Rock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)
4.0471 reviewsQuick Facts
4,600 ftPrice
$26/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
33 campsites
Season
Open from April 18 t...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
4,600 ftPrice
$26/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
33 campsites
Season
Open from April 18 t...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsRock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates include $26 for Standard Nonelectric sites and Tent Only Nonelectric sites from April 18 to September 23, 2025. Additional vehicle...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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$26.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider503-630-5721mthoodcampgrounds@vista-rec.com
What Campers Say
4.04
Satisfactory
Based on 71 reviews
5 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspaciousfriendlysites
Some mention
noisedusty
"User reviews are mixed, with many highlighting the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. However, issues with low water levels, dusty conditions, and inconsistent enforcement of rules are recurring complaints."
Fees & Passes at Rock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)
$26/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 nights during a visit, max 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Cancellation: Reservations can be canceled prior to the check-in date. Changes to reservation dates entirely outsi...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Mt. Hood National Forest Campgrounds (Vista Recreation) website.
Best Time to Camp at Rock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)
Each season brings its own personality to Rock Creek. Late spring arrives like a gentle friend, offering perfect camping temperatures and wildflower-dotted meadows. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched retreat, though savvy campers know to pack extra water as the reservoir drops to quench thirsty farmlands below. Don't let the warm days fool you—mountain breezes can turn crisp after sunset, and early summer nights often call for an extra layer around the campfire. The dusty trails of August tell stories of adventure, while cool mornings remind you that you're camping at elevation.
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: April 18, 2025 - September 23, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from April 18 to September 23, 2025. Reservable dates start June 25, 2025.
- Current Alerts: Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Alerts regarding low water levels are inconsistently communicated.
About Rock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)
Perched along the serene shores of Rock Creek Reservoir, this hidden gem in Mt. Hood National Forest invites you to escape into a world where towering pines whisper secrets and mixed oak forests paint the landscape in seasonal hues. Rock Creek Campground welcomes both tent campers seeking simplicity and RV adventurers (though intimate mountain roads favor rigs under 35 feet). Wake to the gentle splash of rainbow trout breaking the water's surface, or spend lazy afternoons casting for bass and bluegill from shore. Electric motors hum quietly across the reservoir, preserving the peaceful ambiance that makes this spot special. Just steps away, a well-appointed day-use area beckons with shaded picnic tables, a convenient boat launch, and trailheads that promise discovery around every bend.
Rock Creek Campground offers single-family sites for tent and RV camping. Sites near the water are especially sought after, though water levels fluctuate significantly.
Historical SignificanceRock Creek Campground stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Mt. Hood National Forest's dual purpose—serving both recreation seekers and the vital agricultural communities below. For generations, this landscape has balanced conservation with irrigation needs, creating a unique partnership between wilderness preservation and sustainable resource management that continues to shape the forest's character today.
Weather and SeasonsEach season brings its own personality to Rock Creek. Late spring arrives like a gentle friend, offering perfect camping temperatures and wildflower-dotted meadows. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched retreat, though savvy campers know to pack extra water as the reservoir drops to quench thirsty farmlands below. Don't let the warm days fool you—mountain breezes can turn crisp after sunset, and early summer nights often call for an extra layer around the campfire. The dusty trails of August tell stories of adventure, while cool mornings remind you that you're camping at elevation.
ElevationAt 4,600 feet above sea level, Rock Creek Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air feels lighter and the stars shine brighter. This elevated perch gifts campers with naturally cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings and spectacular vantage points for watching sunrise paint the surrounding peaks in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanting world where mixed oak and pine forests create a natural cathedral at 4,600 feet. Rock Creek Reservoir mirrors the sky and surrounding mountains, creating postcard-perfect reflections on calm mornings. Though irrigation needs mean the 180-acre reservoir rarely reaches full capacity, this only adds to its charm—exposed shorelines become nature's gallery, revealing interesting rock formations and creating new beaches for exploration. Keep your binoculars handy; majestic eagles often soar overhead, riding thermals above the pine-scented ridges while deer emerge from forest shadows at dawn and dusk.
Geological RegionRock Creek Campground occupies a stunning pocket of the Mt. Hood National Forest, where ancient geological forces carved out the perfect basin for today's 180-acre reservoir. The southeastern shoreline cradles the campground in a natural amphitheater of mixed oak and pine, thriving at 4,600 feet where mountain ecology creates its own microclimate. This pine-covered mountain terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, from volcanic origins to glacial sculpting, now serving as both a crucial irrigation resource and a recreational paradise where the landscape's working heritage meets outdoor adventure.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features accessible vault toilets and accessible campsites. Specific details about paths, parking, or ADA compliance were not noted.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some accommodating multiple tents. One user noted that their site could fit up to three tents with space to spare.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer limited privacy, as many are open with minimal vegetation between sites. Some reviewers mentioned frequent foot traffic through their reserved sites, reducing the sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor views, choose sites like #19 or #15. If privacy is a concern, avoid lakeside sites during peak season due to crowding. Sites on Loop 2 tend to be quieter.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 14:00 (2:00 PM).
