Kingfisher
Kingfisher
$26.00 - $52.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary between $26.00 to $52.00 depending on campsite type and season. Discounts, taxes, and incremental charges may apply. Interagency...
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Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$52.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$78.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider503-630-5721clm@clm-services.com
About this campground
Discover Kingfisher Campground, where untamed wilderness meets modern comfort in what seasoned campers call 'a diamond in the rough.' This enchanting retreat welcomes both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers with its thoughtfully placed amenities—fresh drinking water, clean vault toilets, and crackling fire pits await your arrival. While you won't find utility hookups here, you'll discover something far more valuable: an authentic connection with nature that feels increasingly rare in our connected world.
Kingfisher Campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV camping, with nearly two dozen single-family campsites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the nearby Bagby Hot Springs, where history bubbles up from the earth itself. These legendary thermal waters have drawn weary travelers for generations, now channeled through rustic bathhouses that preserve their wild charm. The historic guard station, standing sentinel since 1913, whispers tales of early forest rangers who once called these woods home, protecting this natural treasure for future generations to discover.
Weather and SeasonsEvery season paints Kingfisher with its own distinctive palette. Spring and fall bring dramatic contrasts—from crisp, dry mornings perfect for coffee by the campfire to misty afternoons when rain drums gentle rhythms on tent flies. Winter occasionally dusts the forest floor with snow, creating a magical wonderland for the adventurous few. But it's during peak summer season when Kingfisher truly shines, offering sun-dappled days with comfortable temperatures and long, golden evenings that seem to stretch endlessly into starlit nights.
ElevationPerched at 1,250 feet above sea level, Kingfisher occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays refreshingly cool without the bite of alpine chill. This goldilocks elevation creates an ideal microclimate that supports an incredible tapestry of wildlife—from curious deer threading through morning mist to the vibrant birds that give the campground its name. Here, you're high enough to escape summer's swelter but low enough to enjoy extended camping seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the melodic conversation between songbirds and the gurgling Hot Springs Fork of Collawash River, your constant companion at Kingfisher. Towering evergreens—Douglas firs, western hemlocks, and ancient cedars—create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Just beyond camp, the legendary Bull of the Woods Wilderness beckons with untold adventures, while closer to your tent, watch for the flash of a kingfisher's blue wings or the gentle splash of river otters at play.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast embrace of Mt. Hood National Forest, Kingfisher Campground occupies a privileged position along the Hot Springs Fork of Collawash River. This geological wonderland showcases the raw power of ancient volcanic activity and patient river carving, creating a landscape where moss-draped canyon walls rise from crystalline waters. The nearby Bull of the Woods Wilderness adds another layer of rugged grandeur, its peaks and valleys telling the story of ice ages and tectonic shifts written across millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible, but additional details on overall accessibility are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as fitting tent and RV camping, but RVs larger than 19 feet may face difficulty navigating.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy varies, with one user review describing Site 12 as having "direct access to the Collawash River" and space for multiple tents, suggesting some sites offer greater seclusion.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 12 is highly recommended due to its direct river access, room for multiple tents, and shaded areas for hammocks.
Best CampsitesUser reviews praise Site 12 for its river access, spacious layout, and proximity to facilities such as vault toilets and water pumps.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are outlined as 14 consecutive nights during any visit and a rolling limit of 14 nights within a 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features nearly two dozen single-family sites with parking surfaces of either paved or gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 23, 2025, and closes September 21, 2025, for reservable dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov via website or app. Additional platforms for direct booking may include in-person facilities.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservations should be made early for the best campsites.
Cancellation PolicyReservation cancelations carry a $10 fee, along with forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellation penalties include withholding the first night's fee. Further cancellation, modification, and refund rules are detailed under reservation policies.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kingfisher Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. The nearby Bull of the Woods Wilderness provides numerous trailheads, and the Cascades Scenic Byway is in proximity. Catch-and-release fishing for trout is permitted, and at least one river stretch supports class III-IV whitewater for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts.
Hiking
Visitors enjoy hiking in the Bull of the Woods Wilderness, which features numerous trailheads south of the campground. Specific trail information is not provided, but user reviews highlight the area's scenic appeal.Fishing
Catch-and-release fishing is allowed on the main fork of the Collawash River. Streams in the area are closed to fishing, but the fishing opportunities are still a notable draw for visitors.Biking
Several primitive forest roads nearby are open to mountain biking, providing off-road biking opportunities.Boating
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities, with one river segment offering class III-IV whitewater over a 5-mile stretch.Wildlife viewing
"A variety of birds and wildlife make their homes in the area," according to the official description, and a user review mentions spotting a beaver.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are noted as significant water activities in the area.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather. Fire rings with grills are available at each campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal fire danger and wildfire damage from the 2020 Riverside Wildfire are noteworthy hazards. Whitewater rafting on nearby rivers may pose risks for less experienced participants.
Active alertsThe campground remains closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Oct 9
Thursday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 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
Emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Estacada, 35 miles away. Ripplebrook Camp Store, 9 miles away, may offer limited supplies but not emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are May 23, 2025 - September 21, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is available about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the banks of the Hot Springs Fork of Collawash River. The nearby Clackamas River offers whitewater rafting opportunities.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention limited riverfront sites, overcrowding during peak times, and challenges securing reservations for the best campsites.
HostReviews mention attentive hosts and clean restroom facilities, although specific details about host services are missing.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for 26 miles, then turn right on Road 46 and continue for 5 miles. Turn onto Road 63 and continue for 4 miles. Turn onto Road 70 and continue about 2 miles to the campground.
RVs larger than 19 feet may encounter difficulties navigating tight turns within the campground. Roads leading to the campground are paved, but local primitive roads may present challenges. Seasonal closures due to wildfire damage are relevant.Nearby places
Estacada (35 miles northwest, approximately 1 hour travel time). Ripplebrook Camp Store (9 miles north, 15-20 minutes travel time).
Nearby supplies
Ripplebrook Camp Store, 9 miles north of the campground, offers maps and likely limited supplies. Estacada, 35 miles away, provides groceries, fuel, dining, and shopping options.
Camper Reviews
4.8
10 reviews

Kingfisher is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely praised for its natural beauty, accessibility to outdoor activities, and the clean and well-maintained vault toilets. However, some users express concerns about crowding during peak times and the limited number of sites with direct river access.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers celebrate the scenic location, wildlife sightings, and overall tranquility. Shane W. praised the presence of potable water and vaulted toilets, and Lisa D. highlighted Site 12 as a...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Crowding during peak seasons and the limited number of riverfront sites. Jeffrey Mills noted: "Unfortunately there's not enough camping sites on the river."
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve early to secure the best riverfront sites, such as Site 12. Respect other campers' spaces, especially at desirable locations.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak seasons can lead to overcrowding, but the campground's natural beauty remains a highlight year-round. Some reviews indicate that quieter times offer a better experience.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Site 12 is an absolute gem! Direct access to the Collawash River, many trees to hang a hammock, and enough room for two or three tents." (Lisa D.)
- "Saw a beaver come down the river once."...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 receives particular praise for its river access and spaciousness. Lisa D. recommends being respectful of whoever is staying on this site due to its high desirability.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are noted, but further insights into broader accessibility features are limited.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025