Four sites tucked into the forest create an intimate camping experience where privacy depends entirely on timing and site selection. Rainy Lake Campground sits within Mt. Hood National Forest, accessible via a rough forest road that requires careful navigation around potholes but remains passable for standard vehicles.
Sites 1 through 3 cluster together on the right side of the small loop, while site 4 occupies the left side near the vault toilet. The layout means full occupancy eliminates privacy between neighbors, though Sarah S. notes that site 4 offers "the most private of the sites" despite its proximity to the restroom. Site 3 provides level ground suitable for two tents, while site 2 sits exposed between the others. A large log partially screens site 1 from the central area.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis from May through October. A trailhead behind sites 2 and 3 leads to Rainy Lake in under 10 minutes, while longer trails connect toward Wahtum Lake with views of Mt. Hood. When this location fills up, Black Lake Campground sits just one mile down the road with four additional sites.
This compact spot works best for campers comfortable with close quarters who prioritize lake access and trail connections over spacious, private sites.
Description
Located on Rainy Lake. Trailhead access to the Mark O Hatfield Wilderness. See also: Rainy Lake Trail 423A, Rainy Wahtum Trail #409, North Lake Trail #423
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsRainy Lake Campground is located in Oregon near Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
Directions
From Hood River travel south on OR Hwy 281 Dee Highway (it goes past the Hood River airport) approximately 11 miles to Dee. Bear right at the old Dee Mill Site and cross the East Fork of the Hood River. Turn right again and go 1.2 miles up Punchbowl Road until it crosses the West Fork of the Hood River. The road becomes Dead Point Road (Forest Road 2820) here. Follow Dead Point Road 11 miles until you get to Rainy Lake Campground and trailhead.
Coordinates
45.62605814 N
121.75873218 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Portland, OR
- 2 hrs 23 min from Longview, WA
- 2 hrs 31 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 53 min from Yakima, WA
