Wahtum Lake Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates during summer and early fall when snow conditions permit access. Access roads are narrow and may experience rockfall.
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
Wahtum Lake Campground is a small primitive campground located at high elevation in Mount Hood National Forest, featuring five first-come, first-served campsites adjacent to scenic Wahtum Lake. Each site is equipped with a fire pit and picnic table, situated among trees that provide shade. The campground sits just east of the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness and offers immediate access to the Wahtum Lake Trailhead. The location provides exceptional access to hiking trails including the Pacific Crest Trail and Eagle Creek Trail, making it popular with backpackers and day hikers. Wahtum Lake offers fishing opportunities in a glacial lake setting surrounded by ancient forests and mountain views. The campground's remote location at the end of Forest Roads 13 and 1310 means narrow access roads that require cautious driving. Due to its high elevation location, the campground is only accessible seasonally when snow clears, typically during summer and early fall months. Campers must bring their own water as no potable water is available, and should be prepared with cash or check for payment. A vault toilet is provided for campers.
Directions
From Hood River, travel southwest on Forest Road 13 past Dee. Continue on FR 13 and follow it west when it splits. About one mile past the forest boundary, pick up Forest Road 1310. Follow FR 1310 northwest to the campground. Forest Roads 13 and 1310 are narrow and can experience rockfall.
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 | $30 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (541) 352-6002 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Wahtum Lake Campground | |
| View on Recreation.gov |
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