CARTER LAKE
federal · REEDSPORT, OR
- dump station5.3 mi
- fuel station6.4 mi

USFS · Data Source: Recreation.gov
About
Overview Carter Lake Campground is a family favorite in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This campground is located on Carter Lake, perfect for fishing, swimming, and boating. The Carter Dunes Trailhead is located within the campground, and the Pacific coast is just a short drive away. Recreation Hike the Carter Dune Trail, which attracts campers and locals alike. Fishing for rainbow trout is a good way to pass the time, and canoeing and kayaking are excellent on Carter Lake. The dunes region is also famous for off-road vehicle riding trails. Facilities Drinking water and flush toilets are available and each site has a campfire pit, picnic table, and trash. Parking aprons are paved. Natural Features Campsites are nestled among shore pine, sitka spruce, and Douglas fir, with hedges of rhododendron. Carter Lake spans 28 acres at an elevation of 100 feet. The campground is part of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, known for its wind-sculpted sand dunes towering up to 500 feet above sea level. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (541) 271-6000. Nearby Attractions Carter Lake Campground is located near several non-motorized hiking trails, including Siltcoos Lake Trail and Threemile Creek Trail. Visitors can also use the campground as a base to explore the area's waterways, including the Pacific Ocean, Tahkenitch Lake, and Siltcoos Lake. Charges & Cancellations Campsites that are not occupied after 24 hours of arrival time will be considered as a "no show" and sites will be released for others to reserve. If campers will be arriving after 24 hours of their arrival time, they are encouraged to call the ranger station at 541-271-6000 to let staff know.
Around this stay
Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.
- 5.3 mi
dump station
RV Dump Station
- 6.4 mi
fuel station
Fuelgood
- 8.3 mi
grocery
Safeway
- 1.6 mi
potable water
Potable water
- 0.1 mi
trailhead
Carter Dunes Trail - East Trailhead
- 1.6 mi
attraction
Viewpoint
- < 0.1 mi
recreation site
Carter Lake Boat Ramp
Contact & access
- Oregon Dunes Visitor Center · REEDSPORT, OR 97467
- 541-271-6000
Reservations & demand
August weekends are typically reserved about 164 days ahead.
Based on 64 Recreation.gov reservations (Oct 2023–Sep 2024). Historical demand — not live availability.
Outbound provider links only. Roam Atlas does not book sites or show live availability.
Source and verification
Last verified: 10/6/2026
See the Sources tab for provenance detail.

