Rainy Lake Campground, near Cascade Locks, Oregon, is a cozy spot tucked away in the Mt. Hood National Forest, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape. With just four sites, it’s an intimate setting where you can kick back and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

The campground is known for its beautiful surroundings, including quick access to Rainy Lake, just a short walk away. Visitors rave about the stunning views of Mt. Hood and the nearby hiking trails, which offer a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty. One camper noted, “You’ve got hikes right there with great views of Mt. Hood,” making it clear that outdoor adventures are just steps from your tent.

Amenities include picnic tables and fire rings, allowing for classic camping experiences like roasting marshmallows under the stars. While the campground doesn’t take reservations, many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere, even when the sites are close together. As one reviewer put it, “Even though 3 sites are scrunched together, we didn’t hear our neighbors.”

For those looking to explore further, the area offers additional hiking opportunities, including trails leading to Wahtum Lake. Just be mindful of the road conditions; it’s best to drive slowly and keep an eye out for potholes. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Rainy Lake Campground provides a serene backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Located on Rainy Lake. Trailhead access to the Mark O Hatfield Wilderness. See also: Rainy Lake Trail 423A, Rainy Wahtum Trail #409, North Lake Trail #423

Rainy Lake Campground

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Oregon camping adventure.

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I tried this campground over a busy holiday weekend and was happy to see 3 of the 4 spots empty when I arrived. It's rare to find this kind of place on a Saturday in Mount Hood. We have lots of people that like to camp around here.

If you arrive and find it full, continue one more mile down the road to Black Lake Campground, which has 4 more spots. Most spots have a picnic table and fire pit. There is no water or restrooms.

If the campground is full, you will not have privacy. Some of the spots are touching.

Great place for a busy weekend

We love it out here. This last visit was for a mtn bike race. We stayed here as most all other campsites and campgrounds were full. Beautiful spot near Mount Hood. Not a ton of privacy from other campers so we spent the weekend racing the local trail system and also spent some time exploring the Kingsley Reservoir.

So close to Hood River!

Really enjoyed the peaceful feeling of this campground. It is tiny - only 4 spots. Sites 1-3 are on the right side as you pull up and 4 is on the left. We stayed in 3, which was great, but I think 4 is the most private of the sites. The only slight issue with 4 is that the outhouse is on the edge of the site which means a bit of traffic (not too much since it's such a tiny campground) and being nearer the outhouse, which I'm not a big fan of.  2 is the least private site because it's in  between 1 and 3. Site 1 was a little more blocked by 2 and 3 by a large log.  3 was a good site with enough level ground for 2 tents. Behind sites 2 and 3 is the trailhead that will take you up to Rainy Like  - less than a 10 minute walk to the lake. The lake is beautiful, small and remote feeling. You can hike beyond the lake which was very pretty but I preferred the hike going the other way toward Wahtum Lake. We hiked for about 3 hours (didn't make it all to Wahtum Lake because it would have been a 10 mile hike which we weren't up for.) The hike was gorgeous with beautiful views of Mt. Hood.  

  

The campground doesn't take reservations.

  

The road getting up to Rainy Lake wasn't the greatest (but totally fine with a Subaru) so you have to drive a bit slow and look for potholes.

  

Loved this campground and can't wait to go again!

Small, peaceful campground near Hood River

Only four sites here - get in early or on a weeknight. Gorgeous drive through the town of Hood River a big bonus. Once you get in, you’ve got hikes right there with great views of Mt. Hood, the small, charming and swimmable Rainy Lake 2 minutes by walking, and just tons of shade and peace. Even though 3 sites are scrunched together, we didn’t hear our neighbors. A fabulous place to get away. 

Photos of Rainy Lake Campground

Real photos from real campers