Ripplebrook
4.6215 reviewsRipplebrook
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Facility rates are $26 per night during peak season (May 23, 2025 - September 21, 2025) for both 'Standard Nonelectric' and 'Tent Only Nonelectric' sites. Additional vehicle fees of $8 apply for second vehicles in single-family campsites, as well as third and fourth vehicles in double-family campsites.
About this campground
Tucked away in an enchanting forest where sunlight filters through towering evergreens, Ripplebrook Campground offers an intimate camping experience alongside the rushing waters of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. This charming riverside retreat welcomes tent campers and small RVs (under 19 feet) to discover a world where the sound of rapids mingles with birdsong, and anglers cast their lines in pristine waters known for excellent fishing. Adventure seekers flock here to launch whitewater rafting expeditions, while those seeking tranquility find solace in the gentle rustle of leaves and the river's eternal song.
Ripplebrook Campground primarily supports tent camping but can accommodate small RVs and tent trailers under 19 feet. Group camping and primitive sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceJust 14 miles southwest lies a treasured piece of Pacific Northwest history—the legendary Bagby Hot Springs, where century-old bathhouses dating back to 1913 invite weary travelers to soak in naturally heated mineral waters. These historic wooden structures stand as monuments to the region's long tradition of wilderness recreation, offering modern visitors the same therapeutic waters that have drawn people to these mountains for generations.
Weather and SeasonsPeak camping season brings nature's perfect recipe for outdoor adventures: crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above the forest canopy, while moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for both daytime exploration and cozy evenings around the campfire. Low humidity means comfortable sleeping under the stars, and the refreshing mountain air carries the sweet scent of cedar and fir throughout the campground.
ElevationPerched at 1,400 feet above sea level, Ripplebrook occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp without being thin, and morning mists dance through the trees before giving way to warm afternoons. This moderate elevation creates a comfortable climate that extends the camping season while offering just enough altitude to escape the summer heat of the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryHere, where the Oak Fork of the Clackamas River carves its path through ancient forests, campers find themselves immersed in a living cathedral of towering maple, cedar, and fir trees. The forest floor tells its own story through a tapestry of emerald ferns and robust shrubs that create natural privacy screens between sites. This protected ecosystem serves as home to some of America's most magnificent wildlife—majestic bald eagles soar overhead, while the elusive northern spotted owl and swift peregrine falcon make their homes in the old-growth canopy. Lucky visitors might glimpse deer browsing at dawn or hear the haunting call of native birds echoing through the misty morning air.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of the legendary Cascade Mountain Range, Ripplebrook Campground showcases the raw beauty of volcanic origins softened by millennia of forest growth. The Oak Fork of the Clackamas River has carved its course through this dramatic landscape, creating a riparian corridor where ancient geology meets thriving ecosystems. Massive cedars and Douglas firs sink their roots deep into mineral-rich soils, while understory maples paint the forest in brilliant seasonal colors. The lush carpet of ferns and native shrubs that blankets the forest floor speaks to the region's generous rainfall and creates a sense of stepping into an untouched wilderness sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets are accessible. Some campsites are described as spacious with flat areas, though their overall accessibility for individuals with disabilities is not detailed.
Sites SizeSites are described as accommodating tents and small RVs under 19 feet. Site #1 is noted as spacious enough for two tents.
Sites PrivacyThe dense forest of maple, cedar, and fir trees, along with large shrubs and ferns, provides a good level of privacy between campsites. "The sites were so far apart we felt like we were the only people there," one reviewer mentioned.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #001 is praised for its spaciousness but noted for being near the road with occasional vehicle noise. Site #007 offers a good balance of sunshine and shade.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention sites #001, #004, #007, and #012 as noteworthy. For example, site #001 is spacious and close to the relaxing sounds of the river.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights per visit, with a total of 14 nights allowed within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits per site are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEach campsite includes a table and campfire ring with grill. Parking surfaces are either paved or gravel. Sites are noted for being spread out and offering privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable season runs from May 23, 2025, to September 21, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit information about walk-up availability is provided in the source materials.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of reservation fees. Late cancellations (starting midnight 1 day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ripplebrook offers a range of recreational activities. Fishing in the Clackamas River is highly popular, with opportunities to catch winter steelhead, spring chinook, and kokanee salmon. Whitewater rafting and hiking are also favored activities. The nearby Riverside National Recreation Trail spans 5 miles and supports both hiking and mountain biking.
Hiking
The Riverside National Recreation Trail, located near the campground, is a 5-mile trail popular for hiking and mountain biking. Numerous additional trails are available in the surrounding area.Fishing
Fishing in the Clackamas River is highly rated, with species like winter steelhead, spring chinook, and kokanee salmon available. "Fishing is very popular," the official description notes.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on the Riverside National Recreation Trail, which spans 5 miles and offers scenic views.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides habitat for wildlife such as federally protected bald eagles, northern spotted owls, and peregrine falcons. A variety of other species are also present.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, likely due to limited accessibility during off-peak seasons.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting on the Clackamas River is a major attraction. The river offers miles of "wild water as it bends through the Cascade Range."Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must be contained within designated fire rings. Visitors are advised to use local firewood to avoid spreading invasive species.
- Quiet hours are User reviews emphasize the natural quiet of the campground, although no official quiet hours are provided.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is recovering from the 2020 Riverside Wildfire. Theft has been reported by users in past reviews, emphasizing vigilance. Wildlife such as bears may also be present.
Active alertsRipplebrook Campground is closed due to the 2020 Riverside Wildfire.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.1 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 Ranger Station and Ripplebrook Pond are located nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 21, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are conveniently spaced in the campground.
Proximity to water featuresRipplebrook Campground is directly adjacent to the Clackamas River, and Ripplebrook Pond is also nearby.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as theft, 'extremely stinky' outhouses, and poorly placed tables causing discomfort at some sites.
HostUsers frequently praise the camp hosts for being friendly and knowledgeable. As one user noted, 'The camp host was extremely knowledgeable about the area.'
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Estacada, travel east on Highway 224 for 26 miles to the campground, which is just past the Ripplebrook Camp Store.
The campground is accessible directly from Highway 224 and has paved and gravel parking surfaces. Road conditions may vary seasonally, and campers should verify access during wildfire recovery periods.Nearby supplies
The campground is located just past the Ripplebrook Camp Store, which has some supplies available.
Camper Reviews
4.6
15 reviews
Ripplebrook is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the campground's natural beauty, serenity, and cleanliness. However, some concerns about safety (theft) and vault toilet odors have been mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the campground's cleanliness, "breathtakingly beautiful location," and the privacy of campsites due to dense foliage. Numerous reviews appreciate the peaceful sound of the river and...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers mentioned theft concerns, with one stating, "My friend's backpack with his wallet and keys got stolen..." Others noted occasional odors from vault toilets and the lack of potable water.
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own water and hand sanitizer. "Be prepared for no Wi-Fi or cell reception," advised one reviewer. Reserving multiple sites is suggested for group camping due to...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Most visitors favor the early summer to late fall season. Rain is common towards the end of the season, as noted in some reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground was well-maintained." "The camp host was very nice and knowledgeable." "The sites were so far apart, we felt like we were the only people there." "No potable water provided, but the...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is spacious and close to the road, leading to some vehicle noise. Site #4 is praised for its proximity to the river and privacy. Site #12 is noted as quiet and relaxing. Site #7 provides a...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews explicitly addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews explicitly addressing pet-related experiences were provided.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025