South Campground is a hidden gem nestled along the picturesque Mud Lake Rd in Oregon, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. This charming campground provides both back-in and pull-through sites, perfect for RVs and tents alike. Set on dirt roads with ample space between sites, South Campground offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering trees and serene lake views for those lucky enough to secure one of the limited lakeside spots.
South Campground is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with easy access to Mud Lake's crystal-clear waters via its boat launch. Visitors can bring their SUP, kayak, canoe, or electric boat to explore the lake, where anglers will find plenty of fish—though it’s catch-and-release only. The campground also offers opportunities to spot local wildlife like osprey, eagles, river otters, ducks, and a variety of birds, making it a perfect destination for birdwatching.
While South Campground lacks water availability at the sites or lake, its rustic charm and natural setting make it a popular choice for those seeking an authentic camping experience. The dirt roads and uneven sites add to the campground's wild character, but visitors should be prepared for potential crowds on weekends from June to October, especially during peak season. Mosquitoes are also a seasonal concern in the Cascades during June and July, so bug spray is recommended.
South Campground is a family-friendly destination that appeals to both solo adventurers and groups looking for outdoor fun. With its emphasis on nature and adventure, it’s an ideal spot for those who want to immerse themselves in Oregon's stunning landscapes while enjoying the great outdoors.
Campers have praised the campground for its spacious sites, clean non-flush toilets, and the sense of community among visitors. The ability to launch boats directly from the campsite makes it a favorite for water enthusiasts, while the lack of development preserves the natural character of the area. However, visitors should be prepared for limited amenities and some crowding during peak seasons.
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
RV camping
RV sewer hookup
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Camping fee
Good for kids
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
Nice campground. Both back-in and pull-through sites. All dirt roads and sites. Good space and lots of trees between sites for both RVs and tenters. Non-flush toilets are spaced around camp and are pretty clean but smell, of course. Few sites have views of the lake but that's what the boat launch is for. Bring your SUP, kayak, canoe, rowboat, or electric boat for the best views of the lake. The fish are huge but catch-and-release only. Osprey, eagles, river otter, ducks, and lots of other birds.
No water available at lake or at either campground. Sites uneven. Extremely crowded on weekends from June-October, and sometimes crowded on weekdays due to tour groups kayaking or canoeing. June-July is mosquito season in the Cascades, so prepare accordingly
Mosquito city, be prepared. First night was fine, second night some trashy people with their crying baby were up all night fighting with each other and blowing up air mattresses at 3am... probably Californians.
It's a nice place to get away