Bagby Campground
4.4117 reviews.
Bagby Campground
$8.00 - $27.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$27.00
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
Camping costs $27 per night for a single site, with an additional $8 per night for extra vehicles. Interagency Access and Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single site fees.
About this campground
Escape to Bagby Campground, where ancient forests meet riverside tranquility along the Hot Springs fork of the Collawash River. This serene retreat offers well-appointed campsites featuring picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for gathering under towering cedar canopies and centuries-old Douglas firs. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort while maintaining the site's rustic charm, making it an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic Pacific Northwest camping experience.
Bagby Campground offers various camping accommodations, primarily focused on tent camping and small RV camping. Group sites and cabins are not explicitly detailed.
Historical SignificanceWhispers of history echo through the forest at Bagby, where generations of visitors have sought the healing waters of nearby hot springs. Local lore suggests this area once served as an outpost for rangers and forest service personnel who protected these ancient woods. Today's visitors continue a long tradition of pilgrimage to this special place, drawn by the same natural wonders that have captivated travelers for decades.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Cascade foothills at Bagby Campground. Winter brings a magical blanket of snow and crisp mountain air, creating a wonderland for hardy adventurers. As spring arrives, mixed precipitation gives way to mild conditions, while summer rewards visitors with comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring nearby trails and soaking in natural hot springs. Pack layers and be prepared for Mother Nature's ever-changing moods in this dynamic mountain environment.
ElevationNestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Bagby Campground offers a perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere, though specific elevation details await your discovery upon arrival.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of green at Bagby Campground, where magnificent cedar giants and venerable Douglas firs create a living sanctuary. The melodic waters of the Collawash River provide a soothing soundtrack to your stay, while shafts of sunlight filter through the dense canopy above. This pristine pocket of old-growth forest offers visitors a rare glimpse into the Pacific Northwest's primeval past, with moss-draped trees and fern-carpeted understories creating an enchanting backdrop for your camping adventure.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonders of Bagby Campground, strategically positioned along the Hot Springs fork of the Collawash River within the majestic Mt. Hood National Forest. This unique location serves as your gateway to the untamed Bull of the Woods Wilderness, where primitive trails wind through ancient volcanic landscapes. The campground's riverside setting showcases the region's dynamic geology, where thermal features hint at the volcanic forces that shaped these mountains, while towering cedars and Douglas firs stand as living monuments to millennia of natural history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options for campers with disabilities are not explicitly detailed in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe sites allow for up to 6 people and 2 vehicles. Reviews emphasize that some sites are larger and suitable for families.
Sites PrivacySeveral user reviews highlight the privacy of campsites, noting that some are secluded enough to offer a sense of peace and tranquility.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Campsite #8 for proximity to a stream and Campsite #9 for a riverside location.
Best CampsitesCampsite #8 is mentioned for its proximity to a stream and natural ambiance. Campsite #9 is noted for its riverside location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
.
Check-out
.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is null.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows up to 6 people and 2 vehicles.
Groups
Group site details are not explicitly provided in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes individual sites providing privacy and options for larger family groups.
Open and Closed SeasonBagby Campground is currently open. Seasonal accessibility information includes intermittent closures of Forest Road 46 due to fire damage and reconstruction as noted in user reviews.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via federal platforms as per authoritative sources.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability details are null.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are null.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bagby Campground offers activities centered around nature and relaxation. Hiking is a highlight, with trails leading to Bagby Hot Springs and the Bull of the Woods Wilderness offering scenic views of old-growth forests and the Collawash River. Wildlife viewing and swimming in the river are also options, though specific programs or organized activities are not detailed.
Hiking
Bagby Campground is a short hike from Bagby Hot Springs (1.5 miles), described as "easy-going" and "beautiful," with trails surrounded by scenic natural landscapes. The hike follows the Collawash River, according to multiple user reviews.Swimming
Swimming in the clear, cold Collawash River is mentioned in user reviews, offering an enjoyable activity for campers.Wildlife viewing
User reviews describe the surrounding old-growth forests as teeming with natural beauty, though specific mentions of wildlife species are absent.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described in authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within fire rings at designated sites.
- Quiet hours details are null.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews note vandalism and neglect in the hot springs area, with broken tubs, garbage, and damaged facilities mentioned.
Active alertsForest Road 46 is undergoing intermittent closures due to fire damage removal and reconstruction. Work is estimated to continue through 2024.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services details are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are null.
Trash and recyclingUser reviews mention dumpsters onsite but do not elaborate on recycling facilities. A review advises campers to clean up their site upon departure.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near the Hot Springs fork of the Collawash River and provides easy access to Bagby Hot Springs.
Common complaintsUser reviews express frustration over vandalized facilities such as broken tubs, scattered garbage, and poor maintenance of the hot springs area.
HostUser reviews mention a friendly and helpful campground host.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Estacada, OR - Drive south on Highway 224/Clackamas Highway for about 26 miles, which becomes Forest Road 46. Continue on Forest Road 46 until you reach the junction with Forest Road 63 on the right. Take Forest Road 63 until the junction of Forest Road 70 with signs leading to Bagby Hot Springs. Head west for 7 miles on Forest Road 70 until you reach the Bagby Campground parking area on the left side of the road.
Forest Road 46, 63, and 70 are used to access this campground. These roads might have seasonal conditions or closures due to maintenance or snow. Forest Road 46 is undergoing intermittent closures due to fire damage removal and reconstruction as mentioned in user reviews.Nearby places
Estacada, OR is approximately 26 miles away, travel time varies based on road conditions.
Nearby supplies
Fuel, groceries, and supplies can be purchased at the Ripplebrook Store, which is mentioned in the authoritative sources as a location for hot spring passes.
Camper Reviews
4.4
17 reviews
Bagby Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bagby Campground highlight its natural beauty, proximity to Bagby Hot Springs, and the serene experience of camping among old-growth forests. However, concerns about cleanliness, maintenance of facilities, and overcrowding during weekends are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the scenic hiking trails, peaceful campsites, and proximity to Bagby Hot Springs. Comments like "Nestled far away from the busyness of life" and "Magical enchanted forest getaway"...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with cleanliness, particularly the maintenance of restrooms and garbage accumulation near the hot springs. Reviews also mention vandalism and overcrowding during weekends,...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing cleaning products (biodegradable and non-toxic) for the hot spring tubs, leashing dogs, and avoiding weekends to reduce overcrowding. Several suggest specific campsites, such...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular for hiking and soaking in the hot springs, while winter may deter some due to colder weather and reduced accessibility. Overcrowding is noted during peak seasons...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The trail and tubs are well maintained. The atmosphere is perfect." - Michelle Lockwood
2. "My very favorite place on earth." - Michelle Lockwood
3. "A magical experience to camp at Bagby Hot...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #8 and #9 are highlighted for their proximity to streams and the river, providing a soothing ambiance. Reviews suggest these sites offer privacy and natural beauty.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly addressed in user reviews or authoritative sources.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leashes, as noted in the authoritative source. User reviews do not elaborate on pet-specific experiences.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025