Takhlakh Lake Campground
4.26146 reviewsGifford Pinchot NF Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Randle, WA 98377, USA
Quick Facts
4,400 ftPrice
$25 - $45/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
54 campsites
Season
Open season is July ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
4,400 ftPrice
$25 - $45/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
54 campsites
Season
Open season is July ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsTakhlakh Lake Campground
$25.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric sites cost $25. Tent-only sites also cost $25. Sites during peak season cost up to $45. Extra vehicle fee is $8 per night.
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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$25.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider541-338-7869
What Campers Say
4.26
Satisfactory
Based on 146 reviews
129 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanshadewell-maintainedsites
Some mention
noisebugsmosquitoes
"Takhlakh Lake Campground is highly rated for its stunning views, clean facilities, and accessibility to outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. However, the lack of potable water and challenges with mosquitoes are common complaints."
Fees & Passes at Takhlakh Lake Campground
$25 - $45/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of up to 14 nights.
Cancellation: Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellat...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Rocky Mountain Recreation Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Takhlakh Lake Campground
The mountain weather at Takhlakh Lake tells its own dramatic story throughout the year. Summer days bring warmth and sunshine perfect for lakeside adventures, though savvy campers come prepared for the notorious mosquito welcoming committee that thrives in the lush mountain environment. As darkness falls, the temperature can plunge dramatically – sometimes dropping to 65°F or cooler – reminding visitors they're camping more than 4,000 feet above sea level. Autumn transforms the campground into a peaceful sanctuary, with crisp air, fewer insects, and golden light painting the volcanic peaks in spectacular hues.
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: July 11 to September 20.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open season is July 3 to September 20. First-come, first-served availability from July 3 to July 10. Reservations available from July 11 to September 20.
About Takhlakh Lake Campground
Perched at 4,400 feet in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Takhlakh Lake Campground offers one of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular camping experiences. Here, 54 secluded sites nestle beneath a canopy of ancient trees, each offering back-in access with parking spurs from 15 to 40 feet. But it's the view that steals the show – imagine waking to the sight of three volcanic giants reflected in the mirror-like waters of Takhlakh Lake. This beloved high-country retreat draws photographers, hikers, and anyone seeking communion with the raw beauty of the Cascades.
Takhlakh Lake Campground offers a mix of camping experiences with sites suited for tents and small RVs. Some sites are designated for tent use only.
Weather and SeasonsThe mountain weather at Takhlakh Lake tells its own dramatic story throughout the year. Summer days bring warmth and sunshine perfect for lakeside adventures, though savvy campers come prepared for the notorious mosquito welcoming committee that thrives in the lush mountain environment. As darkness falls, the temperature can plunge dramatically – sometimes dropping to 65°F or cooler – reminding visitors they're camping more than 4,000 feet above sea level. Autumn transforms the campground into a peaceful sanctuary, with crisp air, fewer insects, and golden light painting the volcanic peaks in spectacular hues.
ElevationAt 4,400 feet above sea level, Takhlakh Lake Campground occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade high country where mountain majesty meets accessibility. This elevation gifts campers with crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that provide natural air conditioning on summer days. The altitude also positions visitors perfectly for some of the most dramatic mountain vistas in the Northwest, where the curvature of the earth seems to bend beneath the towering volcanic peaks that dominate every horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryTakhlakh Lake serves as nature's perfect reflecting pool, capturing the towering presence of Mt. Adams in its pristine waters with such clarity that photographers often struggle to tell which way is up in their images. The campground's natural amphitheater provides front-row seats to a volcanic trilogy featuring Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Saint Helens, with Oregon's Mt. Hood making guest appearances on clear days. Towering Hemlock and Douglas Fir trees create a living cathedral overhead, their ancient branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Dawn and dusk transform this already stunning landscape into something otherworldly, as alpenglow paints the peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Geological RegionTakhlakh Lake Campground claims its home in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, specifically within the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District at the forest's northern edge. This remarkable location places campers at the base of the mighty Mt. Adams, Washington's second-highest peak and a still-active stratovolcano. The campground sits at the intersection of geological wonders, where volcanic forces have shaped the landscape over millennia. From this single vantage point, visitors can witness the Ring of Fire's legacy in the form of multiple volcanic peaks, each telling its own story of fire, ice, and the relentless forces that continue to shape the Cascade Range.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites and activities are available and meet current accessibility standards.
Sites SizeSites accommodate a range of equipment with parking spurs from 15 to 40 feet.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlighted that sites have varying levels of privacy. For example, site 5 is noted for its privacy, while sites 30 and 32 are within 10 feet of each other.
