The rough access road to Badger Lake Campground requires high clearance vehicles, with rocks and ruts that challenge standard cars along the final stretch. Located within Mt. Hood National Forest near Dufur, this $10-per-night campground operates from late June through October and accommodates RVs up to 16 feet.
Forest Service sites spread across open terrain provide picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. A creek runs near the camping area, while the lake sits about a quarter-mile away through terrain that proves too rough for many vehicles. Lisa K. notes to "bring a kayak or SUP to enjoy the lake" and mentions seeing anglers catch trout from the water.
The campground maintains a quiet atmosphere away from main roads. Several reviewers mention having sites to themselves, particularly those who choose spots near the creek rather than attempting the drive closer to the lake. The area attracts both car campers and backpackers, with hiking trails extending beyond the immediate camping zone.
Campers should pack for primitive conditions and verify their vehicle can handle the rocky approach road before committing to the drive up.
Description
Typically open May thru Oct. depending on weather.
Badger Lake Campground is adjacent to Badger Lake and one of the major portals to the Badger Creek Wilderness. It's a rough drive to the campground, but campers are rewarded with a beautiful lake and access to the Badger Creek Wilderness with nearby access to Badger Lake Trail #479A, and Badger Creek Trail.
Fee Info
Badger Lake Campground is receiving a new recreation fee of $10 per night beginning in July 2023 as part of the fee changes that were approved in early 2023.
Site will have an information kiosk, vault toilet, fire rings, picnic tables, site markers, trash, collection, routine patrols, and overall increased maintenance by recreation staff.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBadger Lake Campground is located in Oregon near Government Camp
Directions
From Sandy, OR -Follow Highway 26 East to merge onto Highway 35 North. Continue on Hwy 35 for 4.5 miles and turn right onto Forest Road 48 and continue 15.3 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 4860 and head north for 7 miles. Turn right onto FR 4860-140 spur and continue for 4 miles until you reach Badger Lake campground. FR 4860-140 may require high clearance or 4WD. From Hood River, OR - Follow Highway 35 South for 34 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 48 and continue 15.3 miles. Turn right onto Forest Roadd 4860 and head north for 7 miles. Turn left onto FR 4860-140 spur and continue for 4 miles until you reach Badger Lake campground. FR 4860-140 may require high clearance or 4WD. From Tygh Valley, OR - Follow Wamic Market road for approximately 6 miles. Continue onto Rock Creek / White River Road for another 7 miles. Once you reach the forest boundary you will be on Forest Road 48 which you will follow for 6.6 miles. Turn right onto Forest Roadd 4860 and head north for 7 miles. Turn right onto FR 4860-140 spur and continue for 4 miles until you reach Badger Lake campground. FR 4860-140 may require high clearance or 4WD. These roads are unimproved and not recommended for passenger cars. *Trailers are not allowed* on the 140 spur. Please contact the ranger district for road conditions.
Coordinates
45.30290498 N
121.56131797 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Portland, OR
- 2 hrs 20 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 24 min from Bend, OR
- 2 hrs 39 min from Albany, OR
