Barlow Crossing

Within Mt. Hood National Forest, Barlow Crossing provides drive-in and walk-in camping along Barlow Creek from June through October. The US Forest Service manages this small campground, which features numbered sites that accommodate both vehicle access and short walks to creekside spots.

Most campsites allow vehicles to drive directly to the camping area, though some of the creek-adjacent sites require a brief walk from the parking area. Each site includes a fire pit, and the campground permits campfires, pets, and alcohol. A vault toilet serves the area. The sound of Barlow Creek runs through the campground, and campers frequently spot deer visiting the sites.

Road access proves straightforward for most vehicles. The campground fills during weekends but often stays quiet on weekdays. Dawn O. notes "very few bugs, but lovely birdsong and a babbling creek." Recent management changes have introduced a nightly fee structure, with rates currently at $16 per night.

Campers can explore nearby options including White River Station and Barlow Creek Campground - Mount Hood National Forest, both within a few miles. The location works well for those seeking creek access and a forested setting with minimal facilities.

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Location

Public Campground

Barlow Crossing is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

Access via Forest Roads 43 and 3530

Coordinates

45.21700032 N
121.613 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 5 users
    Last on 5/4/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/4/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


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4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted creek-side sites and peaceful surroundings with wildlife sightings. Recent management changes increased fees from free to $16/night, though most found the natural setting worth the cost.

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2025

Barlow crossing

Great area to camp. Most if not all camp sight that I seen you can drive right up too. This year this site is now being managed by ARM. Alaska recreation management inc. $16 a night at this spot. Unsure of how these outside management group can come in a just put up signs for payment. We were here 2 weeks ago for the day and all camp sites were free but now have signs for payment they have gone through and marked the campsites with numbers also. No camp host on site yet as of 6/30/2025

Sitedispersed
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by David D., June 30, 2025
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by David D., June 30, 2025
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by David D., June 30, 2025
Reviewed May. 28, 2024

Barlow Crossing

Great spot! Super easy to drive in, with lots of options for spots we parked at the top of the hill and walked about 5 min down to our spot right on the creek, however there were many spots that you could drive right up to. Most spots included their own fire pit.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by Jordan C., May 28, 2024
Reviewed May. 4, 2018

Dispersed camping

We have going camping here for years and we love it. We have a favorite dispered campsite that is right on the creek. Quiet and serene. We always have deer come visit us.

SiteDispersed
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by Kelly K., May 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by Kelly K., May 4, 2018
  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by Kelly K., May 4, 2018
Reviewed Sep. 2, 2016

Barlow Crossing Campground, OR

We went on a Monday in early August, to this lovely 4 site campground. We were able to camp at (in my opinion) the best site, which was right on Barlow Creek, (I think it was # 4). We had the campground all to ourselves for the first 3 nights, and it quickly filled up our last 2 nights. Lots of great hiking and history at this beautiful, little used (during the week anyway) campground. Very few bugs, but lovely birdsong and a babbling creek. Also, only 12 dollars a night! Decent, well stocked vault toilet. Thumbs up all around, I will definitely return to this gem.

  • Review photo of Barlow Crossing by Dawn O., September 2, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Barlow Crossing Campground located?

Barlow Crossing Campground is a small, scenic campground located on Barlow Creek. It features just four developed sites in the main area, with additional dispersed camping options available nearby. The campground is situated in a forested setting that offers a peaceful, natural environment with easy access to the creek. Its location provides campers with a quiet retreat where wildlife sightings, particularly deer, are common.

Is Barlow Crossing Campground near Barlow Creek?

Yes, Barlow Crossing Campground is directly situated on Barlow Creek. Several campsites, including site #4 which is particularly popular, offer creek-side camping with the soothing sounds of flowing water. Many campers specifically choose this location for its proximity to the creek, which enhances the camping experience and provides a beautiful natural backdrop. Both the developed sites and some dispersed camping options allow visitors to set up their camps right along the creek's edge.

What amenities are available at Barlow Crossing Campground?

Barlow Crossing Campground offers basic amenities that cater to those seeking a more rustic camping experience. Each site comes with its own fire pit for campfires and cooking. The campground is designed with spots where you can drive directly up to your camping area, though some visitors choose more secluded spots that require a short walk. The campground is currently managed by Alaska Recreation Management Inc. with a fee of $16 per night.

Do I need reservations for Barlow Crossing Campground?

Barlow Crossing Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. The campground can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak summer months. For the best chance at securing a preferred spot, particularly the coveted creek-side sites, arrive early in the week or during off-peak times. On weekdays, especially Mondays, you'll have a better chance of finding the campground less crowded or even empty.