One of the oldest national forests in the United States, Gifford Pinchot spans a massive 1.3 million acres and encompasses Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. With more than 1,200 miles of trails, 1,300 miles of streams, 100 lakes, and a landscape that spans old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and glaciers, the region is prime for adventure seekers. More than 30 established campgrounds offer plenty of overnight options, while campers seeking solitude can take advantage of dozens of designated backcountry campsites and dispersed backcountry camping in remote locations.
One of the oldest national forests in the United States, Gifford Pinchot spans a massive 1.3 million acres and encompasses Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. With more than 1,200 miles of trails, 1,300 miles of streams, 100 lakes, and a landscape that spans old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and glaciers, the region is prime for adventure seekers. More than 30 established campgrounds offer plenty of overnight options, while campers seeking solitude can take advantage of dozens of designated backcountry campsites and dispersed backcountry camping in remote locations.
Clocking in at 100 sites, La Wis Wis Campground may not be small, but it sure as hell is cute. Old Douglas firs and cedar trees also give a nice element of privacy. Stroll through the lush greenery and access two of the trails directly from the campsite, or check out the aquamarine waters of the Blue Hole. Potable water, vault toilets, and access Read more...
The Walupt Lake Campground is surrounded by amazing views of the Goat Rock Wilderness and Mt. Adams. This high-elevation campground is located on Walupt Lake, which is great for swimming and has a primitive boat ramp. Explore the area on nearby trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. This popular spot has 39 single and 3 Read more...
Woodland beauty Big Creek Campground has quick access to the west entrance of Mt. Rainier Park, and also neighbors Glacier View Wilderness plus several trails. Cast a line and fish for brook trout at the nearby State Creek, then smoke it up just the way you like it on a pedestal grill. Potable water and vault toilets also make this a convenient sp Read more...
Bound around like a woodland sprite at Adams Fork Campground with your friends in tow! This scenic area follows a fork of the Cispus River and even boasts historic basket trees that were used by the Upper Cowlitz Tribe. Light usage and 22 sites makes this a desirable area for some much needed communing with Mother Nature. With potable water, a vau Read more...
Iron Creek Campground's got nearly 99 sites and a hotel ain't one. This flat area features a good amount of space and privacy between campers, as well as potable water and vault toilets. Stroll along the lush vegetation of Douglas firs and Hemlocks and then cast a line to hook rainbow trout or whitefish. Picnic areas are available, and it's a perf Read more...
The Takhlakh Lake Campground is very popular, and for good reason. Located at the base of Mount Adams, you’ll see the beauty of nature every way you turn. The campground sits at a 4,400 foot elevation in a well-shaded area and is a great starting point for the many trails and wildernesses nearby! The campground has 46 single sites and 7 double sit Read more...
Ready to rough-it? Twin Falls Campground is not the place to glamp it up so leave the RV at home. Tent sites are walk-in, but close enough to the parking area to huff a cooler. Bring your fishing pole and perch your tent on the banks of the Lewis River, where every single campsite has an impressive view of Twin Falls. You’ll find a single toilet h Read more...
Located in the Cispus Valley just east of Mt. Saint Helens, Tower Rock is a great starting point to explore the volcanic monument. Named for the impressive pillar nearby, Tower Rock Campground sites near the Cispus River, a great spot for fishing. The forest of Douglas-fir and maple help make the campsites semi-private. There are 21 sites that can Read more...
North Fork Group Camp has three separate group sites and is located within the North Fork Campground. Rev up your fleet of RVs for a party, because all three sites have a maximum capacity for 18 of 'em. Plenty of awesome hiking trails are not too far off, and be sure to take advantage of the potable water and vault toilet. Read more...
This lush, verdant little haven may just trick you into thinking you're in Lord of the Rings. North Fork Campground gives direct access to two hiking trails and fishing is open season at the nearby Crispus River. Be a nice hobbitus and share this precious area with all your motley crew. Features 32 single sites with potable water and restrooms ava Read more...
If you’re looking for a little more romance in your life, then Lower Falls Campground has you covered. Campsites are nestled in an old growth forest along the Lewis River with plenty of privacy for you and your honey. If just hangin’ at the campsite isn’t exciting enough, you can shoulder your pack and hike to a half dozen nearby waterfalls. The c Read more...
