Islet Campground

Indigo Campground is located approximately 37 miles east of Oakridge at an elevation of 5,400 feet. This campground has 55 sites with fire rings and a recycling center. Potable water and toilets are available. There is a RV Sanitation Station one mile before the campground. This campground is located at the north end of Waldo Lake and offers wonderful sandy beaches. The winds consistently blow each afternoon, offering a cool break from the summer sun. A picnic table located on the rock jetty is a great spot to enjoy a peaceful evening watching the sun set. The mosquito population is high from June to mid-August and can by quiet bothersome, so be prepared.

Waldo Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in Oregon. With over 100 feet visibility, it's 2nd only to Crater Lake in purity. The lake is closed to all motor boats which makes it incredible for paddle sports and small sailboats. I've been coming here for over 40 years with my family and consider a very special place. The only downside is that the season is very short (opens in June and closes at the end of September). The mosquitoes can be be fierce in June and July.

Of the three campgrounds (Shadow Bay, Islet, and North Waldo) North Waldo is our favorite. Unfortunately the sites suitable for RVs are limited and were occupied so we stayed at Islet a mile away which is still very nice. The price is a little steep for no services but the campgrounds are very well maintained. If you score a spot on the lake the price will seem like a bargain.

The hiking and moutain biking are awesome up here. Cell service with Verizon and AT&T is spotty to non-existent.

Islet Campground next to the gorgeous Waldo lake in the Willamette National Forest. After driving through all three campgrounds, Islet, North Waldo, and Shadow Bay, we felt like we picked the best one. The other campgrounds are larger, with Shadow Bay seeming like the biggest, but Islet had such easy access to the water. The boat launch area was large with a nice dock. They can be reached either by road or the Shore Line Trail.

The parking pads on most sites did seem small, but lots of area to spread out among the trees.
We camped the first week of July, which after booking and looking at other reviews was probably a mistake. The mosquitoes were thick and everywhere, but we were able to escape them when out on the beautiful, crystal clear lake. The lake itself made dealing with the mosquitoes worth it.

Early morning kayaking and paddle boarding was a highlight of the week. The smooth lake water made seeing the bottom so easy. Early afternoon winds do roll in, so make sure you're able to paddle back to shore in wavy conditions. The campground was well maintained, with the vault toilets cleaned often, keeping smells down. If you do venture during mosquito time, bring spray, nets, or other repellents. There is no cell service so plan ahead if hiking and exploring the area.

9/2/22: Lane County Sheriff’s Office has initiated a Level 1, Be Ready Evacuation, for North Waldo Campground, Islet Campground, and Charlton Lake Trail Head. Level 1, means to take personal responsibility to be ready for a wildfire, become familiar with area roads, including exit routes from your immediate area, and stay informed of the current situation. Pay attention to Lane County Sheriff’s Office for updates.