Thielsen View Campground
4.27143 reviews2020 Toketee Ranger Station Road
Thielsen View Campground
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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 rates vary between $15 and $20 for standard non-electric sites. There is an extra vehicle fee of $5 per vehicle per night, payable at the campground fee kiosk upon arrival.
About this campground
Wake up to the mirror-like waters of Diamond Lake reflecting the jagged peaks of Mount Thielsen and Mount Bailey at this breathtaking west shore campground. Thielsen View has earned its reputation as a family favorite, where generations return each summer to cast fishing lines at dawn, explore forest trails by day, and share stories around evening campfires. Whether you're paddling across glassy morning waters, cycling the scenic lake loop, or simply relaxing in the shade of towering conifers, this campground serves as your gateway to endless mountain adventures.
Thielsen View Campground offers standard nonelectric sites suitable for tents and RVs. All sites must be reserved in advance, and the campground is open seasonally.
Historical SignificanceJust a scenic drive away lies Crater Lake National Park, where 7,700 years ago a massive volcanic eruption created one of the world's most stunning natural wonders. This campground sits in the heart of Oregon's volcanic legacy, where ancient lava flows shaped the dramatic peaks that frame your camping experience. The same geological forces that created Crater Lake's impossible blue waters also sculpted the magnificent spires of Mount Thielsen, known to Native peoples as 'His-chock-o-las-kit.'
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring warmth that invites you into the crystal-clear lake waters, while evenings cool dramatically, perfect for cozying up in fleece and watching stars emerge above the volcanic peaks. Pack your bug spray—the mosquitoes thrive in these pristine mountain conditions during peak season. As autumn approaches, crisp air and changing colors transform the landscape. Winter blankets the area in snow, occasionally closing access roads when Pacific storms roll through, turning this summer playground into a winter wonderland.
ElevationPerched in the high country where the air is crisp and thin, this mountain campground sits at an elevation where weather can shift from sunshine to storm in moments. Even in midsummer, temperatures can plummet after sunset, reminding you that you're camping in true mountain terrain. The altitude adds drama to every weather pattern—clouds swirl around nearby peaks, afternoon thunderstorms build with theatrical intensity, and morning mists create ethereal scenes across the lake.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Douglas firs, mountain hemlocks, and lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns throughout the day. Steps from your tent, Diamond Lake stretches before you, its 3,000 acres of pristine water changing from deep sapphire to shimmering silver as the light shifts. But nothing compares to sunrise here—watching the first rays paint Mount Thielsen's distinctive lightning-rod summit in alpenglow while mist rises from the lake is a moment that transforms casual campers into lifelong outdoor enthusiasts.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Umpqua National Forest, this campground occupies a front-row seat to Oregon's volcanic wonderland. The distinctive spire of Mount Thielsen—nicknamed the 'Lightning Rod of the Cascades'—towers to the east, its horn-shaped summit carved by ancient glaciers from volcanic rock. To the north, the gentler slopes of Mount Bailey showcase a different chapter in the region's fiery past. Below your feet, volcanic soils nourish the dense conifer forests that blanket these mountains, while Diamond Lake itself fills a basin carved by the same geological forces that shaped this extraordinary landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible, and the campground layout is manageable for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeSites are generally large and can fit multiple tents. Specific sites like C16 offer ample space and some of the best views.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies. Some users describe clustered sites with little seclusion, while others found plenty of space between sites. Certain loops, like A and B, are preferred for their layout.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend bringing strong mosquito repellent and avoiding sites near vault toilets due to odor issues.
Best CampsitesMentioned sites with good views: C16, B4, and B10. Site B4 offers exceptional views but tight maneuvering for trailers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in time starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Stay up to 14 nights during a visit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site not specified
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized into loops, with some areas offering better views and accessibility. Sites near vault toilets may lack privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from approximately June 20 to September 2. Reservations are only available during this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or via the mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 60 sites are reservation only, no walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival day. Late cancellations (less than one day before) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Thielsen View Campground offers a wide range of activities including fishing, hiking, biking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The location near Diamond Lake and trails such as John Dellenback, Mount Bailey, and Rodney Butte contributes to its recreational appeal. Cultural and educational opportunities are limited but proximity to Crater Lake adds to the experience.
