Bagby Campground

About

Bagby Campground is a small, primitive campground nestled in old-growth forest near the confluence of the Hot Springs Fork and Collawash River in the Clackamas River drainage. The site serves as the primary access point for Bagby Hot Springs, reached via a 1.5-mile forested trail. The historic hot springs feature hand-hewn log bathhouses with soaking tubs fed by 136-degree mineral water, maintained by volunteers and requiring a $5 per-person soaking fee paid in cash at the trailhead. The campground itself offers a quiet forest setting with sites accommodating up to 6 people and 2 vehicles. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets are provided but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. All trash must be packed out. Dogs are permitted but must remain leashed at all times, both in the campground and at the hot springs. Access roads can be rough and GPS navigation is unreliable in the area. The Forest Service specifically warns against following Google Maps directions via smaller forest roads. The campground typically closes in winter once Forest Road 70 becomes impassable due to snow, usually reopening in April. There is no cell phone coverage in the area.

Directions

From Estacada, OR: Drive south on Highway 224/Clackamas Highway for approximately 26 miles as it becomes Forest Road 46. Continue on FR 46 to the junction with Forest Road 63 on the right. Take FR 63 until the junction with Forest Road 70, following signs for Bagby Hot Springs. Head west on FR 70 for 7 miles to the Bagby Campground parking area on the left.