Drive-in access and sites large enough to spread out make McNeil Campground a workable base for exploring the Mt. Hood corridor, though campers should know upfront that drinking water is not available on-site. Pit toilets are provided, and the nightly fee runs $17. Sites have a more open feel than typical forest campgrounds, owing to the proximity of the Sandy River, which reduces tree density and replaces it with gravel and open sightlines toward Mt. Hood visible from the entrance road. RVs up to 22 feet can fit, though hookups are absent.
Crowd levels tend to stay moderate. One reviewer noted the campground was only 40-50% full on an August Saturday, and several others mention finding open sites even on busy weekends. The openness of the layout means neighbors are less likely to feel close, which contributes to a quieter stay than the campground's location near Portland might suggest. Fire restrictions apply during fire season, so check conditions before arrival. Pets are welcome. Riley Horse Campground nearby is one place to source water if needed, as is Lost Creek campground to the east.
Trailhead access is a genuine draw here. Ramona Falls, McNeil Point, and Burnt Lake are all within reach, and the Sandy River corridor adds options for those who want to get near water. One reviewer describes the surrounding terrain as "a glacial tillage area, very sterile," contrasting it with the lush conditions just a short walk away at Lost Creek. Rocks and downed snags are scattered across sites, worth noting for families with children or anyone moving around after dark. For pet-friendly camping spots near Mt. Hood National Forest, this area has several options worth comparing before booking.
Description
McNeil Campground lies along the Wild and Scenic Sandy River. While it does not have drinking water, it has all the other camping amenities in a mixed lodgepole forest in an old Mt. Hood mud flow where moss carpets the ground. It is close to many hiking trails including Ramona Falls. Located on the Wild and Scenic Sandy River.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsMcNeil Campground is located in Oregon near Rhododendron
Directions
Directions from Sandy, OR - Travel southeast on Highway 26 about one mile past the town on Wemme to Primary Forest Route 18. Follow 18 northeast across the forest boundary and to Forest Road 1825. Follow 1825 east to the campground.
Coordinates
45.3837909 N
121.86798397 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 57 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 33 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 36 min from Longview, WA
- 1 hr 51 min from Albany, OR






















