Wahtum Lake Campground

Star4.37
44 reviews
Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

4,022 ft

Price

$24/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Wahtum Lake Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee mentioned in a user review is $24 per night, but specifics of additional fees, discounts, or fee structures are not available.
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
nullnull
Help improve this page
See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 44 reviews

45 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulhiking

"User reviews for Wahtum Lake Campground are mixed, with some campers appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility while others criticize the lack of amenities and crowded conditions."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Wahtum Lake Campground

45.5773, -121.7925

Driving directionsDirections from Hood River: Travel southwest on Primary Forest Route 13 past Dee. Continue on 13 follow it west when it splits. About one mile past forest boundary, pick up Forest Road 1310. Follow 1310 northwest to the campground.
"The road in takes about 30 min from the main road" according to user Chad Diblasio. Judy B noted that the campground is "10 miles off the main road" and described the route as steep and challenging.
Nearby places
Hood River (approx. 25 miles), Portland (approx. 70 miles).

Best Time to Camp at Wahtum Lake Campground

Mountain weather here dances between sun and storm, with rain and snow making surprise appearances even during warmer months. Seasoned visitors recommend planning your escape between late spring and summer, when wildflowers carpet the forest floor and the lake beckons for afternoon swims. Pack layers and rain gear—the mountains have their own agenda, and being prepared ensures you'll embrace whatever nature delivers.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is most popular: warm swims and trail access but expect crowds and mosquitoes.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall likely offers fewer crowds and good colors; weather can be variable.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Late spring recommended; early spring may have snow and muddy trails.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Mountain snow and variable weather make winter use limited; closures possible.

Planning Tips

    About Wahtum Lake Campground

    Tucked into the verdant embrace of Mt. Hood National Forest, Wahtum Lake Campground beckons with five intimate primitive sites, each equipped with a fire pit and picnic table for authentic outdoor living. This tree-shaded retreat sits just east of the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness, offering a gateway to pristine alpine adventures. While the campground's close-knit layout has drawn mixed reviews—from those who cherish its "nice little" charm to others who find the $24 sites too closely packed—its proximity to crystal-clear Wahtum Lake makes it a coveted basecamp for wilderness enthusiasts seeking both solitude and spectacular scenery.
    The campground features primitive campsites suitable for tent camping. No reservations are accepted as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
    Advertisement

    Best Campsites

    Curated by campers, for campers
    Reveal picks

    Reserving a campsite


    Amenities available

    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    The campground offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Wahtum Lake and its surroundings.
    HikingThe location provides access to multiple hiking opportunities, including trails leading into the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. A user described their hike to Chinidere Mountain, where they enjoyed views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and other notable peaks.
    SwimmingSwimming is possible in Wahtum Lake, which is a short but steep hike from the campground. One user described it as a 'beautiful swim.'
    Winter Activities
    Water Sports
    Advertisement

    Policies & Safety

    Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention steep terrain and limited parking. Judy B noted that "other campers left garbage out so the raccoons got into it." Sivaramakrishna Tagirisa also noted "lot of mosquitos."
    No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

    Weather at Wahtum Lake Campground

    Reviews

    4.4
    44 reviews
    Recommended
    Recommended
    Wahtum Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
    User reviews for Wahtum Lake Campground are mixed, with some campers appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility while others criticize the lack of amenities and crowded conditions.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 44 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the area, access to hiking trails, and the peaceful environment. One user referred to it as 'a great hidden gem.'
    Based on 44 reviews

    Common Concerns

    Common complaints include limited parking, steep access to the lake, lack of modern amenities such as water and flush toilets, and crowded conditions at the campground.
    Based on 44 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially mid-day when day hikers are present. Sites 6 and 7 are recommended for privacy. To avoid strain, take the stairs down to the lake and use the loop...
    Show more
    Based on 44 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Summer appears to be the most popular time, with user reviews spanning from June to September. However, the campground can be crowded during peak months, and mosquitoes are prevalent during the...
    Show more
    Based on 44 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    1. 'Nice little campground. It's a couple hundred feet above the lake.' 2. 'The road in takes about 30 min from the main road. Easy hike down to the lake but it’s a good hike UP on the way out!' 3....
    Show more
    Based on 44 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    Sites 6 and 7 were specifically highlighted for offering the most privacy.
    Based on 44 reviews

    Accessibility Features

    No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
    Based on 44 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences.
    Based on 44 reviews

    0
    0 review
    1
    2
    3
    4
    5

    Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

    Been to Wahtum Lake Campground? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.


    Last updated January 5, 2026
    Advertisement

    Nearby Campgrounds

    Campgrounds you may also like

    Popular campgrounds in Oregon

    Campgrounds
    Mt. Hood National Forest
    Wahtum Lake Campground