Alpine Campground
Closed — Closed for the season due to snow. Typically opens in late May or early June depending on snowpack and road conditions.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order.
Salmon River Trails CLOSED
A landslide across Salmon River Rd. has blocked access to all Salmon River Trails off the road. Additionally, trails are likely blocked up downed trees and limbs from the recent storms.Mt. Hood trails have not been evaluated since the recent heavy rain and wind. Hazards are likely.
Hazards from Winter Storms
Heavy rains and strong winds have created many hazards across Mt. Hood National Forest and surrounding areas. December storms have resulted in downed trees on Forest Roads in addition to localized flooding, landslides, and rockfall.
Sno-park Permits required Nov. 1 to Apr. 30
Sno-Park Permits are required to park in designated sno-parks from November 1 through April 30. Sno-Park Permits are managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
Eagle Creek Fire Area Closures - Forest Order
In 2017, the Eagle Creek Fire caused extensive damage to surrounding areas in Columbia River Gorge and parts of Mt. Hood National Forest. Some trails are closed to the public in both the Gorge and Hood River Ranger District, pursuant to 16 USC § 551 and 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b).
Health and Safety Closure Due to Roadside Danger Trees - Forest Order
The following acts are prohibited upon the National Forest System Roads described below. Forest Order #06-06-05-25-03 renews Order 06- 06-06-00-23-01, and will be effective June 26, 2025, through June 26, 2026.PROHIBITIONS:
Crane Creek bridge closed on the Barlow Road
The Crane Creek bridge on the Barlow Road (Forest Road 3530) is collapsed and closed. The Barlow Road is open, but it can't be driven from end to end.
About
Alpine Campground sits at 5,400 feet elevation on the slopes of Mount Hood, making it the highest campground in Mount Hood National Forest. Located near the headwaters of the Salmon River, this primitive campground offers 16 tent-only sites in a high alpine setting where snow can persist well into summer. The campground provides excellent access to nearby Timberline Lodge and the popular Alpine Trail, a steep 2.1-mile route connecting Government Camp to Timberline Lodge. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is particularly popular with hikers and mountain bikers seeking to explore the high elevation trails around Timberline. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits, with vault toilets and hand-pumped drinking water available. Due to the campground's high elevation and exposure to winter conditions, it typically opens in late spring or early summer once snow melts and closes in fall when winter weather returns. The remote location and high elevation make Alpine Campground ideal for those seeking a mountain camping experience with proximity to alpine recreation opportunities. The nearby town of Government Camp provides additional services and dining options just a short drive down Forest Service Road 173.
Directions
From Sandy, Oregon, travel east on Highway 26 past Government Camp to Forest Service Road 173. Follow FR 173 north to the campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (503) 668-1700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
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