Armstrong
3.7312 reviewsArmstrong
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
All sites are $26 per night during the open reservation period (May 23 - September 30, 2025). This fee does not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the pristine Clackamas Wild and Scenic River, Armstrong Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Mt. Hood National Forest. This charming riverside retreat beckons families and nature enthusiasts with its shaded, verdant campsites that seem to whisper stories of the ancient forest. Here, the gentle murmur of flowing water mingles with birdsong, while towering trees create a natural cathedral overhead. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters or simply breathing in the pine-scented air, Armstrong provides the perfect basecamp for your Pacific Northwest adventure.
Armstrong Campground offers options for both tent and RV camping, although larger RVs may face difficulty with navigation. Sites are available as first-come, first-serve or reservable during the camping season.
Historical SignificanceArmstrong Campground sits within the storied Mt. Hood National Forest, a landscape that has captivated adventurers and conservationists for generations. The Clackamas River, which flows past your tent door, serves as more than just a scenic backdrop—it's a living testament to the region's commitment to preserving wild places. Each year, the river comes alive during the Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival, when kayakers and rafters gather to celebrate the untamed spirit of these rushing waters, continuing a tradition that honors both recreation and conservation in this treasured corner of Oregon.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through summer's golden days, Armstrong Campground awakens to its full glory. Morning mists often dance above the river, giving way to comfortable afternoons where temperatures hover between a crisp 38°F and a pleasant 49°F. The forest's natural humidity keeps everything lush and green, while gentle breezes carry the scent of wildflowers and damp earth. Though occasional rain showers may pass through—true to the Pacific Northwest spirit—they only enhance the forest's emerald brilliance and fill the air with that distinctive petrichor that makes camping here so memorable.
ElevationPerched at 870 feet above sea level, Armstrong Campground occupies that sweet spot where accessibility meets mountain magic. This modest elevation creates an ideal microclimate where lowland comfort meets highland freshness. The altitude is gentle enough for easy breathing and comfortable camping, yet high enough to escape the valley heat and immerse yourself in the authentic mountain forest experience. Here, morning fog often settles in the river valley before lifting to reveal sun-dappled canopies and the promise of another perfect day in the Cascades.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where the Clackamas River serves as nature's soundtrack, its melodious flow effectively masking any whispers of the outside world. Massive Douglas firs and western hemlocks tower overhead, their branches creating a green tapestry that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Beneath your feet, a carpet of sword ferns unfurls in prehistoric splendor, while huckleberry bushes and vine maple add layers of texture and seasonal color. Keep your eyes skyward—this protected habitat regularly hosts magnificent bald eagles soaring on thermal currents and serves as home to the elusive northern spotted owl, making every moment a potential wildlife encounter.
Geological RegionArmstrong Campground rests within the dramatic Cascade Range, where volcanic forces and glacial artistry have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The Mt. Hood National Forest showcases nature's resilience, with the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River carving its ancient path through volcanic bedrock, creating the perfect canvas for a temperate rainforest ecosystem. This geological wonderland supports an explosion of life—from the delicate maidenhair ferns clinging to moss-covered rocks to the robust shrubs and native grasses that carpet the forest floor. Every vista tells the story of millions of years of natural forces at work, creating the spectacular playground that awaits today's visitors.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible. There is no additional information about other accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some room for larger RVs, though navigation for such vehicles may be difficult.
Sites PrivacyThe sites provide some level of privacy due to the surrounding ferns, shrubs, and grasses. However, user reviews suggest varying privacy levels depending on the site location.
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near bathrooms due to odor issues (e.g., sites 006 and 008). Site 011 offers good separation from other sites and space for 2-3 tents.
Best CampsitesCampsite 011 is highly recommended for its privacy and space for multiple tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit and within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No details about group-specific sites are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are separated by ferns and shrubs, providing some privacy. Parking surfaces are gravel and dirt.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 23, 2025, and closes September 30, 2025. First-Come, First-Serve availability starts June 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability begins June 21, 2025. No guarantees, as sites must be physically checked upon arrival for availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified or canceled ahead of arrival with a $10 change fee for date changes outside of original booking. Late cancellation fees include $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's use fee. No-show fees are $20, and no refunds are processed for late cancellations or no-shows.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Armstrong Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing. The Clackamas River allows for fishing and whitewater rafting, and trails nearby provide hiking opportunities.
Hiking
A hiking trail follows the Clackamas River north and south, beginning about a mile away at Fish Creek Campground. This trail provides easy access to scenic views along the river.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the Clackamas River, with opportunities to catch winter steelhead, spring Chinook, and late summer coho salmon, along with other freshwater species.Boating
A boat ramp is available at Fish Creek Campground, less than half a mile away, making it convenient for launching kayaks, canoes, and other small boats.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to federally protected species such as bald eagles and northern spotted owls, as well as peregrine falcons and other wildlife.Winter Activities
The campground itself does not explicitly describe winter activities, but the surrounding Mt. Hood National Forest may offer seasonal opportunities.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting is a major draw, with 12.5 miles of Class III-IV rapids on the Clackamas River just below Indian Henry Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed due to weather conditions. Campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed during drought periods.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include falling trees during windstorms and proximity of some campsites to vault toilets, which result in unpleasant odors. Wildlife such as bears and protected species may also be present.
Active alertsClosed until May 23, 2025, due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information provided about trash or recycling facilities. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River, providing immediate access for fishing, rafting, and kayaking.
Common complaintsComplaints include proximity to bathrooms causing unpleasant odors and safety concerns during windstorms. Some users mentioned a lack of privacy between sites.
HostNull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for 14 miles to Armstrong Campground, on the right.
Road access is mainly gravel and dirt, and larger RVs may face challenges navigating these roads within the campground. It is close to a major highway, making it accessible, but care must be taken due to road conditions.Nearby places
Estacada (14 miles, approximately 15-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available near Estacada, including firewood which is not sold at the site but can be bought roughly 10 miles away at a park store.
Camper Reviews
3.7
12 reviews
Armstrong has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Armstrong Campground has received mixed reviews, with many positive remarks about its natural beauty and access to the Clackamas River, but also complaints about proximity to vault toilets and safety concerns during extreme weather conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the serene location, proximity to the Clackamas River, and large, well-spaced campsites. Comments include 'Very beautiful and quiet' and 'The river is super close, and there are nice...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints centered around the smell from the vault toilets, small campsite sizes in some areas, and inadequate safety measures during severe weather. Specific remarks include, 'The outhouse smell...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend avoiding sites close to the vault toilets due to odor issues. Site 011 is highly praised for privacy and space, while users suggest bringing firewood as it is not sold on-site.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently highlight the campground's peaceful atmosphere and river access, though heat and odors from vault toilets are noted. Late summer experiences were marred by severe weather...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Armstrong Campground is very peaceful and serene,' 'Site 11 was perfect, good separation from other sites,' 'The smell of the bathroom at our site was the only downside.'
Based on 12 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 011 is well-regarded for its size and privacy, with comments such as, 'Perfect, good separation from other sites.' Sites near the vault toilets, such as 006 and 008, received negative feedback...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews regarding accessibility features were found.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025