Lower Falls Campground

Star4.27
473 reviews
MOUNT ADAMS RANGER DISTRICT, 2455 HIGHWAY 141, Trout Lake, WA 98650, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,300 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

43 campsites

Season

Open from mid-May th...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Mount Adams Ranger District site

Official Website
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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
Lower Falls Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Rates vary seasonally and range from $20-$40 per night for standard non-electric sites. Fees include entry for one vehicle and one legally towed...
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Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
509-395-3400dfwickwire@fs.fed.us
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What Campers Say

4.27

Satisfactory

Based on 473 reviews

135 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswatersites

"User reviews for Lower Falls Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.04. While many praise the natural beauty, spacious campsites, and proximity to the Lewis River Falls, others criticize the poor state of facilities, trash issues, and lack of enforcement of campground rules."

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Campground Map

MOUNT ADAMS RANGER DISTRICT, 2455 HIGHWAY 141, Trout Lake, WA 98650, USA

Lower Falls Campground

MOUNT ADAMS RANGER DISTRICT, 2455 HIGHWAY 141, Trout Lake, WA 98650, USA

Driving directionsFrom Portland or Seattle take I-5 to exit 21 for WA-503 E toward Woodland/Cougar. WA-503 will turn into FR 90, turn right at the Pine Creek Visitor Center. Lower Falls Campground will be on your right hand side after you pass mile marker 28 on FR 90.
The campground road is paved, but user reviews frequently mention significant potholes, dips, and rough roads leading to the campground. "The road is not very well maintained due to all the dips and low hanging branches." Seasonal road improvements may occur but are not guaranteed.
Nearby places
Woodland (approximately 28 miles), Cougar (approximately 20 miles), Mount St. Helens Visitor Center (approximately 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies like groceries, camping essentials, and fuel can be found in Cougar, WA, approximately 20 miles away. "Nearest store is 17 miles away and it really doesn't have much in it."

Best Time to Camp at Lower Falls Campground

Summer brings ideal camping conditions with refreshingly cool temperatures that hover around 66°F during the day before dipping to a crisp 50°F at night—perfect for campfire gatherings and sleeping bag comfort. As autumn approaches, the forest transforms into a misty wonderland where frequent rainfall nurtures the lush undergrowth and creates dramatic waterfall displays, though savvy campers know to pack their rain gear for shoulder-season adventures.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and busiest mid-May to Sept; ideal temps (66°F day), abundant activities, but overcrowding noted.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Open through October; quieter off-peak season with good trails, though fewer visitors and cooler weather.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Open from mid-May (late spring); pleasant temps but limited spring window and variable crowds.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed outside mid-May to October.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15, 2025 - September 23, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from mid-May through October. Peak season dates are May 15 to September 23.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal wildfire smoke and road conditions may affect usability. "There was so much smoke from the hollow fire."

About Lower Falls Campground

Nestled deep within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Lower Falls Campground offers an enchanting escape where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral above your tent. The melodic rush of the Lewis River serves as nature's soundtrack, while well-maintained trails beckon you to explore the spectacular waterfalls that have made this destination a beloved retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion.
Lower Falls Campground caters to both tent campers and RVs, with a combination of standard and group sites. The facilities are primitive, with no hookups or luxury options.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive nights at the campground.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Lower Falls Campground provides a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Lewis River Trail connects campers to nearby waterfalls and scenic vistas.
HikingThe campground provides access to several hiking trails, including the Lewis River Trail (#31), Quartz Creek Trail (#5), and Wright Meadows Trail (#80). Trail difficulty varies from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Highlights include views of the Lower, Middle, and Upper Lewis River Falls.
FishingFishing in the Lewis River is permitted, with species such as rainbow, cutthroat, and bull trout, along with whitefish. The area is catch-and-release only.
SwimmingDesignated swimming areas are available, including spots near the Lower Lewis River Falls. The water is described as 'crystal clear but freezing,' making it more suitable for braving the cold on hot days.
BikingMountain bike trails are located within 10 miles of the campground. Terrain and difficulty levels vary, making it suitable for different skill levels.
Wildlife viewingThe dense forest and proximity to the river make the area ideal for wildlife viewing. Visitors report sightings of various bird species and small mammals.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRough roads, potholes, and wildlife like mice and chipmunks are common. The river is cold, rocky, and slippery. "Be careful driving," "lots of mice," and "water is freezing."
Active AlertsSeasonal wildfire smoke and road conditions may affect usability. "There was so much smoke from the hollow fire."
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Lower Falls Campground

Reviews

4.3
473 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Lower Falls Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Lower Falls Campground are mixed, with an average sentiment of 4.04. While many praise the natural beauty, spacious campsites, and proximity to the Lewis River Falls, others criticize the poor state of facilities, trash issues, and lack of enforcement of campground rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 473 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the scenic beauty of the waterfalls, spacious campsites, and access to trails. One reviewer noted, 'The campground was clean, scenic, and well-run. While the Lower Falls are...
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Based on 473 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the poor condition of vault toilets, lack of firewood sales, and trash left by visitors. Noise disturbances and unruly campers are also recurring issues. One reviewer...
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Based on 473 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest bringing extra toilet paper, downloading maps for offline use, and arriving prepared with drinking water and other necessities due to the campground's lack of amenities.
Based on 473 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are the most popular, with families enjoying the falls and hiking trails. However, the campground experiences overcrowding, especially during weekends. The off-season offers a quieter...
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Based on 473 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Absolutely gorgeous! The hike to the middle falls was beautiful. The campground was clean.' - Jennie T. 2. 'This was our first time here...the campground was wonderful and the short walk to the...
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Based on 473 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific campsites like 28 Double in the upper loop and 7 in the lower loop receive positive mentions for their size and proximity to the falls. Conversely, sites near the restrooms are criticized...
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Based on 473 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is a concern, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges. The hand-pump water system and uneven trails are noted as potential barriers.
Based on 473 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users note that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Some campers report disturbances from unleashed dogs.
Based on 473 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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