Lazy Bend
4.2037 reviewsQuick Facts
800 ftPrice
$3 - $8/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Campground is closed...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
800 ftPrice
$3 - $8/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Campground is closed...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsLazy Bend
$3.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation Use fees vary based on activity and reservation method. Additional vehicle fees are $8 per second vehicle in single-family campsites and...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider503-630-5721clm@clm-services.com
What Campers Say
4.20
Satisfactory
Based on 37 reviews
66 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewscleanspaciouswater
Some mention
noise
"The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment score of 3.97. Positive aspects include the natural beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to the Clackamas River. However, some users have raised concerns about camp host behavior and the presence of poison oak."
Fees & Passes at Lazy Bend
$3 - $8/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations made before the check-in date incur a $10 fee; late cancellations for individual camps...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Mount Hood Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Lazy Bend
The Pacific Northwest's signature climate graces Lazy Bend with its own unique rhythm. Winter transforms the campground into a rain-soaked wonderland, where mist rises from the river and creates an ethereal atmosphere. As spring emerges, the forest bursts to life with wildflowers and warming temperatures, making it an ideal time to witness nature's renewal. Early summer brings those coveted blue-sky days perfect for river activities and campfire gatherings, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in golden hues. Pack your rain gear for those quintessential Oregon showers that keep this landscape so vibrantly green.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Data on peak season dates for Lazy Bend Campground is not available.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Campground is closed due to damage from the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
- Current Alerts: Campground is currently closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
About Lazy Bend
Nestled alongside the pristine waters of the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River, Lazy Bend Campground offers an enchanting retreat where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral of green. This riverside sanctuary beckons both solo adventurers and families seeking to trade city sounds for rushing water and birdsong. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, navigating its gentle rapids, or exploring forest trails that wind through ancient groves, Lazy Bend provides the perfect basecamp for your Pacific Northwest adventure.
The campground offers accommodations primarily for tent camping, with a few sites suitable for small RVs. Group camping and luxury camping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Lazy Bend may be modest, the land itself tells ancient stories through its old-growth neighbors and the ever-flowing Clackamas River. This waterway has served as a lifeline for countless generations, from indigenous peoples who first navigated its waters to the loggers and settlers who followed. Today, the campground continues this legacy of connection between people and place, offering modern adventurers their own chapter in the ongoing story of the Clackamas wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsThe Pacific Northwest's signature climate graces Lazy Bend with its own unique rhythm. Winter transforms the campground into a rain-soaked wonderland, where mist rises from the river and creates an ethereal atmosphere. As spring emerges, the forest bursts to life with wildflowers and warming temperatures, making it an ideal time to witness nature's renewal. Early summer brings those coveted blue-sky days perfect for river activities and campfire gatherings, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in golden hues. Pack your rain gear for those quintessential Oregon showers that keep this landscape so vibrantly green.
ElevationAt a gentle 800 feet above sea level, Lazy Bend occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills where the climate remains mild and the forest thrives in perpetual green. This modest elevation creates the perfect conditions for the campground's lush understory while offering glimpses of the river valley below. Here, you'll breathe easier in the oxygen-rich air, surrounded by towering conifers that frame views of the sparkling Clackamas as it winds through the canyon.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient Douglas firs and western red cedars tower overhead, their branches creating a natural ceiling that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The star of the show, the Clackamas River, flows past with a musician's rhythm, its clear waters revealing smooth river stones below. In late summer, lucky visitors can feast on wild huckleberries that carpet the understory. Keep your eyes skyward for glimpses of majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, while the haunting calls of northern spotted owls echo through the twilight hours. This protected habitat also shelters the swift peregrine falcon, making Lazy Bend a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Geological RegionCarved into the western slopes of the mighty Cascade Range, Lazy Bend Campground occupies a geological wonderland where volcanic history meets river power. The Wild and Scenic Clackamas River has spent millennia sculpting this valley, creating a corridor of life through the dense coniferous forest. The surrounding landscape tells the story of fire and ice, where ancient lava flows now support towering trees and abundant huckleberry patches. This remarkable ecosystem provides critical habitat for some of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic species, including federally protected bald eagles that fish the river's pools, elusive northern spotted owls that nest in old-growth snags, and peregrine falcons that patrol the canyon walls with breathtaking speed.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible vault toilets. However, no detailed accessibility features for campers with disabilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, with some sites being spacious enough to accommodate multiple tents, such as Site #13, which allows for two large tents, a smaller tent, and a canopy. Other sites, like Site #19, are described as small.
