Gone Creek

Star4.68
142 reviews
Skyline Rd, Timothy Lake, OR, USA
Gone Creek
$26.00 - $52.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric sites range from $26-$52 per night during peak season; holiday rates incur an additional $2 fee. Group sites are priced at $52...
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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$52.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$78.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
503-464-8515pgeparks@pgn.com

About this campground

Nestled along Timothy Lake's pristine southern shores, Gone Creek Campground offers an enchanting escape where morning mist dances across turquoise waters and Mt. Hood's snow-capped peak dominates the horizon. This versatile outdoor haven welcomes both tent campers seeking simplicity and RV travelers desiring comfort, all while providing easy access to lakeside adventures and scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests.
Gone Creek Campground primarily offers tent and RV camping. The facility also includes group sites suitable for larger parties.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time near the historic Clackamas Lake Ranger Station District, where weathered timber buildings tell the story of early Forest Service workers who carved out a life in these remote mountains. The rustic architecture stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit that helped protect and preserve these wilderness areas for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Gone Creek transforms into a summer paradise where crisp mountain mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons perfect for swimming and exploration. The dry season brings endless blue skies and comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor adventures. As winter arrives, the landscape becomes a snow-laden wonderland, with heavy snowfall blanketing the forest and temperatures dropping to create a serene, frozen tableau.
ElevationPerched at 3,400 feet above sea level, the campground offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain air feels refreshingly crisp without leaving you breathless, and where summer temperatures remain comfortable even on the warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering conifers create a natural cathedral around each campsite, their emerald canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Timothy Lake's crystal-clear waters shift from deep sapphire to brilliant turquoise as the sun moves across the sky, while Mt. Hood stands sentinel in the distance, its glaciated slopes catching the alpenglow at sunset and creating picture-perfect moments that linger long in memory.
Geological RegionThis mountain sanctuary sits within the expansive Mt. Hood National Forest, where 3,400 feet of elevation places you among a thriving mixed conifer ecosystem surrounding the magnificent 1,400-acre Timothy Lake—a glacially-carved gem that serves as the centerpiece of this high-altitude paradise.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground features accessible vault toilets. Specific details about other accessibility features are not provided.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating both tents and RVs. Some sites are described as spacious, while others are rocky or small.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some sites offering good spacing and seclusion, while others lack privacy due to proximity to adjacent sites.
Total Campsites52 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose sites away from group and lakefront areas. Lakefront sites provide the best views but have less privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsites #015, #025, and #031 are highly rated for their views and proximity to the lake.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
4PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 9 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites allow up to 6 persons, double sites hold 12 persons, cabins accommodate 5 persons, and hike-to sites allow 4 persons.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSpread across loops with options for both lakefront and forested sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23 to September 13 (closed during the off-season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov and its associated apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during short-term release periods in June (specific dates vary annually).
Cancellation PolicyStandard cancellation rules apply: $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. Reservation changes, even for different dates, incur a $10 change fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Gone Creek Campground offers diverse recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking. The 12-mile Timothy Lake Trail is a highlight for hikers and bikers, connecting to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Non-motorized and motorized boating are popular, as is fishing for trout and kokanee salmon.
Hiking
The Timothy Lake Trail is a 12-mile loop around the lake, suitable for hiking and mountain biking, with scenic views. It connects to the Pacific Crest Trail. Users describe the trails as 'well-maintained' and 'great for families.'
Fishing
Fishing is a key activity at Timothy Lake, with catches including kokanee salmon and trout. A user noted, 'The fishing is great, and the crawdads are even better.'
Swimming
Swimming is a popular activity at Timothy Lake, with many sites providing easy access to the water. The lake is described as clear and turquoise, offering excellent conditions for swimming.
Biking
Biking trails around Timothy Lake are well-maintained and suitable for off-road bikes. A user described biking as 'awesome,' with trails accommodating various skill levels.
Boating
Boating options include both motorized and non-motorized activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The lake features a boat ramp accessible to campers.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of bald eagles and other local fauna. The surrounding forest enhances the experience.
Cultural and Educational Programs
The Clackamas Lake Ranger Station Historic District is nearby, offering cultural and historical insights. Some users mentioned a Junior Ranger program and other educational activities.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly noted.
Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular at Timothy Lake. Several users praised the lake's suitability for these activities.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires allowed unless fire bans are in effect during high-risk seasons.
  • Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsFrequent wildlife sightings (e.g., bears, deer). Muddy terrain during rainstorms noted by campers. Safety concerns at steep or poorly redesigned sites like campsite #009.
Active alertsNo current advisories provided.

Weather forecast

43
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 70%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 2.5 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest emergency services are approximately 23 miles away in Government Camp.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23 through September 13.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available on-site, and the system appears to be well-organized as per user reviews mentioning easy access.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Timothy Lake with boat ramps, swimming areas, and fishing spots.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of privacy at certain sites (e.g., #049), dusty conditions, noise violations, and unattended off-leash dogs. Negative feedback for campsite #009 due to steep terrain and dangerous conditions.
HostCampground hosts are generally praised for being friendly and helpful, with some exceptions noted in reviews.

Campground Map

Skyline Rd, Timothy Lake, OR, 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 continue south for about 9 miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 57 and travel west for 1 mile, then turn right again at the Gone Creek Campground entrance sign.
Accessible via fully paved roads. Seasonal closures may apply; some campers mentioned navigating potholes during specific seasons (e.g., on routes to nearby attractions such as Little Crater Lake).
Nearby places
Government Camp (23 miles), Sandy, Oregon (approx. 40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Gas station/convenience store located approximately 18 miles west on Hwy. 26
nearest grocery store in Government Camp, 23 miles west on Hwy. 26.

Camper Reviews

4.7
142 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Gone Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, clean facilities, and friendly hosts. However, some users reported issues such as noisy neighbors, dusty sites, and challenges with specific campsites.
Review Summaries
Based on 142 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the lake's beauty, fishing opportunities, clean vault toilets, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. Many commented on the well-maintained trails and the peaceful environment.
Based on 142 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include noise from neighboring sites, dusty campsite conditions, and lack of privacy in some areas. Some users also mentioned challenges with specific sites, such as uneven or rocky...
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Based on 142 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray, warm clothing for cool nights, and be prepared for dusty conditions in late summer. Avoid site #9, which has been noted for being unsafe and poorly maintained.
Based on 142 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that mid-week stays are quieter and more peaceful. Summer months can be busier, with some noise complaints during peak season. Late summer conditions are dusty but enjoyable overall.
Based on 142 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The water is extremely clear and the prettiest shade of turquoise.' - 'The vault toilets were spotlessly clean and smelled nice.' - 'Fishing is great, trails for walking and biking are awesome.' -...
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Based on 142 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #9 received negative feedback for being unsafe and poorly maintained. Site #25 was highlighted for its excellent launch for paddling. Site #31 is noted for amazing lake views but is dusty.
Based on 142 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not frequently mentioned, but vault toilets are noted to be accessible.
Based on 142 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but users noted issues with off-leash dogs causing conflicts. Hosts reportedly enforce leash rules.
Based on 142 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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