Lockaby
4.1218 reviewsLockaby
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
No specific fees were provided for this campground. Additional fees might apply for reservations ($8 online/$9 contact center/$3 in person) and late cancellations ($10 fee and forfeiting the first night's fee).
About this campground
Nestled alongside the pristine Clackamas River, Lockaby Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with over two dozen thoughtfully spaced campsites. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with a smaller RV (16 feet or less is ideal for navigating the natural terrain), you'll find everything needed for a classic camping experience. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables, campfire rings for evening gatherings, and grills for outdoor cooking. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach with vault toilets and hand-pumped water stations instead of modern hookups, the combination of paved and gravel parking ensures easy access to your wilderness retreat.
Lockaby Campground is a rustic camping destination designed for tent and small RV campers. There are no luxurious or glamping-style accommodations available. The campground is well-suited for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in nature.
Historical SignificanceAs part of the legendary Mt. Hood National Forest, Lockaby Campground sits within one of Oregon's most cherished recreational landscapes. This protected forestland has served generations of outdoor enthusiasts, offering a gateway to the region's stunning natural beauty and providing countless memories for families and adventurers who return year after year to reconnect with the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsLockaby's unique position between towering hillsides creates a natural air conditioning system that camping enthusiasts cherish. Even when summer temperatures soar elsewhere, the campground remains a cool sanctuary where ancient trees filter the sunlight and gentle river breezes provide natural relief. This refreshing microclimate makes it a perfect basecamp for those seeking respite from the heat while enjoying lazy afternoons by the river's edge.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 900 feet within Mt. Hood National Forest, Lockaby Campground benefits from its modest elevation and the protective canopy of majestic cedar trees. This natural cathedral of evergreens creates a perpetually cool, shaded environment that feels worlds away from civilization, despite being easily accessible for weekend getaways.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a magnificent canopy of ancient cedars, Lockaby Campground offers front-row seats to the Clackamas River's endless performance. The sparse forest floor allows clear views through the trees, where lucky visitors might spot soaring bald eagles, elusive northern spotted owls, or the swift dive of peregrine falcons. This riverside haven serves as both a peaceful retreat and a wildlife viewing platform, where the rhythmic sounds of flowing water blend with the whispers of wind through cedar boughs.
Geological RegionLocated in the heart of northern Oregon's Mt. Hood National Forest, Lockaby Campground occupies a special place along the Clackamas River corridor at 900 feet elevation. This geological sweet spot combines the accessibility of lower elevations with the pristine forest environment that makes the Pacific Northwest famous, creating an ideal setting where river and forest ecosystems merge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible vault toilets and a paved/gravel parking area. Specific details about other accessibility features, such as wheelchair-accessible trails, are not mentioned.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size. Some are suitable for two tents and two cars (e.g., site #24), while others are smaller, such as site #23, which can only accommodate a single car and a small tent.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites is limited as they are situated fairly close together with minimal vegetation separating them. One user noted that most sites are 'shaded under towering trees,' but another stated that the close proximity and lack of privacy were drawbacks.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve site #11 well in advance for privacy and river access. Avoid site #23 for its small size; site #24 offers more space for tents and cars.
Best CampsitesSite #11 has private river access and is popular among repeat campers. Site #15 offers a scenic view of the river and the sound of rushing water at night.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are grouped in a loop with one side bordering the river and the other side near the highway.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground closed due to 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the date of scheduled arrival, but a $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiting the first night's fee for late cancellations. Changes to reservations incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lockaby Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities emphasizing water activities, hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing. Fishing and whitewater rafting on the Clackamas River are standout activities. Hiking is also a popular pursuit, with nearby trails accessible from Fish Creek Campground, located less than a mile away.
Hiking
A hiking trail runs along the Clackamas River and begins about a mile away at Fish Creek Campground. The trail provides scenic views and opportunities to observe the lush, green surroundings of Mt. Hood National Forest.Fishing
The Clackamas River is renowned for its fishing opportunities, with anglers targeting winter steelhead, spring Chinook, and late summer Coho salmon, among other freshwater species.Boating
Boating is accessible nearby at Fish Creek Campground, where a boat launch is provided for kayaks, canoes, and rafts. The Clackamas River also features 12.5 miles of Class III-IV rapids below the Indian Henry Campground.Wildlife viewing
The dense forest habitat supports a variety of wildlife, including federally protected bald eagles and northern spotted owls. Occasional peregrine falcons and other fauna can also be observed, making it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
No information about winter-specific activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing is available.Water Sports
The Clackamas River provides opportunities for whitewater rafting and kayaking. The annual Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival in May brings enthusiasts to the area to enjoy Class III-IV rapids.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firepits with grates are provided for cooking. Adherence to local regulations is required to prevent forest hazards.
Hazards
General hazardsVault toilets emit strong chemical odors. Some sites near cliffs or highways pose risks for small children. River access is steep and difficult at certain sites.
Active alertsCampground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.5 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available, but no recycling facilities are provided. Campers are encouraged to take recyclables home.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to the Clackamas River, which offers fishing and whitewater rafting opportunities. River access is steep and challenging at most sites.
Common complaintsSites are close together, reducing privacy. Vault toilets often smell strongly of chemicals. Some reviews mention poor management by staff, including disputes over reservations and noisy neighbors.
HostSeveral reviews mention camp hosts, both positive and negative. Host Dustin received criticism for poor service, while other hosts were described as sweet and helpful.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, take Highway 224 east for 15 miles to the campground.
RVs over 16 feet are not recommended due to the steep terrain within the facility. Parking surfaces are paved and gravel.Camper Reviews
4.1
18 reviews
Lockaby is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback on Lockaby Campground highlights its scenic setting by the Clackamas River, abundant shade, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, close proximity between campsites and limited amenities like water and recycling have been noted as drawbacks. Several reviews praised specific campsites like #11 for their unique features, while other reviews discussed challenges including management issues and noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews consistently praise the campground's beautiful natural setting, shaded sites, and proximity to the Clackamas River. One reviewer described it as a 'simple campground' perfect for hot summer...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include close proximity of campsites, lack of running water, and chemical odors in the vault toilets. A user also reported a negative interaction with the site manager over...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reserve campsite #11 early to secure its private river access. Bring water for drinking and cooking as there is no running water on-site. Avoid larger tents at smaller sites like #23. Families with...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the campground's shade and cool environment, making it ideal for hot weather. Spring and fall are preferred for fishing and hiking due to moderate temperatures. Winter...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Lockaby is a simple campground with pit toilets and hand-pumped well water. The sites are spread out beneath towering trees that keep the ground cool and shaded most of the day.' (James T....
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #11 is highly recommended for its private river access, but it is often reserved well in advance. Campsite #23 is noted for its small size, limiting its suitability for larger tents or...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available, but other accessibility features are not detailed. Parking areas are paved and gravel to accommodate different mobility requirements.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific issues or highlights regarding pet policies were noted in reviews, but one reviewer stated 'great campground for family, friends, and pets.'
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025