Lost Lake (Or)
3.386 reviews57600 McKenzie Highway, Blue River, OR, 97413
Lost Lake (Or)
$12.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$105.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single Campsites - $12 per night during the first-come, first-served season and $21 per night during peak season. Extra vehicles are charged $6 per vehicle, per night in some descriptions and $9 per vehicle, per night in others.
About this campground
Tucked away near the scenic Highway 20 in the heart of Willamette National Forest, Lost Lake Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This intimate rustic retreat features 15 single campsites perfectly positioned for adventurers drawn to the area's exceptional fishing waters and prime hunting grounds. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, where crackling campfires create the perfect ambiance for starlit evenings (when fire restrictions permit). Three vault toilets serve the campground, maintaining its back-to-basics charm. While the rugged access road makes this destination unsuitable for trailers, it ensures that Lost Lake remains a peaceful haven for tent campers and small RVs seeking an authentic forest experience.
Lost Lake Campground primarily accommodates tent camping and offers group sites. RV camping is not recommended due to the site's layout and lack of hookups.
Historical SignificanceWhile Lost Lake Campground may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its story is written in the timeless rhythms of the Cascade wilderness. This tranquil spot has long served as a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts, from generations of anglers who've cast their lines into its waters to hunters who've tracked game through the surrounding forests.
Weather and SeasonsLost Lake Campground transforms dramatically with each passing season, offering visitors a unique experience throughout the year. Spring arrives with rushing waters that fill the lake to its brim, creating perfect conditions for early-season anglers. As summer unfolds, the receding waters reveal a stunning marshy meadow that attracts wildlife and wildflowers alike. Autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant golds and oranges, while crisp air signals the arrival of hunting season. Winter blankets the area in deep snow, creating a pristine wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid cold-weather campers. Visitors should prepare for mountain weather's quick changes, with summer fire bans common during dry spells and winter bringing freezing temperatures and significant snowfall.
ElevationNestled high in the Cascade Mountains near Santiam Pass, Lost Lake Campground sits at an elevation where mountain air stays crisp and pine trees reach skyward. Though specific elevation markers aren't posted, visitors will notice the characteristic thin air and cooler temperatures typical of Oregon's high country.
Natural Features and SceneryLost Lake reveals nature's magic through its remarkable seasonal transformation. Perched on the lake's western shore, the campground offers front-row seats to one of Oregon's most fascinating natural phenomena—a disappearing lake that shapeshifts from a shimmering mountain pool to a verdant wildflower meadow. Dense forests of towering conifers frame this ever-changing canvas, while distant mountain peaks create a dramatic backdrop. In wetter months, the lake reflects the surrounding forest like a mirror, while summer transforms the basin into a lush wetland where willows dance in the breeze and wildlife thrives in the marshy shallows. This dynamic landscape ensures that no two visits to Lost Lake are ever quite the same.
Geological RegionPositioned near the dramatic summit of Santiam Pass, Lost Lake Campground occupies a fascinating geological niche within the Willamette National Forest. The campground's shallow lake represents a unique hydrological feature—a seasonal water body that fills and empties with nature's rhythms, creating an ever-evolving landscape. The surrounding terrain tells the story of ancient volcanic activity and glacial carving that shaped the Cascade Range. Marshy wetlands bordered by dense coniferous forests characterize this transition zone between Oregon's wet western slopes and drier eastern plateaus. During summer months, willows colonize the exposed lakebed, creating a riparian habitat that supports diverse wildlife in this mountain ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible picnic areas, parking spaces, and grills are available according to the official description.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large, flat, and nicely spaced in user reviews.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer good spacing for privacy. A reviewer mentioned, 'A few nicely spaced sites with picnic tables and fire rings.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviewers suggest avoiding weekends during summer for quieter experiences and highlight that AT&T phone coverage is available.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites are not mentioned in authoritative content.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is not allowed more than 14 days in a 60-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit data provided but standard tent sites are likely to follow a typical limit for similar campgrounds.