Blue Lake Creek Campground is a small area surrounded by resplendent conifers, and perfect for re-creating all those Twilight movies you definitely never watched all the time. The sites themselves are open and grassy, and only a hop, skip, and jump away from a tranquil pool on the Cispus River. Don't forget to bring something to treat your water. Read more...
What kind of horses go out after dusk? Nightmares. Okay, seriously, you and your horse will be amazed by the jaw-dropping mountain views from Mt. Adams Horse Camp. There’s a good mix of shady and open sites, and room for even the biggest horse trailers. Numerous trails loop around the campground, and further afield, offering a variety terrain for Read more...
Do you feel like traveling the trail by foot, mountain bike, horse, or dragon? Admittedly, one of these is not available, but the rest are. Lower Falls Campground offers access to several trails with wide walkways and plenty of versatility. Cook up a fresh caught fish at one of the campsite grills or fire pits, and enjoy it with friends on one of Read more...
If trout fishing is your game, than Trout Lake Creek is your weekend destination. This charming campground is nestled into a secluded and hidden valley. The treacherous access road leading into the campground keeps out all but the stoutest vehicles, but if you’ve got high clearance, you’re all set. You can bunk down at one of 17 sites, all with sc Read more...
This easily reachable and popular trail leads you through a variety of forest and mountain scenery before landing you in a meadow where Native Americans used to gather when the huckleberries were ripe, both for picking and pony racing (hence the name “Indian Race Track”). The trail is open for biking, backpacking and, you guessed it, horseback rid Read more...
Lewis River Horse Camp is a paradise for trail seekers of all kinds! Here you can link up directly to Quartz Creek Trail #5 and Lewis River Trail #31, which branch off into a bunch of others you can use for horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and even motorcycling on select trails. The camp offers toilets but no water, and is easy to access Read more...
You’ll find Peterson Prairie Campground shaded by trees and surrounded by fields of Huckleberry, which you can pick and eat (and toss on a pie for dessert?). Just off a paved road, the campground has graveled sites, so it’s easily accessible by vehicles. Read more...
Paradise Creek Campground is located in a quiet forest of old-growth evergreens. Located on Paradise Creek, hike five miles to Falls Creek Falls trailhead and follow the path to waterfalls! The campground is also near Wind River, where there is not just good, but great fishing. Read more...
The Goose Lake Campground is a popular location for water-lovers, and is a great spot for kids! The campsites sit on a hill with picnic tables and great views of the Lake, where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating. The 18 campsites accommodate tents only, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Read more...
Nothing sad or depressing about Forlorn Lakes Campground. In fact, this is one of the most hoppin’ campgrounds in the area, so claim your spot early in the week, cuz you can’t make reservations. Once you’ve got your pad decked out, get busy exploring the area’s beautiful lakes, ponds, marshes, and meadows. Vault toilets are plentiful, but be prepa Read more...
The Morrison Creek Campground was burned over in a 2012 fire, but some primitive campsites remain. Some of the sites sit on the banks of the Morrison Creek, and there is great hiking in the nearby Mt. Adams Wilderness!Read more...
If your idea of recreating is tearing it up on a set of fat tires, you’d be hard pressed to find a better mountain biking trail than the Gotchen Creek Trail. The trail, which runs right past the Wicky Shelter Campground, is open to horses and hikers, so be sure to mind your manners. Chill by the fire as the sun sets through the trees and then snug Read more...
Near multiple trailheads known for their rugged beauty of volcanic cones and lush wildflowers, sits in a primitive area built solely for tent camping. Three single sites are available and the area sees little traffic. No special amenities here, unless you count a pit toilet as a modern outdoor convenience. Read more...
Panther Creek Campground is located in a densely forested area where the Pacific Crest Trail meets Panther Creek. There are 33 sites for tents or RVs here during open season, which is mid-May through mid-September. You can hike, bike, or drive to the Panther Falls, which are four miles away!Read more...
The Moss Creek Campground sits at 1,400 feet elevation, on the banks of the Little White Salmon River, which has excellent fishing. This spot is in a dense forest of hemlock, cedar, fir, and maple, and is just north of the Columbia River. This campground has sites ideal for tents, but can fit small RVs, and reservations can be made in advance. Read more...
Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Explore old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and thousands of miles of trails.
