How much does camping cost at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Camping fees at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) range from $26/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) first-come first-served or reservation?

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) before I book?

Yes! Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) is open May 15 to September 01. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Fire policies at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or): Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) have?

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Pets are not allowed at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or). This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

Popular activities at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

3.47

25 reviews

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,400 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Mount Hood Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,400 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Mount Hood Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC - Doubles Site: $26.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $26.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone /...

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

503-630-5721clm@clm-services.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

45.0571, -122.0528

Nearby places

Estacada - 26 miles (approximately 30 minutes’ drive).

Weather at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

Current alerts(3)

Click here for more information on the Mt. Hood National Forest
In accordance with standard industry practices, Mount Hood Recreation will be assessing a $8 additional vehicle fee on the second vehicle in each single family campsite, and on the third and fourth vehicle in any double family campsite, provided these vehicles are not joined to…
Off-road vehicle use is prohibited within the campground

Best Time to Camp at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and full campground services (open May 23–Sept 21), with warm, stable days typically in the 70–85°F range and cool nights around 45–55°F. This is when river-based activities (fishing, paddling), hiking, and biking are at their peak and forest access is fully open. Expect moderate to busy weekend crowds in July and August — reservations are recommended — and be mindful of occasional wildfire smoke or heat waves that can affect air quality and fire rules. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open May 23–Sept 21; summer is peak season for hiking, fishing, paddling and biking.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 01. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations May 23 - September 21, 2025.

About Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

Riverside sits along the Clackamas River in the foothills of Mt. Hood National Forest, about 45 minutes from Estacada. Operated by Mount Hood Recreation, this small campground offers spacious, private sites tucked into old-growth forest, with direct access to the Riverside Trail and river fishing. Campers come for the quiet atmosphere, trail access, and summer river activities during the May through September season.

Riverside Campground primarily accommodates tent and small RV camping. "The campground offers more than a dozen single-family sites for tent and small RV camping." Some sites are hike-in, as noted by a user: "Check which site you reserve, because some of them are hike-in."

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and full campground services (open May 23–Sept 21), with warm, stable days typically in the 70–85°F range and cool nights around 45–55°F. This is when river-based activities (fishing, paddling), hiking, and biking are at their peak and forest access is fully open. Expect moderate to busy weekend crowds in July and August — reservations are recommended — and be mindful of occasional wildfire smoke or heat waves that can affect air quality and fire rules. Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground is surrounded by old-growth Douglas firs and bigleaf maples typical of Cascade Range temperate rainforest. The Clackamas River runs directly through the property, offering fishing and paddling access. Site 15 and other riverside spots provide direct water views, while interior sites sit farther back in the forest. The dense canopy keeps most sites shaded throughout the day.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging available on-site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information provided on programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum per 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact number of guests per site not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available. No additional information regarding accessibility features.

Site SizeSingle-family sites are available, suited for tents and small RVs.

PrivacyDense shrubbery provides some privacy between campsites. Reviews note sites like '15' as being 'huge, private' and 'tucked away.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose riverside sites for better views and ambiance; avoid inner loop sites for lack of scenic access.

Best CampsitesSite 15 stands out in reviews as huge, private, and tucked away from the main loop. Campers strongly recommend choosing riverside sites over interior ones, which some describe as less appealing. Check whether your preferred site requires hiking in, as a few are not drive-up accessible.

Need help booking Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

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Amenities available

Riverside Campground is a rustic facility offering a nature-centric experience along the Clackamas River. "The campground offers more than a dozen single-family sites for tent and small RV camping. Each site is equipped with a table and campfire ring with grill." There are no hookups available at the sites. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Parking surfaces within the campground are either paved or gravel. Based on user reviews, "vault toilets were clean," and "tidy restrooms were available."

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Riverside Campground offers diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. "Fishing is very popular in the Oak Fork, and anglers can expect a catch of winter steelhead, spring Chinook, and late summer Kokanee salmon, as well as other species of freshwater fish." The Riverside National Recreation Trail, a 5-mile trail, is accessible from the campground and is "popular for hiking and mountain biking." Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy observing species such as bald eagles, northern spotted owls, and even peregrine falcons.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; vault toilets are provided and users have described them as "clean" and "tidy."

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.5

25 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is appreciated for its tranquility, natural setting, and access to trails and the Clackamas River. Visitors frequently mention its peaceful atmosphere and suitability for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 25 reviews.

Site 15Loved
Site 15 is described as 'huge, private, and tucked away,' with access to the river.
Site 10Mentioned
Site 10 is recommended for its proximity to the river, though inner campsites are less appealing.

What Campers Love

"Nice quiet rustic campground." "Very quiet and peaceful." Campsites are "huge and private" with "tucked away" options like site 15. The Riverside Trail and proximity to the river are highly praised.

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted that the Google Maps directions were inaccurate and that certain campsites are hike-in, which could be inconvenient for some visitors.

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Consider reserving riverside campsites for the best experience: "Definitely pick a campsite that is on the river, the inner campsites looked lame." Check site-specific details for hike-in...

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground operates in peak season from late May to late September. Visitors have noted the peaceful atmosphere and suitability for summer activities during this time.

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great huge, private site at the end of the loop (15)." "Loved this site and our camp spot. 15 is tucked away at the end and has private access to the river." "My family enjoyed the Riverside Trail,...

Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets are described as accessible, but no other accessibility features are explicitly mentioned.

Based on 25 reviews

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Go if

You want a peaceful forest camp with river access, large private sites, and good hiking within an hour of Portland.

Skip if

You need electric hookups, cell service, or rely on GPS directions without verifying the route beforehand.

Nearby Campgrounds

Riverside Campground, Clackamas River Ranger District, 16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055

Riverside Campground sits on a bluff above the Clackamas River in Mt. Hood National Forest, about 30 minutes from Estacada. The 15-site campground runs $5-19/night and operates May 22 through September 13. The 2020 wildfire stripped much of the understory, leaving large alders and Douglas firs standing but reducing shade and privacy between sites.

Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

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Plan a trip to Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

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Best Time to Camp at Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)

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Need help booking Riverside (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)?

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Common Concerns