Hideaway Lake Campground
4.526 reviewsMt. Hood National Forest, Forest Rd 5830, Clackamas, Oregon
Hideaway Lake Campground
$19.00 - $19.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$19.00
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
Overnight use fee is $19 per night for a single site and $8 per night for additional vehicles. Payment must be made in cash or by check. Note: Sites may be reservable, and reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Tucked away in Oregon's majestic high country, Hideaway Lake Campground lives up to its name as a secluded forest retreat. This intimate single-loop campground sits gracefully above the pristine waters of Hideaway Lake, where towering Douglas firs and hemlocks create a natural cathedral overhead. Each campsite is thoughtfully positioned within this emerald sanctuary, with native rhododendrons forming living privacy screens between neighbors. Whether you're casting a line into the mirror-like lake, paddling quietly across its peaceful surface, or exploring nearby hiking trails, this hidden gem offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness solitude.
Hideaway Lake Campground has 10 designated sites suitable for tent camping. There are no RV sites or group camping facilities.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Hideaway Lake into a cool mountain escape, with June through September bringing ideal camping conditions and comfortable temperatures that offer relief from valley heat. As autumn arrives, the forest erupts in subtle color changes while crisp mornings hint at the winter to come. When snow blankets the landscape in winter months, temperatures frequently dip below freezing, turning the campground into a winter wonderland accessible only to the most adventurous souls. Spring brings a gradual awakening, with rhododendrons bursting into bloom as the snow retreats.
ElevationPerched at 4,000 feet in the Cascade Mountains, Hideaway Lake Campground offers a refreshing high-altitude escape where summer days remain pleasantly cool and nights require a cozy sleeping bag. This elevated position means you'll trade summer heat for mountain breezes, though winter visitors should come prepared for significant snowfall and true alpine conditions. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every outdoor adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted Pacific Northwest forest where ancient Douglas firs and hemlocks stretch skyward, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. Beneath this evergreen canopy, wild rhododendrons paint the understory with glossy leaves and seasonal blooms, creating natural privacy curtains between campsites. The crown jewel of this woodland paradise is Hideaway Lake itself—12 acres of crystal-clear mountain water that reflects the surrounding forest like nature's own mirror. Morning mist often dances across the lake's surface, while afternoon sun filters through the old-growth canopy, creating a magical play of light and shadow throughout the campground.
Geological RegionNestled within the spectacular Mt. Hood National Forest, Hideaway Lake Campground showcases the very best of Oregon's Cascade Mountain ecosystem. This volcanic region has created the perfect conditions for a thriving mixed conifer forest, where massive Douglas firs and western hemlocks dominate the landscape alongside a rich understory of native rhododendrons. The high Cascade setting means you're camping in one of the Pacific Northwest's most geologically dynamic regions, where ancient volcanic activity has shaped both the dramatic mountain terrain and the fertile soils that support this lush forest environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe 10 campsites are described as spacious, providing ample room for tents and equipment.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer excellent privacy due to heavy vegetation, including rhododendrons and trees.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake are recommended for their proximity to water and serene views. Walking down to the lake through rhododendron near sites 5–7 is particularly enjoyable.
Best CampsitesSites near the lake, specifically between sites 5 and 7.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Groups
Group sites are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground follows a single-loop layout, with all 10 sites evenly spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open all year, but services are only provided between June 5 and September 7.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for this campground.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Several user reviews suggest arriving early in the day to secure a spot as weekends can fill up quickly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly stated.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hideaway Lake Campground offers a tranquil setting for a variety of outdoor activities. "This is a sweet spot to relax and hang out for a couple of days," according to users.
Hiking
The Shell Rock Trail is a 4-mile trail accessible for both foot and horse traffic. Reviewers have praised the trail for its beautiful surroundings.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include brook and rainbow trout in Hideaway Lake. However, one review mentioned, "not even one bite out of the lake," indicating variable success.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted, and the 12-acre Hideaway Lake is particularly suitable for canoeing. Boat carry-down access is available.Winter Activities
No information is available on winter recreational options.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing are supported. The lake is described as an excellent location for such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within the provided fire rings at each site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a notable issue during summer months, so insect repellent is recommended. Some user reviews also mention yellow jackets. Roads can be rough, and low-clearance vehicles may struggle on gravel surfaces.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 0.8 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
Ripplebrook Guard Station (24.7 miles away). For medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Estacada.
Good to know
Peak season datesBetween June and September.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are not provided. Campers must pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresHideaway Lake, a 12-acre body of water, is the main feature of the campground and is ideal for non-motorized boating and fishing.
Common complaintsMultiple user reviews highlight the prevalence of mosquitoes and rough roads leading to the campground. Another common complaint is the lack of trash receptacles and potable water.
Campground Map
Mt. Hood National Forest, Forest Rd 5830, Clackamas, Oregon
Driving directionsIn Estacada, OR at the intersection of State Routes 211 and 224, take Rt. 224 east and go 24.7 miles to Ripplebrook Guard Station. Turn left immediately after Guard Station onto Forest Rt. 4631 and go 2.9 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear right onto Forest Rt. 4630 and go 4.1 miles to an intersection and campground sign. Turn left onto Forest Rt. 57 (paved) and go 1 mile to a 'Y' intersection. Bear left onto Forest Rt. 58 and go 3 miles to another 'Y' intersection and campground sign. Bear left onto Forest Rt. 5830 (gravel) and go 4.1 miles to another 'Y' intersection. Bear left, staying on Rt. 5830, and go 1.2 miles to an intersection and campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
The road between Shellrock Creek and Hideaway Lake Campgrounds is described as being 'in rough shape' with washboards and potholes. The road is drivable but very bumpy, and gravel surfaces on Forest Road 5830 may pose challenges for vehicles, especially those with lower clearance.Nearby places
Estacada, 30 miles (approximately 1-hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in Estacada, approximately 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
6 reviews
Hideaway Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the campground's tranquility, natural beauty, and spacious sites. However, some mention challenges such as rough roads, mosquitoes, and the lack of amenities like trash receptacles. "This is a sweet spot to relax and hang out for a couple of days."
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
- Tranquil and secluded environment
- Spacious sites with excellent privacy
- Beautiful lake views and access for fishing and boating
- Clean and well-maintained vault toilets
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Rough and bumpy roads leading to the campground
- Mosquitoes, particularly in summer
- No trash receptacles (pack-in, pack-out policy)
- Limited cell phone reception
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring mosquito repellent.
- Arrive early to secure a spot, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Plan for a pack-in, pack-out experience as there are no trash facilities.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight mosquito activity and the beauty of the rhododendron blooms. Winter reviews are sparse, and some facilities may be closed during the off-season.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Amazing secluded campground. This is a sweet spot to relax and hang out for a couple of days." - Venture X
2. "Large spacious areas... and the beauty of the lake is spectacular." - Beth
3. "The...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific references note that a walk through a grove of rhododendrons between sites 5 and 7 leads to the lake.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but no further accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025