Fishing enthusiasts will find direct access to Timothy Lake's waters at Hoodview Campground, where several sites position campers within steps of the shoreline. Located at 3,227 feet elevation in Mt. Hood National Forest, this Forest Service campground provides views of Mt. Hood across the lake's surface, with some sites offering water access while others sit closer to the access road.
The campground received major renovations in 2020, resulting in what Joanna C. calls "the most well-maintained National Forest campground I've ever been to." Sites are spacious with established privacy between neighbors, and campers consistently note the clean pit toilets and accessible potable water stations. Carolyn P. points out that "lake front sites are separated from the lake by a trail," meaning waterfront camping comes with foot traffic from other lake users.
The 11-mile Timothy Lake Trail circles the entire lake with relatively flat terrain, making it accessible for day-long hikes or bike rides. Non-motorized watercraft are permitted, creating quieter conditions for paddlers and anglers. The campground includes a boat ramp and connects to day-use areas. Nearby options include Pine Point Campground and Gone Creek for those exploring multiple sites around the lake.
Reservations are available and recommended, particularly for waterfront sites which fill quickly. The elevation means cooler temperatures even in summer, with some campers reporting snow as late as early July. Road access follows Highway 26 to signed forest roads, though GPS shortcuts through back roads should be avoided due to significant potholes. Pet-friendly policies make this suitable for campers traveling with dogs.
This campground works well for groups wanting lake access without motorboat noise, families seeking flat hiking trails, and anglers targeting Timothy Lake's fish populations.
Description
Overview
The Hoodview Campground sits on the shores of Timothy Lake, in the shadow of Oregon's Mt. Hood. The surrounding forest setting offers spectacular views, miles of trails for exploration and abundant fishing.
Recreation
Proximity to Timothy Lake allows campers to enjoy a variety of water-related recreation activities, including boating and sailing, as well as swimming, windsurfing and fishing. Anglers can expect a catch of kokanee salmon and a variety of trout. A range of trails are located in the area. The Timothy Lake Trail is popular for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. The 12 miles of relatively level terrain loops trekkers around the lake, providing scenic views of the area. It connects to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, a lengthy hike that extends across three states, from the borders of Canada and Mexico. Portions of that trail also lead southwest to Clackamas Lake Campground. The Clackamas Lake Ranger Station Historic District is less than 3 miles from the campground. It was built to house forest service workers in the early 1900s. The rustic architecture and historic nature of the buildings and the surrounding area draws thousands of tourists each year.
Facilities
The campground offers dozens of single-family campsites for tent and RV camping. Each site is equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A campground host is also available on-site. The nearest gas station/convenience store is about 18 miles away, west on Hwy. 26. The nearest grocery store is in Government Camp, about 23 miles away, west on Hwy. 26.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on the southeastern shore of the roughly 1,400-acre lake, at an elevation of 3,400 feet. Timothy Lake was created in 1956 as a storage reservoir for the Oak Grove Hydroelectric Project. It is one of the larger lakes in the Mt. Hood National Forest. The campground is nestled in a mixed conifer forest, with many sites with views of the water's edge, offering views of Mt. Hood. A thick understory of rhododendron bushes provide privacy between sites.
Nearby Attractions
Hoodview is about 28 miles from the base of majestic Mt. Hood, the highest point in Oregon. The historic Timberline Lodge in Government Camp offers scenic views of the snow-capped mountain.
Contact Info
Between 05/26/2023 and 09/30/2023 this location is staffed. Please call (503) 834-2215 to speak with local staff. From 11/22/2022 to 05/25/2023 this location is unstaffed. Please call (503) 464-8515 for general information.
Charges & Cancellations
A service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see Recreation.Gov, Rules & Reservation Policies.
Fee Info
Payment in-full will be charged to your credit card upon completion of the reservation. A non-refundable online reservation fee may be charged for some facilities.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundHoodview Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
From Sandy, Oregon, travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 40 miles to Skyline Road/Road 42. Turn right on Skyline Road and continue south for about 9 miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 57 and travel west for 2 miles, then turn right again at the Hoodview Campground entrance sign.
Address
Skyline Rd
Timothy lake, OR
Coordinates
45.107778 N
121.791667 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/16/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/16/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 3/16/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 10 usersLast on 3/16/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 29 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 49 min from Bend, OR
- 2 hrs 5 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 19 min from Albany, OR
















































