Shellrock Creek Campground

Star0
5 reviews

Quick Facts

2,245 ft

Price

$19 - $23/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

32 campsites

Season

Open April 17 throug...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Mt. Hood National Forest site

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Shellrock Creek Campground
$19.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Single Site: $23/night.Payments accepted via cash OR check
Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$20.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$39.00

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What Campers Say

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Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

9 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietsites

Some mention

cell service

"Reviews of Shellrock Creek Campground are generally positive, focusing on its privacy, tranquility, and natural beauty. Some reviewers have mentioned the remote atmosphere as a highlight, while others noted limited amenities and the relatively high price for primitive camping."

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Fees & Passes at Shellrock Creek Campground

$19 - $23/night

Campsite fees

Standard Site

Basic tent/RV spot

$19/night
Premium Site

Best views or amenities

$20/night

Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit restricted to 14 days

Prices verified November 17, 2025

Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Mt. Hood National Forest website.


Best Time to Camp at Shellrock Creek Campground

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Pacific Northwest at Shellrock Creek. Summer brings gentle, moderate temperatures perfect for creek-side relaxation and forest exploration. As autumn arrives, crisp air signals the changing seasons, while winter transforms the landscape into a potential wonderland of snow and ice, with freezing temperatures that demand proper preparation. Spring's arrival brings the promise of renewal, though rain remains a frequent companion throughout much of the year—adding to the lush, verdant character that defines this corner of Oregon.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.

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 to September. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 17 through September 13
  • Current Alerts: none

About Shellrock Creek Campground

Escape to the untamed beauty of Shellrock Creek Campground, where the rhythmic murmur of cascading waters creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Nestled along the pristine banks of Shellrock Creek—a tributary that journeys through Oak Grove Fork before joining the mighty Clackamas River—this primitive campground offers an authentic wilderness experience. Here, far from the hustle of modern life, you'll discover what it truly means to disconnect and immerse yourself in Oregon's raw, natural splendor.
Shellrock Creek Campground is designed for primitive camping, with no designated RV sites or developed facilities.
Historical SignificanceThe waters of Shellrock Creek have long served human needs, with historical records revealing the area's vital role in early irrigation systems that helped sustain local communities. These same waters that once nourished crops and settlements continue to sustain the rich ecosystem that thrives here today, connecting modern visitors to the resourceful pioneers who first recognized the value of this natural treasure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Pacific Northwest at Shellrock Creek. Summer brings gentle, moderate temperatures perfect for creek-side relaxation and forest exploration. As autumn arrives, crisp air signals the changing seasons, while winter transforms the landscape into a potential wonderland of snow and ice, with freezing temperatures that demand proper preparation. Spring's arrival brings the promise of renewal, though rain remains a frequent companion throughout much of the year—adding to the lush, verdant character that defines this corner of Oregon.
ElevationPerched at 2,245 feet above sea level, Shellrock Creek Campground offers a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills—high enough to escape summer's most intense heat while remaining accessible year-round for those prepared for changing mountain conditions.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering conifers create a natural cathedral above Shellrock Creek Campground, their dense canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The constant symphony of rushing water provides a soothing ambiance that follows you throughout the campground, while moss-draped trees and fern-covered understory create an enchanting Pacific Northwest tableau that feels worlds away from civilization.
Geological RegionSet within the spectacular Mt. Hood National Forest, Shellrock Creek Campground serves as your gateway to over one million acres of protected wilderness. This volcanic landscape, shaped by ancient lava flows and carved by countless streams, showcases the raw geological power that created Oregon's iconic Cascade Range.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly mention any accessibility features, and vault toilets are not wheelchair-friendly.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention some sites are large enough to accommodate up to five 2-person tents.
Sites PrivacySites are separated by dense growth, providing a high level of privacy for campers.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended Campsitessites near the reservoir

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit restricted to 14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Max limit for occupancy is 8
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned in the available documentation.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe site consists of two loops, A and B.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 17 through September 13
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk up access availble

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Shellrock Creek Campground offers limited recreational activities, aligning with its primitive camping style. Its main attractions include serene picnicking areas and proximity to a creek.
Winter Activities
No winter recreation opportunities are mentioned.
Water Sports
There are no water sports opportunities available here.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Individual firewood available for a fee.

Hazards

General hazardsNo explicit hazards mentioned.
Active alertsnone

Weather at Shellrock Creek Campground

46
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 93%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 1.1 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)

Slight drizzle possible

Light drizzle

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast

Good to know

Peak season datesApril to September
Trash and recyclingReviews mention that the campground has trash disposal facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Shellrock Creek
Common complaintsUser complaints include limited campsites, higher fees, lack of amenities like cell service and potable water
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Campground Map

Driving directionsFrom Wamic, OR, take Wamic Mkt Rd. west 5.4 miles to campground sign. Turn right after sign onto Forest Rt. 4820 and go 0.2 miles to another campground sign. Turn right at sign and go 0.1 miles to campground on left.
Travel southeast on Highway 26 past Government Camp to Forest Road 42 (Skyline Rd). Follow 42 south (right), across the Warm Springs Indian Reservation and back into the national forest, to Forest Road 57. Follow 57 west for approximately 7 miles to Forest Road 58, turn north (right) and continue about 1/2 mile to the campground.
Nearby places
Estacada population centers approxiametely calculating distance of 40. Miles approxiametely

Reviews from booking and map sources

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Shellrock Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Shellrock Creek Campground are generally positive, focusing on its privacy, tranquility, and natural beauty. Some reviewers have mentioned the remote atmosphere as a highlight, while others noted limited amenities and the relatively high price for primitive camping.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the serene and private setting, the sound of the creek, and the large size of some sites. One user mentioned, 'This is a beautiful, quiet, well-kept campground.' Another...
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Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative comments focus on the limited number of campsites (only 8), lack of potable water, absence of cell service, and the $19 nightly fee being considered high for primitive camping. One user...
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Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water and planning ahead for busy weekends, as the limited number of campsites can fill up quickly. Due to the lack of cell service, meeting up should be arranged...
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Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open seasonally between late May and early September. Reviews suggest that it is less crowded outside of peak summer weekends, and some campers prefer visiting when other locations...
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Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'I have been coming to this campground since I was in high school. Over 25 years now. I won’t camp anywhere else!' 2. 'Loved this campground. We were right on the water... quiet and peaceful.' 3....
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Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific insights are limited. However, one review notes that some sites are large enough to accommodate up to five 2-person tents.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically mention accessibility features or challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers

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Last updated November 17, 2025
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