La Pine State Park Oregon
Discover Oregon's natural beauty at La Pine State Park, featuring the world's largest Ponderosa Pine and scenic Deschutes River access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
La Pine State Park Oregon
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Oregon's natural beauty at La Pine State Park, featuring the world's largest Ponderosa Pine and scenic Deschutes River access.
"A popular, well-kept park with trails, river access, and the impressive 'Big Tree' – great for families and campers!"
🎯 Book camping in advance
Popular park, especially for camping. Reserve your spot early online to secure a good location.
🎒 Pack layers for weather
High desert temps swing wildly. Be ready for warm days and cool nights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World's Largest Ponderosa Pine
Cougar Woods Trail
Stand in awe of the 'Big Tree,' a 500-year-old Ponderosa Pine with a massive circumference.
+2Deschutes River Access
Riverfront
Enjoy fishing, paddling, or simply relaxing by the scenic Deschutes River. Perfect for a refreshing dip or a peaceful float.
Extensive Forest Trails
Throughout the park
Explore miles of trails winding through beautiful pine forests, ideal for hiking and nature observation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Campsite Early
Prepare for Temperature Swings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book camping in advance
Popular park, especially for camping. Reserve your spot early online to secure a good location.
🎒 Pack layers for weather
High desert temps swing wildly. Be ready for warm days and cool nights.
🛶 River float fun
Float the Deschutes from the park's boat launch for a scenic, few-hour adventure.
🐿️ Watch for wildlife
Charming chipmunks and ground squirrels are common visitors. Keep food secure!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book camping in advance
Popular park, especially for camping. Reserve your spot early online to secure a good location.
🎒 Pack layers for weather
High desert temps swing wildly. Be ready for warm days and cool nights.
🛶 River float fun
Float the Deschutes from the park's boat launch for a scenic, few-hour adventure.
🐿️ Watch for wildlife
Charming chipmunks and ground squirrels are common visitors. Keep food secure!
📱 Spotty cell service
Expect limited cell reception; consider a Starlink if you need connectivity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Pine State Park is a highly-rated destination praised for its beautiful forest setting, river access, and the impressive 'Big Tree.' Campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities and easy check-in, though some note it can get crowded and noisy with families. Limited cell service is a common point of mention.
"We stayed a week, which was about a month too little. The last few days were raining, which wasn't the parks fault.
Very quiet as it is about 5 miles from the highway. Don't expect very good cell service here. Starlink worked great.
Many trails and a beautiful river. A huge list of things to do and see in the area. We will be coming back for more.
Expect visits from tiny ground squirrels and even smaller chipmunks. They are high energy and entertaining. We had visits from Stellar Jays (a type of blue bird)."
Russ Roush
"Reservations required here. Super easy process to check in/out. Large, clean and quiet park with 100s of spaces for tent and trailer camping. We had a spot right next to the river. Several walking paths to get to the water where you can float/paddle or just hang out. We only stayed one night but would definitely go back! Beautiful scenery and reasonably priced."
Stacy Chatham
"Good campground, clean and well kept. It is popular and can get very crowded. Bathrooms and showers can get a bit competitive. If you are going for peace and quiet, think this one through. There are a ton of kids on bikes, scooters etc...it is an awesome place for kids so it makes sense, but it is loud during the day. If you have kids, this place is fantastic. The river, playgrounds, trails...it has it all."
Dave Valenzuela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Pine State Park is located about 30 minutes south of Bend, Oregon. Take US-97 South and follow signs for the park. The drive is scenic and straightforward.
Public transportation options directly to La Pine State Park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the park.
From Bend, take US-97 South for approximately 25 miles. Take the exit for La Pine State Park and follow the signs. The park entrance is well-marked.
Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, including near trailheads, the river access points, and the campground areas.
Yes, La Pine State Park is easily accessible from the town of La Pine, which is just a few miles away. It's also a great base for exploring other Central Oregon attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
La Pine State Park typically requires a day-use fee for entry. Check the official Oregon State Parks website for current pricing and any potential reservation requirements.
The park grounds are generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. Campground hours and specific facility access may vary. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for camping at La Pine State Park, especially during peak season. You can book online through the Oregon State Parks reservation system.
