Mt Hood National Forest Camping

If you're looking for the best camping in Mt. Hood National Forest, you've come to the right place! Located just 50 miles east of Portland, Oregon, this stunning forest covers over 1 million acres and offers a variety of camping options, including tent camping, RV camping, dispersed camping, and cabin rentals. Whether you're seeking lakefront camping, scenic views of Mt. Hood, or a remote wilderness experience, Mt. Hood National Forest has something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Best Campgrounds in Mt. Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood National Forest boasts over 60 developed campgrounds, ranging from family-friendly sites with amenities to remote, rustic locations for nature lovers. Here are some of the top-rated campgrounds:

1. Trillium Lake Campground (Most Popular)

• Why Camp Here? Incredible views of Mt. Hood, easy access to a 2-mile scenic hiking loop, and excellent fishing and boating.

• Amenities: Picnic tables, fire pits, vault toilets, drinking water.

• Best For: Families, tent campers, and photographers.

2. Lost Lake Campground

• Why Camp Here? Beautiful lakefront camping with access to kayaking, fishing, and hiking.

• Amenities: Boat rentals, camp store, fire pits, restrooms.

• Best For: Families, anglers, and paddlers.

3. Timothy Lake Campgrounds (Best for RVs & Groups)

• Why Camp Here? Several campgrounds surround Timothy Lake, offering RV hookups, hiking trails, and lakeside views.

• Best For: RV campers, group camping, and watersports.

4. Rock Creek Reservoir Campground

• Why Camp Here? A peaceful fishing and kayaking spot with fewer crowds.

• Best For: Solo campers and anglers.

5. McNeil Campground

• Why Camp Here? A quiet, forested campground near the Zigzag Ranger District.

• Best For: Tent camping and nature lovers.

RV Camping in Mt. Hood National Forest

If you’re looking for RV-friendly camping near Mt. Hood, several campgrounds provide spacious sites and full hookups. Some of the best RV campgrounds include:

• Mt. Hood Village RV Resort (Full hookups, Wi-Fi, showers, playground)

• Timothy Lake Campgrounds (Lakeside RV sites with scenic views)

• Lost Lake Campground & Resort (Limited RV spots, lakefront views)

For boondocking and dispersed camping, there are 39 free RV camping spots near Mt. Hood.

Dispersed Camping in Mt. Hood National Forest

For free camping near Mt. Hood, dispersed camping is permitted in many areas of the forest. Top dispersed camping areas include:

• Badger Creek Wilderness

• Bonney Meadows Campground

• Little Fan Creek Camp

• Clear Creek Trail

Dispersed Camping Tips:

• Stay within designated areas to protect the environment.

• Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.

• Check fire restrictions before building a campfire.

Best Activities for Campers in Mt. Hood National Forest

There’s more to do than just camping—enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching while visiting. Popular activities include:

• Hiking Trails: Explore over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail and the scenic Trillium Lake Loop.

• Fishing & Boating: Enjoy fishing at Lost Lake, Timothy Lake, and Trillium Lake.

• Wildlife Viewing: Spot bald eagles, black bears, and elk in their natural habitat.

• Berry Picking & Mushroom Foraging: Seasonal berry picking is a fun summer activity.

• Winter Sports: In colder months, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular.

Things to Know Before Camping in Mt. Hood

Before you head out, here are some important camping rules and tips:

✔ Camping Limit: Stay up to 14 consecutive days per site.
✔ Fire Safety: Follow local fire restrictions and only use certified firewood.
✔ Weather Conditions: Prepare for sudden weather changes, especially at higher elevations.
✔ Peak Season Crowds: Campgrounds fill up fast in summer, so book in advance.
✔ Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and respect nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Best Campground in Mt. Hood National Forest?

The most popular campground is Trillium Lake, offering amazing Mt. Hood views and great hiking trails.

Where Can I Find Free Dispersed Camping Near Mt. Hood?

There are 39 free dispersed camping sites in Mt. Hood National Forest, with popular areas including Badger Creek Wilderness and Bonney Meadows.

Can I Camp in an RV Near Mt. Hood?

Yes! Several RV-friendly campgrounds offer hookups and spacious sites, such as Mt. Hood Village RV Resort and Timothy Lake Campgrounds.

Plan Your Mt. Hood Camping Trip Today!

Whether you're looking for tent camping, RV parks, or dispersed camping, Mt. Hood National Forest is one of Oregon’s best camping destinations. With its breathtaking scenery, endless outdoor activities, and diverse camping options, it's a must-visit for nature lovers. Book your campsite today and start exploring!