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Mt Hood/Clear Lake
Overview
Nestled within the dense canopy of the Mount Hood National Forest, Mt Hood/Clear Lake offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest camping experience. This seasonal getaway provides a tranquil retreat from the bustle of modern life, focusing on the raw beauty of the Oregon Cascades. Visitors are greeted by towering Douglas firs and the crisp, high-altitude air that characterizes this region. As a traditional National Forest campground, it prioritizes a connection with nature, offering a quiet atmosphere where the sounds of the forest take center stage.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just south of Government Camp, OR, the park sits at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet. The location serves as a perfect basecamp for exploring the southern slopes of Mount Hood. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the calm waters of Clear Lake and the rugged terrain of the Cascade Range. While the campground feels worlds away from civilization, it remains conveniently accessible from Highway 26, providing a gateway to the alpine wonders of the region.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a rustic destination designed for those who enjoy dry camping and self-sufficiency. The park features standard amenities including vault toilets and potable water access during the peak season. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for evening gatherings. It is important to note that there are no hookups or dump stations available on-site, making it best suited for RVers who are prepared for a primitive stay amidst the old-growth forest.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is Clear Lake itself, which is popular for non-motorized boating, kayaking, and fishing for rainbow trout. For those looking to explore on foot, the area provides easy access to numerous hiking trails, including routes leading toward the iconic Timberline Lodge. A short drive takes you into the heart of Government Camp for local dining, or to nearby Trillium Lake, famous for its mirror-like reflections of the mountain peak.
Who This Park Is Best For
Mt Hood/Clear Lake is ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers who prefer solitude over resort-style amenities. It is a fantastic choice for van lifers and owners of smaller RVs who are comfortable with off-grid living. Families looking to unplug and spend their days on the water or exploring forest trails will find this park to be a refreshing and peaceful mountain sanctuary.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jeffery Ysais
It was a nice camp, but the camp host was no where, they left a sign up about taking a camp site for a night. We had a reservation but when we got to the site, they had our site marked open, thankfully we got there before anyone could take it, but there was really no one around so it didn’t matter. The site was mostly clean and quiet. The lake, however, was super dried up, we went mid September, so maybe it was the off season? The road getting there wasn’t that bad, paved, but a few pot holes. Only gave 4 stars cause of the dried up lake.
Genevieve Castle
There were a handful of issues that came up for my group and I. When we arrived at our campsite, there was a ton of trash everywhere including a TON of cigarette butts. Tried to find the camp host to tell them, but they were MIA. We were there from Friday evening to Sunday morning and didn't see them once. We ended up picking up the trash ourselves. Lake is super dried out and you'd have to walk through a ton of mud to get to the water. That was fine, we still enjoyed the view. Campsite was relatively quiet and chill. By the end of the weekend, bathroom was completely out of toilet paper, which sucked. Overall, just felt super off putting to show up to our campsite and see a ton of trash (which was clearly visible to the host if they had put the reservation sign up) and then never saw/spoke to the host.
Tasia Allen
Lake was really low so the shore was kinda swampy near the waterline, boat ramp was not at all accessible to the water. Spots are nice and big, campground is scenic. Close to trillium if you'd rather stay at a smaller place nearby
Cherice Martin
The campground was pretty clean and spacious. Some spots had more flat areas, than others. The bathrooms could have been checked a little more often to make sure there was TP. Luckily we had back up. It's a little walk to the lake it's self, but we enjoyed it and the time we spent there. Probably be back next year.
Alexandra Czuchta
Nice lake, easy to access from hwy 26- nicely paved road into the campground, campground road a little bumpy but not too bad We were at site 4 which I think had one of the best views of the lake but was on a slope down from the road so getting things in/out of our camper van was a haul. Being on a little incline or hill wasn't the best for our 1 year old and It was very close to the next campsite but luckily no one was there. The whole campground is on a hillside but it does have lots of flat sites. Windy in the early morning/evening and more mosquitos (?) than I'm used to in Oregon BUT it was a beautiful lake with easy access at several parts around the campground. Saw several kayaks SUP and boats but not overly crowded. Huge trees which for hot days would be nice relief from the heat.