Big Lake West Campground

Area Status: Closed

This small 11 site tent-only campground lies on the western shore of Big Lake at the top of Santiam Pass and is a hub of activity during the summer months. It's a smaller campground located just west of Big Lake Campground. The 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.

Big Lake is very popular for both motorized and non-motorized boating. Campers enjoy views of the lake with the beautiful Mt. Washington as a backdrop. The campground is surrounded by alpine fir, hemlock and lodgepole pine.

The campground is located adjacent to the Santiam Pass Motorized Recreation Area (area is unavailable) and is a popular campground for OHV enthusiasts. Nearby Patjens Lakes Trail offers access to the Mt. Washington Wilderness.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Opening in spring 2024.
Reservations:	Reserve online at www.recreation.gov or phone 1.877.444.6777. Over half the campsites are available for advance reservation via recreation.gov. The remainder are first come first serve.
Area Amenities:	Picnic tables, Toilets
Fees:	Single Campsites - $28 per night Multiple Campsite - $55 per night Extra Vehicles - $9 per vehicle, per night Day Use - $9 per vehicle, per day
Open Season:	May - September
Usage:	Heavy
Restrictions:	Regulations for the Santiam Pass Summer Motorized Recreation Area (area is unavailable). OHV use in the campground is strictly prohibited for any purpose other than entering or leaving the campground. Camping is not allowed more than 14 days in a 60 day period. Check-in time: 2:00 pm or later. Check-out time: 1:00 pm Use of chainsaws in the campground is prohibited Dogs MUST be on leash at all times within the campground
Closest Towns:	McKenzie Bridge, OR
Water:	No
Passes:	Interagency Senior and Access Passes (and the Golden Age and Access Passes) may receive a 50% discount on the use fee for individual campsites. This discount does not apply to extra vehicle fee or multiple campsites.
Operated By:	Linn County Parks & Recreation
Information Center:	McKenzie River Ranger District 57600 McKenzie Hwy McKenzie Bridge, OR 97413 541-822-3381

General Information

Directions:

From McKenzie Bridge, OR, travel east on Highway 126 for 29.5 miles to Santiam Pass. Turn heading south on Big Lake Road #2690.Follow Big Lake Road for 3 miles to Big Lake Campground on the north side of Big Lake.

General Notes:

Big Lake & Big Lake West Campgrounds Map