Total Campsites54 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Sites outside the loop provide more privacy." Avoid sites near vault toilets due to flies and odor. Reserve early for waterfront or spacious sites like 23 and 47.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 14 nights.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout54 back-in sites with parking spurs ranging from 15-40 feet. Some sites are tent-only. Sites near the boat ramp and outer loop provide better views and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is July 3 to September 20. First-come, first-served availability from July 3 to July 10. Reservations available from July 11 to September 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during July 3 to July 10, with walk-up sites typically filling by Thursday during weekends according to reviews.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (day before or day of) forfeit the first night's use fee and $10 service fee. No-shows are assessed $20 and forfeit the first night's rate. Refunds can be requested within 7 days after reservation end date.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Takhlakh Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is especially popular for non-motorized boating, such as kayaking and canoeing. Hiking trails range from short accessible loops to more challenging trails like the Pacific Crest Trail nearby.
Hiking
Numerous trails, including the Takhlakh Loop (accessible and family-friendly) and the Takhlakh Meadow Trail, are available. Nearby, the Pacific Crest Trail connects to the Highline Trail for experienced hikers.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight for many visitors, with reports of catching rainbow trout, some as large as 21 inches. Power bait was commonly used.Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed. Visitors frequently kayak or canoe. Motorized boats are prohibited.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include deer and birds such as eagles. The area around the boat ramp has nesting eagles and active fish jumping at sunset.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described explicitly, but the area’s high elevation and snowfall suggest potential winter sports activities.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular, given the lake’s glass-like surface and non-motorized restrictions.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased onsite for $10/bundle. Campers are encouraged to buy firewood locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are Starts at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and biting flies are frequent complaints in user reviews, especially during July and August. Roads leading to the campground are gravel-surfaced with potholes and washboarding, requiring caution.
Weather at Takhlakh Lake Campground
37
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned. The closest population center, Randle, is approximately 33 miles away and may provide basic services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 11 to September 20.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available and emptied twice a day, yet some reviews mentioned an insufficient number of bins for the volume of campers.
Proximity to water featuresSituated next to Takhlakh Lake, which is reserved for non-motorized boating. "Great lake for kayaking, canoeing, or relaxing."
Common complaintsMany reviews mention mosquitoes as a major issue. Bugs like sandflies and biting flies also pose challenges. Other complaints include noise pollution from generators and limited privacy between campsites. "Sites are packed and close together."
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised for being helpful and maintaining cleanliness. "Camp hosts were very nice and attentive."
Campground Map
Gifford Pinchot NF Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Randle, WA 98377, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-5: Take exit 68 and head east on US Highway 12 to Randle, Washington. Turn south onto State Highway 131 and travel 1 mile, stay left at the Y and continue southeast on Forest Road 23 for 30 miles to Forest Road 2329. Turn left onto Forest Road 2329 and follow it through the junction with Forest Road 5601. Proceed on Forest Road 2329 for 3/4-mile to the campground. The last 7 miles of Forest Road 23 are gravel surfaced.
The last 7 miles of Forest Road 23 are gravel surfaced and may be challenging for vehicles. Reviews stress taking caution on the gravel roads, which have potholes and washboarding. "The last 30 minutes is pretty rough, all uphill, winding dirt/rocky roads with big dips, potholes etc."Nearby places
Randle (approximately 33 miles, around 1 hour drive). No other population centers explicitly mentioned.
Nearby supplies
Randle is mentioned as a supply center. Fischer's Market in Randle (28 miles away) has essentials such as sleeping bags, bug spray, and food items. Firewood can be purchased onsite for $10/bundle.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
146 reviews
Takhlakh Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Takhlakh Lake Campground is highly rated for its stunning views, clean facilities, and accessibility to outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. However, the lack of potable water and challenges with mosquitoes are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 146 reviews
What Campers Love
"Breathtaking view of Mt. Adams," "clean and well-maintained vault toilets," "great fishing with trout up to 21 inches," "fantastic for photography of the Milky Way," and "well-shaded campsites with...
Based on 146 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
"Mosquitoes were unbearable," "sites are close together with little privacy," "road to the campground is rough and poorly maintained," and "no potable water available."
Based on 146 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring potable water, mosquito repellent, and citronella candles. Reserve early for the best sites. Avoid bringing large RVs due to road conditions.
Based on 146 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with reports of high mosquito activity in July and August. Visitors in late summer and early fall often note fewer bugs and slightly cooler temperatures.
Based on 146 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The views of Mt. Adams are worth the mosquitoes." - User Review. "We caught 28 rainbow trout in one day!" - User Review. "The vault toilets were always clean and stocked." - User Review.
Based on 146 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 23 is frequently praised for its size and privacy. Sites near the boat ramp have the best views but are less private.
Based on 146 reviewsAccessibility Features
Campers with disabilities appreciated the accessible sites and trails, though some noted challenges with uneven terrain.
Based on 146 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviews mentioned issues with off-leash dogs causing disturbances.
Based on 146 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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