Three Bears Campground
4.0848 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Northwest Oregon District-Attn: Recreation Operations, 1717 Fabry Rd SE, Salem, OR, 97306
Three Bears Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$15-$30 per night plus fees. Standard fees apply and are non-refundable.
About this campground
Nestled in an enchanting grove of towering western red cedar trees, Three Bears Campground offers a serene escape just 4 miles south of Glen Avon Bridge. This intimate hideaway features 15 walk-to tent sites, each thoughtfully equipped with tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, and BBQ grills for the perfect outdoor experience. The campground's crown jewel is its direct access to a pristine cobble beach and inviting swimming hole along the Molalla River, where crystal-clear waters beckon on warm summer days. While vault toilets ensure basic comfort, adventurers should note that fresh drinking water awaits just a mile east at Cedar Grove Campground, making this the ideal basecamp for those seeking a more rustic connection with nature.
Three Bears Campground is designed for tent camping, offering 15 walk-in sites. RV camping and glamping accommodations are not available.
Historical SignificanceThe Molalla River holds a special place in Oregon's natural heritage as one of the few remaining undammed tributaries feeding into the mighty Willamette River. This free-flowing waterway has shaped the landscape and ecosystem for millennia, creating a living corridor that connects mountain forests to valley floor. The river's untamed character preserves a glimpse of the Pacific Northwest as it existed long before modern development, making every visit a journey through both natural beauty and regional history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings wonderfully moderate temperatures that make Three Bears an ideal warm-weather retreat, though visitors should come prepared for nature's smaller residents—insects are part of the authentic wilderness experience here. Eagle-eyed hikers will want to watch for poison oak along the trails, a reminder that this is truly wild country. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms with frequent rain showers and crisp, cool air that paint the forest in dramatic moods, offering a completely different but equally captivating experience for those who venture here in the off-season.
ElevationThe Molalla recreation corridor unfolds across a gentle elevation range of 800 to 1200 feet, creating a temperate microclimate where mountain freshness meets accessible terrain. This sweet spot in elevation means visitors can enjoy the benefits of mountain camping—cooler temperatures, pristine air, and towering trees—without the challenges of high-altitude adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryThree Bears Campground immerses visitors in the lush embrace of old-growth forest, where the Molalla Wild and Scenic River serves as nature's centerpiece. Sun-dappled cobble beaches invite afternoon lounging, while hidden swimming holes offer refreshing respites carved by centuries of flowing water. The interplay of ancient cedars, ferns, and moss creates a verdant cathedral that filters sunlight into ethereal rays, while the river's gentle soundtrack provides nature's perfect white noise for peaceful nights under the stars.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic landscape carved by the Molalla Wild and Scenic River, the campground showcases the raw geological beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This undammed tributary of the Willamette River has sculpted a spectacular gorge through ancient volcanic and sedimentary rocks on its journey from mountain heights to valley floor. The surrounding forest ecosystem thrives in this water-carved canyon, where millennia of erosion have created the perfect balance of rugged terrain and accessible recreation, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing geological story of the Cascade foothills.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited accessibility features are mentioned. Campsites are walk-in, and parking is centralized. Vault toilets may pose challenges for individuals requiring fully accessible facilities.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some able to accommodate multiple tents. One user detailed, "Site #6 is the biggest and can easily have 3 tents."
Sites PrivacyCampsite privacy varies by location. Some sites are described as secluded, while others, particularly #5 and #6, are noted for their proximity to one another, making them suitable for group camping but less ideal for privacy.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 5 and 6 ideal for families; Site 7 praised for proximity to parking and creek.
Best CampsitesCampsites 4 and 6 are noted for their spaciousness, accommodating up to 3 tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 13 nights during a visit, total within 30 rolling days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 guests per site, unless otherwise noted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are walk-to with varied distance from parking. Central parking lot serves all campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 16 and closes October 18 for reservations. No bookings during out-of-season dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground gate locked without reservation, no walk-up availability confirmed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, late cancellations also forfeit the first night’s fees. Reservation changes reflecting new stay dates incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Three Bears Campground offers various outdoor recreational activities in a scenic natural setting. Highlights include camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Molalla River provides excellent opportunities for water-based activities.
