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Camping near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

1,434 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 (288)

    1. Lower Falls Campground

    27 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. Council Lake

    7 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."

    4. 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."

    5. Elk Meadows RV Park

    11 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)."

    6. 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."

    7. 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."

    8. 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."

    9. 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."

    10. Peterson Prairie Campground

    11 Reviews
    Trout Lake, WA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 338-7869

    $25 - $115 / night

    "Close to ice cave. Fishing at Goose Lake nearby."

    "Close to the incredible Guler Ice Caves. Simple campground in the national forest and not far from town. Excellent hiking nearby. Very private good-sized campsites, some close to a small creek."

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Recent Camping Photos near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

563 Photos of 288 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Gifford Pinchot National Forest

1434 Reviews of 288 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Campgrounds

  • Anna D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Good location

    Location is great, road traffic is loud can hear the train as well. Most sites look good. I booked day of and it wasn’t level at all 🙂. Clean showers and bathroom!

  • Anna D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Eagle Creek Campground

    Great location and clean

    Bathrooms are clean, vaulted toilets. Water available. Site is level…camp host is really nice!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Tower Rock U-Fish RV Park

    Wonderful, kind people!!!

    This campground is an excellent spot to spend some time on your travels! Highly recommend!! Pam and Trevor are wonderful and accommodating hosts!!

  • S. Renae M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Tucker Park Campground

    Perfect getaway!!!

    I decided last minute to go camping. Searching I found this place not far from the city . It’s so unexpected. It was a great decision!! Hear the river, which I love. Clean bathrooms, water and even showers available!!

    It’s a perfect getaway!!! 10 out of 5!!!!

  • Richard H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Elk Meadows RV Park

    Nice campground and facilities.

    Great view of Mt Adams if you can get one of the premium sites. Saw elk and heard elk bugling every morning in the meadow. Very quiet and relaxed.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Ainsworth State Park Campground

    Easy access to waterfalls

    We stayed at this campground because we were wanting to do the 12 mile hike in and out of Tunnel Falls. This is a very popular yet clean facility. There are very active trains nearby that will wake you if you’re a light sleeper very early in the morning. If they run at night, I don’t know because I didn’t hear them. But that’s kind of the only downfall about this site. Well maintained and close to plenty of falls and hiking trails…. Would definitely stay here again. A lot of the larger RV sites are reservation, but we were able to get a site on first come first serve mid September.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Lost Lake Resort And Campground — Mt. Hood National Forest

    Just OK

    Pulled into here thinking it would be an easy spot to get to Tunnel Falls in the morning but it wasn’t. Maps takes you a back way on the forest roads past a lake (don’t go farther) the roads are trash and small car would definitely not make it!

    We did get one of the last 2 spots available when we drove up which was nice however they are very close to your fellow campers. As the previous reviews mention it is family friendly so there will be plenty of kids crying, yelling and just screaming for whatever reason…as kids do. For the price it’s just not worth it without having water or electricity hookups at $50 a night. Restrooms are just long drop toilets. So FOR ME this isn’t going to be a great spot for return.

  • Traci O.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Maple Grove RV Resort (Randle) - KM Resorts

    Stayed Sept 2025

    Enjoyed the large sites and peaceful atmosphere. The staff were friendly and even allowed us to have an Amazon purchase delivered to the campground. Complaints would be the pool was ice cold- unusable. Hot tub jets did not work, and the excessive amount of rabbit poop (not good for dogs) made us keep our pups indoors. Not sure I would come again.

  • Jeff A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Home Valley Campground

    Good fit for us

    New to the area on the road exploring biking and hiking from far away. Quiet place with kind knowledgeable hosts. Could only book on line. Felt mislead somewhat with GSAgent on phone. Wish had pic’s. Pricing very palatable and amenities good as we are self contained. We are not a big RV but small van & seasoned campers. Spacious sites and nice high up view of the River. We liked this unique CG. Must be advised lots of trains and highway noises on either side of CG but didn’t bother us. We would return.

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

Is camping available near Packwood in Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

Yes, camping is available near Packwood in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Iron Creek Campground is a great option in the area, featuring large, spacious, and private campsites with a river running nearby—perfect for families and pets. Cowlitz Falls Campground also serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the forest near Packwood. It offers clean, well-maintained facilities with most sites situated in wooded areas providing good shade. The campground includes a day use area along the river with a boat ramp and dock, making it ideal for water activities.

What are the best campgrounds in Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers several outstanding campgrounds. La Wis Wis Campground is a top choice, situated at the base of Mt. Rainier with many sites along the Cowlitz River. The beautiful setting makes it perfect for exploring both the national forest and Mt. Rainier National Park. Panther Creek Campground is another excellent option, tucked away down a scenic forest road just north of Carson. It's conveniently located about 20 minutes from the Columbia River Gorge, providing a peaceful basecamp for various outdoor activities throughout the region.

Where is Twin Falls Campground located in Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

Twin Falls is located in the Skamania area of Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This campground offers boat-in, hike-in, and walk-in access options, making it suitable for those seeking a more secluded camping experience. The area features basic amenities including toilets and is reservable. For those looking for alternatives in the same general region, Moss Creek Campground is nearby in the middle south territory of the forest, close to the Big Lava Bed, Lil' Huckleberry Mountain, and the Pacific Crest Trail, offering uniquely designed sites in a prime location.

How do I find Takhlakh Lake in Gifford Pinchot National Forest?

Takhlakh Lake Campground is located near Randle in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. To find it, you'll need to navigate forest roads—most visitors approach from the north via Randle or from the south through Trout Lake. The lake is accessible by car during summer months, though forest roads may require high clearance vehicles. The campground offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water, and toilets. This beautiful alpine lake sits at the base of Mt. Adams, providing stunning reflective views of the mountain. For alternative camping nearby, Saddle offers excellent access to hiking trails and mountain views in the same region.

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