River access defines the camping experience at Nottingham Campground, where most of the 21 sites sit alongside the East Fork Hood River within Mt. Hood National Forest. The campground operates seasonally from Memorial Day through September, with sites accommodating RVs up to 55 feet and offering both drive-in and walk-in access options.
Sites closest to the water fill quickly, especially on weekends. Alex B. notes that "tent camping sites looked amazing next to the river" while RV sites tend to be "very sandy and less shaded." Site 21 provides direct river access with room for multiple tents, though its shaded location along the water runs cooler than other areas. The campground sits far enough from Highway 35 to avoid road noise issues that plague nearby alternatives.
Anglers can fish directly from waterside sites, while the river also serves swimming and rafting when water levels permit. Hiking trails branch out from the area, including routes to Bluegrass Ridge, Tamanawas Falls, and Lookout Mountain. The campground serves as a staging point for Mount Hood climbs, with several reviewers using it as a base camp before summit attempts.
No potable water is available on-site, making water supply a key planning consideration. Vault toilets are maintained throughout the season, and firewood can be purchased from the camp host. Temperatures drop significantly at night even during summer months. The campground accepts reservations, which reviewers strongly recommend given the limited number of sites and popularity among both tent campers and RV users seeking pet-friendly campgrounds around Mt. Hood National Forest.
Reserve early to secure one of the coveted riverside spots that make this location particularly appealing to water-focused campers.
Description
Overview
Nottingham Campground is a local secret, hidden right off highway 35, centrally located with easy access to Mt. Hood and Hood River. The Hood River runs next to the campground, with most of the sites having direct access to the river. Natural landscapes are etched into this campground, making it one of the most unique, enjoyable, quiet campgrounds there is.
Recreation
This campground is centrally located, with easy access to the highway that travels to Mt. Hood and back to Hood River. In this upper Hood River Valley area, there are many resources for hiking, biking, fishing and exploring. Whether you set up camp and explore the areas surrounding the campground, or drive somewhere, the recreational access is limitless.
Facilities
There are no water, electricity or sewer hookups. Pit toilets are available for guests. Trash receptacles are placed all around the facility, making it easy to keep clean. A camp host is available during peak season to answer questions.
Natural Features
With the Upper Hood River running next to the campground, the nearby traffic is drowned out, and a peaceful retreat is found. Several of the campsites are right on the river, and the beautiful areas that the river has etched is fun to explore.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (541) 806-0785.
Nearby Attractions
This campground is centrally located, with easy access to the highway that travels to Mt. Hood and back to Hood River. Also, just next to the campground, is the trail head to Tamanawas Falls -- a great hike, easily enjoyed by people of all skills and ages.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsNottingham Campground is located in Oregon near Government Camp
Directions
From Portland, take I84 to Hood River. Take exit 64 to highway 35. Follow for approximately 20 miles to campground.
Coordinates
45.3671 N
121.5677 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/29/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/29/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/29/26
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/29/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 1 hr 19 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 55 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 58 min from Longview, WA
- 2 hrs 14 min from Albany, OR























