Fish Creek (Or)
4.1725 reviewsFish Creek (Or)
$3.00 - $8.00 / 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
Fees for reservations depend on the booking method: $8 if made online or through the app, $9 if made through the contact center, and $3 if made in-person.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the breathtaking Clackamas Wild and Scenic River in Mt. Hood National Forest, Fish Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect Pacific Northwest escape. This riverside haven serves as your gateway to world-class fishing holes, scenic hiking trails, and exhilarating whitewater rafting adventures. While currently closed following the 2020 Riverside Wildfire, this beloved campground remains a testament to the region's natural resilience and enduring beauty.
Fish Creek Campground caters to a variety of campers, including those utilizing tents, RVs, and yurts. Sites are single-family and can accommodate a mix of camping preferences.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest's dynamic weather patterns at Fish Creek. Recent conditions have brought dramatic rainy days with heavy precipitation, creating a mystical atmosphere as mist rises from the forest floor. Winter visitors may witness delicate snowflakes dusting the evergreens, while the high humidity nurtures the lush, verdant landscape that makes this region so enchanting. The ever-changing weather adds to the authentic wilderness experience that draws nature enthusiasts year-round.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 900 feet above sea level, Fish Creek Campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere. This modest elevation provides relief from summer heat while remaining low enough to avoid the harsh alpine conditions of higher elevations, making it an ideal basecamp for exploring the diverse ecosystems of Mt. Hood National Forest.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own private paradise along a picturesque bend of the Clackamas River, where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead. At 900 feet elevation, the campground immerses you in an enchanting old-growth forest ecosystem, where emerald ferns unfurl across the forest floor and native grasses sway in the mountain breeze. Though the open understory offers limited visual barriers between sites, the constant symphony of rushing river water creates a natural sound curtain, ensuring peaceful nights under the stars.
Geological RegionSet within the majestic Cascade Range, Fish Creek Campground showcases the volcanic legacy that shaped this dramatic landscape. The Clackamas Wild and Scenic River has carved its path through ancient lava flows, creating the stunning river canyon you'll explore today. Dense coniferous forests blanket the mountainsides, while the understory bursts with life—sword ferns, Oregon grape, and delicate wildflowers paint a living tapestry that changes with each season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible, and the campground offers some ease of use for visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as fairly small, with some reviews specifically noting tight parking spaces and limited room for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacyMinimal privacy due to sparse vegetation coverage. 'The lack of coverage between neighboring sites' was noted as a downside by one reviewer.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend choosing Spot 1 for its seclusion and proximity to water. Sites 16/17 offer recreational kayaking opportunities and access to a rocky landing with sun until late afternoon.
Best CampsitesSpot 1 is noted for being secluded and near water with shade. Sites 16/17 have access to kayaking and a rocky beach area.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights per reservation. A total of 14 nights within 30 rolling days is permitted.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as narrow and gravel-paved, with minimal vegetation privacy and close proximity between campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov, via the app, contact center, or in person.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified. Reservations are recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees will apply. Late cancellations may incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fish Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The Clackamas River provides ample opportunity for whitewater rafting and other water-based recreation. A hiking trail that follows the river starts from the campground, providing scenic exploration.
Hiking
A hiking trail begins within the campground and follows the Clackamas River north and south. Reviewers highlight its accessibility and scenic value.Fishing
Fishing in the Clackamas River is a popular activity, with anglers finding species such as winter steelhead, spring chinook, and coho salmon.Swimming
Reviewers mention a large swimming area near the camp host site and a 'great swimming hole' close to the river.Boating
A boat ramp within the campground facilitates boating activities, and reviewers noted recreational kayaking opportunities near specific campsites.Wildlife viewing
The campground's proximity to the Clackamas River offers opportunities to observe federally protected bald eagles, northern spotted owls, and even peregrine falcons.Beach activities
Some reviewers noted spending time on a small 'beach' area near the water, enjoying the scenery and sunlight.Water Sports
The campground supports water sports such as whitewater rafting and kayaking through the Clackamas River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings with grills are provided at each site. Visitors are encouraged to burn firewood close to their camping location to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsScorpions have been noted by campers. Wildlife such as bald eagles, northern spotted owls, and peregrine falcons may be present.
Active alertsCampground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed, though users reported cleaning their own campsites upon arrival.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Clackamas River, offering fishing, swimming, and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaints"Expensive for a bare-bones campground"; "Sites are needlessly close to each other"; "Bathrooms poorly maintained"; "Minimal privacy between sites".
HostCamp hosts have been praised for keeping bathrooms clean and being helpful during visits.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for approximately 16 miles.
The campground is accessible via Highway 224 from Estacada, approximately 16 miles away. Narrow roads within the campground make navigation challenging for larger RVs.Nearby places
Estacada (16 miles, approx. 30-minute drive)
Portland (approx. 1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and supplies are available in Estacada, approximately 16 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
25 reviews
Fish Creek (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a mixed experience at Fish Creek Campground. While many praise its natural beauty, proximity to the Clackamas River, and quiet atmosphere, others expressed concerns about site size, cleanliness, and camp host interactions.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground's scenic location by the river, opportunities for swimming and fishing, and clean facilities are frequently praised. Users also appreciated the peaceful environment and the...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes complaints about small and closely packed sites, poor toilet conditions, unclear site descriptions leading to challenges for RVs, and issues with some camp hosts.
Based on 25 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing personal air fresheners for vault toilets, verifying site accessibility for RVs, and ensuring a Clackamas County parking permit to avoid fines. Some suggest early booking...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summertime seems particularly popular for its warm weather and recreational activities. However, the lack of detailed weather data prevents a comprehensive seasonal trend analysis.
Based on 25 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful. Clackamas River right there, fishing, a massive swimming area past the camp host site. So perfect.' - Jeremy Hogue
2. 'The toilets are absolutely horrible my group even brought in air...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is noted for its seclusion and proximity to water, while sites 16/17 offer access to recreation areas like rocky landings and swimming spots. Site 3 raised challenges for RV access due to...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible, and the campground overall is described as fairly accommodating. No specific reviews from users with disabilities were included.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025