stated, "It would be winter in October till sometime around June."Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Designated fire pits are available, but fire bans may be implemented due to dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include rough roads leading to the campground, potential frost and snow in late seasons, and wildlife such as yellow jackets, which are prevalent in late summer. User reviews also mention heavy mosquito activity early in the season.
Active alertsFire restrictions are common in hot, dry weather conditions. Smoke from nearby forest fires may impact visibility and air quality, as noted by user reviews.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 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 hospital is in Sisters, OR, approximately 17 miles away. The area lacks onsite camp hosts, and user reviews note no cell service for emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 13 - September 27
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities available, and campers are required to pack out all waste. One reviewer mentioned that dog waste bags were left scattered around despite no trash service.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Three Creeks Lake, offering easy access for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Non-motorized boating is permitted.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include crowded day-use traffic creating dust, insufficient vault toilets, lack of camp hosts for conflict resolution, and disruptive campers. User reviews also criticize the reservation system for lack of privacy and spontaneous camping options.
HostNo camp hosts are available onsite, as noted in multiple user reviews.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 249, SISTERS, OR, 97759, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sisters, OR: Travel 17.0 miles south on Forest Road 16 (Elm Street in Sisters).
The road leading to Three Creeks Lake Campground is rough and recommended for vehicles with four-wheel drive or dirt bikes. User review highlights note 'small car sized ruts that cover this road for about 4 miles.' Additionally, late-season frost and snow can make the road more difficult, as noted by rangers who warn that 'it would be winter in October till sometime around June.'Nearby places
Sisters (17 miles south), Bend (approximately 30 miles northwest).
Nearby supplies
The town of Sisters provides grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options. User reviews mention the campground store being closed, and recommend bringing your own supplies, including bait for fishing.
Camper Reviews
4.2
45 reviews
Three Creeks Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, peaceful setting, and recreational opportunities. However, challenges like poor road conditions, overcrowding, and noise disturbances from day-use visitors are frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 45 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the stunning views, wildlife sightings, and well-maintained vault toilets. The lake is noted for its pristine beauty and suitability for non-motorized water activities. One reviewer...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the rough, difficult road to access the campground, overcrowding from day-use visitors, and limited privacy in some campsites. Some campers also reported issues with noise...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water and trash bags. Prepare for rough road conditions, and consider arriving early to avoid crowds. Bug spray is recommended early in the season. Disconnect trailers at the snow park...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Campers report frequent visits during the summer months when the campground is accessible. Winter camping is not possible due to heavy snow. Fall sees fewer crowds but cooler temperatures.
Based on 45 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The lake is absolutely stunning and the fishing is great, if you know how to fish for trout." "Bathrooms and campsites were always super clean." "The beach area did get pretty busy with families...
Based on 45 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews reveal a range of experiences. Site 6 is noted for being very close to site 7, impacting privacy. Site 11 is described as a "slight wide spot in the road" and challenging for...
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Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility features are noted, with Site 11 described as challenging for those with mobility limitations.
Based on 45 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but campers are advised to manage their waste responsibly. One review mentioned scattered dog poop bags around the campsite due to the absence of trash facilities.
Based on 45 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025