Yes, La Pine State Park offers both standard and deluxe cabins for rent, providing a comfortable alternative to tent or RV camping.
The check-in and check-out process at La Pine State Park is described as super easy, making it a hassle-free experience for campers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
La Pine State Park features numerous trails, including the Cougar Woods Trail leading to the Big Ponderosa Pine, and paths along the Deschutes River. Trails cater to various skill levels.
Absolutely! The Deschutes River offers excellent opportunities for fishing. The park also has a boat launch, making it ideal for paddling and floating.
Yes, it's a fantastic place for families! Kids will love the river access, playgrounds, and numerous trails. The park is very kid-friendly.
Keep an eye out for charming ground squirrels and chipmunks, as well as Stellar Jays. Remember to secure your food to prevent unwanted visitors.
Cell service can be spotty within the park. If you require reliable connectivity, consider bringing a satellite internet device like Starlink.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
La Pine State Park does not have on-site restaurants. However, the nearby town of La Pine offers various dining options, from casual eateries to Mexican cuisine.
The town of La Pine, just a short drive away, has several restaurants. For Mexican food, Ándale Ándale is a popular choice.
Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the park, offering scenic spots to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
Yes, you can find grocery stores in the town of La Pine for stocking up on supplies for your camping trip or picnic.
La Pine offers a range of food options, including authentic Mexican dishes and other casual dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Deschutes River, especially during sunrise with mist. The ancient Ponderosa Pine and the surrounding pine forests also make for beautiful photographic subjects.
Yes, the park offers diverse landscapes, from riverine scenes to dense forests, making it a great location for landscape photographers.
Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for photography, especially along the Deschutes River. Golden hour can also create beautiful scenes in the pine forests.
You might have opportunities to photograph small wildlife like chipmunks and Stellar Jays. Be patient and respectful of their space.
The riverfront areas and the trails leading to the Big Ponderosa Pine offer excellent vantage points for capturing the park's natural beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents will appreciate the easy check-in/check-out process and the availability of cabins for a more comfortable stay. While the park can get lively with kids, it's a fantastic place for them to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Just be sure to keep an eye on them near the river and secure any food from the abundant, entertaining chipmunks and squirrels.
🏕️ Campers and RVers
Be aware that the park can get crowded, especially during peak season, and some areas can be noisy with family activities. If you're seeking absolute quiet, consider booking a weekday stay or a site further from the main activity hubs. Reliable cell service is not guaranteed, so plan accordingly if you need to stay connected.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the forests, the park's access to the Deschutes River provides a different kind of natural beauty, with opportunities for peaceful walks along the water's edge. The high desert environment offers unique flora and fauna, making every exploration a discovery. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you'll want to spend hours exploring the diverse landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping and Accommodations
When choosing a campsite, consider the loop and space for the best experience. While some loops offer peace and quiet, others can be lively with families and children enjoying the park's amenities. The park's popularity means it can get crowded, and while bathrooms and showers are generally well-maintained, they can become competitive during peak times. For those seeking solitude, weekdays might offer a more tranquil experience.
Important Note: Cell service can be unreliable within the park. If you depend on connectivity for work or communication, consider bringing a satellite internet solution like Starlink, which has been reported to work well.
Exploring the Deschutes River
Beyond fishing and floating, the riverbanks provide beautiful areas for paddling, or simply relaxing and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The park's trails often lead to picturesque viewpoints along the river, allowing visitors to appreciate its natural beauty from various perspectives. Whether you're an avid angler, a kayaker, or just looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, the Deschutes River at La Pine State Park has something to offer.
Remember to check local regulations for fishing licenses and any specific guidelines for boating or floating on the Deschutes River. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the river's pristine condition for future visitors.
The Majestic Ponderosa Pine
+2The 'Big Tree' is easily accessible via the Cougar Woods Trail, which winds through the park's forest. Standing at its base offers a profound sense of scale and a connection to centuries of natural history. The Heritage Tree Committee officially dedicated this remarkable tree in 2000, celebrating its enduring presence and ecological importance.
Visiting the Big Ponderosa Pine is a highlight for many, offering a unique opportunity to witness one of nature's most magnificent creations. It's a perfect spot for reflection and a reminder of the ancient forests that once dominated the region. Don't forget your camera to capture this awe-inspiring natural monument!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit