Established Camping
North Arm Campground
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Travel Alerts: Timothy Lake has limited access from Hwy 224 with detours.
- FR 57 has log removal and upcoming construction expect delays and temporary closures.
- RVs are encouraged to take Highway 26 while work on FR 57 continues. The FR 57 detour has narrow spots.
- Please see the Forest Service Fire Recovery Updates for more information.
- Please go to North Arm (Timothy Lake) Web Page click on the Facility Information tab, then scroll to the Getting Here section for recommended route to North Arm.
Campers are Saying
North Arm Campground, near Mt. Hood National Forest, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its stunning views of Mount Hood and the serene waters of Timothy Lake, it’s a favorite among campers who appreciate a peaceful environment.
The campground offers spacious sites, perfect for both tents and RVs, allowing for a bit of privacy while you enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors rave about the clear waters, making it an ideal place for swimming and fishing. One camper noted, “The water is surprisingly warm,” which is a pleasant surprise for those looking to cool off.
For those who enjoy hiking, there’s a lovely trail that circles the lake, providing access to some beautiful, less crowded spots along the shore. Many campers recommend bringing your kayak or paddleboard to fully enjoy the lake. Just remember, the nights can get chilly, so pack accordingly!
Facilities include clean, new vaulted toilets and accessible drinking water, ensuring you have what you need for a comfortable stay. While there are no showers or electric hookups, the natural beauty and tranquility of the area more than make up for it. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views, North Arm Campground is definitely worth a visit.
General Overview
USDA Forest Service
Mt. Hood National Forest
Overview
The North Arm Campground sits on the shores of Timothy Lake, in the shadow of Oregon's Mt. Hood. The surrounding forest setting offers spectacular views, wetlands, trails for exploration, and abundant fishing. This campground is smaller and more secluded than the others on the south side of the lake. DRIVING NOTE: There are two routes to North Arm Campground___one is rugged and one is suitable for RVs and trailers. Recommended Route: From Sandy, Oregon, travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 40 miles to Skyline Road / FS Road 42. Turn right on Skyline Road, and continue south for about 9 miles. Turn right on FS Road 57, and travel west for approximately 3 __ miles, crossing the dam at Timothy Lake. Take the 2nd right onto FS Road 5810. North Arm is approximately 5 __ miles from here. Keep right at all intersections___the road becomes FS Road 5890. The campground is on the right.
Recreation
Proximity to Timothy Lake allows campers to enjoy a variety of water-related recreation, including boating and sailing, as well as swimming, windsurfing and fishing. Anglers can expect a catch of kokanee salmon and a variety of trout, as well as crayfish. This area has wonderful canoeing and kayaking opportunities. A variety of trails are located in the area. The Timothy Lake Trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The 12 miles of relatively level terrain loops trekkers around the lake, providing scenic views of the area. It connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, a lengthy hike that extends across three states, from the borders of Canada and Mexico. Portions of that trail also lead southwest to Clackamas Lake Campground and a historic site. The Little Crater Lake is only a short hike away. Little Crater Lake is a geologic oddity, possibly formed by artesian water forcing its way through soft, volcanic rock. The beautiful, turquoise water is a wonder to see. The surrounding meadow is a great place for observing birds and other wildlife. The region is ripe for huckleberry picking as well.
Facilities
Proximity to Timothy Lake allows campers to enjoy a variety of water-related recreation, including boating and sailing, as well as swimming, windsurfing and fishing. Anglers can expect a catch of kokanee salmon and a variety of trout, as well as crayfish. This area has wonderful canoeing and kayaking opportunities. A variety of trails are located in the area. The Timothy Lake Trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The 12 miles of relatively level terrain loops trekkers around the lake, providing scenic views of the area. It connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, a lengthy hike that extends across three states, from the borders of Canada and Mexico. Portions of that trail also lead southwest to Clackamas Lake Campground and a historic site. The Little Crater Lake is only a short hike away. Little Crater Lake is a geologic oddity, possibly formed by artesian water forcing its way through soft, volcanic rock. The beautiful, turquoise water is a wonder to see. The surrounding meadow is a great place for observing birds and other wildlife. The region is ripe for huckleberry picking as well.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on the northeastern shore of the roughly 1,400-acre lake, at an elevation of 3,400 feet. Timothy Lake was created in 1956 as a storage reservoir for the Oak Grove Hydroelectric Project. It is one of the larger lakes in the Mt. Hood National Forest. The campground is nestled in a dense mix conifer forest close to the shoreline. Most sites have a thick understory to provide privacy between sites. The wetlands nearby provide an opportunity to observe many species of wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
The Clackamas Lake Ranger Station Historic District is less than 10 miles from the campground. It was built to house Forest Service workers in the early 1900s. The rustic architecture and historic nature of the buildings and the surrounding area draws thousands of tourists each year.
contact_info
Between 05/26/2023 and 09/09/2023 this location is staffed. Please call (503) 834-2215 to speak with local staff. From 11/22/2022 to 05/25/2023 this location is unstaffed. Please call (503) 464-8515 for general information.
Charges & Cancellations
A service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see the Recreation.Gov, Rules & Reservation Policies.
Fee Info
Payment in-full will be charged to your credit card upon completion of the reservation. A non-refundable online reservation fee may be charged for some facilities.
Location
North Arm Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
Recommended Route: From Government Camp, travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 11 miles to Skyline Road / FS Road 42. Turn right on Skyline Road, and continue south for just over 8 miles. Turn right on FS Road 57, and travel west for approximately 3 __ miles, crossing the dam at Timothy Lake. Take the 2nd right onto FS Road 5810. North Arm is approximately 5 miles from here. Keep right at all intersections___the road becomes FS Road 5890. The campground is on the right.
Coordinates
45.1425 N
121.771667 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonAvailable
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump