Established Camping
Mount Hood National Forest Tollgate Campground
Mount Hood National Forest Tollgate Campground, near Mt. Hood, Oregon, is a cozy spot that welcomes both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. With its serene setting alongside a rushing creek, it’s perfect for those who want to unwind and soak in nature.
The campground offers a laid-back vibe, with sites that are nicely spaced out, allowing for some privacy while still being part of a community. Campers have mentioned the calming sounds of the creek, which can lull you to sleep at night, and the beautiful views that surround the area. One visitor noted, “Our site was quite large,” making it a great choice for families or groups.
While there are no electric hookups or showers, the essentials are covered with drinking water and toilets available. Campfires are allowed, so you can roast marshmallows and share stories under the stars. Some campers appreciated the proximity to the highway, stating that “all you can hear is the river,” which keeps the ambiance peaceful.
For those looking to explore, the campground is conveniently located near various hiking trails and outdoor activities in the Mt. Hood National Forest. Whether you’re planning a quick overnight trip or a longer stay, this campground offers a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with nature.
Description
Overview
Tollgate Campground is one of the most convenient to Portland, making it a great headquarters for exploring the Mt. Hood area. It stands in the southwestern shadow of Oregon's highest point, Mt. Hood. The campground provides access to a variety of trails, as well as historic sites, including spots along the famed Oregon Trail.
Recreation
A variety of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails are available in the area. The nearly 10-mile Pioneer Bridle Trail passes through the campground. A replica of the original Barlow Road tollgate is just east of the campground. The gate was used by travelers along the Oregon Trail from 1879 to 1919. A day-use picnic area at the campground, providing access to the scenic surroundings, as well as the nearby river and Camp Creek. Anglers enjoy the sport of catch-and-release fishing for small trout and whitefish.
Facilities
The campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping. Parking surfaces are dirt and gravel and sometimes uneven. Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. An adjacent picnic shelter can be reserved for day use and can accommodate up to 30 people and 10 vehicles. It is equipped with multiple tables and pedestal grills.
Natural Features
The campground is located in the Mt. Hood National Forest, approximately 32 miles southeast of Portland, at an elevation of about 2,100 feet. The campground sits on the north bank of the Zigzag River, just east of the community of Rhododendron, in a humid, semi-subtropic environment of Douglas fir and cedar trees. Tollgate Campground was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and some historic features, such as rock fireplaces and a reconstructed picnic shelter still remain.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (503) 622-3191.
Nearby Attractions
The campground is 2.5 miles from the town of Zigzag, which offers a variety of services, including lodging, eateries and a variety of shops.
Location
Mount Hood National Forest Tollgate Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
From Portland, travel southeast on Highway 26 for about 32 miles.
Address
MT. HOOD
OR
Coordinates
45.322123 N
121.905572 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 users- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
Detours Nearby
Roamer Sites - Oregon
8 min away
Timothy Lake Meditation Point
36 min away
Drive Time
- 52 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 28 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 31 min from Longview, WA
- 1 hr 47 min from Albany, OR
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 users
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