Groups
Group sites are available at a rate of $105 per night during the peak season. Details about the maximum number of people or vehicles are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as nicely spaced, with fire rings and picnic tables available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 6th, 2025, to October 12th, 2025, with first-come, first-served access available June 20th-21st, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are supported through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Some sites use Scan and Pay for first-come, first-served booking.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited during the first-come, first-served window in June. Most sites require on-site physical presence for Scan and Pay access.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay camping payments are non-refundable, and no modifications or cancellations are allowed.
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
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground's activities focus on enjoying the natural environment, including fishing and wildlife observation. The lake's water level fluctuates seasonally, which may affect fishing conditions.
Fishing
Fishing is noted as a popular activity, particularly during fishing seasons. Details about the types of fish or fishing quality are not specified.Wildlife viewing
The natural environment of the campground and its surroundings offers opportunities for wildlife observation. Specific wildlife species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
The campground is accessible during the colder months, but heavy snow and freezing conditions are common according to weather data. Specific winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are not listed.Water Sports
The lake's fluctuating water levels and marshy shallows in summer do not support water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless otherwise posted. Users are cautioned to plan for fire bans during summer.
Hazards
General hazardsUsers are cautioned about the unstable ground near the lake's drainage area and fire hazards due to dead trees. Wildlife and bugs may also pose typical camping challenges.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
McKenzie Ranger Station located at the campground mailing address: 57600 McKenzie Hwy., Blue River, OR 97413. Linn County Parks and Recreation administrative office: 3010 Ferry St. SW, Albany, OR 97322, Phone: (541) 967-3917.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 6th, 2025, to October 12th, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is provided in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLost Lake is adjacent to the campground, offering views but limited recreational water access during summer months.
Common complaintsComplaints included dusty conditions, bugs, and improperly managed campfires leading to hazards. Vault toilets were described as 'disgusting' by some reviewers.
HostManaged by Linn County Parks and Recreation, with administration at 3010 Ferry St. SW, Albany, OR 97322.
Campground Map
57600 McKenzie Highway, Blue River, OR, 97413
Driving directionsLost Lake Campground is located 28 miles northeast of McKenzie Bridge, Oregon, just off of Hwy. 20.
Road access is described as adjacent to Highway 20 near the summit of Santiam Pass. Trailers are not recommended, and users are advised to approach with caution, especially near areas where Lost Lake drains, as the ground may be unstable.Nearby places
McKenzie Bridge (~28 miles northeast)
Albany (~88 miles southwest)
Eugene (~87 miles southwest)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely accessible in Blue River or McKenzie Bridge, approximately 28 miles away, which may offer groceries, fuel, and basic camping items.
Camper Reviews
3.4
6 reviews
Lost Lake (Or) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's seclusion, natural beauty, and spacious sites. However, some concerns include the lack of water facilities, dusty conditions, and occasionally unclean vault toilets. The campground is described as quiet during weekdays but busier on weekends and during peak seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the spacious and private sites, natural scenery, and seclusion. Positive comments include, 'Beautiful area. Very secluded,' and 'Nice little campground on the shore of Lost Lake.'
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include dusty conditions, bugs, and unclean vault toilets. One reviewer stated, 'The bathroom was beyond disgusting,' while another mentioned, 'Dusty bugs and idiots made campfires.'
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water as none is available on-site. Be prepared for dusty conditions in the summer. Consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busy during summer weekends and quieter in the off-season. Seasonal water level fluctuations in the lake may impact fishing and the overall lake experience.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful area. Very secluded. Does need the dead trees cleaned up.' - Tami Bunker
2. 'Nice little campground on the shore of Lost Lake, which mostly disappears down a lace tube during the...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are highlighted in user reviews, but the campground's spacious and private sites received positive feedback.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Campground includes accessible facilities such as parking and picnic areas, but user feedback does not specifically address their usability.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and leash rules are enforced. No specific feedback from pet owners is available.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025