Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground

Star4.75
6 reviews
16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,859 ft

Price

$20 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

null

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Clackamas River Ranger District site

Official Website
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Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$20 per night for a single site; $30 per night for a double family site. Additional vehicle fee is $5 per night.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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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Provider
(971) 333-4100null
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What Campers Say

4.75

Top-Rated

Based on 6 reviews

3 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quiethiking

Some mention

noise

"User reviews describe Lower Lake Campground as a quiet, small, and primitive area ideal for hikers and those seeking a rustic experience. The beauty of the surrounding area is emphasized."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055

Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground

16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055

Driving directionsFrom Estacada, OR - Drive south on Highway 224 and travel 26 miles. The road becomes Forest Road 46 for 20 miles. Turn east onto Forest Road 4690 and drive 6 miles on pavement, then about 3 miles on gravel, to a junction with Forest Road 4220 at the junction to the resort turn off. The roads are closed in the winter due to heavy snow.
Road access includes paved roads turning into gravel roads. Roads are seasonally closed in winter due to heavy snow.
Nearby places
Estacada (approximately 52 miles, 1 hour and 15 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground

The rhythm of seasons dramatically transforms this high-country haven. Winter arrives with authority, blanketing the landscape in deep snow and sealing off road access, creating a pristine wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid winter adventurers. As summer unfolds, warm days invite exploration, though seasoned campers know to pack extra protection against the native yellow jackets that patrol these woodlands during the height of the season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Pleasant hiking season and lake access, but yellow jackets and occasional noisy campers noted.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

High-country fall likely scenic and quieter; specific fall reports limited.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring transitions with snowmelt; access and conditions vary, limited specific info.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Winter brings deep snow and road closures; access often sealed off.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: null
  • Current Alerts: Campground is currently closed due to damage from the Lionshead Fire.

About Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground

Rising from the ashes of the 2020 Lionshead Fire, Lower Lake Campground is experiencing a remarkable transformation as nature and human effort combine to restore this cherished wilderness retreat. Tucked into a secluded pocket of pristine forest just north of the larger Olallie Lake, this intimate campground offers adventurers a genuine back-to-basics experience. Here, the modern world fades away as you explore crystalline mountain lakes by paddle, discover hidden trails that wind through towering evergreens, and cast your line into waters that mirror the sky above.
Lower Lake Campground is described as primitive and small, catering to those seeking a more rustic experience. Tent and possibly RV camping may be available, with no specific mention of group or luxury accommodations.
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Activities you can enjoy

Lower Lake Campground offers recreational activities primarily focused on nature exploration. Official sources confirm options such as hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. User reviews highlight nearby hiking destinations like Fish Lake, which provides a more challenging route.
HikingDay hikes and backpacking are available, with surrounding smaller lakes offering varied exploration opportunities. A user review mentions Fish Lake being a 45-60 minute hike and 'quite challenging.'
FishingFishing is available in Lower Lake, though no details on fish species or regulations are provided.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is explicitly permitted on Lower Lake.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsYellow jackets in summer. Damage from the Lionshead Fire may pose safety issues.
Active AlertsCampground is currently closed due to damage from the Lionshead Fire.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground

Reviews

4.8
6 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Lower Lake Campground as a quiet, small, and primitive area ideal for hikers and those seeking a rustic experience. The beauty of the surrounding area is emphasized.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the quiet and beautiful setting. User Rob Plucar reviewed it as 'a pretty quiet campground that's also a good spot for a base camp for hiking.'
Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include disturbances such as 'drunk party goers' playing loud music until 4 a.m., as noted by Carolyn Brown. Yellow jackets are prevalent in the summer, as mentioned in a review.
Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring insect repellent for yellow jackets in the summer. Plan for noise disturbances during peak times.
Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer brings pleasant hiking opportunities but also yellow jackets and occasional noise disturbances from other campers. Winter access may be restricted due to heavy snow and road closures.
Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'A pretty quiet campground that's also a good spot for a base camp for hiking.' - Rob Plucar. 2. 'It was beautiful and fun!' - Carolyn Brown.
Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site-by-site reviews or preferences are provided.
Based on 6 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews or details addressing accessibility are available.
Based on 6 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews or details addressing pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 6 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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