Aquila Vista Recreation Site

Summary

Aquila Vista is an overnight group campground near the Molalla River Trail System, boasting 20 miles of trails for bikers, hikers and equestrians. Amenities include vault restrooms, picnic tables, shelters and fire rings. Despite the closure to remove wildfire burned danger trees, the site offers plenty of hiking and natural beauty including a small waterfall. Located in the heart of the forest, it is also close to the Molalla Wild and Scenic River.

Overview

Aquila Vista is closed until further notice to remove wildfire burned danger trees.

Aquila Vista is available for overnight group camping by obtaining a special recreation permit. This accommodates groups up to 30 people and 20 vehicles. The season is mid-May through mid-October.

Recreation

The Molalla River Trail System is an extensive network of more than 20 miles of trails for hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. The trail system can be accessed from Aquila Vista. The system combines both single track trails and old forest roads. The trails wind through the forested foothills and slopes of the Molalla River Valley, occasionally offering scenic glimpses of the forests and mountains of the Cascade Range. The system offers a variety of difficulty levels for a wide range of mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding enthusiasts. Trails are generally marked with directional signs and levels of difficulty. Additional equestrian access to the trail system is from Hardy Creek or Annie’s Cabin Trailheads where there is ample parking for horse trailers. Mountain bikers and hikers can also access the trail system via Amanda’s, Americorp, and Sandquist ’s Trailheads.

Facilities

Amenities include vault restrooms, two group picnic shelters with multiple picnic tables, and metal fire rings. There is no running water at Aquila Vista, ensure that you bring plenty of drinking, cooking, and sanitation water. There is no firewood at the site or firewood collection allowed, please bring your own firewood if you wish to have a fire.

Natural Features

The site is located in the heart of the forest next to a large beaver pond. There is plenty of hiking and natural beauty to be seen at Aquila Vista including a small waterfall.

Nearby Attractions

Enjoy a scenic drive along the Molalla Wild and Scenic River which offers easy river access and opportunities for picnicking, swimming, camping, whitewater boating and fishing. The Molalla is one of the few undammed tributaries of the Willamette River and cuts a picturesque gorge on its way to the valley floor.

Charges & Cancellations

Standard fees apply and are non-refundable.

Visit https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies for more information.