Fishing enthusiasts and hikers find a well-positioned base at Camp Creek, a Forest Service campground built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Located directly off Highway 26 between Welches and Government Camp, this historic site features two distinct loops separated by Camp Creek, which flows along the western edge of the property.
The campground retains much of its original character, including several stone fireplaces from the CCC era that campers can still use today. Sites vary considerably in size and levelness due to the campground's age, though many are notably spacious. The creek-side sites prove most popular, offering direct water access where visitors can wade, fish, or simply listen to the flowing water. "The woods are so calm and for being so close to 26 you can't hear the cars at all," notes Gretch H..
Dense forest coverage provides natural privacy between most sites, with towering pines and abundant moss creating a classic Pacific Northwest setting. The Still Creek Trail connects directly to the campground for those seeking longer hikes, while shorter walks along the creek offer easier exploration options. RV access accommodates units up to 30 feet, though the narrow, tree-lined roads require careful navigation for larger rigs.
Basic amenities include vault toilets in each loop and a shared water pump, though reviewers suggest bringing your own water supply for convenience. Stephanie Z. recommends stopping "by the Safeway in Sandy en-route and carry in your own water." The campground operates from late May through early September, with reservations available through the standard Forest Service system.
Camp Creek works well for campers seeking a convenient Mt. Hood area base with creek access and historic character, particularly those planning early morning starts on popular nearby trails.
Description
Overview
The Camp Creek Campground sits next to a babbling forest creek in the country's scenic Pacific Northwest region. The campground is not far from the base of the majestic, snow-covered Mt. Hood, Oregon's highest point and a prominent landmark of the area. A variety of recreational activities surround the campground, including hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, scenic views and points of exploration.
Recreation
Surrounding the campground are a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails, including the 1.6-mile Still Creek Trail, which is family-friendly and full of beautiful vegetation, and the Pioneer Bridle Trail, which takes hikers, bikers and horseback riders through about 10 miles of scenic wilderness. Visitors to the area also enjoy mountain biking along the nearby Zigzag River, however bikes are not allowed within designated wilderness areas along the trail. A variety of trout and whitefish populate the nearby creek and river, where anglers typically enjoy catch-and-release fishing. Wading is also popular in the cool mountain waters. The plentiful creeks and streams in the area stem from glaciers atop Mt. Hood.
Facilities
The campground offers about two dozen single-family and double occupancy campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Parking surfaces are dirt and gravel, and a dump station is available nearby for a fee.
Natural Features
The shady and quiet campground is situated on a bench above Camp Creek, in the Mt. Hood National Forest, at an elevation of about 2,200 feet. It is tucked in among a mature forest of Douglas fir and cedar trees that are covered in moss. The campground was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936. While updates and renovations have been made, some features from the era remain, such as several stone fireplaces.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (503) 622-3191.
Nearby Attractions
The town of Rhododendron is about 3 miles from the campground, offering a variety of services and supplies.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCamp Creek is located in Oregon near Welches
Directions
From Portland, travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 32 miles. Camp Creek Campground is located on the south side of the highway, about 3 miles past the community of Rhododendron.
Address
MT. HOOD
OR
Coordinates
45.305163 N
121.867252 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 26 usersLast on 5/6/26
VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/6/26- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/6/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 26 usersLast on 5/6/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/6/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/6/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 55 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 31 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 34 min from Longview, WA
- 1 hr 49 min from Albany, OR
