Campbell Lake Developed Campground

For Oregon locals yearning to truly "get away from everything" and immerse themselves in the raw, majestic beauty of the state's high desert and mountain landscapes, Campbell Lake Developed Campground offers an exceptional, unplugged experience. Nestled in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, southwest of Paisley, this campground provides a pristine setting where the focus is firmly on nature, solitude, and authentic outdoor adventure. It’s a place where you can disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with the tranquility that only Oregon's vast wilderness can provide.

Campbell Lake Developed Campground is cherished by those who seek a more rustic and less commercialized camping environment. As one reviewer aptly put it, it's a "Great place to get away from everything no hookups, shade or large camp spots," highlighting its appeal to campers looking for a more traditional, self-sufficient experience. While isolated incidents of inconsiderate behavior from others can occur, as noted in another review, the inherent beauty and design of the campground for quiet enjoyment remain its core strengths. For Oregonians, Campbell Lake is a beloved local secret that offers cool, clear waters for fishing and swimming, direct access to an extensive trail system, and the profound peace of a high mountain lake setting. It's an ideal spot to truly unwind, enjoy the stars, and embrace the wild heart of Southern Oregon.

Campbell Lake Developed Campground is located at NF-033, Paisley, OR 97636, USA, within the expansive Fremont-Winema National Forest. This high mountain lake setting is found approximately one hour and 20 minutes southwest of Paisley, Oregon.

Access to Campbell Lake involves navigating Forest Service roads. From Paisley, you would typically head north on Highway 31 toward Silver Lake, then turn left onto County Highway 2-08 (Mill Street), which eventually becomes Forest Service Road 33. Follow FS Road 33, then turn right onto FS Road 28, and finally a left onto Forest Service Road 033, which leads directly to the campground. The roads, while maintained, are primarily gravel Forest Service roads, so visitors should expect some washboarding or rough patches, and ensure their vehicles are suitable for such travel. While accessible by 2-wheel drive, the roads can be narrow and winding in places.

The campground's elevation is approximately 7,195 feet, offering a cooler retreat during the summer months. It is typically open seasonally, usually from Memorial Day to Labor Day, or from July 1 through October 31, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions. Due to its remote location, visitors should arrive prepared with all necessary supplies, as immediate services are not available nearby. The journey to Campbell Lake is part of the adventure, leading you deeper into Oregon's picturesque and wild southern landscape.

• Campsites: Campbell Lake Developed Campground offers 18 single campsites designed for a more rustic experience. These sites are non-reservable and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, providing a true spontaneous adventure opportunity. Each campsite includes a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires (subject to fire restrictions).
• No Hookups: It's important to note that this campground is a "developed" site but does not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual campsites. Campers should be fully self-sufficient.
• Potable Water: Potable (drinkable) water is available, typically from a hand pump. Visitors should confirm current water availability, especially later in the season.
• Vault Toilets: There are three vault toilets conveniently located within the campground, including one that is wheelchair accessible, ensuring basic sanitation facilities. Additional vault toilets are available in the day-use area.
• Garbage Service: Garbage service is available from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with large dumpsters for waste disposal. However, visitors should always practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared to pack out what they pack in.
• Gravelled Campsite Pads: Sites are developed with graveled pads, providing a stable and somewhat level surface for tents or small trailers.
• Boat Launch: A gravel "cartop" boat launch is available, suitable for launching non-motorized or electric motorboats and small-trailed boats.
• Day Use Area: A separate day use area with additional picnic tables and a vault toilet is available for those visiting just for the day.

• High Mountain Lake Setting: The primary highlight of Campbell Lake Developed Campground is its stunning location on a high mountain lake at an elevation of 7,195 feet. The lake features grassy and pebbly shores, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for camping.
• Excellent Fishing: Campbell Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a very popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can enjoy casting a line from the shore or a non-motorized boat.
• Non-Motorized Boating & Swimming: The lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized or electric-motor-only boating, offering a peaceful water experience. A 5 mph speed limit is typically enforced.
• Lakes Trail System Access: Directly from the campground, campers can access the Lakes Trail System. This extensive network of interconnected loops of varying lengths (from five to nine miles) connects Campbell Lake and Deadhorse Lake, offering fantastic opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking through diverse high-elevation environments.
• Wildlife Viewing: The remote, forested setting provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, various bird species, and potentially larger mammals.
• Unplugged & Secluded Experience: A significant feature is the lack of hookups and cell service (though this can vary), offering a true "get away from everything" experience. This promotes a deeper connection with nature and a break from digital distractions.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: The non-reservable nature of the sites can be a highlight for spontaneous adventurers, offering flexibility for those who prefer not to plan far in advance.
• Dark Skies: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Campbell Lake is likely an excellent spot for stargazing, offering unparalleled views of the night sky.
• Proximity to Deadhorse Lake: Campbell Lake is only about a mile from Deadhorse Lake, providing additional exploration opportunities within the same trail system.

Address: NF-033, Paisley, OR 97636, USA

Phone: (541) 943-3114

Mobile Phone: +1 541-943-3114 (This phone number is typically for the Paisley Ranger District, which manages the campground.)

As Campbell Lake Developed Campground is part of the Fremont-Winema National Forest and operated by the Forest Service, direct contact should typically be made with the relevant Ranger District.

Paisley Ranger District:

Address: 303 Highway 31, Paisley, OR 97636

Phone: (541) 943-3114

Website: For the most up-to-date information on operating seasons, current conditions, fire restrictions, and any alerts or closures, it is highly recommended that Oregon locals visit the official Fremont-Winema National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/fremont-winema) and navigate to the Campbell Lake Campground page, or call the Paisley Ranger District directly. Given its first-come, first-served nature, checking current conditions is especially important before planning a trip.

For Oregon locals, Campbell Lake Developed Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and uniquely rewarding outdoor experience, particularly for those who cherish genuine wilderness and a break from the ordinary. Its high-mountain lake setting within the vast Fremont-Winema National Forest provides a profound sense of escape, making it ideal for Oregonians seeking to unplug, de-stress, and reconnect with nature without the typical crowds found in more heavily developed areas.

The campground's "no hookups" nature is not a drawback but a highlight for many, fostering a more self-reliant and authentic camping adventure. This encourages campers to embrace traditional outdoor skills and fully immerse themselves in the pristine surroundings. The availability of potable water and vault toilets provides essential comforts while maintaining the rustic charm.

What truly makes Campbell Lake shine for Oregonians is the abundance of raw, natural recreational opportunities at its doorstep. The stocked Campbell Lake offers fantastic fishing for rainbow trout and provides a calm, clear expanse for non-motorized boating and swimming. Moreover, the direct access to the extensive Lakes Trail System means endless possibilities for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking through stunning forested landscapes, with interconnected loops ensuring varied experiences. For locals who appreciate solitude, a deep connection with the environment, and a chance to truly unwind under dark, starry skies, Campbell Lake Developed Campground is more than just a place to camp; it's a quintessential Oregon wilderness retreat that promises peace, adventure, and lasting memories in the heart of the state's magnificent high country.