Raab
03 reviewsRaab
$76.00 - $76.00 / 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$76.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group sites operate on a standard fee of $76. This fee applies to group standard nonelectric and group tent-only areas. Displayed fees do not reflect discounts or additional charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Mt. Hood National Forest, Raab Group Campground offers an intimate escape where large families and groups can gather beneath towering evergreens. This hidden gem features six spacious group campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with sturdy picnic tables, campfire rings with grills for evening cookouts, and accessible vault toilets. While you'll need to bring your own water supply, the trade-off is pure tranquility and the chance to disconnect from the everyday hustle in this pristine forest setting.
Raab Group Campground is designed for group camping, with accommodations for both tent and RV camping. It is particularly suitable for large families or gatherings.
Historical SignificanceJust 10 miles southwest lies the legendary Bagby Hot Springs, where weary travelers have been soaking their cares away for over a century. These therapeutic waters, channeled through rustic wooden bathhouses fed by three major hot springs, tell a story of Oregon's past. The historic guard station, standing watch since 1913, serves as a reminder of the forest service's early days protecting these precious wilderness areas for future generations to enjoy.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Raab welcomes campers with pleasantly moderate temperatures that make for perfect hiking weather and comfortable nights around the campfire. While the camping season typically enjoys dry, sunny days ideal for outdoor adventures, Mother Nature occasionally adds variety with refreshing rain showers or even a rare dusting of snow at higher elevations. Pack layers to stay comfortable as mountain weather can shift from warm afternoons to crisp evenings.
ElevationPerched at 1,500 feet above sea level, Raab Campground strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and mountain atmosphere. This gentle elevation gifts visitors with refreshing breezes, stunning forest vistas, and a climate that's neither too hot nor too cold—just right for those seeking a comfortable basecamp for their Cascade adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a fairy-tale forest where ancient Douglas firs stretch skyward, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. Between the campsites, vibrant rhododendron bushes create natural privacy screens that burst into spectacular pink blooms each spring. The melodic Collawash River provides a constant soundtrack, its crystal-clear waters dancing over smooth stones just steps from your tent, inviting morning meditation or afternoon wading.
Geological RegionRaab Campground rests in the dramatic Cascade Range of northern Oregon, where volcanic forces shaped a landscape now cloaked in emerald forests. Here, old-growth Douglas firs and flowering rhododendrons thrive in the rich volcanic soil, creating a lush canopy overhead. The campground hugs the banks of the Collawash River, whose waters eventually join the mighty Clackamas River on their journey to the Pacific, carrying with them the essence of this pristine mountain wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible vault toilets and picnic areas, though no details about other ADA-compliant features are available.
Sites SizeThe six group sites can accommodate between 30 to 60 people.
Sites PrivacyThe dense growth of old Douglas fir trees and rhododendrons provides privacy between campsites.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are well-maintained and private by normal campground standards. It is recommended for groups as sites accommodate between 30-60 people.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers were not mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: 14 nights during a visit. Maximum Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group sites accommodate between 30 to 60 people.
Groups
The six group sites can accommodate between 30 and 60 individuals per site, with a maximum of four RVs per RV group.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has six group sites spread out within a dense forest, offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: May 23, 2025. Reservable from June 28, 2025, to September 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the Recreation.gov website, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided on walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyChanges: $10 fee for altering reservation dates or switching campsites. Cancellations: $10 fee deducted from refund along with possible loss of first night's recreation use fee if canceled late.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Raab Group Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities. The Collawash River supports catch-and-release trout fishing, while the nearby Clackamas River allows for angling steelhead, Kokanee, and Chinook salmon. "Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular activities," and the Collawash River has stretches of Class III-IV rapids. Additionally, visitors can hike in the Bull of the Woods Wilderness, mountain bike on primitive forest roads, and view abundant wildlife in the area. "The river provides a perfect habitat for the federally protected bald eagle and northern spotted owl," according to the source.
Hiking
Nearby hiking includes trails within the Bull of the Woods Wilderness. Specific trail details, such as difficulty or length, are not provided but the area is noted for its natural beauty.Fishing
Catch-and-release trout fishing is allowed on the Collawash River, while the Clackamas River offers steelhead, Kokanee, and Chinook salmon fishing opportunities.Biking
Several primitive forest roads nearby are open to mountain biking.Boating
Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular on the Collawash River, with at least one five-mile stretch featuring Class III-IV rapids.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to bald eagles, northern spotted owls, and peregrine falcons, as well as a variety of other wildlife. "The river provides a perfect habitat," one description notes.Winter Activities
There is no data on winter activities available.Water Sports
Rafting and kayaking on the Collawash River are notable water sports activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed except during fire restrictions, which may be imposed during hot, dry weather.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsNo drinking water is available, which could pose a challenge for campers. Fire restrictions may be imposed during hot, dry weather.
Active alertsCampground closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.8 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
Closest emergency services are likely located in Estacada, which is 29 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 15, 2025
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information about trash or recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on the banks of the Collawash River, which flows into the Clackamas River.
Common complaintsSome campers have expressed concerns about high fees, with comments like 'Absurdly expensive at 55 - 75 per night.'
HostManaged by Mount Hood Recreation and overseen by local campground hosts. Comment forms and more information can be obtained from the hosts.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada: travel east on Highway 224/Road 46 for approximately 29 miles to Road 63. Turn right and travel about a mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved routes, but large RVs may have difficulty negotiating tight turns within the campground. The last mile is on Road 63, which might pose difficulties for larger vehicles.Nearby places
Estacada (29 miles, approximately 40 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
A small convenience store is located approximately 1 to 2 miles away from the campground. For larger supplies, travelers can go to nearby cities like Estacada.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Raab has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty, seclusion, and well-maintained facilities of Raab Group Campground, but also point out drawbacks such as the lack of cell phone service and high fees.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the campground's scenic location and privacy provided by dense old-growth trees. "Very private by normal campground standards," one user says. The vault toilets and the overall...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on the campground's high fees, lack of drinking water, and absence of cell phone service. One user describes the fees as "absurdly expensive at 55-75 per night!"
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring their own drinking water and prepare for the lack of cell phone service. "Nice spot to get away from technology," one review suggests.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are mentioned in the user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground itself is beautiful and well maintained." - Nick Robitsch, "Great spot for camping nice spot to get away from technology as there is no cell phone service." - Jeffrey Young
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
There are no specific site-by-site reviews, but the group sites' capacity and suitability for large gatherings are noted.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
There is no specific feedback regarding accessibility features from users.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mention pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025