Central Oregon’s abundant winter snowfall is great for combating drought, but it presents challenges for campers in the Deschutes National Forest. Due to the deep snowpack, 20 campgrounds will not be ready for the Memorial Day holiday, and it is unlikely that the snow will melt in time for reservations starting on May 26.
The following campgrounds, initially scheduled to open before or on Memorial Day Weekend, will experience delays. Visitors with reservations at these locations until June 1 will receive refund and cancellation emails:
Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District:
- Cow Meadow Campground
- Cultus Corral Horse Camp
- Cultus Lake Campground
- Elk Lake Campground
- Lava Lake Campground
- Little Cultus Lake Campground
- Little Fawn Campground
- Little Lava Lake Campground
- Mallard Marsh Campground
- Point Campground
- Quinn Meadow Horse Camp
- Soda Creek Campground
- South Campground
Crescent Ranger District:
- Contorta Flat Campground
- Contorta Point Group Camp
- Princess Creek Campground
- Spring Campground
- Trapper Creek Campground
- Whitefish Horse Camp
- Windy Group Camp
Deschutes National Forest, in collaboration with campground concessionaire Vista Recreation, is monitoring snow levels at these sites. They will initiate hazard tree removal and preseason maintenance as soon as the snow recedes, prioritizing the safe opening of campgrounds.
Given the current situation with the snow pack it is a good idea to check with the local agencies before heading out. You can find updates for the Deschutes National Forest on their website.
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