Fishing and swimming draw most visitors to BLM Molalla River Recreation Area, a walk-in campground set along the Molalla River corridor outside Molalla. The river provides catch-and-release trout fishing, and salmon are present as well, though less commonly targeted. Sites are roomy, with tent pads, picnic tables, and forested cover that limits solar charging but keeps things shaded. The access road has a rough reputation, so lower-clearance vehicles should approach with care.
Water is the central draw, but its availability at the campground pump is not guaranteed. Reviewers note that bacteria warnings have been posted at the on-site pump, so bringing your own supply is a practical precaution. A spring near milepost 7 has served as a backup in past years. Vault toilets are on-site and functional, though not well-maintained. Sites are spread at reasonable intervals along well-kept walking paths, and the campground can get noisy on weekends.
Cedar Grove Recreation Site sits less than a mile south along the corridor and serves as a nearby alternative if this campground is full. The broader Molalla Recreation Corridor includes several popular swimming holes within a short drive, making this a reasonable base for multiple days of river access. As heidi puts it, the campground is "right on the Molalla river," which is the defining feature here. Anglers, families with kids, and campers who prioritize water access over amenities will find this spot works well for them.
Description
Overview
No cash, check, or cards are accepted on site. Make a reservations online or use the mobile app. Three Bears campsites are only available by making a reservation. Reserve a campsite on recreation.gov or Recreation.gov Mobile App prior to entering the Molalla River Recreation Corridor. There is no cell reception in the drainage. Situated in a picturesque grove of western red cedar 4 miles south of Glen Avon Bridge, the site has 15 tent campsites, each equipped with a tent pad, metal fire ring, BBQ grill, and picnic table. The campground also has vault toilets and access to a beautiful cobble beach and swimming hole.
Recreation
Camping, fishing, swimming, hiking and biking on nearby trails (Hardy Creek TH closest)
Facilities
Amenities includes a vault restroom, individual campsites with picnic tables, BBQ grill, and a metal fire ring. There are two parking spots for each campsite located in the central parking lot. There is a central handpump for potable water off-site at Cedar Grove campground 1 mile east of Three Bears. There is no firewood at the site or firewood collection allowed, please bring your own firewood if you wish to have a fire.
Natural Features
Molalla Wild and Scenic River and forested environment.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (503) 375-5646.
Nearby Attractions
Enjoy a scenic drive along the Molalla Wild and Scenic River which offers easy river access and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, camping, whitewater boating and fishing. The Molalla is one of the few undammed tributaries of the Willamette River and cuts a picturesque gorge on its way to the valley floor. Table Rock Wilderness is further up the canyon and accessible through three trailheads.
Charges & Cancellations
Standard fees apply and are non-refundable. Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.
Fee Info
$15-30 per night plus fees Standard fees apply and are non-refundable.
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
There is a large logjam several miles upstream of this campground. The logjam is just downstream from Horse Creek Bridge, and blocks the entire stream. The river is unnavigable between Horse Creek Bridge and Turner Bridge. Use caution near the river, especially in flood stage.
Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy. Please check with the campground before making a reservation.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBLM Molalla River Recreation Area is located in Oregon near Molalla
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
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark 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
Drive Time
- 1 hr 5 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 10 min from Salem, OR
- 1 hr 28 min from Albany, OR
- 1 hr 45 min from Corvallis, OR
