About SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND
Overview Soda Creek Campground sits adjacent to Soda Creek as it flows across an open meadow into Sparks Lake. Recreation Sparks Lake's clear water and mountainous backdrop make it a popular destination for paddling and photography. Facilities Soda Creek Campground can accommodate RV, trailer or tent campers, however, electric hookups are not available. There are limited sites that are RV friendly, with most of the sites suitable for smaller vehicles or tent camping. All sites are equipped with a picnic table and campfire ring with grill and the campground has vault toilets available. Campers will need to bring their own water supply. Natural Features Sparks Lake, fed by streams originating on the slopes of Broken Top, rests atop a porous, volcanic lakebed. Throughout the summer the lake level decreases as snowmelt declines and water seeps underground into nearby lakes and streams. Nearby Attractions The accessible Ray Atkeson Trailhead begins near Sparks Lake Day Use area. The trail winds through lava channels and lodgepole pines. Less than a mile in, visitors will reach the Ray Atkeson Memorial Overlook where they will find one of the most iconic views in Central Oregon. Visitors can travel the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, a 66-mile drive through the Cascade Range that weaves past snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes. Charges & Cancellations Once your reservation start date has begun, neither the Recreation.gov Contact Center nor the campground manager will be able to modify your reservation.
How to Get There
From Bend, travel 26.2 miles west on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46).
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
- 🌡
Layers for swings
Daily temp range is wide (49°F low → 72°F high). Pack layers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND
Heading to SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273782) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND?
From Bend, travel 26.2 miles west on Cascade Lakes Hwy (46).
How do I contact SODA CREEK CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-323-1746 or email: Jen@Hoodoo.com.
References & Official Resources