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 (noon).
Stay Limit
14 nights during a visit, max 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is not specified.
Groups
There is no specific mention of designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe layout includes two loops with gravel parking surfaces; sites are equipped with tables and campfire rings with grills. Some waterfront sites offer closer proximity to Rock Creek Reservoir.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 18 to September 23, 2025. Reservable dates start June 25, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov and its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though the exact number is not specified.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to the check-in date. Changes to reservation dates entirely outside of the original dates incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (from midnight one day before check-in) forfeit the first night's fee, and additional fees may apply. No refunds for day-of cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Rock Creek Campground include fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The 180-acre reservoir is a central feature, though its water levels can be inconsistent. "The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, and boating," according to the official description. However, boats are limited to electric motors. An unmarked trail connects the campground to off-road vehicle trails at nearby Sportsman Campground. Due to wildlife in the area, birdwatching is also highly recommended.
Hiking
An unmarked trail connects to Sportsman Campground, offering a network of off-road vehicle trails. A short hiking trail is also accessible at the adjacent day-use area.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity. Anglers can catch bass, bluegill, and stocked rainbow trout. Reviewers generally enjoyed the fishing experience, though water levels in the reservoir significantly impact fishing conditions.Biking
Biking is not explicitly mentioned but is likely feasible on the unmarked trail and surrounding forest roads.Boating
Boating is allowed, but only electric motors are permitted. The low reservoir levels can limit boating opportunities, especially in mid to late summer.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to diverse wildlife, including eagles, deer, and a variety of bird species. "Bring binoculars, great bird watching," recommended one reviewer.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular. "Be sure to bring your fishing poles and kayak when camping!" suggested one reviewer.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires may be restricted during hot, dry weather conditions. A fire ring with grill is provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly defined, and enforcement varies depending on hosts.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include dry conditions, dusty roads, and occasional wildlife interactions (e.g., yellow jackets and hornets). Seasonal reservoir drainage can leave stagnant water, affecting recreational activities.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather conditions. Alerts regarding low water levels are inconsistently communicated.
Weather at Rock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or)
50
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Dense drizzle
Precipitation: 1.2%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 29.5 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (1.20% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Dense drizzle
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Government Camp, including medical facilities and police stations, approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 18, 2025 - September 23, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is available, but no specific details about recycling facilities or pickup schedules were noted.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Rock Creek Reservoir, though water activity is limited during summer due to drainage for irrigation. Pine Hollow Lake is nearby for alternative water recreation.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the drained reservoir during summer, dusty conditions, and inconsistent enforcement of leash laws. Some campers reported double bookings and excessive noise from large groups.
HostHosts are generally described as helpful and friendly, though some reviews noted lapses in rule enforcement, particularly leash laws and quiet hours.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Portland, travel east on Highway 26 for 42 miles. Take the Highway 35 exit to Hood River and travel northeast for 3 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 48 and travel 22 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 4810 and continue to the campground.
The access road, Forest Road 48, has numerous potholes marked by white stripes, which can be dangerous if missed. RVs over 35 feet are not recommended due to road conditions and the gravel surfaces within the campground parking areas.Nearby places
Government Camp (30 miles, approximately 45 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
A small town located about 15 minutes from the campground has a general store that provides essentials such as firewood, milk, tent repair kits, and other camping supplies. Fuel availability is not explicitly noted.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
71 reviews
Rock Creek Campground (Mt. Hood National Forest, Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with many highlighting the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. However, issues with low water levels, dusty conditions, and inconsistent enforcement of rules are recurring complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 71 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, spacious campsites, and friendly, helpful hosts. "This campground was the cleanest I’ve ever stayed at!" praised one reviewer.
Based on 71 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include low water levels in the reservoir, dusty campsites, and lack of privacy. "It’s a stinky mud pit not fit for swimming," noted one user. Another highlighted issues with...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Pack plenty of blankets for chilly nights. Bring your own firewood to avoid shortages, and consider extra water for washing due to the dusty conditions. "Be sure to bring your fishing poles and kayak...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that spring is the best time to visit, as the reservoir is more likely to have water. By mid-summer, water levels drop significantly, affecting water-based activities.
Based on 71 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms were absolutely impeccable." "Bring binoculars, great bird watching." "It’s a stinky mud pit not fit for swimming." "This campground was the cleanest I’ve ever stayed at!"
Based on 71 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 012 is noted for being spacious and shaded. Site 015 offers proximity to the water, though it suffers from foot traffic. Site 030 is described as quiet with good wildlife viewing. Site 031...
Based on 71 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets and accessible campsites are noted, though no detailed reviews from users with disabilities are provided.
Based on 71 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Several complaints about unleashed dogs and lack of enforcement of leash laws. "Dogs were running free with no leash and pooping wherever," lamented one reviewer.
Based on 71 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement