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20 Best Places to Camp Within 2 Hours of Bend, OR

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Bend Oregon

Bend is a small city in central Oregon that offers beautiful landscapes and trails. One thing that attracts many tourists to Bend is the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Whether you live in or around Bend and want to get away or you’re traveling to Bend, everyone needs a place to lay their head. Here are a few places for you to camp when visiting the Bend area!

Tumalo State Park

Tumalo State Park has creeks that create beautiful waterfalls.

1. Bend-Sunriver RV Campground

This campground is right on the Little Deschutes River, so it has lots of water activities for campers to participate in! One of the main things people like to do in the river is go fishing, and the Little Deschutes River has whitefish, salmon, and rainbow trout! Bend-Sunriver has a lot of recreational courts for guests to use. Campers can get back in touch with nature and go for a hike along one of the nature trails. 

Pros:

  • Swimming pool
  • Fishing
  • Hiking trails
  • Picnic tables
  • Bathhouses
  • Laundry
  • Recreational courts
  • Wifi
  • Tent camping

Cons:

  • No sewer hookups
  • Limited electrical hookups
  • Pets are an extra fee

2. Crown Villa RV Resort

This RV resort has planned activities for families to participate in during their stay. There are also pickleball and tennis courts, and they have horseshoes as well! Guests can stay in a cabin or their RV. It’s pet friendly, and it offers wifi and cable tv for everyone! There is a laundry facility; however, campers will have to pay extra to use it. Campers also have access to a fitness center, so you don’t miss a day of working out on your trip!

Pros:

  • Fitness center
  • Planned activities
  • Wifi and cable tv
  • Pet friendly
  • Bathhouses
  • Cabin rentals
  • Full RV hookups

Cons:

  • No tent camping
  • Laundry costs extra

3. Scandia RV Park

This family-owned RV park has over 60 RV camping spots with full hookups. Most sites are back in, but the park offers 14 pull-through sites! Guests have access to wifi and 70 cable channels. Campers have access to laundry facilities and a recreation hall. They are pet-friendly and fill up fast during the summer, so make sure to make your reservations in advance!

Pros:

  • Full hookups
  • Wifi and cable tv
  • Pet friendly
  • Close to area attractions
  • Family-owned
  • Laundry
  • Showers and restrooms

Cons:

  • No tent camping
  • No camp store

4. Tumalo State Park Campground

This campground is surrounded by the Tumalo State Park, so campers have access to everything the park has to offer! There is a day-use area along the shore of the Deschutes River that has picnic tables and a wading area. Campers can go fishing and hope to catch some rainbow trout, or they can take a hike through the trails and hope to spot some wildlife! The park has miles of trails for guests to hike or mountain bike on!

Pros:

  • Many ways to camp
  • Flush toilets
  • Open year-round
  • Showers
  • Day-use picnic areas
  • Hiking 
  • Seasonal hiker-biker camp
  • Biking
  • Swimming
  • Fishing

Cons:

  • Can get crowded
  • Flush toilets close in winter

5. Lava Lake Campground

Inside the Deschutes National Forest, this campground has 44 campsites of various ways to camp. Most of them are accessible to RVs; however, they don’t have full hookups. Five of the campsites are tent-only. This campground has two boat ramps, but only non-motorized boats are permitted. The campsites cannot be reserved, so it’s first come first serve. None of the campsites are ADA accessible. Staying at this national park will reconnect you with nature. 

Pros:

  • Potable water
  • Boat ramps
  • Multiple campsites
  • Fishing
  • In a national forest

Cons:

  • No reservations
  • No flush toilets
  • No motorized boats
  • No showers
  • No ADA accessible sites

6. Driftwood Campground

This campground sits on Three Creek Lake, which is perfect for canoers. It has a primitive boat ramp specifically for canoes! All campsites are on the lake, so it has a serene setting. Hiking is available during the day, and campers can go fishing in the lake for brook or wild rainbow trout! No motors are allowed on the lake to keep the area peaceful for campers. There are only 18 sites, so act fast!

Pros:

  • Boat ramp for canoers
  • Tent camping
  • Day hiking
  • Fishing
  • Vault toilets
  • On-lake sites

Cons:

  • No motorized boats
  • No ADA accessible sites
  • No showers
  • No water
  • No RV hookups
A sunset in Bend OR.

Sunsets on the landscape surrounding Bend can be breathtaking.

