Bear Springs Campground
3.9514 reviewsBear Springs Campground
$21.00 - $78.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$78.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly camping fees range from $21 for standard nonelectric sites to $78 for group tent areas. Group shelter nonelectric sites are $75 per night. Holiday rates add $2.
About this campground
Nestled beneath a canopy of towering pine and fir trees, Bear Springs Campground invites you to experience the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest wilderness. Whether you're planning an intimate family getaway or organizing a memorable group adventure, this forested retreat offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Your campsite comes equipped with all the essentials for comfortable outdoor living: sturdy picnic tables for evening meals under the stars, fire rings for storytelling sessions, vault toilets, and seasonal drinking water. The campground's gravel and dirt parking areas blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, while regular trash collection ensures the pristine forest remains unspoiled for future generations.
Bear Springs Campground accommodates a range of camping types, including tent and RV camping as well as group sites.
Historical SignificanceBear Springs Campground sits respectfully near the ancestral lands of the Warm Springs Tribes, whose deep connection to these forests spans countless generations. This proximity offers visitors a chance to reflect on the rich indigenous heritage of the region and the enduring relationship between the land and its first peoples.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms Bear Springs into a unique outdoor paradise. Spring awakens the forest with cool, dappled sunlight filtering through the evergreen canopy, creating perfect conditions for peaceful morning hikes. As autumn arrives, the understory erupts in a symphony of golden and crimson hues, offering photographers and nature lovers a spectacular show in blissful solitude. Winter brings a hushed magic to the forest, with occasional snowfall dusting the firs and freezing temperatures that transform the landscape into a crystalline wonderland. Be prepared for nature's moods – moderate rain showers refresh the forest throughout the year, adding to the authentic Pacific Northwest experience.
ElevationPerched at 3,000 feet above sea level, Bear Springs offers a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp and clean. This elevation creates an ideal climate that's noticeably cooler than the valleys below, providing welcome relief during warm summer days and creating the perfect conditions for the lush coniferous forest that embraces each campsite. The mountain setting ensures comfortable sleeping temperatures and that authentic high-country camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Hood National Forest, where ancient pine and fir trees stretch skyward, creating nature's own cathedral. At 3,000 feet elevation, Bear Springs Campground places you in the heart of a thriving forest ecosystem where curious deer might greet you at dawn and diverse wildlife calls this protected wilderness home. The dense forest canopy provides natural privacy between sites while opening to reveal glimpses of the surrounding peaks and valleys that define this spectacular corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Geological RegionDiscover the wonders of the southeastern edge of Mt. Hood National Forest, where Bear Springs Campground serves as your gateway to one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic landscapes. This geological treasure trove showcases the volcanic legacy of the Cascade Range, with ancient lava flows now blanketed by centuries of forest growth, creating the dramatic terrain that makes this region a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeGroup sites can accommodate large parties, but some user reviews mentioned uneven terrain and roots that made tent placement challenging.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as secluded, offering quiet nights without road noise and a peaceful atmosphere.
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with a flat surface to avoid tree roots and hilly sections. Visiting in fall offers quiet and vibrant foliage.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers are not mentioned, but group sites receive mixed reviews. Emily T noted that group sites are subdivided into smaller areas rather than one large space.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Clustered regular campsites that may accommodate groups but are not designed as dedicated group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes single-family sites and group sites. Gravel and dirt parking surfaces are standard.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16th to September 21st, peak season dates are included.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via mobile app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed with a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee along with the $10 cancellation fee. Changes that extend or shorten reservations incur no fee if within original reservation dates.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Springs Campground provides a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and water sports like rafting and kayaking. Picnicking is particularly popular due to the availability of a day-use area with a covered picnic shelter.
Hiking
Short hiking trails are available near the campground, alongside off-highway vehicle trails. The trails provide opportunities to explore the Mt. Hood National Forest's natural beauty.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are accessible at nearby lakes and streams, although specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.Swimming
Swimming is available at nearby lakes. Specific safety measures or facilities are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Boating
Rafting and kayaking opportunities are available on the nearby Deschutes River, providing excellent water adventures.Wildlife viewing
The campground is described as a habitat for deer and other wildlife, offering good opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snow skiing are accessible at Government Camp, approximately 19 miles away from the campground.Water Sports
Rafting and kayaking are explicitly mentioned as available water sports on the Deschutes River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are only allowed in designated rings. Visitors must follow local firewood policies to avoid spreading invasive species.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but specific times are not listed in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include hilly terrain and tree roots in group sites, making tent setups challenging, as noted by users. Wildlife like deer is common but not reported as a danger.
Active alertsRecent reviews indicate lack of water and firewood availability, contradicting the website claims. These issues could affect user experience.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.7 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 21, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are available as mentioned in the official sources. However, one user review complained about the presence of litter like plastic, cans, and cigarette butts, raising concerns about the overall cleanliness of the grounds.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Deschutes River, approximately 24 miles away, which allows for rafting and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsUser reviews point out a lack of advertised amenities, including water and firewood, leading to dissatisfaction among campers. Issues with cleanliness, such as cigarette butts and trash, were highlighted by Gerald, who referred to it as a 'rubbish heap.' Pit toilets were reported to be especially smelly during late summer.
HostSeveral reviews note the absence of a campground host despite website claims, leading to issues with purchasing firewood and lack of assistance.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Sandy: Travel east on Highway 26 for 48 miles to the Highway 26/I-216 junctions. Turn left onto I-216 and travel east for 4 and 1/4 miles. Turn Right at Bear Springs campground.
Road access is primarily paved until reaching the campground, with gravel and dirt parking areas. The directions provided indicate easy navigation from Highway 26 and I-216.Nearby places
19 miles to Government Camp (approximately 25 minutes), 24 miles to the Deschutes River (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Spring Drive RV Campground is less than one mile away for potential supplies. Larger supply opportunities are found in Maupin or Government Camp.
Camper Reviews
4.0
14 reviews
Bear Springs Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present mixed feedback regarding the campground. Some appreciate its secluded nature and peaceful environment, while others express dissatisfaction with missing advertised amenities like potable water and firewood, as well as litter on the grounds.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews mention the campground's beauty, quiet nights without road noise, the availability of a day-use shelter, and enjoyable nearby activities such as rafting and skiing.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, firewood, and a host despite being advertised. Other issues raised involve uneven terrain at group sites and poor cleanliness, with cigarette...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include visiting during fall for fewer crowds and beautiful foliage. Campers suggest confirming amenities beforehand due to discrepancies between the website and actual availability.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Visitors note that late summer vault toilets may smell unpleasant, while fall provides an empty and serene camping experience with stunning autumn colors.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Lovely camp site, shady and a little cool for spring. We'll be back later this summer for sure.' - Eric Hansen
2. 'Campgrounds are well kept and clean.' - Patrick Jannsen
3. 'Do you love camping...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user review specifically praised Group Site D for being spacious and conveniently located near lakes for swimming and fishing.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or pet-related experiences.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025