Big Lake Campground
USFS · Campground · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- Fee charged
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Campground
- Hours
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
- Reservations
- recreation.gov
- Coordinates
- 44.3781, -121.8705
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
On the western shore of Big Lake at the top of Santiam Pass, surrounded by alpine fir, hemlock and lodgepole pine, campers enjoy views of the lake with the beautiful Mt. Washington as a backdrop. Big Lake Campground offers 49 sites for tent or RV camping. Drinking water, vault toilets and a boat ramp are provided. This campground is a hub of activity during the summer months. Big Lake is very popular for both motorized and non-motorized boating. The campground is located adjacent to the Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area and is a popular campground for OHV enthusiasts. Nearby Patjens Lakes Trail offers easy access to the Mt. Washington Wilderness.
From the USFS.Official page
Is Big Lake Campground free?
No. Big Lake Campground charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
How do I get to Big Lake Campground?
From McKenzie Bridge, OR, travel east on Highway 126 for 29.5 miles to Santiam Pass. Turn right, heading south on Big Lake Road forest road 2690. Follow Big Lake Road for 3 miles to Big Lake Campground on the north side of Big Lake.
What are the rules at Big Lake Campground?
OHV use in the campground is strictly prohibited for any purpose other than entering or leaving the campground. Regulations for the Santiam Pass Summer Motorized Recreation Area.Camping is not allowed more than 14 days in a 60 day period.Check-in time: 2:
Nearby
- BIG LAKE0.0 mi
- Big Lake West Campground0.5 mi
- BIG LAKE WEST CAMPGROUND0.7 mi
- Lost Lake - Willamette (OR)4.1 mi
- Lost Lake Campground4.1 mi
- Cold Water Cove - Willamette NF (OR)5.9 mi
- Cold Water Cove Campground6.0 mi
- Link Creek Campground6.2 mi
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
