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Deschutes/West South Twin Campground
Overview
Tucked away within the scenic Deschutes National Forest, West South Twin Campground offers a quintessential Oregon lakefront experience. This destination is beloved for its serene atmosphere and its position along the sparkling waters of South Twin Lake. Unlike high-density commercial resorts, this campground provides a rustic forest setting where the primary focus is reconnecting with nature and enjoying the tranquil sounds of the High Desert woodland while parked under a canopy of trees.
Location & Surroundings
Located roughly 40 miles southwest of Bend and near the town of La Pine, the park is surrounded by a dense canopy of Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines. The elevation of 4,300 feet provides a refreshing escape from summer heat, while the proximity to the Cascade Range offers stunning vistas. The campground sits directly on the western shore of the lake, providing immediate access to the crystal-clear waterfront and nearby volcanic landscapes that define the unique geology of Central Oregon.
Amenities & Park Features
As a classic Forest Service site, West South Twin prioritizes the outdoor experience over modern luxuries. RVers will find spacious sites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, though it is important to note there are no hookups available. The park provides vault toilets and potable water for convenience throughout the loops. A highlight for many visitors is the accessible boat launch, which makes it easy to transition from your campsite to a day of paddling or trout fishing on the lake.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Recreation is the heartbeat of this region. South Twin Lake is famous for its excellent trout fishing and motor-free boating environment, ensuring a quiet day on the water. For those looking to explore further, the Twin Lakes loop trail offers a scenic hiking route connecting to North Twin Lake. Additionally, the campground serves as a gateway to the Cascade Lakes Highway, where world-class photography, bird watching, and wildlife viewing opportunities await at every turn along the scenic byway.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for boondockers and dry-campers who value peace and natural beauty over paved pads and electricity. Families who enjoy swimming and easy water access will feel right at home here. It is a perfect fit for those seeking a traditional camping vibe where evenings are spent around a campfire and mornings begin with the mist rising off the lake, far away from the distractions of the digital world.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Desiree Tolman
Perfect little camp spot. Was nice to see a active host cleaning up after people left and helped us by bringing our ice from store across the way to our site. No shower but you're camping so can't expect one lol
laura D
Been camping here for years. It is one of our favorite places to go. Water is cool and clean
Mariah Ellison
NO LAKE AT THIS LOCATION! Apparently at West South Twin Campground the lake is only there in March and because it is a Reservoir it empties fast and is just a river during the summer months. Right across the street (2min walk) is Twin Lake Resort and that is where the Lake is and all the fun activies and boat rentals. It was a great place to camp, no cell service, relaxing but also no lake front spots (which is what I thought I booked) it didn't ruin the trip but I don't want anyone else to get bamboozled. Again, there is no lake at this campground! No matter what maps shows, there is NO lake. Only a river that has no real good swimming spots.
Dave Oakes
We love the area. If you drive past the campground on to the lake bed you can camp on the water
Timothy Sautter
We didn't camp here, just stopped by after going to Twin Lake for the day, so can't attest to how good or bad the camping is. I will say that it's quite beautiful, at least when the reservoir is low which it was when we were there (September 5th). Since the reservoir was low there were all sorts of gravel roads exposed around the perimeter and some that went down to the river. I saw some folks camped pretty close to the river on a nice meander so they had water on 3 sides. Can't say I'd want to camp there with the abundance of other great places nearby but there must be some reason because there was a ton of people there. I definitely recommend popping over there if you visit Twin Lakes for the day.