Hiking
The 11-mile paved John Dellenback trail loops around Diamond Lake and is a favorite among campers. Nearby trails such as Mount Bailey and Rodney Butte are accessible within a five-minute drive.Fishing
Diamond Lake is stocked annually with 300,000 rainbow trout. Fishing success can vary daily, as noted by users. Boating is encouraged for better fishing spots.Swimming
The lake offers warm water suitable for swimming during the summer months. However, mosquitoes around the lake can be a deterrent.Biking
The 11-mile paved trail around Diamond Lake is described as scenic and manageable, with little elevation gain. It is suitable for riders of all skill levels.Boating
The campground features a free boat ramp. Kayaking and canoeing are popular among visitors. Some campsites allow you to pull your boat close to shore.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife sightings include bears, chipmunks, and waterfowl. Visitors are advised to secure food to avoid attracting animals.Winter Activities
During off-season months, the area may offer opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, depending on snow conditions.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are common activities on Diamond Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Fallen trees within the campground can be used for firewood.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito populations are extremely high during summer. Occasional bear sightings have been reported.
Active alertsPossible campground closures during late spring for hazardous tree removal.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.8 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 include a ranger station at Diamond Lake, local hospitals in Roseburg (80 miles away), and police stations in nearby towns such as Klamath Falls.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 20 to September 2
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available throughout the campground. Users have noted issues with bears and other wildlife interacting with improperly stored waste. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDiamond Lake is within walking distance of most campsites. The campground includes a boat ramp.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include noisy neighbors, generator usage at night, high mosquito activity, and issues with no-show reservations.
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. However, some reviews mention periods without hosts present.
Campground Map
2020 Toketee Ranger Station Road
Driving directionsFrom Roseburg, OR, travel east on OR-138 / NE Diamond Lake Boulevard for 80 miles, turn right onto Forest Road 4795 at the sign for the Diamond Lake Recreation Area. Turn right at the gas station and continue for 3 miles, the campground is on the left. From Bend or Klamath Falls: Take HWY 97 to HWY 138. Take HWY 138 east towards Roseburg. Make a right turn onto HWY 230, west. Take right onto Diamond Lake Loop Road, make a left at the sign for Broken Arrow Campground. Follow the road around until you reach Thielsen View Campground on the right.
Accessible from paved highways and forest roads. Seasonal access issues may arise due to winter weather or deadfall clearing.Nearby places
Roseburg (80 miles, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes), Bend (approximately 2 hours), Klamath Falls (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Essentials like firewood ($7 per bundle), camping supplies, and food are available at the Diamond Lake Resort or the gas station near the resort.
Camper Reviews
4.3
143 reviews
Thielsen View Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty of Thielsen View Campground, including its proximity to Diamond Lake and views of Mount Thielsen. Common praises include spacious campsites, friendly camp hosts, and clean facilities. However, mosquitoes and the lack of showers are recurring complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 143 reviews
What Campers Love
Spacious and clean campsites, beautiful views, proximity to hiking and biking trails, and access to Diamond Lake. Many users appreciated the well-maintained vault toilets and the helpfulness of the...
Based on 143 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquito infestations, lack of clear signage for reserved and available sites, overuse of generators by RV campers, and limited maintenance of vault toilets during peak times.
Based on 143 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring high-strength mosquito repellent and consider visiting outside peak mosquito season. The John Dellenback trail is a must-visit for bikers. Reserve sites in advance as walk-ins are not allowed.
Based on 143 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, but it is also when mosquitoes are at their worst. Early summer and early fall may offer more manageable insect activity. Firewood and water availability decrease...
Based on 143 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The views of Mount Thielsen at sunrise are unbeatable.' 2. 'Bring DEET, you’ll need it to survive the mosquitoes.' 3. 'The John Dellenback trail around the lake is one of the most beautiful bike...
Based on 143 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Highlighted sites include C16 for its views and size. Sites on loop B are often close to the water, making them desirable for boaters.
Based on 143 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is reasonably accessible with flat terrain and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 143 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users noted issues with unleashed dogs and barking. Campers are encouraged to keep pets leashed and under control.
Based on 143 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025