Boulder Lake Dispersed Camping Area
Open — Likely inaccessible in winter due to snow and seasonal forest road closures, which typically run December through March or April in Mount Hood National Forest. Open for dispersed camping when roads are passable, first-come, first-served with no reservations.
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
Boulder Lake Dispersed Camping Area is a former Forest Service campground that has been decommissioned and is now available for free dispersed camping near Boulder Lake in Mount Hood National Forest. The area offers approximately 6 primitive campsites scattered around the lake, many with established rock fire rings and some with picnic tables remaining from the former campground. The location provides a peaceful, lightly-used camping experience for those willing to navigate the rough forest road access. This is a true dispersed camping experience with minimal amenities. Vault toilets are available on-site, but campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash. The Boulder Lake Trail provides easy access to the lake shoreline, with multiple backcountry camping spots available along the water's edge. The area is popular with backpackers and those seeking solitude away from developed campgrounds. Access to the area can be challenging, particularly during winter months when forest roads are typically closed due to snow. The remote location and rough road conditions mean this site sees very light usage compared to developed campgrounds in the area. This is an ideal spot for experienced campers comfortable with primitive conditions and self-sufficiency.
Directions
From Government Camp, Oregon, head east on US Highway 26 for approximately 3 miles. Merge onto OR-35 North toward Hood River and continue for about 4.5 miles. After crossing the White River, turn right onto Forest Road 48. Proceed for 14 miles, then turn left onto Forest Road 4880. Follow this road for 2.5 miles on pavement, then continue on gravel for another 4 miles to reach the Boulder Lake Trailhead.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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