Well, having done years of high-speed trips from LA to Bend for Thanksgiving, I can verify that it is technically within the range of a one-day drive from LA. With that in mind it's worth mentioning that this year Bachelor has the best snow pack of any ski resort on the west coast.
As Steve can verify, there are plenty of Snowparks and winter camping opportunities around this area. But don't try camping in a wide spot in the road in Oregon, they are rathy testy about that--something anyone who's tried it would know.
But to get to Bend you have to drive past Shasta, which is sitting conveniently near the highway, as well as the area north of there, accessed from the 97, where you will find plenty of gate-free FS roads, and magnificent views of Shasta from the north--but no snow on the ground.
For my money, the Mammoth Lakes area has the best/closest opportunity to find something snowey this year. And you can still do a trip up to the Whites for that windswept promotory/magnificent views experience. Perhaps it's time to get off the pot and call Tamarack?
