Canyon Creek cuts through the forested terrain of Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and this free dispersed area sits along its banks roughly five miles down a rough gravel road. Getting in requires patience. The access road is consistently described by visitors as bumpy and difficult, with limited turnaround space that makes it a tight fit for anything longer than 22 feet. Navigating in from Hood River has caused at least one visitor to end up badly off-route, so confirming coordinates before departure is worth the extra step.
Once in, sites are spread far enough apart that neighboring campers are rarely visible. The ground near the riverbank is hard-packed, so tent campers should bring sleeping pads rather than counting on soft soil. Firewood is sparse at some spots, though the drive-in access makes hauling your own straightforward. Several sites have a short trail down to the creek, which gives anglers and anyone wanting water access a direct route without bushwhacking.
Weekends draw a notable volume of foot traffic and fishermen, which surprises some visitors given how remote the road feels. Weekdays are considerably quieter. Chris J. describes it as "a nice quiet disconnect," though he also notes the site was found in typical condition and asks campers to pack out their waste. Human waste management has been an issue on some trails near the sites. Cell service is listed as available but not guaranteed throughout.
Campers staging a longer trip through the area can look at NF 42 Dispersed — Gifford Pinchot NF or Sunset Falls Campground as nearby alternatives. The season runs May through October, and arriving mid-week with firewood already loaded will make the experience considerably smoother.
Description
This small, lightly used campground is tucked into dense forest adjacent to Canyon Creek. Eight campsites are available for tent camping only.
Nine small campsites. Smaller RVs can camp here. There is a newer, accessible vault toilet. Each site has a table and fire ring. The campground is sort of hidden away in the dense forest. Canyon Creek is nearby. If pulling a trailer, it is best to leave it at a pullout on the 54 road and find the campground first. There is no chance to turn around if the entrance is missed.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsGifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping is located in Washington near Cougar
Directions
From Chelatchie on Highway 503, travel east on Road 54, right on Road 53, left on 3701, about 1/4 mile turn down the next road to the left. There is no site sign marking the campground entrance. Do not continue up road 3701. It is not maintained. It is narrow and brushy.
Coordinates
45.91600044 N
122.20200055 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 25 min from Portland, OR
- 1 hr 27 min from Longview, WA
- 2 hrs 13 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 17 min from Olympia, WA
