Ottertail Lake Dispersed Camping Area
Closed — Closed for winter. Forest Service roads in this high-elevation area typically close around December 1 due to snow and remain closed until spring for wildlife protection and visitor safety.
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
Ottertail Lake Dispersed Camping Area occupies a scenic location in the Waucoma backcountry region of Mount Hood National Forest. Once a developed campground, this site has been decommissioned but continues to be available for free dispersed camping. The area sits at the end of Forest Service Road 2810, near the shores of Ottertail Lake. This is primitive camping in its truest form. No facilities are provided, including no water sources, restrooms, picnic tables, or fire rings. Campers must be completely self-sufficient and prepared for backcountry conditions. The surrounding area is part of a larger landscape that supports threatened salmon and steelhead populations in the Hood River watershed tributaries. The Waucoma area offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring old logging roads. The region features sweeping panoramas of Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams. Access requires traveling on Forest Service roads that may be rough and challenging, particularly for low-clearance vehicles. Winter access is not possible due to seasonal road closures and snow.
Directions
From Hood River, travel south on Highway 281 approximately 11 miles to Dee. Bear right at the old Dee Mill Site and cross the East Fork Hood River. Turn right and continue 1.2 miles up Punchbowl Road until it crosses the West Fork Hood River. The road becomes Dead Point Road (Forest Service Road 2820). Follow FS Road 2820, then turn onto FS Road 2810 and follow to the end near Ottertail Lake. High-clearance vehicle recommended.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
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