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies, with some sites being secluded and quiet, while others are less private and located near pathways or bathrooms. For instance, Site #7 is noted for its quiet ambiance, while Site #21 has less privacy due to its proximity to restrooms.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 16 is spacious; Site 13 accommodates multiple tents and a canopy sitting area; Sites 14 and 15 are noted for large size and river access.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights.
Groups
No group camping sites are available at Lazy Bend Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in loops with varied proximity to the river. Some sites require a short hike from parking areas, particularly Sites 13 and 16.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is closed due to damage from the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov using their website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the check-in date incur a $10 fee; late cancellations for individual campsites forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the $10 cancellation fee. After check-in begins, modifications depend on facility discretion.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lazy Bend Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around the nearby Clackamas River. Campers can enjoy fishing, hiking, rafting, and scenic drives. The area is particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts looking for water-related activities and natural beauty.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available with trails running along the Clackamas River. However, specific details about trail lengths and difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Lazy Bend Campground, with opportunities to catch winter steelhead, spring Chinook, and Coho salmon during their respective seasons. The Clackamas River is known for its abundant freshwater species.Swimming
The Clackamas River adjacent to the campground offers swimming opportunities, though one user noted that the river's rocky shore might make it less ideal for extensive water activities.Boating
Boating opportunities are available nearby at the North Fork Reservoir, located 5 miles northeast of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as a key activity, with the area providing habitat for species like bald eagles, northern spotted owls, and peregrine falcons. Huckleberry bushes and dense forests also add to the natural appeal.Winter Activities
No information about winter-specific activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is provided.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and rafting are popular on the Clackamas River, which is known for its challenging whitewater rapids.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings at individual campsites. Visitors are encouraged to source firewood locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours information provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak has been observed in the campground, particularly near trails leading to the river. Users have recommended caution when hiking. The adjacent highway may contribute noise.
Active alertsCampground is currently closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather at Lazy Bend
54
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Estacada, 10 miles northeast of the campground, which offers medical facilities, police stations, and general amenities.
Good to know
Peak season datesData on peak season dates for Lazy Bend Campground is not available.
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information is provided about trash and recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Clackamas River, offering opportunities for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. North Fork Reservoir, 5 miles northeast, provides additional water-based recreation.
Common complaintsUser reviews indicate concerns about poison oak, occasional intrusive behavior from camp hosts, and lack of accessible river paths. Some noted the proximity to Highway 224 results in minor noise disturbances.
HostMixed reviews about camp hosts. Some users describe them as accommodating and maintaining clean facilities, while others report intrusive behavior involving campsite inspections.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for just over 10 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 224, which is paved and well-maintained. Large RVs are not recommended, and no hookups are available at the sites. The campground lies between the river and the adjacent highway.Nearby places
Estacada: 10 miles northeast (approximately 15 minutes driving time).
Nearby supplies
Estacada, 10 miles from the campground, provides groceries, dining options, and fuel stations.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
37 reviews
Lazy Bend is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment score of 3.97. Positive aspects include the natural beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to the Clackamas River. However, some users have raised concerns about camp host behavior and the presence of poison oak.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights from user reviews mention the campground's lush green environment, clean facilities, and spacious campsites like Site #16. Visitors also appreciate the proximity to the river and the...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include reports of rude behavior by camp hosts, overgrown poison oak in trails and campsites, and the lack of amenities like showers and cell phone service.
Based on 37 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing cash for any extra fees, as electronic payments are not accepted. Campers also suggest being cautious of poison oak in the area and bringing adequate lighting for dark...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is most enjoyable during the late spring and summer months, when the weather is warmer, and the river activities are at their peak. Winter visits are not discussed...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were very clean (cleaned on a daily basis) and the campgrounds were very clean!' - User Delta. 2. 'Nice spot, lush green forest sites. You do have to hike your stuff down from the...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight Site #14 as one of the best for river access and size. Site #16 is noted for its spaciousness, while Site #19 is described as small. Site #13 is praised for...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for disabled campers.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users have mentioned that the campground is 'very kid and dog friendly,' suggesting a welcoming environment for pets. However, no specific pet policies are outlined.
Based on 37 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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