Clackamas Lake Historic Cabin
03 reviewsFOREST RD 42, ZIGZAG, OR 97049, USA
Clackamas Lake Historic Cabin
$180.00 - $180.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Nightly fee for the cabin during peak season is $180. Additional $20 charges apply for weekends and holidays. Rates may not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Clackamas Lake Historic Cabin, where the craftsmanship of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every hand-hewn detail. This architectural gem showcases the best of Depression-era artistry with its towering rock chimney, pristine knot-free paneling, and intricate hand-wrought ironwork. Nestled among towering evergreens, the cabin serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures while offering a rare glimpse into America's conservation heritage.
Clackamas Lake Historic Cabin provides a unique lodging option as a single standalone cabin with historical significance. Primitive camping, tent camping, and RV camping are not applicable.
Historical SignificanceThis 1933 masterpiece stands as a testament to the vision and skill of the Civilian Conservation Corps, earning its rightful place on the National Register of Historic Places. The cabin exemplifies the Forest Service rustic style that defined an era of American conservation. Just across the road, the former District Ranger's office has been transformed into a visitor center, creating a living museum of forest service history where stories of the past come alive.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into an outdoor paradise, with warm days perfect for hiking and crystal-clear nights ideal for stargazing. Early and late season visitors should prepare for possible snow conditions that can add a magical winter wonderland element to the experience, though road access may require extra planning. The peak season brings comfortable temperatures and optimal conditions for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
ElevationPerched at 3,400 feet above sea level, the cabin offers a refreshing mountain climate where cool breezes whisper through ancient forests. This elevation creates the perfect escape from summer heat, with crisp morning air and comfortable afternoon temperatures that invite exploration of the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryTwo pristine mountain lakes define this enchanting landscape - the intimate 3-acre Clackamas Lake nearby and the expansive 1,400-acre Timothy Lake just beyond. The legendary Pacific Crest Trail winds through this forest wonderland, offering hikers everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain adventures. Wildlife thrives in these protected forests, where lucky visitors might spot deer grazing at dawn or hear the haunting call of owls at dusk.
Geological RegionDeep within the embrace of Mt. Hood National Forest, this 4-acre historic compound represents a unique intersection of natural beauty and human heritage. Towering Douglas firs and ancient hemlocks create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while the cabin itself stands as a monument to sustainable forest architecture. This National Register property showcases how human habitation can harmoniously blend with the natural world, creating a destination where history and wilderness unite.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information for campers with disabilities is not provided in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe cabin serves as the only campsite and measures 1,300 square feet, accommodating up to eight people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers good privacy, surrounded by tall trees and located in a 4-acre compound.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSuggest bringing additional lighting, bedding, and emergency supplies.
Best CampsitesOnly one cabin available; no specific campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Access codes provided upon registration.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin can accommodate up to eight people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is part of a 4-acre compound.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from just before Memorial Day weekend to October each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations are permitted with a $10 fee. Cancellations made more than 14 days before the arrival date incur a $10 fee and forfeit the reservation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations made on or after the arrival date.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of activities are available at Clackamas Lake Historic Cabin and its surroundings. Guests can enjoy fishing at Clackamas Lake, swimming, non-motorized boating, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Nearby Timothy Lake offers picnicking and power boating opportunities.
Hiking
The area offers diverse hiking options, including the 2.2-mile Miller Trail and access to the Pacific Crest Trail, which spans 2,650 miles from Canada to Mexico. There are additional trails leading to Little Crater Lake and Mt. Jefferson Wilderness. A Northwest Forest Pass or Mt. Hood Recreation day-use fee is required for nearby trails.Fishing
Clackamas Lake is ideal for fishing, with species like cutthroat, brook, rainbow, and German brown trout. Timothy Lake, located 3 miles away, also provides fishing opportunities.Swimming
Swimming is allowed at Clackamas Lake, though no designated swimming areas or safety measures were specifically mentioned.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the surrounding area, providing scenic routes for riders.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted on Clackamas Lake, while power boating is allowed on Timothy Lake.Wildlife viewing
The area hosts a variety of wildlife, as mentioned in authoritative sources: "A variety of wildlife make its home in the area as well."Cultural and Educational Programs
The cabin itself serves as a historically significant site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Across the road is the old District Ranger's office, now a visitor center, providing educational insights into the area's history.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not relevant as the cabin operates seasonally, being open only from May to October.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing on Clackamas Lake are available. Timothy Lake allows power boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may apply during hot and dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsSnow conditions may impact travel; critters in cabin walls may cause disturbances (per user reviews).
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.4 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
Zigzag Ranger District (Contact: 503-622-3191); Nearest hospital or police services not specified.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 07, 2025
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to follow the "Pack it in, Pack it out" policy, meaning all trash must be taken with them when they leave. No recycling facilities were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresQuarter-mile from Clackamas Lake; 3 miles from Timothy Lake.
Common complaintsSome visitors reported dim lighting, insufficient hot water, and cleanliness issues. Critters in walls are also a recurring concern. One user review criticized the environmental impact of the generator.
HostCamp hosts are available and noted as helpful by users.
Campground Map
FOREST RD 42, ZIGZAG, OR 97049, USA
Driving directionsFrom Sandy, Oregon, travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 40 miles to Skyline Road (Road 42). Turn right on Skyline Road and travel south for 8.3 miles to the intersection of Forest Service Roads 42 and 57. Continue on Forest Service Road 42 for a quarter-mile. The Clackamas Lake Historic Ranger's Cabin is on the left.
Roads are accessible, though snow conditions may impact travel. The cabin is open from just before Memorial Day weekend through October each year. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety.Nearby places
Sandy, OR (40 miles)
Wapinitia, OR (15 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearest store is in the town of Wapinitia, 15 miles away on Highway 26.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Clackamas Lake Historic Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.67. Positive feedback highlights the historical significance, scenic location, and amenities like firewood and heating. Negative comments mention maintenance issues, intermittent warm water, and high costs.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the cabin's rustic charm, historical significance, scenic surroundings, and amenities like firewood and a functional stove. One user stated, "Sweet location, with meadow views,...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include high costs, dim lighting, intermittent warm water, critter noises at night, and maintenance issues. One user noted, "It may be a neat historical artifact, but it doesn't justify...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests are advised to bring additional battery-powered lighting due to dim propane lamps and bedding due to critter noises. One reviewer recommended, "Bring your own battery lighting just in case."
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer is the most popular season for visiting, with guests appreciating amenities like firewood during cold August weekends. Critters in the walls and maintenance issues were...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Sweet location, with meadow views, trees, hiking and lots of local activities." "Warm water [was] intermittent but found ops for quick shower and doing some dishes." "Critters in the walls ran all...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews do not apply as the cabin is the sole lodging option.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility-related reviews are not provided.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the cabin, as noted in authoritative sources: "Horses, domestic livestock and pets are not allowed on the premises."
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025