Timothy Lake - Meditation Point Campground
4.799 reviewsMeditation Point Campground, Timothy Lake, Oregon
Timothy Lake - Meditation Point Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Overnight camping fee is $10 per nonelectric site per night, payable by cash or check. Day-use fee is $10 per vehicle per day. Fees are temporarily waived in 2025 due to restroom repairs. Annual Northwest Forest Pass or Interagency Pass may cover day-use fees.
About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine shores of Timothy Lake, Meditation Point Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This intimate, primitive campground features seven secluded sites that reward adventurous souls who arrive by boat, bike, or hiking trail. Far from the crowds and accessible only to those willing to journey beyond the beaten path, Meditation Point provides a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature in its purest form.
Meditation Point Campground is a primitive, hike-in site focused on small groups and minimal facilities. It offers a remote experience on the shores of Timothy Lake.
Historical SignificanceWhile specific historical records remain elusive, this tranquil corner of Mt. Hood National Forest carries the timeless spirit of the Pacific Northwest wilderness that has drawn adventurers and nature seekers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground experiences the full drama of Pacific Northwest seasons, from winter's hushed snowscapes to summer's warm, sun-dappled days. Spring and fall bring their own magic, with frequent rain showers nurturing the forest and occasional snow dustings creating ethereal morning scenes. Summer temperatures remain refreshingly moderate, perfect for hiking and water activities, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland. Visitors should come prepared for rapidly changing conditions and embrace the region's dynamic weather as part of the adventure.
ElevationPerched at Timothy Lake's edge within the mountainous terrain of Mt. Hood National Forest, the campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where crisp air and cooler temperatures provide natural relief from summer heat.
Natural Features and SceneryMeditation Point lives up to its contemplative name, offering breathtaking vistas across Timothy Lake's glassy waters framed by towering conifers. Ancient Douglas firs and noble pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into gentle, dancing patterns. The shoreline provides endless opportunities for quiet reflection, whether watching morning mist rise from the lake or witnessing spectacular sunsets paint the water in shades of gold and crimson. The surrounding forest hums with life, from chattering squirrels to the haunting calls of loons echoing across the water.
Geological RegionNestled within the volcanic wonderland of Mt. Hood National Forest, Meditation Point showcases the region's dramatic geological heritage. The campground sits amid dense coniferous forests shaped by ancient lava flows and glacial activity, with Timothy Lake itself a testament to human engineering harmoniously integrated into this mountainous landscape. Towering peaks and ridgelines serve as a constant reminder of the powerful forces that sculpted this corner of the Cascade Range, creating a terrain that ranges from gentle lakeshores to challenging mountain slopes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThis is a hike-in campground accessible by foot, bike, or boat only. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not detailed.
Sites SizeThe 7 campsites are described as rustic, suited for small groups of up to 6 people, and equipped with basic facilities like tables and fire rings.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews highlight the secluded and quieter nature of the campground compared to other spots around Timothy Lake. One user stated, 'Great secluded campground, much quieter than the main campgrounds on the other side of the lake.'
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome reviews suggest packing extra gear due to the hike required to access sites.
Best CampsitesNot specified.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
24 hours
Check-out
24 hours
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups of up to six campers per site are allowed.
Groups
Group sites are not available at this campground. The individual campsites are limited to six people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has seven individual sites equipped with fire rings and tables.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservation availability is mentioned but platforms are not specified.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is implied but not explicitly detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not specified.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and fishing. Non-motorized and motorized boating are also available, with a lake speed limit of 10 mph for motorized boats. Reviewers mention stargazing and wildlife viewing as highlights.
Hiking
Day hikes are accessible from the campground. The main hike is 1.2 miles along the Timothy Lake Trail from the West Shore Day Use parking area.Fishing
Lake and pond fishing is available, though details about species or quality of fishing are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Timothy Lake.Biking
The campground is accessible by bike, and biking is mentioned as a means of exploring the area.Boating
Both non-motorized and motorized boating are permitted on Timothy Lake, with a 10 mph speed limit for motorized boats.Wildlife viewing
Reviewers describe the lake as a quiet and relaxing place, suitable for observing wildlife. Specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the area experiences freezing conditions, with heavy snowfall likely in winter.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding opportunities are not explicitly described but may be inferred from the allowance of non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Each site is equipped with a fire ring, but specific fire regulations are not detailed.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBiting flies and mosquitoes are recurrent issues during certain seasons. 'Do not go during mosquito season if you have venom intolerance,' warns a user review.
Active alertsRestroom facilities are closed for repairs in 2025. No potable water available.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Zigzag Ranger District (70220 E Highway 26, Zigzag, OR 97049), Phone: (503) 622-3191. Closest hospital and police station information are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are likely expected to pack out all their trash.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Timothy Lake's shores, offering swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include biting insects, lack of amenities such as restrooms, and challenging hikes with gear.
HostHost information is not available.
Campground Map
Meditation Point Campground, Timothy Lake, Oregon
Driving directionsFrom Sandy, OR - Travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 40 miles to Skyline Road (Rd 42). Turn right on Skyline Road, travel south 9 miles. Turn right on FS Road 57, west 2+ miles, go over Timothy Lake Dam. Turn right into the Myron Blank West Shore Day Use Area. Go to the end of the parking area and park. Hike or bike 1.2 miles on Timothy Lake Trail to Meditation Point.
Road access involves paved highways followed by FS roads. Seasonal closures or rough terrain are not indicated in the source.Nearby places
Sandy, Oregon (40 miles, approximately 50 minutes)
Zigzag, Oregon (approximately 35 miles, 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are likely available in Sandy, Oregon or nearby Zigzag Ranger District. Specific supply store details are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.8
9 reviews
Timothy Lake - Meditation Point Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise Meditation Point Campground for its secluded location, beautiful views, and peaceful environment. Common themes include the lack of crowds, rustic charm, and scenic lakefront setting. However, several reviewers highlight the challenges posed by the lack of restroom facilities, mosquitoes, and the uphill hike back to the parking area.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted by users include excellent stargazing, the peaceful and quiet setting, and the natural beauty of the area. One user stated, 'Good free camping great star gazing,' while others...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the abundance of mosquitoes, lack of functional restroom facilities ('outhouse was out of service'), and the physical difficulty of the uphill hike to the parking area...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend packing out everything brought in, bringing adequate mosquito repellent, and planning for the uphill hike back to the parking area. Firewood availability was not mentioned, so campers...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer seems to be the most popular camping season, but it comes with challenges like mosquitoes and biting flies. Winter and spring conditions are likely challenging due to the hike-in nature and...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'A great place to camp if you can get a spot. A quiet and relaxing lake.' 2. 'Great secluded campground, much quieter than the main campgrounds on the other side of the lake.' 3. 'The outhouse was...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are not available. However, users emphasize the general tranquility and scenic beauty of the campground.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features, but the hike-in nature may be challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences with pets were found in the reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025