Mona Campground, near Blue River, Oregon, is a charming retreat tucked away in the Willamette National Forest. This place offers a nice blend of privacy and natural beauty, with spacious sites surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

The campground features fire pits for cozy evenings and is pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Visitors have enjoyed the warm waters of the nearby reservoir, perfect for swimming and playing, although it’s wise to check water levels before your trip, as they can fluctuate significantly throughout the season.

For those who love hiking, the nearby Carpenter Mountain offers stunning views and trails that are worth exploring. While the campground doesn’t have showers or electric hookups, the vault toilets are well-maintained, and the lack of cell service can be a refreshing break from the digital world. As one camper noted, “The site was very spacious and the campground nice and quiet, clean and well kept.”

If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that markets for supplies are a bit of a drive away, so stock up before you arrive. With its beautiful surroundings and laid-back vibe, Mona Campground is a great spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

## Overview

 Known for fishing, boating, canoeing and other water sports, Mona campground is located on the northwest shore of Blue River Reservoir. The campground is situated on a long, narrow strip of mixed conifers along the shore, the thick vegetation secludes each campsite, allowing for privacy. Slopes of mixed conifers and other trees surround the area. Reservations are available May through mid-September. They can be made up to six months in advance, but must be made at least four days prior to your intended arrival date.
## Recreation

 Fishing, boating, swimming, and water skiing on Blue River Reservoir draw campers here. There is hiking on Buck Mountain Trail and Lookout Creek Old Growth Trail. Sightseeing is popular on the West Cascades National Scenic Byway.
## Natural Features

 The campground sits on the northeastern shore of Blue River Reservoir and can be accessed by driving the West Cascades National Scenic Byway. It is located in the Willamette National Forest on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains. 
## Nearby Attractions

 Come for water play or fishing at Blue River Reservoir or for exploring the nearby trails and Scenic Byway.

Mona Campground

Searching for the best camping near Blue River, OR? Blue River is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Blue River, OR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Blue River

The Best Camping Near Blue River, Oregon

I go to this spot every year and it is amazing how the water level in Blue river reservoir fluctuates. When it is high there are a lot of boats, but when it is low, it is nice and calm, good for swimming, kayaking, or floating. A peaceful, relaxing spot right off hwy 126\. Always has a beautiful view of the stars and has frogs singing at night. Good spot to get away without having to go too far. This campsite does not offer showers and has pit toilets, but they have always been kept well.

Waters rising

Most of not all sites are spacious and private. A good amount af vegetation separates most sites from one another. Many sites have vistas of the reseviour itself. Mostly reservable sites, some first come first served. Overall great campground. Site #5 is a gem. 

Large, private sites

Mona was about 2 hr 45m drive from Portland. Our campsite was shaded with a fire pit, bench and plenty of room for tents and gear. Dog friendly, which was a big perk. Water and toilet were a minute or two walk. Markets with firewood/ice/food were a decent drive away, so make sure to have all your gear or stop on the way in. Experimental forest was a relatively short drive and Carpenter Mountain made for some amazing hiking and views! 

One big complaint-- we went in early August (booked in June) and planned to do some floating. Got a call a week before the trip that there would be restricted boating. Didn't know that our lakeside spot would be reduced to a small river. So be aware that depending on time of year, the lake may disappear. 

Otherwise, great spot. 

Nice spot but where'd the lake go? 

Used to be great. Last time we were there it was pretty run down

Very nice campground, nice privacy between sites. Vault bathrooms. Not great cell service, which was nice. Mosquitoes were rampant, laughed at our citronella and deet. Reservoir is great, warm water, fun to play in. 

Photos of Mona Campground

Real photos from real campers