Soda Creek Oregon family photos//Millsap Family

Sparks Lake; a hidden Central Oregon gem

Tucked away at the turn off for Sparks Lake; Soda Creek Campground is an absolute gem for a family photography location. On a warm summer evening this spot has the coziest sunset vibes complete with a gorgeous open field, views of the South Sisters and Broken Top Mountains, and the quietest little creek. Sparks Lake area is located about an hour from Redmond. I know can be a bit of a haul for little kiddos BUT its such a peaceful drive; taking the new bypass in Bend and zipping up the Cascade Lakes Highway at a time of night when the road is almost empty is the 90’s childhood vibe we’ve all been craving. My favorite part about shooting at Soda Creek Campground is that you get alllll the views of Sparks Lake without the long bumpy drive back to the parking lot. Soda Creek is conveniently located immediately off the Cascade Lakes Highway with easy parking and a campground bathroom for those last minute kiddo bathroom breaks.

Tips for sessions at Soda Creek Campground

Here’s some tips for families hoping to have their session at Soda Creek Campground!

1. plan for later naps for kiddos! pushing nap time even a tiny bit can help push bedtime enough to get through those late summer sunset shots with the South Sisters mountain backdrop.
2. Dress them in shoes that you don’t mind getting wet! the sweetest little creek makes for fun little shots splashing and playing.
3. Bring Mosquito repellent! Soda Creek as well as Sparks Lake has quite the mosquito population, can’t blame them it really is the perfect spot. Lastly shoot for a snack right before heading out or in the car if you’re up for it.

This spot is an all time favorite summer and early fall family photography session spot. You would be hard pressed to find a spot in Central Oregon more picturesque than Soda Creek with the long grasses and South Sister Mountain peak in the backdrop. Head to my Family Photography Info Page to see pricing and decide if the Soda Creek Campground is a spot you’d like to hang with your sweet fam and get some epic photos!