About WINDY GROUP CAMP
Overview Located on the southwest end of spectacular Crescent Lake in Deschutes National Forest, Windy Group Campground offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty and recreational opportunities of the Cascade region in a rustic and secluded setting. A large group site sits at the lake's edge. Visitors enjoy hiking nearby trails and water activities on the lake.Recreation Boating, swimming and fishing are popular activities enjoyed by visitors during spring, summer and fall months. Anglers have the opportunity to fish from boat or shoreline for abundant salmon and trout. Summer months offer the best fishing. Crescent Lake Snowpark offers skiers and snowmobilers a base camp for winter excursions. Open to snowmobiling, Summit Lake Trail, about 9 miles one-way, follows the road leading from Crescent Lake to Summit Lake, offering excellent views across Crescent Lake and showcasing Diamond Peak. Facilities This large group site can accommodate up to 40 people. Amenities are minimal at this campground. There is one wooden style vault toilet. Picnic tables and a barbeque pit are available. The roads are unpaved, and RVs will have plenty of space to park.Natural Features Crescent Lake, nestled in a naturally glaciated basin behind a moraine dam, lies east of the towering Cascade Mountain Range. Its brilliant blue-green water, sandy beaches and water temperature are exceptional for a high-elevation lake. Towering lodgepole pine trees provide the backdrop for this area, with mountain hemlock, fir, and spruce also in the mix. Volcanic activity throughout the surrounding area of Deschutes National Forest is evident in its landscape, showcasing cinder cones, calderas and lava flows. Nearby Attractions Visitors can explore wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, lakes and reservoirs and approximately 1,600 miles of trails that comprise nearly 2.5 million acres the Deschutes National Forest and the adjacent Ochoco National Forest. Lava Lands Visitor Center in nearby
How to Get There
Take Highway 58 approximately 8 miles east of Willamette Pass to the Crescent Lake Junction. Turn west on Forest Road 60 and continue approximately 7 miles to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 10 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to WINDY GROUP CAMP
Heading to WINDY GROUP CAMP? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for WINDY GROUP CAMP?
No central reservation system listed for WINDY GROUP CAMP. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233113) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to WINDY GROUP CAMP?
Take Highway 58 approximately 8 miles east of Willamette Pass to the Crescent Lake Junction. Turn west on Forest Road 60 and continue approximately 7 miles to the campground.
How do I contact WINDY GROUP CAMP?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-323-1746.
References & Official Resources
