Camping near Government Camp, Oregon ranges from primitive sites to luxury accommodations with elevation changes affecting temperatures throughout the year. At 3,980 feet, Government Camp serves as a gateway to Mount Hood's recreational areas with seasonal temperatures varying from below freezing in winter to 70s during summer. Nights remain cool even in July and August, typically dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Hike around the lake: At Trillium Lake Campground, the lake loop trail offers accessible walking for all skill levels. "The lake loop trail to hike on it. It is a beautiful place and dig friendly long as your dogs are leashed," notes Gayle K., who recommends early mornings to avoid crowds.
Fish in shallow waters: Frog Lake provides bank fishing opportunities for beginners. "I love catching fish all the time and it's super fun for kids and once you go you will find out why it's named frog lake," explains Jose C., highlighting the consistent fishing success at this location.
Explore off-season options: Winter camping is available at select locations. "We ended up parking on the side of the road, and hiked in to the other side of the lake! There was a nice area that looked like someone had camped previously so I set up camp for the night there!" shares Natasha R. about Meditation Point, noting the accessibility of forest roads during colder months.
Creek wading: For cooling off without swimming, shallow creek access provides relief. "Several nice little hikes around the area, or just wander through the river down by the small bridge. Just the right depth to splash around in and cool off," reports Corinna B. about Camp Creek's water features.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Camp Creek Campground offers secluded spots with natural separation. "We had a nice spot right by the creek, it has nice trails. A great place to take your family or dogs," says Chelsy S., appreciating the spacing between campsites that creates private camping experiences.
Accessibility to recreation: Many campers value proximity to multiple outdoor activities. "The campground pros were its proximity to Clear Lake, the huge campsites, and it was not very crowded. We absolutely loved clear lake and it was great for paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing," says Jasmine V. about her stay at Clear Lake Campground.
Shoulder season visits: Mid-week or early/late season camping reduces crowding issues. "I had a great visit at Clear Lake on the Fourth of July 2017. I arrived very late. There was only a toilet but that was fine with me. I was leaving early. The quiet morning at the lake was the perfect start to my day," shares Kimberly L., noting that despite holiday timing, early mornings remained peaceful.
Lakefront sites: Timothy Lake at Gone Creek Campground provides direct water access. "The campground doesn't offer day use, so the small, well laid out boat launch and lake access areas aren't super crowded," reports Kristina G., highlighting the benefit of staying at reservation-only sites.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer vault toilets only. "Bathrooms are alright with pit toilets; no showers unfortunately," notes Alicia F. about Clear Lake, representing the typical facilities at forest campgrounds in the area.
Seasonal weather fluctuations: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer. "There is also snow-shoeing here in the winter, but don't underestimate the sloped road you have to get down (and back-up) to get to the lake in the first place!" cautions Raphaela H. about Trillium Lake's access challenges.
Wildlife encounters: Insect activity varies by season and location. "There were a ton of bees. Mostly hidden in the ground, so just be super care... I think my sister and I each got 5 stings," warns Sarah W. about Meditation Point Campground during summer months.
Water conditions: Lakes may be colder or lower than expected. "The lake was low when we were there," mentions Alicia F. about Clear Lake, indicating the need to check current conditions before planning water activities.
Tips for camping with families
Tadpole viewing spots: Frog Lake Campground offers unique wildlife viewing for children. "This campground was absurdly a great experience to have with my son. In early summer it is full of tadpoles and my little boy absolutely loved it!" shares Rebekah W., noting the educational opportunities.
Safe water play areas: Identify shallow, calm water spots for young children. "Shallow end north side of lake great for small kids to play in lake. Southern end is deeper nd great for bank fishing," advises Barbara H. about Frog Lake's designated areas.
Indoor options for rainy days: Some facilities offer weather alternatives. "We had an RV on site. Used the indoor swimming pool and the restaurant for some breakfasts & lunches," says Amy H. about Mt Hood Village Resort, providing backup plans for inclement weather days.
Pack extra layers: Mountain temperatures drop significantly at night. "It does get much colder at night because it is close to the lake! Go during a weekday in the summer!" suggests Travis H. about temperature variations at Frog Lake.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Clear Creek Crossing Campground and similar rustic sites limit vehicle length. "This campground is far from being accessible for handicapped visitors," mentions Jeremiah S., indicating the challenging terrain for larger vehicles at many forest service campgrounds.
Hookup availability: Most forest campgrounds lack services. "Easy to access, even for larger rigs. We stayed in 39 foot 5th wheel. Plenty of pull thru spots, full hookups, regularly spaced bathroom/showers," notes Steve R. about Mt Hood Village Resort, one of the few locations offering full services.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for stabilization. "The sites are typically close together, but some have more separation than others. Most sites are pull through. Full hookups worked well for us," explains Joel H., mentioning the importance of leveling gear at mountain campgrounds.
Road conditions: Forest roads may have unexpected obstacles. "DO NOT DRIVE YOUR RV DOWN TO THE STORE. Park at your site or somewhere near it and walk to the store. Not great for large equipment," warns Jason S. about Lost Lake Resort, emphasizing caution with large vehicles on narrow roads.
