North Arm Campground, near [Mt. Hood National Forest](https://thedyrt.com/camping/oregon/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.

## 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 Campgroundone 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 intersectionsthe 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

 The campground offers 14 campsites for tent and RV camping. There are four hike-to campsites available as well. Each site is equipped with a table and a fire ring. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A campground host is also available onsite. The nearest gas station/convenience store is about 14 miles away, west on Hwy. 26. The nearest grocery store is in Government Camp, about 19 miles away, west on Hwy. 26. 
## 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.

North Arm Campground

Are you in need of a campground near Government Camp, OR? Government Camp is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Government Camp, reviewed by campers like you.

Government Camp

The Best Camping Near Government Camp, Oregon

Great campground! The staff was friendly and delivers firewood to you. Clean facilities and the lake is a beaut!

Timothy Lake

Timothy Lake was clean, friendly an the campground was amazing. Lots to explore an do. P.s there is a fire ban right now so no fire pits allowed.have fun an be safe out there Oregon Campers.

So beautiful!!!

best options are the walk in sites along the lake. Bring your SUP, kayak, boat, etc.

Beautiful spot on quiet section of Timothy lake 

This was so peaceful. We tent camped for a week in the summer. Took nice long hike around the lake twice with the kids. The spots are huge, the toilets smell so bad though. Make sure to bring sanitizer definitely. The views in the morning make it worth it though.

Stayed a week! So pretty!

With only 18 camp spots this place is a quiet gem.  If your in a small rv no problem.
Drive in spots are fairly private and the lake is lovely.   Clean new vaulted toilets and accessible drinking water.  This place is a drive so make sure you have what you need &amp; the camp host Is fantastic 🌟

North Arm Campground Lake Timothy 

Can be tough to get reservations as they are limited, but if you plan ahead or are lucky, this place is great. Nice lake with awesome views of Mount Hood. We tried fishing here with no luck. Just spent one night and would like to spend more time exploring. 

Amazing Views of Mount Hood

Lots of dispersed camping right on lake edge. Beautiful views of mount hood on clear days. Bring bug spray if it's spring or summer! Developed camp sites are spaced further apart than most campgrounds. 

Huge Campsites 

This is one of my absolute favorite places to camp on Hood. I love how beautiful the surrounding area is and the water is so very clear and fun to swim in! The fishing is also really good so overall I always have the best time!

Beautiful and serene!

I find it's not the most well known spot, but why I don't know. Incredible views of Hood, low key, and great fishing.

Not the most well know spot, but really awesome

The scenery and the placid, warm lake, make this my favorite place to camp in Oregon. The campsites can be very uneven for tents, but we’ve always made it work. 
The lake is never crowded and by using the trail that goes around the lake you can basically have your own private beach anywhere. The water is surprisingly warm. 
Can be very cold at night. Cell service is non-existent. 

Absolutely beautiful!

Not sure how we ended here, but it is a really nice camp. The only disadvantage is that it couldn't be reserved through recreation.org. Toilets, water, showers (free), washers (1,75 or 2,25 $, dryer .25 for 5 min) and free wifi at store. Sweet

Photos of North Arm Campground

Real photos from real campers