Reservations possible?
Yes
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
Yes
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If you're craving some dryer weather, a lot of vitamin D, and lakeside views, then this is your weekend spot.  It's possible that Little Crater Campground is the most sun-kissed campground in Deschutes County.  That being said, if you burn easily, be sure to bring your SPF and some form of shading device.

There are 47 spacious campsites here, with half of them fronting beautiful Paulina Lake.  The sites area well spread out, but due to the lack of vegetation they offer little privacy.  Like many of the other campgrounds managed by Hoodoo Recreation, there are no reservations for the sites, so be sure to get in early as finding a campsite can be a challenge.  If the campground is full, try Paulina Lake Campground, East Lake Campground, or Cinder Hill Campground.

Nestled in the middle of Newberry Volcano's caldera, you will find numerous attractions and trails that depart directly from the campground, including the trail up Little Crater, and Paulina Lake Loop Trail which leads to Paulina Lake Hot Springs.  Also, directly across the main road is the Big Obsidian Flow Interpretive Trail.

Note: Due to extensive snow pack, the campground is typically only open from late June to early October.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Parking Pass

NW Forest Pass

Pros

50% of campsites directly on Paulina Lake. Trails depart from campground.

Cons

No reservations. Only open July thru September.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Managed by

Hoodoo Recreation Services

Reservation phone number

1 (877) 444-6777

Features

Vault toilet
Boat ramp(s)
Swimming holes
Potable water

Location

Comments

09/23/2017
Stunning sites on the lake indeed, and some with amazing views of Paulina Peak. Highly recommended. Yes, there will be people on a weekend even in fall, but when we left on a Sunday, almost the entire campground was empty. The Little Crater trail up is outstanding for an easy loop with views of the lava fields, lake, and peaks.
01/31/2017
Thanks Shawn, that reservation link has been added to the information visible to members.
01/31/2017
Reservations are available through https://www.recreation.gov/camping/little-crater-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=126995
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