From McKenzie Bridge, travel east on Highway 126 about 29.5 miles to Santiam Pass, turn south at the Hoodoo Ski Area sign onto Big Lake Road (Forest Road 2690), and continue a few miles to the campground. Day-use parking is not available at this specific location — this is an overnight-only facility.

• Vault toilets (single and double)
• Fire ring and picnic table per site
• Boat ramp and swimming area (shared with Big Lake Campground)
• Firewood and ice available for purchase nearby

Unlike some nearby campgrounds, every site at Big Lake West requires a reservation — there’s no first-come, first-served option here. Book via Recreation.gov up to 6 months ahead. Check-in 2:00 p.m., check-out around noon to 1:00 p.m.

Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., max stay is 14 days in a 60-day window. OHV use is prohibited except when entering or leaving.

Mt. Washington Wilderness, Patjens Lakes Trail, Pacific Crest Trail access, and Hoodoo Ski Area are all close by.

Big Lake is popular for both motorized and non-motorized boating, including waterskiing, plus lake fishing and swimming — access is shared with the boat ramp and swim area at Big Lake Campground next door.

Is Big Lake West Campground the same as Big Lake Campground?
No — they’re two separate, individually bookable facilities on the same lake; Big Lake West is the tent-only, reservation-required side.

Can I just show up without a reservation?
No — unlike some nearby campgrounds, Big Lake West requires a reservation for every site; there’s no first-come, first-served option here.

Is there a boat ramp?
Yes, shared with Big Lake Campground, with both motorized and non-motorized boating allowed on Big Lake.

Can I bring my RV?
No — Big Lake West is tent-only.

Is there drinking water?
Yes, through a system shared with the adjacent Big Lake Campground.