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Camping near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

1,333 Reviews

Camping in Gifford Pinchot National Forest ranges from basic sites to more developed campgrounds with standard facilities. The forest has several camping areas near trails and viewpoints throughout its recreation areas. Campers looking for more comfort might prefer the City Park Campground, which has maintained sites and basic facilities. Deer, elk, and many bird species live in the forest, making proper food storage important to keep wildlife away from your campsite. Fire rules change with the seasons and current weather, so always check before lighting a campfire. During summer months, it's smart to reserve sites ahead of time since they fill quickly. The nearby State Park works well for campers who want easy access to hiking trails and fishing spots. Before heading out, check if you need any permits for your planned activities. Gifford Pinchot works for both quick weekend trips and longer camping vacations, with options for different camping styles.

Map showing campgrounds near Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WashingtonExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Gifford Pinchot National Forest (276)

    1. Lower Falls Campground

    25 Reviews
    Trout Lake, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 395-3400

    $20 - $40 / night

    "This campground is located along what is possibly the best waterfalls in Washington state."

    "Adams in the more southern part of western Washington.

    The coordinates to google are 46.15664,-121.878452."

    2. Takhlakh Lake Campground

    22 Reviews
    Trout Lake, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $25 - $45 / night

    "While my husband trekked up Mt Adams, I sat and enjoyed this peaceful lake with beautiful scenery.

    There is a tent only loop and an RV/Tent loop."

    "The campground sits right on a lake northwest of Mt. Adams.

    Our site was set up with a single tent pad up a little hill from the driveway and fire pit. It might not have worked for multiple tents."

    3. Twin Falls

    6 Reviews
    Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 891-5000

    "The waterfalls were beautiful, with a passing river that had a short hiking trail (< .5 miles) along it. We didn't do our research, but the site doesn't offer much in terms of hiking."

    "It's another of the smaller campgrounds with only 5 walk in sites. I usually stay in smaller places or go dispersed style when possible. 

    It's a bumpy windy road down to the campground."

    4. Council Lake

    6 Reviews
    Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1105

    "This is a lovely lake campground in the forest with gorgeous views of Mt. Adams. The campsites are private and separated. There was a few mosquitoes when we went, but not too bad."

    "Just got back from a quick overnight trip up to Council Lake."

    5. Horseshoe Lake

    5 Reviews
    Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    $18 / night

    "Bit of a drive in, and since it’s FCFS, definitely get there early if you want a good spot."

    "This is a lovely and small first-come, first-served campground along the banks of picturesque Horseshoe Lake. It's an amazing setting with most sites having a view of the lake."

    6. Trout Creek

    5 Reviews
    Trout Lake, WA
    11 miles
    +1 (509) 395-3400

    "Enter Trout Lake Creek campground. Quiet, unassuming and, miraculously, with 3 campsites left."

    "The Sleeping Beauty trail is a short drive and well worth the effort. This is truly a hidden local gem and only about 20-25 minutes from the tiny community of Trout Lake, at the base of Mt. Adams."

    7. Lewis River Horse Camp

    3 Reviews
    Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 449-7800

    "There are a lot of nice trails that leave from right on the site, mostly intended for horses and mountain bikes but also great for hiking. We very much enjoyed it here."

    8. Iron Creek Campground

    19 Reviews
    Randle, WA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $27 - $50 / night

    "Iron Creek is a great camp site in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The river runs near the camp was a great spot for the kids and dogs to play. Camp sites were large spacious and private."

    "There is a path from our campsite that join the bigger walking loop around the campground and access to the river. We were there after the July 4th holiday so it was quiet."

    9. Elk Meadows RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Trout Lake, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 395-2400

    "Elk Meadows is far up a well paved road just before the entrance into national forest land.  "

    "Elk Meadows is a lovely site with plenty of shade on the vast majority of the spots (the ones that sit on the edge of the meadow, with the best view, have less shade than those in the center)."

    10. Olallie Lake

    3 Reviews
    Gifford Pinchot National Forest, WA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "I've been to Ollalie Lake Campground several times in the last few years. Most recently in Aug 2019. I like that it's quiet and small, with only 5 spots, and limited day use parking."

    "The paramount feature of this campground is the beautiful Mount Adams directly across the lake."

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Recent Camping Photos near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

544 Photos of 276 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

1333 Reviews of 276 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Campgrounds

Guide to Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Camping near Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. Many campers enjoy the nearby trails leading to waterfalls. One visitor at Lower Falls Campground said, "The hike to middle and upper falls is great," highlighting the beautiful scenery.
  • Fishing and Swimming: Lakes and rivers in the area provide great spots for fishing and swimming. A reviewer at Takhlakh Lake Campground mentioned, "This campground is a perfect spot for lakeside hanging, fishing, and paddleboarding."
  • Wildlife Watching: The forest is home to diverse wildlife. Campers at Iron Creek Campground noted, "The river is beautiful and lots of trails around the site," making it a great place to spot animals.

What campers like:

  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites that feel secluded. A camper at Panther Creek Campground shared, "A nice, woodsy campground, with lots of privacy between camp sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and common areas. A visitor at La Wis Wis Campground remarked, "The facilities, while only vault toilets, were always kept clean."
  • Natural Beauty: The stunning landscapes are a big draw. One reviewer at Sunset Falls Campground said, "This is the kind of campground that we love, small, quiet and lovely."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor or no cell reception. A camper at Lower Falls Campground mentioned, "No cell service. Bring your own water."
  • Basic Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities like showers or electric hookups. A visitor at Takhlakh Lake Campground noted, "There is no drinking water or electricity available."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Bears are present in the area, so it's wise to store food properly. A camper at Iron Creek Campground mentioned, "People were not worried about bears here."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like picnic tables and fire pits. A reviewer at Cascade Locks KOA said, "The staff were incredibly welcoming and went out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Beaver Bay Campground suggested, "We took our boat out to the campground and enjoyed a week of comfortable 'off-grid' type camping."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy during hikes. A camper at Panther Creek Campground noted, "Great, clean toilets and water pump."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough, so be prepared. A visitor at Takhlakh Lake Campground mentioned, "The last few miles are dirt, so pay attention to ruts and holes."
  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Sites: Many campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs. A camper at La Wis Wis Campground appreciated that it was "big rig friendly."
  • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds do not have potable water. A reviewer at Iron Creek Campground advised, "Water didn't taste great. Maybe bring a filter or your own water to drink."

Camping near Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it's essential to be prepared for the unique challenges and delights of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 276 campgrounds and RV parks near Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 47 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gifford Pinchot National Forest is Lower Falls Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 25 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 47 free dispersed camping spots near Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

What parks are near Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 parks near Gifford Pinchot National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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