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.
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. Some examples of these include hay bales, hay…
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
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