Rainy Lake Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically reopens in late spring or early summer depending on snow levels 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
Rainy Lake Campground is located on the shores of Rainy Lake in the Hood River Ranger District of Mount Hood National Forest. This remote campground provides a peaceful setting with direct trailhead access to the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness, making it an ideal base for backpackers and wilderness enthusiasts. The campground offers access to several trails, including Rainy Lake Trail 423A, Rainy Wahtum Trail #409, and North Lake Trail #423. These trails provide opportunities for day hikes and backpacking trips with views of the lower Hood River Valley, Wahtum Lake, Chinidere Mountain, and the upper Eagle Creek drainage. The lake itself offers fishing and non-motorized boating opportunities. Due to its elevation and remote location accessed via Forest Road 2820, the campground operates seasonally and closes during winter months. The facility is first-come, first-served with no advance reservations available. Campers should come prepared with their own water supply, as no potable water is available on-site. The campground sees light use and provides a more primitive camping experience for those seeking solitude in the Cascades.
Directions
From Hood River, travel south on OR Highway 281 (Dee Highway) approximately 11 miles to Dee. Bear right at the old Dee Mill Site and cross the East Fork of the Hood River. Turn right and go 1.2 miles up Punchbowl Road until it crosses the West Fork of the Hood River. The road becomes Dead Point Road (Forest Road 2820). Follow Dead Point Road 11 miles to Rainy Lake Campground and trailhead.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| 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 | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (541) 352-6002 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
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