Hiking
Hiking is available on trails near the campground, with the Hardy Creek Trailhead being the closest. This area is noted for its moderate difficulty and opportunities for native plant observation.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Molalla River, offering opportunities to catch local fish species. The river is described as 'beautiful and clear,' making it a pleasant fishing experience.Swimming
The Molalla River adjacent to the campground provides swimming opportunities, with users describing the water as 'clear and cool.' One reviewer mentioned, 'In June, the water was chest high but slow enough to swim across.'Biking
Biking trails are accessible near the campground, suitable for moderate to experienced riders. Specific details about trail lengths or terrain are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in the region. Campers are advised to secure food and waste to avoid attracting scavenging animals.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not detailed as the campground is generally closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding may be feasible, though not explicitly stated in official sources.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in provided fire rings, subject to BLM regulations.
- Quiet hours are Observed quiet hours unspecified in details.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife scavenging campsites, poison oak, flying insects, and lack of cell service.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
In case of emergency, drive to an area with cell service, dial 911. Payphone available on the east side of Glen Avon Bridge.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16th - October 18th
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling dumpsters are available on-site. Campers are encouraged to pack out all waste, including pet waste, to prevent attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresOn-site access to Molalla River, cobble beach, and swimming holes.
Common complaintsComplaints include unclean vault toilets, noisy road traffic, and overcrowding during holidays.
HostNo specific information about campground hosts available.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Northwest Oregon District-Attn: Recreation Operations, 1717 Fabry Rd SE, Salem, OR, 97306
Driving directionsFrom the town of Molalla, drive east on Main St/OR 211. Veer right at the OR 211/Mathias Road intersection, follow signs for Feyrer Park. Once past Feyrer Park, cross over the Molalla River, turn right, and follow signs for Dickey Prairie Rd. Continue south on Dickey Prairie Rd, keeping the Dickey Prairie Store on your left. At 3.7 miles past the store, turn right on Molalla Forest Rd and cross Glen Avon Bridge. Continue 3 miles, Three Bears will be on your left.
Central parking area is accessible, but campsite access is walk-in only. Roads are paved up to the parking area. The main S. Molalla Forest Rd is used regularly for hauling timber and forest products, creating noise.Nearby places
Molalla (10 miles southeast, approximately 20 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Firewood and basic supplies can be obtained from nearby towns like Molalla. Closest potable water is off-site at Cedar Grove Campground, 1 mile east.
Camper Reviews
4.1
48 reviews
Three Bears Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Three Bears Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.75. Positive reviews highlight the scenic natural setting, well-maintained campsites, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Negative reviews frequently mention issues with cleanliness, noise from nearby roads, and inconsiderate fellow campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 48 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive remarks include the beautiful location near the Molalla River, spacious campsites, and friendly ranger staff. One user noted, "Honestly one of the best walk-in sites I've ever been to."...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include dirty and poorly maintained vault toilets, noise from nearby roads, and overcrowding. A user described, "Bathrooms ran out of toilet paper twice during a busy holiday...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring their own firewood, bug spray, and portable hand sanitizers due to limited on-site facilities. Users also recommend booking sites in advance and downloading maps or...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the campground is busiest during summer holidays, leading to overcrowding and maintenance issues. Midweek visits or off-peak periods are recommended for a quieter experience.
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The area is beautiful but the bathrooms are the smelliest, nastiest bathrooms ever."- Cassie Copola
"Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Toilets are vaulted. It is a park and hike campsite."...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #6 is praised for its size, being able to accommodate 3-4 tents. Site #5 is noted for its proximity to the river. However, Site #9 received negative feedback for being too close to other sites,...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited, but centralized parking and walk-in campsites may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 48 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted and must be leashed. One pet owner mentioned, "Took my dogs with no issues. Fun and great place to camp!"
Based on 48 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025