Swimming and fishing enthusiasts will find Clear Lake Campground provides direct access to a stocked trout lake within Mt. Hood National Forest. The 34-site campground sits along the shoreline at 3,000 feet elevation, operating from late May through early October with sites accommodating RVs up to 34 feet.
Campers consistently note the spacious sites, many offering lake views and positioned among tall fir trees. The campground maintains vault toilets that reviewers describe as clean, though Corinna B. notes "No showers and such, but the pit toilets are clean enough." Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with some visitors finding the lake reduced to more of a river by late summer. A boat dock provides launching access for non-motorized watercraft, with rentals available at nearby Clear Lake Lodge.
The lake draws paddleboarders and swimmers to its clear waters, while anglers target the resident trout population. Ryan C. reports "Fishing is great too, stocked lake lots of trout." Several reviewers mention the campground's distance from Highway 26 eliminates road noise. Cell service remains spotty throughout the area, and the nearest supplies require a significant drive back toward civilization.
Sites fill quickly during peak season, particularly those closest to the water. The campground accepts reservations, which multiple reviewers strongly recommend given the limited capacity. For expanded camping options in the region, consider exploring campgrounds near Mt. Hood National Forest.
Reserve well ahead for summer weekends, and pack all supplies since the remote location offers no nearby conveniences.
Description
Overview
Clear Lake Campground is a shady outdoor paradise ON Clear Lake in the mountains of northern Oregon. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, swimming and sailing on the lake, and hiking and exploring the nearby hills and terraces. Winter recreation opportunities are available in the area when it snows.
Recreation
Boating is popular on the lake, however speeds are limited to 10 mph. A steady breeze keeps bugs away at the campground, and also propels sailboats on the lake. Swimming and fishing are available. Anglers can expect to find a variety of trout. Visitors enjoy picnicking in the day use area near the boat ramp. A hiking trail begins near the north end of the lake, connecting to the Pacific Crest Trail. In the winter, miles of snow-covered roads and trails crisscross the forest. Shellrock Creek and High Rock, off Forest Road 57, are open to cross-country skiers and snowmobile enthusiasts.
Facilities
The campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided, but utility hookups are not available. Parking surfaces are gravel and dirt. Firewood can be purchased from the host.
Natural Features
The campground is located in a mixed conifer forest, just north of Warm Springs Indian Reservation, in Mt. Hood National Forest. It is situated on the eastern shore of the 560-acre lake, at an elevation of 3,600. Clear Lake is used primarily for irrigation purposes. Wild mushrooms are abundant in the area during late summer and early fall. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (541) 352-6002.
Nearby Attractions
The small Mt. Hood village of Government Camp is 12 miles northwest of the campground. The area offers a visitor center, restaurants and year-round skiing, as well as scenic views.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsClear Lake Campground is located in Oregon near Government Camp
Directions
From Sandy, travel east on Highway 26 for about 35 miles. Turn onto Forest Road 2630 and continue for 1 mile to the campground.
Coordinates
45.17945 N
121.69675 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/9/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/9/26
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 1 hr 13 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 38 min from Bend, OR
- 1 hr 49 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 7 min from Albany, OR
























































