Big Lake West Campground

Willamette National Forest

Big Lake West Campground offers sites located on the shores of Big Lake, situated at the top of the Santiam Pass. Opportunities to enjoy the outdoors are numerous and range from off-highway vehicle exploring, boating, swimming and hiking.

There are 11 tent only double campsites. There is one single and one double vault toilet. Drinking water is available through the system shared with Big Lake Campground. There are no parking spurs; vehicles must park along the road's edge. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring. All sites are by reservation.

Campfires allowed until and unless otherwise posted. Fire bans are common during summer months. Please plan accordingly.

Reservations may be made up to 6 months in advance of arrival date by reserving online at RECREATION.GOV or by calling 877-444-6777.

This tent only campground has vault toilets, drinking water, a boat ramp and swimming area. Ice and firewood are also available. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring.

Need to Know

No electric hookups at this facility.
This facility has first-come, first-served sites.
Limit one vehicle per campsite; a $8 fee will be charged for additional vehicles.
Click here for more information on Willamette National Forest.
New regulations are in effect for the Santiam Pass Summer Motorized Recreation Area. Off-highway vehicle use in the campground is strictly prohibited for any purpose other than entering or leaving the campground.
Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating
Narrow parking. RV pop outs must not extend over the road surface
No discharging firearms, possession of fireworks or use of chainsaws allowed
Be sure to reserve a site that will accommodate your equipment. The site you reserve is your site. You may not move to another site.
There is a $9 day use fee.
Campfires allowed until and unless otherwise posted. Fire bans are common during summer months. Please plan accordingly.

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

The major activities in the Big Lake area revolve around motorized use. Boats frequent the lake and off highway vehicles (OHVs) us the adjacent Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area. Other attractions include Mt. Washington Wilderness and associated access trails, historic Santiam Wagon Road, McKenzie Pass-Santiam Pass National Scenic Byway, Pacific Crest Trail, and Sand Mountain Lookout.

Recreation

Contact Information

Mailing

McKenzie Ranger Station, 57600 McKenzie Hwy., Blue River, OR 97413 Managed by Linn County Parks and Recreation, 3010 Ferry St. SW, Albany, OR 97322 OR

Phone Number

For campground inquiries, please call: 801-226-3564

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

From Eugene, Oregon, take I-105 east to McKenzie Highway 126. Travel east on Hwy 126 for 90 miles to Santiam Pass. At the top of the Pass, turn right onto the access road (sign says Hoodoo Ski Area, Big Lake Road & Benson Sno-Park). Travel one mile to the fork in the road and stay left on Forest Service Road 2690. Continue for 4 miles to the entrance to Big Lake West Campground.

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery

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