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Established Camping

BLM Molalla River Recreation Area

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

This location is open during the Federal government lapse in funding. However, some services may be limited or unavailable. Please plan ahead.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

BLM Molalla River Recreation Area, near Molalla, Oregon, is a fantastic spot for those who love the great outdoors. This campground is perfect for tent camping, offering a laid-back vibe where you can kick back and enjoy nature without the distractions of modern life.

The area is known for its excellent swimming holes and fishing opportunities, making it a hit with families and those looking to cool off on a hot day. Visitors have raved about the clean facilities, including restrooms and water access, which add to the overall convenience of your stay. One camper noted, “Great for swimming, kids fishing, and catching crawfish—something for everyone.”

You’ll find plenty of space between sites, allowing for a bit of privacy while still being close enough to enjoy the company of fellow campers. The surrounding trees provide a nice backdrop, although some campers have mentioned that it can get a bit noisy at night. But hey, that’s all part of the camping experience, right?

If you’re up for some exploration, the Molalla Recreation Corridor is nearby, offering additional swimming spots and scenic views. Whether you’re casting a line in the river or just soaking up the sun, this campground has a little something for everyone.

Fee Info

$15-30 per night plus fees Standard fees apply and are non-refundable.

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Location

BLM Molalla River Recreation Area is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

The Molalla River is located approximately 10 miles southeast of Molalla in Clackamas County. From the town of Molalla, drive east on Main St/OR 211. Veer right at the OR 211/Mathias Road intersection, follow signs for Feyrer Park. Once past Feyrer Park, cross over the Molalla River, turn right, and follow signs for Dickey Prairie Rd. Continue south on Dickey Prairie Rd, keeping the Dickey Prairie Store on your left. At 3.7 miles past the store, turn right on Molalla Forest Rd and cross Glen Avon Bridge. Continue 3 miles, Three Bears will be on your left.

Coordinates

45.045528 N
122.489455 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
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Access

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

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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Reviews

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6 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 17, 2024

Beautiful!

Right on the Molalla river. Great campground. Vault toilets aren’t great, but they are useable. The water pump has bacteria warnings so bring plenty of water.

Site8
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by heidi , August 17, 2024
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by heidi , August 17, 2024
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2022

Great place

Great for swimming kids fishing an catching crawfish something for everyone

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Michelle A., August 6, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 8, 2021

Great place for dirt camping

Open as of June 2021 although the road is closed shortly after the campground due to the fires last year. Great swimming hole, a little noisy at night when we stayed on a Thursday but other than that, a great spot to enjoy nature.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Shay Renee B., July 8, 2021
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Shay Renee B., July 8, 2021
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Shay Renee B., July 8, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Nov. 18, 2020

Not my favorite, but could be

I usually stay at Cedar Grove nearby, but stayed here this year (2020). The campground is clean with water sometimes available. There is spring water near milepost 7 when the pump in campground is not available.

I believe they might make this a paid campground next year (there is a proposed site fee, but fot the last several years it has been free.

The sites are roomy with nice tent pads and picnic tables. There are lots of trees around, so not great for solar, but there are some open areas.

The sites are walk in with well maintained paths. There is water access and good catch and release trout fishing. You can also catch salmon in the river, but I have not tried.

The Molalla Recreation Corridor is definitely one of my favorite camping areas. Within a short drive are many local favorite swimming areas. Ivor Davies wayside (around milepost 5 is beautiful and popular).

The area was hit by fires this year, so not sure what the corridor looks like at present. It has been closed off since September 8th. The fires reached milepost 7, I believe, and this campground is at 3.5 miles.

Reviewed May. 18, 2020

Peaceful

Great camp spot to keep kids busy! Very quiet and camp spots were perfect distance. Plenty of restrooms. The stream has some swim sections, but not entirely. Bring water shoes!

  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Kierra K., May 18, 2020
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Kierra K., May 18, 2020
  • Review photo of BLM Molalla River Recreation Area by Kierra K., May 18, 2020
  • (5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Three Bears Campground located in Oregon?

Three Bears Campground is located in the Molalla River Recreation Area in Oregon. The campground sits along the scenic Molalla River. The recreation area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Access to Three Bears may be affected by seasonal road closures, particularly after fire events, so it's advisable to check current conditions before visiting. The campground is relatively close to the town of Molalla, making it accessible for weekend getaways from Portland and surrounding areas.

What facilities and amenities are available at Three Bears Recreation Site?

Three Bears Recreation Site offers vault toilets, ample parking, and camping spots set at comfortable distances from each other. Water is sometimes available from an on-site pump, though it may have bacteria warnings, so bringing your own water is recommended. There's also a natural spring water source near milepost 7 when the campground pump isn't functioning. The campground is clean and well-maintained with multiple restroom facilities throughout. No hookups are available for RVs, but there is sufficient space for parking vehicles.

What recreational activities are available at Molalla River Recreation Area?

The Molalla River Recreation Area offers excellent swimming holes where visitors can cool off during warm weather. Fishing opportunities abound in the river, and kids particularly enjoy catching crawfish. The area has trails for hiking, though accessibility may vary seasonally due to closures. The river provides various recreational possibilities including wading and exploring, though water shoes are recommended for comfort and safety. This diverse recreation area has something for everyone, making it ideal for family outings. The natural setting also makes it perfect for wildlife watching, photography, and simply relaxing by the water.

What are the reviews like for Three Bears Recreation Site?

Three Bears Recreation Site earns high marks for its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and family-friendly environment. Campers appreciate the well-spaced sites that provide privacy while still fostering a community feel. The campground's proximity to the Molalla River is frequently highlighted as a major plus. While the vault toilets are functional, they're not considered a highlight of the experience. The natural setting and swimming opportunities in the river make this a popular spot, especially for families with children. Overall, visitors find it to be a great location for connecting with nature.