SUMMER SALE 50% off The Dyrt PRO — just $2.49/moGet now
SALE: PRO just $2.49/mo
The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Map showing campground location near Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon
Camper submitted image from Serene LakeView 8 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon

Serene Lake

2 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Mt. Hood National Forest is home to Serene Lake, a hike-in site reached via a 12-mile loop from the trailhead below Shellrock Lake. The route involves some significant climbing. The lake itself sits on the slopes of Mt. Hood and is fed by glacial sources, though the water runs noticeably warm. No fee applies at the campsite, but a Forest Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Campers arriving on weekends should expect company, as the site draws crowds by Saturday afternoon. Picnic tables, campfires, and pets are all permitted, making it a workable option for hikers with dogs exploring campgrounds near Mt. Hood National Forest.

Suggest an Edit

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy. Please check with the campground before making a reservation.

RV Road Trip Guides

Pacific Coast Road Trip

19 Day Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

Pacific Coast Road Trip Segment: Astoria, OR to Brookings, OR

Astoria to Brookings: 4 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Map & DirectionsSerene Lake is located in Oregon near Mt. Hood National Forest

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

45.14824408 N
122.00658775 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Serene Lake needs a permit.

Try PRO for Free

Drive Time

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Oregon Contest

Enter to Win

Reviews2 Camper Reviews - Serene Lake

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
50%
0%
0%
0%

4.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 10, 2019

Serene Lake OR Backpacking Campground

Beautiful little mountain lake on the slopes of Mt. Hood. We did the 12-mile loop in two days from the trailhead below Shellrock Lake. There are some tough climbs but the Friday night we spent there was great. Looked like it was getting crowded when we left Saturday afternoon. The water is clear and amazingly warm, considering that it's glacier feed.

We didn't have to pay for the campsite, but you do need a Forest Pass or something to leave your car at the trailhead.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Serene Lake by Thomas B., February 10, 2019
  • Review photo of Serene Lake by Thomas B., February 10, 2019
  • Review photo of Serene Lake by Thomas B., February 10, 2019
  • (8) View All
Showing results 1-2 of 2 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Serene Lake located in Oregon?

Serene Lake is nestled on the slopes of Mt. Hood in Oregon. This beautiful mountain lake is accessible via a hiking trail that passes near Shellrock Lake. The lake features clear water and is situated in a picturesque alpine setting. It's a somewhat remote destination that requires hiking to access, making it a peaceful retreat in the Mt. Hood National Forest area.

What are the best seasons to visit Serene Lake for camping?

Summer and early fall are the ideal seasons to visit Serene Lake for camping. The area becomes accessible once snow melts, typically by mid-June to early July, with peak season running through September. Weekends during summer months can get crowded, so consider a weekday visit for more solitude. Weather conditions are most reliable during these months, with clear, warm days perfect for enjoying the pristine lake water and surrounding trails.

Can you camp at Serene Lake in Mt. Hood?

Yes, camping is permitted at Serene Lake. The area offers limited primitive campsites along the lakeshore. These sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations available. The camping area is only accessible by hiking - approximately 6 miles one-way if following the loop trail from the Shellrock Lake area. Pack in all necessary supplies and prepare for backcountry camping conditions.

Keep Exploring