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Signs & Maps
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Dispersed Camping

Bonney Meadows

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Bonney Meadows, near Mount Hood Parkdale, Oregon, is a stunning location for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature. This area offers a unique camping experience with its beautiful meadow views and the majestic backdrop of Mt. Hood.

The campground is small and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which adds to its charm. Visitors often mention the tranquility of the site, making it perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle. As one camper noted, it’s “perfect for people who really want to get away from people.”

While there are no electric hookups or showers, campers appreciate the opportunity to enjoy campfires and the freedom to bring their pets along. The lack of amenities means you’ll need to be self-sufficient, but many find that part of the adventure. The area is also known for its hiking trails, with Boulder Lake being a popular day trip destination.

Keep in mind that the last stretch of road to the campground can be a bit rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance during the warmer months, but a good bug tent can make all the difference. If you’re looking for a serene spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of nature, Bonney Meadows is definitely worth considering.

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Location

Bonney Meadows is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

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 approximately 11 miles.  Turn right and head North on Forest Road 4890 for 3.6 miles.  Once you reach a 4-way intersection continue north onto 4891.  FR 4891 is an unimproved road and may require high clearance or four-wheel drive.  Follow FR 4891 for 4 miles and the entrance to Bonney Meadows will be on the right. 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.  Continue on 48 for 6.8 miles.  Turn left and head North on 4890 for 3.6 miles.  Once you reach a 4-way intersection continue north onto 4891.  FR 4891 is an unimproved road and may require high clearance or four-wheel drive.  Follow FR 4891 for 4 miles and the entrance to Bonney Meadows will be on the right. From Hood River, OR -  Follow Highway 35 South for 34 miles.  Turn left onto Forest Road 48.  Continue on 48 for 6.8 miles.  Turn left and head North on 4890 for 3.6 miles.  Once you reach a 4-way intersection continue north onto 4891.  FR 4891 is an unimproved road and may require high clearance or four-wheel drive.  Follow FR 4891 for 4 miles and the entrance to Bonney Meadows will be on the right.

Coordinates

45.2650003 N
121.58400075 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

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

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Bonney Meadows needs a permit.


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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 18, 2024

Really lovely, but some important caveats

This place is so beautiful. But some things to note:

  • Not sure how the area was affected by the forest fires nearby last year.

  • The road is GNARLY. We did it in a regular ol 4-door sedan. And I cannot recommend. We made it fine. But it was dumb. Would not repeat. Lol.

  • So. Many. Mosquitoes.

  • Elevation is relatively high, so be sure to check weather for that elevation and plan accordingly. Husband had a summer-weight sleeping bag and was really cold. Also met some dudes that drove over from Badger Lake and said the road was crazy treacherous, as it was still iced/snowed over...and this was pretty well into the summer season.

Reviewed Jan. 4, 2021

Busy but beautiful

My friend and I camped here in August of 2020 and we got the last spot available. People kept driving through looking for spots as well. Other than that it was really fun & had a clean bathroom. Also Badger lake is a great day trip from that site!

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2020

Peace and tranquility...

You’ll want a 4wd or high clearance vehicle to access the last 4 miles. It’s worth it in the end. The meadow is beautiful and a nice view of Mt Hood. There was tons of mosquitos when we were there in June but a bug tent was perfect. Plenty of hiking too. I suggest hike down to boulder lake for the day and also walk up to Bonney butte. The butte has incredible views of Hood, Adams, Jefferson and the Sisters.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Bonney Meadows by Lisa K., August 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Bonney Meadows by Lisa K., August 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Bonney Meadows by Lisa K., August 12, 2020
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Reviewed Aug. 2, 2020

Quiet and secluded

Make sure you have 4WD and a high clearance rig to get here. The last four miles are an exercise in off road driving and need to be taken slow.

The campground is small, with six sites and are first come, first serve. There really isn’t a bad spot.

We had a light wind which kept bugs at bay and there were stacks of firewood from downed trees everywhere so bring an ax and chop your own firewood.

  • Review photo of Bonney Meadows by Heather K., August 2, 2020
  • Review photo of Bonney Meadows by Heather K., August 2, 2020
  • Review photo of Bonney Meadows by Heather K., August 2, 2020
Reviewed Nov. 21, 2017

Secluded

This awesome untrafficked campground is perfect for people who really want to get away from people. It’s often mostly empty and sits on the edge of a stunning meadow.

Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Bonney Meadow Campground open during the year?

Bonney Meadow Campground typically opens in late spring and closes in fall, with the exact dates varying based on snow conditions. The campground has been noted to be snowed in as late as May, so early season visitors should check current conditions before attempting the journey. Summer months (July-August) are the most reliable for access, though this is also when mosquitoes are most prevalent. Fall can offer beautiful conditions with fewer insects once the weather cools.

What amenities are available at Bonney Meadow Campground?

Bonney Meadow Campground is a small, primitive campground with just six first-come, first-served sites. Amenities include clean vault toilets. There are no water hookups, electricity, or shower facilities available, so come prepared with all necessary supplies. Each site offers beautiful views of the adjacent meadow, and the campground's layout ensures there isn't really a bad spot to choose from.

Are there good hiking trails near Bonney Meadow Campground?

Yes, there are excellent hiking opportunities near Bonney Meadow Campground. Trails in the area offer views of Mt. Hood and access to nearby lakes. Boulder Lake is a recommended day hike from the campground. Badger Lake is another popular destination that makes for a great day trip. The surrounding meadow itself is beautiful for exploring, and the area's remote nature means trails are less crowded than in more accessible parts of Oregon.

How do I get to Bonney Meadow Campground in Oregon?

Accessing Bonney Meadow Campground requires a 4WD or high clearance vehicle. The last four miles of the road are particularly challenging with rough terrain that must be taken slowly. Standard passenger cars can technically make it, but it's not recommended as the road is quite rough. Plan your trip carefully and be prepared for off-road driving conditions. The campground's remote location is part of what keeps it peaceful and less visited than other areas.