One of the oldest national forests in the United States, Gifford Pinchot spans a massive 1.3 million acres and encompasses Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. With more than 1,200 miles of trails, 1,300 miles of streams, 100 lakes, and a landscape that spans old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and glaciers, the region is prime for adventure seekers. More than 30 established campgrounds offer plenty of overnight options, while campers seeking solitude can take advantage of dozens of designated backcountry campsites and dispersed backcountry camping in remote locations.
One of the oldest national forests in the United States, Gifford Pinchot spans a massive 1.3 million acres and encompasses Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. With more than 1,200 miles of trails, 1,300 miles of streams, 100 lakes, and a landscape that spans old-growth forests, volcanic peaks, and glaciers, the region is prime for adventure seekers. More than 30 established campgrounds offer plenty of overnight options, while campers seeking solitude can take advantage of dozens of designated backcountry campsites and dispersed backcountry camping in remote locations.
Activities in the park
41 campgrounds in Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Clocking in at 100 sites, La Wis Wis Campground may not be small, but it sure as hell is cute. Old Douglas firs and cedar trees also give a nice element of privacy. Stroll through the lush greenery and access two of the trails directly from the campsite, or check out the aquamarine waters of the Blue Hole. Potable water, vault toilets, and access Read more...
The Walupt Lake Campground is surrounded by amazing views of the Goat Rock Wilderness and Mt. Adams. This high-elevation campground is located on Walupt Lake, which is great for swimming and has a primitive boat ramp. Explore the area on nearby trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. This popular spot has 39 single and 3 Read more...
Woodland beauty Big Creek Campground has quick access to the west entrance of Mt. Rainier Park, and also neighbors Glacier View Wilderness plus several trails. Cast a line and fish for brook trout at the nearby State Creek, then smoke it up just the way you like it on a pedestal grill. Potable water and vault toilets also make this a convenient sp Read more...
Bound around like a woodland sprite at Adams Fork Campground with your friends in tow! This scenic area follows a fork of the Cispus River and even boasts historic basket trees that were used by the Upper Cowlitz Tribe. Light usage and 22 sites makes this a desirable area for some much needed communing with Mother Nature. With potable water, a vau Read more...
Iron Creek Campground's got nearly 99 sites and a hotel ain't one. This flat area features a good amount of space and privacy between campers, as well as potable water and vault toilets. Stroll along the lush vegetation of Douglas firs and Hemlocks and then cast a line to hook rainbow trout or whitefish. Picnic areas are available, and it's a perf Read more...
The Takhlakh Lake Campground is very popular, and for good reason. Located at the base of Mount Adams, you’ll see the beauty of nature every way you turn. The campground sits at a 4,400 foot elevation in a well-shaded area and is a great starting point for the many trails and wildernesses nearby! The campground has 46 single sites and 7 double sit Read more...
Ready to rough-it? Twin Falls Campground is not the place to glamp it up so leave the RV at home. Tent sites are walk-in, but close enough to the parking area to huff a cooler. Bring your fishing pole and perch your tent on the banks of the Lewis River, where every single campsite has an impressive view of Twin Falls. You’ll find a single toilet h Read more...
Located in the Cispus Valley just east of Mt. Saint Helens, Tower Rock is a great starting point to explore the volcanic monument. Named for the impressive pillar nearby, Tower Rock Campground sites near the Cispus River, a great spot for fishing. The forest of Douglas-fir and maple help make the campsites semi-private. There are 21 sites that can Read more...
North Fork Group Camp has three separate group sites and is located within the North Fork Campground. Rev up your fleet of RVs for a party, because all three sites have a maximum capacity for 18 of 'em. Plenty of awesome hiking trails are not too far off, and be sure to take advantage of the potable water and vault toilet. Read more...
This lush, verdant little haven may just trick you into thinking you're in Lord of the Rings. North Fork Campground gives direct access to two hiking trails and fishing is open season at the nearby Crispus River. Be a nice hobbitus and share this precious area with all your motley crew. Features 32 single sites with potable water and restrooms ava Read more...
If you’re looking for a little more romance in your life, then Lower Falls Campground has you covered. Campsites are nestled in an old growth forest along the Lewis River with plenty of privacy for you and your honey. If just hangin’ at the campsite isn’t exciting enough, you can shoulder your pack and hike to a half dozen nearby waterfalls. The c Read more...
