Forlorn Lakes Campground sits on the wooded shores of several small lakes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, offering 25 first-come, first-served sites for tents and small RVs (18 feet maximum). The campground fills early in the week during summer, when visitors come for fishing, swimming, and huckleberry picking. A separate day-use area provides lake views and shoreline access.
The campground has 25 sites suitable for tent camping and small campers or RVs (maximum length 18 feet). Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather (daytime highs commonly in the mid-60s to low-80s°F, nights dropping into the 35–50°F range) and the fullest range of activities — hiking, fishing, and swimming are all at peak. Late July into August is also huckleberry season, when bushes around the lakes are heavy with berries and the area draws berry-pickers and nature lovers. Expect moderate weekend crowds and busy lakeside sites; because the campground is first-come, first-served, arrive in a
Peak months: August, July, September, June
Avoid: December, January, February, March
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground spreads around multiple small mountain lakes, each ringed by conifers that provide shade and privacy between sites. The lakes themselves are cold and clear, with shoreline access for fishing and swimming. Wild huckleberry bushes grow thick in the understory throughout the area, their branches heavy with fruit in late July and August. The wooded setting creates natural separation between campsites while still allowing glimpses of water through the trees.