First Camp Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

First Camp, near Paulina Lake in Oregon’s Deschutes National Forest, offers 14 first-come, first-served established campsites—no reservations needed.


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Summary

A small fee is required. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water; however, there are no RV hookups. Set in a serene, high-alpine pine forest near the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, the vibe is peaceful and scenic. Campers enjoy easy access to Paulina Lake and nearby trails like the Paulina Lakeshore Trail and Big Obsidian Flow. Open seasonally (typically June–September), it’s best visited in summer for mild temperatures and clear skies. Great for tent campers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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