Rainy Lake Campground
Open for the 2026 season as of mid-May. All sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations. The campground operates seasonally and closes during winter months when Forest Road 2820 becomes impassable due to snow.
Air Quality Alert issued August 9 at 11:22AM PDT by NWS Portland OR
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has continued an Air Quality Advisory, which is IN EFFECT UNTIL NOON PDT MONDAY. An Air Quality Advisory for Smoke and Ozone remains in effect. Wildfires burning in the region combined with forecasted conditions will cause air quality to reach unhealthy levels due to smoke and ozone at times through 12PM Monday. Pollutants in smoke can cause burning eyes, runny nose, aggravate heart and lung diseases, and aggravate other serious health problems. Limit outdoor activities and keep children indoors if it is smoky. Please follow medical advice if you have a heart or lung condition. More information about air quality can be found at: www.oregon.gov/DEQ
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.
About
Rainy Lake Campground is a small, primitive campground located at the shores of Rainy Lake in the remote western reaches of Mt. Hood National Forest. With only four campsites, the campground offers a quiet, uncrowded experience for those willing to make the drive up Forest Road 2820. The lake provides fishing opportunities, and nearby North Lake and Black Lake offer additional angling. The campground serves as a gateway to the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness, with trailhead access to Rainy Lake Trail #423A, Rainy Wahtum Trail #409, and North Lake Trail #423. These trails offer backpacking opportunities into the wilderness area. Amenities are basic: vault toilets, fire pits, and garbage service. Potable water is not available, so campers must bring their own supply. All sites operate first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. The campground is managed by Lost Lake Resort as a Forest Service concessionaire. Due to its elevation and access road, the campground operates seasonally, typically opening in mid-May once snow clears the access road.
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) here. 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 | — |
| 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 |
Useful Links
| Mt. Hood NF Rainy Lake Campground |
Photos
Community Posts
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