Overview

Nestled in Deschutes National Forest, Little Lava Lake Campground offers visitors some of the most stunning scenery in central Oregon, as well as easy access to an abundance of recreational activities.

Whether visitors want to hike through towering pine forests or canoe across the lake at sunset, this campsite provides an ideal setting for both individual and group camping excursions.

Natural Features:

Little Lava Lake is located on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountain Range at an elevation of 4,750 feet. The small lake is surrounded by mature pine forests with bull rushes and lava outcroppings lining its shores.

Because of its location at the headwaters of the mighty Deschutes River, Little Lava Lake is sometimes referred to as "Deschutes Pond."

Wildlife found in the area includes bighorn sheep, pronghorn, native fish, sage grouse and migratory birds. These species, along with many others, depend on the area's undeveloped wilderness, clean streams, and diverse forests to live.

Recreation:

Little Lava Lake Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to fish, hike, hunt, ski, and enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities throughout the year.

For anglers, the 130-acre Little Lava Lake offers a quiet alternative to its neighbor to the north, Big Lava Lake. Reaching a maximum depth of 20 ft., the lake supports planted Rainbow trout, some Brook trout, and self-sustaining populations of Whitefish and Tui Chub. The current state record brook trout, weighing in at 9 pounds, 6 ounces, was taken from the river below the lake.

Bait, lures, flies, still fishing and trolling are all acceptable angling methods. The best spot to fish from shore is just north of the boat ramp, but most people enjoy fishing from their boat.

Facilities:

With several sites located at the lake's edge, and others within close vicinity, Little Lava Lake Campground offers visitors the ideal opportunity to camp near shoreline, or under a canopy of trees.

Picnic areas, trails, and stunning views of the lake, along with the conveniences of firewood, drinking water, and flush toilets, give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while still enjoying many of the conveniences of home.

There is a boat ramp and a day use area that can be used at Little Lava Lake for a fee.

Nearby Attractions:

Visitors can explore wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, lakes and reservoirs and approximately 1,600 miles of trails within the Deschutes National Forest and the adjacent Ochoco National Forest.

Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby Bend, Oregon, and the unique geological landscape of Newberry National Volcanic Monument draw visitors to the region as well.

Visitors will also enjoy traveling the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, known as Oregon's Highway in the Sky, which climbs into the clouds over a 66-mile drive through the Cascade Mountain range, weaving through snow-capped peaks and alongside alpine lakes.

A nearby resort on Lava Lake offers lodging and a limited selection of groceries.