7. Devils Lake Campground

This campground has 10 tent-only, hike-in sites that are designated for easy access. The trails surrounding the area only permit foot or horse traffic, so it stays very quiet and peaceful. There are outdoor activities like hiking and fishing! No motorized boats are allowed in the lake to keep the area serene. These campsites are not ADA accessible. This campground offers one vault toilet. This campground is perfect for those who want to rough it!

Pros:

  • Vault toilets
  • Tent camping
  • Fishing
  • Hiking

Cons:

  • No water
  • Walk-in sites only
  • No ADA accessibility 
  • No showers
  • No motorized boats

8. Soda Creek Campground

This campground is near Sparks Lake, and it’s in the Deschutes National Forest. The campsites are smaller, so they work best for smaller vehicles or tent camping. Most sites have breath-taking views of South Sister Mountain! While going for a hike, guests can view all the wildlife the forest has to offer! This campground is good for families with little kids because there are few dangerous things around this campsite. Soda Creek is very shallow and makes an interesting wetland to explore!

Pros:

  • Tent camping
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Vault toilet

Cons:

  • No hookups
  • No showers
  • No water
  • No motorized boats
  • No ADA accessible sites

9. Crane Prairie Campground

This campground has multiple loops on the shore of the Crane Prairie Reservoir, and it has campsites on the water or a few minute walk from. It has drinking water and vault toilets. Campers can put their motorized or non-motorized boats into the reservoir with the boat ramp. If you catch a fish, this campground has a fish cleaning station for you to rinse the fish off in! The types of fish you can catch here are rainbow and brook trout, mountain whitefish, kokanee salmon, largemouth bass, black crappie, and bluegill!

Pros:

  • Tent camping
  • Potable water
  • Vault toilets
  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Fish cleaning station
  • Shower
  • Boat ramps
  • Trailer camping
  • Picnic tables

Cons:

  • No full hookups
  • No ADA accessibility

10. Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort

This RV resort has almost 100 full-hookup RV sites and a handful of cabins to rent! There are multiple restrooms and showers scattered throughout the campgrounds, as well as a pool, playground, and miniature golf course located near the main office. There’s a lake right in the middle of the campground for guests to enjoy; however, guests are not allowed to swim in the lake. Campers are allowed to bring their pets as long as they are kept on a leash and cleaned up after. 

Pros:

  • Full hookups
  • Cabin rental
  • Hiking trails
  • Fire rings
  • Picnic tables
  • Bathrooms
  • Showers
  • Pool
  • Laundry

Cons:

  • No tent camping

11. Big River Group Campground

This campground is designed for groups of campers who want to spend time on the Deschutes River. While motorized boating is not permitted, the best way to catch fish on the river is boat fishing or drift fishing. This portion of the river is perfect for those who love to canoe, kayak, or tube. There are 13 campsites total: 10 single sites and 3 group sites. The group campsites are perfect for family reunions or overnighters for scout groups!

Pros:

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Tent camping
  • Vault toilet

Cons:

  • No water
  • No hookups
  • No showers

12. Three Creek Meadow Campground & Horsecamp

The best RV sites in the Deschutes National Forest are found here. Many people use this campground as a stopping point when hiking between Broken Top Mountain and Three Sisters Mountain. There are 20 campsites here. 11 of them are “no horse” sites, while the other 9 are horse sites. Be careful of the water at the horse sites because the water is for the horses. This campground also has three yurts that are available all year long. 

Pros:

  • Boat launch
  • Skiing in winter
  • Hiking in summer
  • Vault toilets
  • Yurts available
  • Horse campsites 
  • Non-horse campsites

Cons:

  • No water
  • No showers
  • No hookups
A woman rock climbing.

Rock climbing is very popular on Smith Rock.

13. Farewell Bend Park

This park is located on the Deschutes River, and the Deschutes River Trail runs the length of the park. Farewell Bend is popular for launching float boats, and it is a great spot for viewing the birds and wildlife the area has. This campground is popular among families due to its playground in the center of the park. There is a small beach at the north end of the park for relaxing or playing in the water!

Pros:

  • Fishing
  • Restrooms
  • River access
  • Historical markers
  • Tent camping

Cons:

  • No hookups
  • No showers

14. Deschutes NF-Cascade Lake Area

The high lake country of the Deschutes National Forest has a large number of activities for everyone! Guests can spend time in the water and go boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, or swimming. Or, campers can roam through the woods by hiking or mountain biking. Many campers like to go bird watching and see what birds they can find! Tent and RV campsites are available. There are bathrooms here, but there aren’t any showers. 

