Fishing enthusiasts find direct access to the Clackamas River at this forested campground, though the facility remains temporarily closed due to fire damage. Mount Hood National Forest Sunstrip Campground sits on the riverbank with many sites opening directly onto the water. The 15 tent-only sites feature unpaved driveways and vault toilets rather than the flush facilities found at nearby developed campgrounds.
River access varies by campsite location. Christina E. notes a "steep, short climb to river" from elevated sites like numbers 5 and 6, while other spots provide easier water access. Highway noise carries through the trees from the nearby road. Most sites receive shade throughout the day, with afternoon sun blocked by trees across the river.
The campground operates on a more primitive model compared to other Forest Service facilities in the area. Campers can explore Mount Hood National Forest Roaring River Campground just half a mile northwest for additional developed options. Sites cost $22-$24 per night when open from April through October, with reservations available through the standard Forest Service system.
Description
Overview
Campground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire Sunstrip Campground is a primitive campground on the banks of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. It provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, but retains the look and feel of true nature, with only a few amenities.
Recreation
Fishing is very popular in the Clackamas and anglers can expect winter Steelhead, spring Chinook and late summer Kokanee salmon, as well as other species of freshwater fish. Whitewater rafting is also a favorite activity among visitors. The Clackamas River provides miles of wild water as it snakes through the scenic Cascade range. A hiking trail meanders along the riverbank, north and south of the campground. Scenic driving is available on the nearby West Cascades National Scenic Byway, which follows the river.
Facilities
The campground offers about eight tent-only campsites, half of which are on the waterfront. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Accessible vault toilets are provided. Drinking water is not available at the campground.
Natural Features
The campground is nestled in a wooded area of the Mt. Hood National Forest, thick with moss and greenery, at an elevation of about 1,000 feet. The river provides habitat for the federally protected bald eagle and northern spotted owl, as well as the occasional peregrine falcon. A variety of wildlife make its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
The Clackamas River, just below nearby Indian Henry Campground to the North Fork Reservoir, provides 12.5 miles of class III-IV whitewater. Outfitters are located in the town of Estacada.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsMount Hood National Forest Sunstrip Campground is located in Oregon near Welches
Directions
From Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for about 21 miles to the campground.
Coordinates
45.152287 N
122.107149 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 56 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 23 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 41 min from Albany, OR
- 1 hr 58 min from Corvallis, OR
