Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground
02 reviews16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055
Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground
$20.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
$20 per night for a single site; $30 per night for a double family site. Additional vehicle fee is $5 per night.
About this campground
Rising from the ashes of the 2020 Lionshead Fire, Lower Lake Campground is experiencing a remarkable transformation as nature and human effort combine to restore this cherished wilderness retreat. Tucked into a secluded pocket of pristine forest just north of the larger Olallie Lake, this intimate campground offers adventurers a genuine back-to-basics experience. Here, the modern world fades away as you explore crystalline mountain lakes by paddle, discover hidden trails that wind through towering evergreens, and cast your line into waters that mirror the sky above.
Lower Lake Campground is described as primitive and small, catering to those seeking a more rustic experience. Tent and possibly RV camping may be available, with no specific mention of group or luxury accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThis sacred landscape rests along the ancestral boundary of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, whose deep connections to these forests and waters span countless generations. The campground's location at this cultural crossroads adds layers of meaning to every sunset viewed across the lake and every ancient tree that stands sentinel over your campsite.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythm of seasons dramatically transforms this high-country haven. Winter arrives with authority, blanketing the landscape in deep snow and sealing off road access, creating a pristine wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid winter adventurers. As summer unfolds, warm days invite exploration, though seasoned campers know to pack extra protection against the native yellow jackets that patrol these woodlands during the height of the season.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryLower Lake jewel-like waters reflect a cathedral of old-growth forest, creating an ever-changing canvas of emerald and sapphire hues. This aquatic gem is just one in a constellation of pristine alpine lakes scattered throughout the area, each connected by a network of trails that reveal new wonders at every turn. Towering Douglas firs and mountain hemlocks create a natural amphitheater around the campground, their ancient boughs whispering stories of seasons past.
Geological RegionNestled within the breathtaking Olallie Lake Scenic Area, the campground occupies a unique position where volcanic peaks meet ancient forests at the western edge of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation. This remarkable landscape showcases the volcanic legacy of the Cascade Range, where prehistoric lava flows created the natural basins that now cradle dozens of pristine mountain lakes, each one a mirror reflecting the surrounding peaks and endless Oregon sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information about accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not described in detail.
Sites PrivacySite privacy is not explicitly detailed, but user reviews mention a quiet and small campground atmosphere.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Activities you can enjoy
Lower Lake Campground offers recreational activities primarily focused on nature exploration. Official sources confirm options such as hiking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. User reviews highlight nearby hiking destinations like Fish Lake, which provides a more challenging route.
Hiking
Day hikes and backpacking are available, with surrounding smaller lakes offering varied exploration opportunities. A user review mentions Fish Lake being a 45-60 minute hike and 'quite challenging.'Fishing
Fishing is available in Lower Lake, though no details on fish species or regulations are provided.Boating
Non-motorized boating is explicitly permitted on Lower Lake.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are described, but access is hindered by road closures during heavy snow periods.Water Sports
Non-motorized boating, such as kayaking or canoeing, is supported.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsYellow jackets in summer. Damage from the Lionshead Fire may pose safety issues.
Active alertsCampground is currently closed due to damage from the Lionshead Fire.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Clackamas River Ranger District, 16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055. Phone: (971) 333-4100. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed 12 to 1 for lunch. Closed on federal holidays.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information provided regarding trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Lower Lake, which is 14 acres and very deep.
Common complaintsYellow jackets in summer. User review notes drunk party goers causing noise disturbances.
Hostnull
Campground Map
16400 Champion Way, Sandy, OR 97055
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, OR - Drive south on Highway 224 and travel 26 miles. The road becomes Forest Road 46 for 20 miles. Turn east onto Forest Road 4690 and drive 6 miles on pavement, then about 3 miles on gravel, to a junction with Forest Road 4220 at the junction to the resort turn off. The roads are closed in the winter due to heavy snow.
Road access includes paved roads turning into gravel roads. Roads are seasonally closed in winter due to heavy snow.Nearby places
Estacada (approximately 52 miles, 1 hour and 15 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Lower Lake (Olallie Lake) Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Lower Lake Campground as a quiet, small, and primitive area ideal for hikers and those seeking a rustic experience. The beauty of the surrounding area is emphasized.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the quiet and beautiful setting. User Rob Plucar reviewed it as 'a pretty quiet campground that's also a good spot for a base camp for hiking.'
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include disturbances such as 'drunk party goers' playing loud music until 4 a.m., as noted by Carolyn Brown. Yellow jackets are prevalent in the summer, as mentioned in a review.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellent for yellow jackets in the summer. Plan for noise disturbances during peak times.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer brings pleasant hiking opportunities but also yellow jackets and occasional noise disturbances from other campers. Winter access may be restricted due to heavy snow and road closures.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'A pretty quiet campground that's also a good spot for a base camp for hiking.' - Rob Plucar. 2. 'It was beautiful and fun!' - Carolyn Brown.
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site-by-site reviews or preferences are provided.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews or details addressing accessibility are available.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews or details addressing pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025