About SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND
Overview South Twin Lake Campground sits on the shores of South Twin Lake, a small lake adjacent to the much larger Wickiup Reservoir. Recreation South Twin Lake provides visitors with the opportunity for fishing, swimming and paddling. Motorized boating is not permitted. Facilities This facility has sites that can accomodate, tent, trailer or RV campers. Each site comes with a picnic table and is equipped with a fire ring. This campground offers potable water and flush toilets, as well as, a nearby boat launch area leading to the water. Boat launch parking is for day use only and requires a recreation fee separate from camping fees. Natural Features The lake was formed about 20,000 years ago when rising magma-encountered groundwater resulting in violent steam explosions. The resulting explosions formed a broad shallow crater, which later filled with water. The lake covers an area of 99 acres with average depth of 33 feet with a maximum depth of 58 feet. South Twin Lake is a lure's toss from the Deschutes arm of Wickiup Reservoir and less than a mile south of North Twin lake. Nearby Attractions Visitors can explore wilderness areas, rivers, lakes and reservoirs, and approximately hundred of miles of trail. Newberry National Volcanic Monument, approxiately 45 minutes by vehicle, is a great starting point for visitors to learn about the diverse landscape and history of the area through interpretive programs and exhibits. Visitors can explore Lava River Cave, the longest continuous lava tube in Oregon. Visitors enjoy traveling the Cascade Lakes Scenic Bywaywhich climbs 66 miles through the Cascade Range, weaving past snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes. Charges & Cancellations Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
How to Get There
From Bend, travel 26.8 miles south on Hwy 97 to Wickiup Junction, then 11.0 miles west on County Road 43, then continue 4.6 miles west on Forest Road 42, and finally 2.0 miles south on Forest Road 4260.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed 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 SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND
Heading to SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND? 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 SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251538) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND?
From Bend, travel 26.8 miles south on Hwy 97 to Wickiup Junction, then 11.0 miles west on County Road 43, then continue 4.6 miles west on Forest Road 42, and finally 2.0 miles south on Forest Road 4260.
How do I contact SOUTH TWIN LAKE CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-323-1746.
References & Official Resources