Several campgrounds are in the vicinity of beautiful 5,200-foot-high Diamond Lake; boating, fishing, swimming, bicycling, and hiking are among the popular recreational options. The trout fishing is particularly good in the early summer, and there are also excellent hikes into the Mount Thielsen Wilderness, Crater Lake National Park [1], and Mount Bailey areas.
While no reservations are technically necessary, these campgrounds can fill up fast, so it’s always a good idea to book a space ahead of time at 877/444-6777 or www.reserveusa.com [2].
Although Route 138 twists and turns most of the 80 miles from Roseburg [3] to Diamond Lake, many people head straight for Broken Arrow (early May–late Sept.) This 142-site campground with standard picnic tables and fire grills has plenty of room for tents and RVs (up to 30 feet); flush toilets, piped water, and gray wastewater sumps are available.
The next campground bears the name of its raison d’être, Diamond Lake (May 15–Oct. 31, $18–24). Here you’ll find 160 campsites for tents and RVs (up to 22 feet) with picnic tables and fire grills. Piped water, flush toilets, and firewood are also available. Numerous hiking trails lead from the campground, including the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Boat docks, launching facilities, and rentals are nearby at Diamond Lake Lodge.
On the east shore of Diamond Lake is Thielsen View (late May–late Sept., $11–14). It features 60 sites for tents and RVs (up to 30 feet) with picnic tables and fire grills. Piped water, vault toilets, gray wastewater sumps, and a boat ramp are also available. As the name implies, this campground has picturesque views of Mount Thielsen.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/oregon/southern-oregon/crater-lake-national-park
[2] http://www.reserveusa.com
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/oregon/southern-oregon/roseburg