Tent camping near Eagle Creek, Oregon spans elevations from 500 to 3,500 feet within the Cascades foothills. Campgrounds typically receive 70-90 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush, forested landscapes dominated by Douglas fir and western hemlock. Fire closures from 2020 wildfires affect several sites, with road access limited beyond mile 7 on the Molalla River Recreation Corridor.
What to do
Swimming in mountain streams: Three Bears Recreation Site provides access to the Molalla River with natural swimming holes. "Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!" says Kierra K. at BLM Molalla River Recreation Area.
Fishing for trout: Catch-and-release trout fishing is available at several locations along the Clackamas and Molalla rivers. The Molalla Recreation Corridor has "good catch and release trout fishing. You can also catch salmon in the river," according to Hahns R.
Hiking to alpine views: From Burnt Lake, a 2-mile trail leads to East Zigzag Mountain summit with Mount Hood views. "If you put down your stuff at your site, you can do another 2 mile hike up the summit of East Zigzag Mt. and see a beautiful view of Mt. Hood," notes Sonja O.
Island camping: For a unique experience, visit Government Island State Recreation Area by boat. "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated. There are no fire pits but you can burn. No potable water, so bring your own," advises Fatima H.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Sites near water provide natural white noise that masks road sounds. "We stayed within 50 yards of the water and was indulging in the river noise to destress to," reports Kevin M. from Cedar Grove Recreation Site.
Secluded lake environments: Alpine lakes offer peaceful backpacking destinations. "Beautiful little mountain lake on the slopes of Mt. Hood. We did the 12-mile loop in two days from the trailhead below Shellrock Lake. The water is clear and amazingly warm, considering that it's glacier feed," writes Thomas B. about Serene Lake.
Small, less-crowded campgrounds: Cedar Grove Recreation Site has only 11 first-come, first-served sites. "This is my go to for during the week over nighters as it's never been full. Last year I went in June for a solo night and I had the place to myself," shares Jason B.
Access to multiple swimming spots: Within the Molalla Recreation Corridor, swimmers can find various options. "Within a short drive are many local favorite swimming areas. Ivor Davies wayside (around milepost 5 is beautiful and popular)," notes Hahns R.
What you should know
Water supply limitations: Many sites lack reliable drinking water. At Burnt Lake, there are "one shallow creek and a few small stream crossings, so make sure to wear waterproof boots or at least pack a pair of extra socks if it's cold out," advises Amanda J.
Road conditions affect access: High-clearance vehicles are required for some areas. For Kinzel Lake, "The road leading into the campgrounds (NF-2613/Kinzel Lake Road) is primitive and just challenging enough to keep most folks away. You will want a motorcycle or 4WD vehicle to get here. It takes me about 25 minutes by motorcycle from Government Camp," says Chris H. about Kinzel Lake Campground.
Summer crowds at popular sites: Some locations get busy despite seeming remote. "The prior reviews are incorrect. This is a heavily trafficked trail, parking is a zoo," warns Naomi E. about Burnt Lake.
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Complete bans are common during summer months. "Open as of June 2021 although the road is closed shortly after the campground due to the fires last year," reports Shay Renee B. about BLM Molalla River Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with creek sound barriers: Rainbow Campground offers sites where creek sounds mask road noise. "We ended up with the last available site, and it was right along the driveway and we could see 4 or 5 other tents/campsites from our spot. The biggest perk for us was the awesome trail that leads from the campsite and heads down to the Clackamas River," notes Katherine H. about Rainbow Campground.
Look for sites with water access: Spots with direct river access are ideal for kids. "Great for swimming kids fishing an catching crawfish something for everyone," says Michelle A. about BLM Molalla River Recreation Area.
Watch for drop-offs near water: Some campsites have steep banks. "Close to water, some places have drop of cliffs watch little ones," warns Elizabeth R. about Rainbow Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited options for larger rigs: Most sites in the Eagle Creek area are tent-focused with limited RV access. "Well situated on the banks of the Clackamas River, many camp sites open right onto the shore. However, while the price is the same as at other Mt. Hood National Forest camp sites, the spots themselves do not have paved driveways," notes Brian C. about Sunstrip Campground.
Parking space considerations: Some campgrounds have tight access. "Everything felt very small and close together. Just not for us but doesn't mean it wouldn't work for someone else. Did have trash bins fire rings, restrooms on site basic essentials," says kathaleen about Carter Bridge Campground.
