Philbrook Campground

Star4.41
42 reviews
Peace & QuietSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$28/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

The facility operate...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Philbrook Campground
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Operated by PGE. The Peak Season rates are $28 per night for tent-only sites. Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or other incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.41

Recommended

Based on 42 reviews

43 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietpeacefulcleanrestrooms

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Philbrook Campground highlight its natural beauty, friendly hosts, and a range of family-friendly water-based activities. Many visitors appreciate the peaceful environment and opportunities for wildlife observation, while some note accessibility challenges due to unclear signage and bumpy roads."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Philbrook Campground

40.0277, -121.4672

Driving directionsLong bumpy dirt road to get to the lake. Some reviews noted that once familiar, it seems easy to find but there are challenges for first-time visitors due to gravel roads and unclear signs.
Gravel and dirt roads leading to the campground. According to user reviews, signs are not clear and roads may be bumpy.

Best Time to Camp at Philbrook Campground

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May 15–Sept 2; summer is peak season with swimming, kayaking and camping.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Limited fall access (season ends early Sept); late-season low water and hunting noted.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring snowmelt fills the lake (good views/watersports), though campground opens mid-May.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 15–Sept 2; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15 to September 2.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The facility operates from May 15 to September 2 annually.

About Philbrook Campground

Escape to Philbrook Campground, a pristine tent-only sanctuary operated by PGE where wilderness enthusiasts reconnect with nature's raw beauty. This secluded retreat, free from the hum of electric hookups, draws devoted anglers casting lines at dawn and hunters tracking game through ancient forests. Here, camping returns to its roots—just you, your tent, and the untamed landscape surrounding a shimmering natural reservoir.
Philbrook Campground offers basic camping options, including tent and vehicle camping. The emphasis is on a natural, quiet camping experience.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check out time is stated but unclear for check-in.
Check-out
Check out time is NOON the day following arrival date.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is undefined in authoritative sources.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Philbrook Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities centered around its natural lake setting. Activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and observing wildlife such as ospreys and eagles. Some user reviews highlight the lake's suitability for family-friendly fun, including tubing and playing in the water. Fishing is also popular, particularly for Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout.
FishingFishing is a popular activity, with the lake offering opportunities to catch Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout. However, detailed species or fishing regulations are not mentioned.
SwimmingThe lake is suitable for swimming, as noted by users who enjoyed water activities such as kayaking, tubing, and playing in the lake.
BoatingBoating activities, including kayaking and tubing, are frequently mentioned by users. One camper stated, 'The kids and adults all had fun kayaking and playing in the lake.'
Wildlife viewingCampers have observed ospreys and eagles hunting in the area. A reviewer commented, 'Keep eyes open for osprey and occasional eagle hunting the lake.'
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHunting season begins mid-September, leading to increased activity and noise from trucks and ATVs before 6:00 am.

Weather at Philbrook Campground

Reviews

4.4
42 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Philbrook Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Philbrook Campground highlight its natural beauty, friendly hosts, and a range of family-friendly water-based activities. Many visitors appreciate the peaceful environment and opportunities for wildlife observation, while some note accessibility challenges due to unclear signage and bumpy roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 42 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the 'beautiful lake' and 'quiet, peaceful camping experience.' Campers praised the friendly and attentive camp hosts, clean restrooms, and the lake's suitability for...
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Based on 42 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the 'long bumpy dirt road to get to the lake' and 'unclear signage.' The lack of trash facilities was also noted, requiring campers to pack out their garbage.
Based on 42 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend being prepared for the dirt road and bringing maps or GPS due to unclear signage. Campers also suggest packing out all trash and bringing water sports equipment to enjoy the lake.
Based on 42 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During late summer, the reservoir's water levels are noted to be lower, affecting the scenery. Hunting season in mid-September brings additional noise from hunters' vehicles and early risers.
Based on 42 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'I was very pleased with the campground clean. Camp host Jamie very friendly.' - J Lewis 2. 'This year was so much better than last year’s! The new camp host Ray is friendly and helpful!' -...
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Based on 42 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most campsites are located on the reservoir side, offering good views and a peaceful atmosphere. No specific site numbers are mentioned.
Based on 42 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility challenges are hinted at but not explicitly detailed. One review mentioned unclear signage and road conditions that could pose difficulties.
Based on 42 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There is no mention of pet-specific reviews or policies in the provided materials.
Based on 42 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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