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Established Camping

Forlorn Lakes

Forlorn Lakes, near Skamania, Washington, is a stunning campground that offers a peaceful escape surrounded by pristine alpine lakes. With designated sites right by the water, it’s perfect for those who want to soak in the beauty of nature while enjoying a campfire under the stars.

The campground is known for its serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families and friends looking to unwind. Visitors rave about the spacious sites, with some even mentioning the convenience of having picnic tables available for larger groups. One camper highlighted, “Great camp spot at site 16 with lots of room for tents and two picnic tables for a large group.”

While there are no stores nearby, this adds to the charm of Forlorn Lakes, encouraging campers to bring everything they need for a self-sufficient getaway. The roads leading in can be a bit bumpy, but the breathtaking scenery and tranquil lakes make the journey worthwhile. As one reviewer put it, “The scenery is still amazing,” after multiple visits.

For those who enjoy water activities, the lakes are perfect for swimming and kayaking, though fishing might require a bit of luck. The clean vault toilets and respectful neighbors contribute to a pleasant camping experience. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat away from the crowds, Forlorn Lakes is definitely worth checking out.

Description

National Forest

Forlorn Lakes, one of the most popular campgrounds in the southern part of the forest, offers 25 campsites scattered around the wooded shores of small, picturesque lakes. Swimming and fishing are possible in the larger lakes. Huckleberry bushes grow in the campground and surrounding area making this site very popular during huckleberry season. The campsites at a maximum 18 feet long are suitable for tent camping and small campers or RV's. The day use area has lake views, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground is very popular, the camping spots fill early in the week. Forlorn Lakes offers nearby access to Indian Heaven via the East Crater Trailhead.

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Location

Forlorn Lakes is located in Washington

Detail location of campground

Directions

In Trout Lake, WA, at intersection of State Rt. 141 and Mt. Adams Rec Hwy, take Rt. 141 north 7.9 miles to Goose Lake/Forest Rt. 60 signs. Continue straight onto Rt. 60 and go 1.5 miles to "T" intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. 60 (gravel) and go 0.1 miles to a "Y" intersection. Bear right, continuing on Rt. 60, and go 1.7 miles to an intersection and Forlorn Lakes sign. Turn left at sign onto Forest Rt. 6030 and go 2 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Forest Rt. 6040 into the campground or continue straight for another 0.2 miles to sites 22 through 25. NOTE: Forest Rt. 6030 becomes Forest Rt 6035 and is a dirt, rough, narrow roadway for last 1.8 miles.

Coordinates

45.9590002 N
121.75700097 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Reviewed Sep. 28, 2022

Beautiful lakeside campground

Great camp spot at site 16 with lots of room for tents and two picnic tables for a large group. The private path to the lake was the best part. 

Heads up there are gravel roads to get to the campground but nothing too rough.

SiteSite 16
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Molly S., September 28, 2022
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Molly S., September 28, 2022
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Molly S., September 28, 2022
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2021

Great hidden spot

Stumbled upon a great spot at one of the forlorn lakes. Spot 14 Very quiet and serene location.

Site14
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Paula G., July 13, 2021
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Paula G., July 13, 2021
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Paula G., July 13, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 11, 2021

Great spot!

Very quiet, first come first serve camp sites off the beaten path. We will be back!

Site14
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Paula G., July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Paula G., July 11, 2021
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Paula G., July 11, 2021
Reviewed Jul. 31, 2020

Best camping EVER!

I discovered these lakes about a year ago and OMG I am obsessed. The campsites are unparalleled. All are lakeside on "private lakes". The only way to gain access to the lakes it through the campsites (the rest of the lake is overgrown and inaccessible). Many of the lakes in the PNW are filled with people but these are pristine alpine lakes. The restrooms (vault toilets) were clean. The only negative is how popular this spot has become. Unless you arrive on a Sunday afternoon or Monday, I think you are SOL. There are a lot of dispersed sites around the area but none as nice as Forlorn Lakes. 

ps- the road turns to gravel about 15 minutes before you reach the site and its pretty bumpy in some spots. Take it SLOWWW.

SiteThey are ALL unreal!!!!
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jul. 4, 2020

Beautiful, quiet, clean.

Beautiful lakes. The forest was lush, green and spotless. Our spot, 7, one of the lower lakes, was a great site. lake access, though no luck with fishing. The smaller lake this site backs up to is great for swimming and kayak/paddle-boarding. Neighbors were respectful. Trailer access limited to this area. Extremely quiet at night. Will definitely be revisiting these lakes! For fishing, I recommend the upper (biggest) lake in the area.

  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Brian B., July 4, 2020
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Brian B., July 4, 2020
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by Brian B., July 4, 2020
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jun. 6, 2018

Remote and private. Great mattress floating on the many lakes/ponds

bring what you'll need as there are no stores around, Trout lake is the closest facility. A little dusty at times, a bale of hay will keep the dust down. Nice floating lakes, not sure if they are stocked or not. Road can be a little rough in places, worth the effort to get there.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Forlorn Lakes by bruce W., June 6, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Forlorn Lakes?

    Camping at Forlorn Lakes can cost between $10.00 and $20.00 depending on the site.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Forlorn Lakes?

    Forlorn Lakes allows vehicles up to 18 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Forlorn Lakes?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Forlorn Lakes, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Forlorn Lakes have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Forlorn Lakes does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Forlorn Lakes?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is good.