Blue Lake Creek Campground is a small area surrounded by resplendent conifers, and perfect for re-creating all those Twilight movies you definitely never watched all the time. The sites themselves are open and grassy, and only a hop, skip, and jump away from a tranquil pool on the Cispus River. Don't forget to bring something to treat your water. Read more...
What kind of horses go out after dusk? Nightmares. Okay, seriously, you and your horse will be amazed by the jaw-dropping mountain views from Mt. Adams Horse Camp. There’s a good mix of shady and open sites, and room for even the biggest horse trailers. Numerous trails loop around the campground, and further afield, offering a variety terrain for Read more...
Do you feel like traveling the trail by foot, mountain bike, horse, or dragon? Admittedly, one of these is not available, but the rest are. Lower Falls Campground offers access to several trails with wide walkways and plenty of versatility. Cook up a fresh caught fish at one of the campsite grills or fire pits, and enjoy it with friends on one of Read more...
If trout fishing is your game, than Trout Lake Creek is your weekend destination. This charming campground is nestled into a secluded and hidden valley. The treacherous access road leading into the campground keeps out all but the stoutest vehicles, but if you’ve got high clearance, you’re all set. You can bunk down at one of 17 sites, all with sc Read more...
This easily reachable and popular trail leads you through a variety of forest and mountain scenery before landing you in a meadow where Native Americans used to gather when the huckleberries were ripe, both for picking and pony racing (hence the name “Indian Race Track”). The trail is open for biking, backpacking and, you guessed it, horseback rid Read more...
Lewis River Horse Camp is a paradise for trail seekers of all kinds! Here you can link up directly to Quartz Creek Trail #5 and Lewis River Trail #31, which branch off into a bunch of others you can use for horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and even motorcycling on select trails. The camp offers toilets but no water, and is easy to access Read more...
You’ll find Peterson Prairie Campground shaded by trees and surrounded by fields of Huckleberry, which you can pick and eat (and toss on a pie for dessert?). Just off a paved road, the campground has graveled sites, so it’s easily accessible by vehicles. Read more...
Paradise Creek Campground is located in a quiet forest of old-growth evergreens. Located on Paradise Creek, hike five miles to Falls Creek Falls trailhead and follow the path to waterfalls! The campground is also near Wind River, where there is not just good, but great fishing. Read more...
The Goose Lake Campground is a popular location for water-lovers, and is a great spot for kids! The campsites sit on a hill with picnic tables and great views of the Lake, where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating. The 18 campsites accommodate tents only, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Read more...
Nothing sad or depressing about Forlorn Lakes Campground. In fact, this is one of the most hoppin’ campgrounds in the area, so claim your spot early in the week, cuz you can’t make reservations. Once you’ve got your pad decked out, get busy exploring the area’s beautiful lakes, ponds, marshes, and meadows. Vault toilets are plentiful, but be prepa Read more...
The Morrison Creek Campground was burned over in a 2012 fire, but some primitive campsites remain. Some of the sites sit on the banks of the Morrison Creek, and there is great hiking in the nearby Mt. Adams Wilderness!Read more...
If your idea of recreating is tearing it up on a set of fat tires, you’d be hard pressed to find a better mountain biking trail than the Gotchen Creek Trail. The trail, which runs right past the Wicky Shelter Campground, is open to horses and hikers, so be sure to mind your manners. Chill by the fire as the sun sets through the trees and then snug Read more...
Near multiple trailheads known for their rugged beauty of volcanic cones and lush wildflowers, sits in a primitive area built solely for tent camping. Three single sites are available and the area sees little traffic. No special amenities here, unless you count a pit toilet as a modern outdoor convenience. Read more...
Panther Creek Campground is located in a densely forested area where the Pacific Crest Trail meets Panther Creek. There are 33 sites for tents or RVs here during open season, which is mid-May through mid-September. You can hike, bike, or drive to the Panther Falls, which are four miles away!Read more...
The Moss Creek Campground sits at 1,400 feet elevation, on the banks of the Little White Salmon River, which has excellent fishing. This spot is in a dense forest of hemlock, cedar, fir, and maple, and is just north of the Columbia River. This campground has sites ideal for tents, but can fit small RVs, and reservations can be made in advance. Read more...