Pros:

  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Bird watching
  • Road and mountain biking
  • Tent camping
  • RV camping
  • Backpacking
  • Boating
  • Swimming
  • Bathrooms
  • Potable water

Cons:

  • No showers

15. Smith Rock State Park

The campgrounds in Smith Rock State Park offer many amenities and activities! After pitching your tent, head down to the river and fish for a while. When going through the hiking trails, make sure to keep an eye out for prairie falcons, mule deer, and river otters! Smith Rock is extremely popular to those who love to go rock climbing, and the park has thousands of places to climb! However, some climb spots are closed to protect the habitats of nesting raptors. 

Pros:

  • Walk-in tent camping
  • Hiking trails
  • Picnic tables
  • Fishing
  • Rock climbing
  • Restrooms
  • Hot showers

Cons:

  • No RVs allowed
  • No open fires

16. Mt. Bachelor RV Camping

Mt. Bachelor is most well-known for its great skiing and snowboarding slopes in the winter. The campground has 50 campsites: 20 electric and 30 non-electric. In the summer, the snow melts, and the trails can be hiked and biked! This campground is pet-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash. While there is no tent camping, it can be understandable why because of the dangers the mountain brings. Pay showers are available in a building near Todd Lake. 

Pros:

  • Full-hookup sites
  • Biking
  • Skiing 
  • Snowboarding
  • Hiking
  • Pet friendly

Cons:

  • No tent camping
  • No sewer dumping
  • Pay showers

17. Elk Lake Campground

This campground is located on Elk Lake in the Deschutes National Forest, and it has several varieties of campsites! One of the most popular activities here is to go horseback riding or hiking on the Elks-Devils Trail. The campground has picnic tables and fire pits that are available to all guests! This campground also has drinking water, as well as a vault toilet.

Pros:

  • Boat ramp
  • Fishing
  • Vault toilet
  • Picnic table
  • Firepit
  • Drinking water
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Tent camping
  • RV camping

Cons:

  • No electric hookups
  • No showers

18. Crooked River Campground (E Loop)

The Crooked River Campground has 91 electrical hookup sites that have water, and it has flush toilets with hot showers! There is a swim beach on Crooked River, but be careful because there is no lifeguard. One of the most popular activities on Crooked River is paddling down the 30 miles of flat water. Don’t forget to go fishing for trout!

Pros:

  • Electrical hookups
  • Hot showers
  • Flush toilets
  • Boating
  • Hiking
  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Cabin rental

Cons:

  • No tent sites

19. Ochoco Divide Campground

The campground sits at the top of a ponderosa pine forest at an elevation of almost 5,000 feet! Activities around this campground are hiking, biking, and hunting. There are four vault toilets and picnic tables available to all guests. The closest town to this campground is Prineville, so it’s the perfect getaway for those who live in the city!

Pros:

  • Vault toilets
  • Picnic tables
  • ADA accessibility
  • Tent camping
  • Hiking
  • Biking
  • Trailer camping

Cons:

  • No water
  • No electrical hookups
  • No showers

20. Paulina Lake Campground

This campground is one of the most popular around the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. It sits on the shore of Paulina Lake, and it has lots of opportunities for bird watching, biking, and sightseeing! It has very easy access to a boat launch and 68 campsites. There is a dump station near the entrance, and there are four flush toilets!

Pros:

  • Flush toilets
  • Potable water
  • Boat ramp
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Swimming
  • RV camping

Cons:

  • No showers
  • No ADA accessibility
  • No tent camping

Final verdict: 

Tumalo State Park Campground offers the best camping with the most to do. Campers have the option of staying in a tent, RV, or yurt. Guests can go hiking, biking, fishing or swimming! While this campground is open all year long, the flush toilets do close in the winter. You’ll be inside a state park, so there are so many things to do and see!

 

Bonus tip: Check out this video to find fun things to do in Bend!

 

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Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

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Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

 

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

 

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

 

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

 

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

 

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

 

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

 

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

 

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

 

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

 

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

 

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

 

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

 

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

 

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

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Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

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As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

 

Choosing Your Adventure

 

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

 

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

 

Plan a Camping Trip

 

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

 

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

 

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

 

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

 

Map Your Route

 

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

 

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

 

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

 

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

 

Pack Smart

 

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

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BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

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BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

 

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