Wahtum Lake Campground
4.3212 reviewsWahtum Lake Campground
$24.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
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
The fee mentioned in a user review is $24 per night, but specifics of additional fees, discounts, or fee structures are not available.
About this campground
Tucked into the verdant embrace of Mt. Hood National Forest, Wahtum Lake Campground beckons with five intimate primitive sites, each equipped with a fire pit and picnic table for authentic outdoor living. This tree-shaded retreat sits just east of the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness, offering a gateway to pristine alpine adventures. While the campground's close-knit layout has drawn mixed reviews—from those who cherish its "nice little" charm to others who find the $24 sites too closely packed—its proximity to crystal-clear Wahtum Lake makes it a coveted basecamp for wilderness enthusiasts seeking both solitude and spectacular scenery.
The campground features primitive campsites suitable for tent camping. No reservations are accepted as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances between sun and storm, with rain and snow making surprise appearances even during warmer months. Seasoned visitors recommend planning your escape between late spring and summer, when wildflowers carpet the forest floor and the lake beckons for afternoon swims. Pack layers and rain gear—the mountains have their own agenda, and being prepared ensures you'll embrace whatever nature delivers.
ElevationPerched a couple hundred feet above the shimmering waters of Wahtum Lake, the campground offers a bird's-eye perspective of the alpine landscape below. This strategic elevation provides not only stunning lake views but also a natural amphitheater effect, where morning mist rises from the water and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks in rose and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your forested perch above Wahtum Lake, nature unfolds in layers of breathtaking beauty. Dense conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, while the lake below invites refreshing dips that visitors describe as "beautiful swims." But the real magic happens when you hit the trails—panoramic vistas reveal an all-star lineup of Cascade volcanoes, including majestic Mount Hood, distant Mount Adams, and on clear days, even the Three Sisters and Mount Jefferson grace the horizon. It's a front-row seat to the Pacific Northwest's most iconic peaks.
Geological RegionSet within the sprawling wonderland of Mt. Hood National Forest, the campground serves as your personal threshold to the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. This geological treasure trove showcases the raw power of volcanic forces that shaped the Cascades, with ancient lava flows now clothed in emerald forests. The dense canopy overhead tells the story of centuries of growth, while Wahtum Lake below fills a glacially carved basin—a testament to the ice ages that sculpted this dramatic landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned. The steep incline to the lake may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeFive small primitive campsites suitable for tent camping.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews noted varying levels of privacy. Sites 6 and 7 were highlighted for offering the most privacy.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Sites 6 and 7 have most privacy" according to user Martin Ray.
Best CampsitesMartin Ray describes Sites 6 and 7 as having the most privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutFive primitive campsites clustered above Wahtum Lake. "5 sites available...stacked up on each other," according to T C.
Reservation Platforms"Reservations are not available" per authoritative content.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come-first-serve, as supported by multiple user reviews including statements from Martin Ray and Daniel Herrington.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Wahtum Lake and its surroundings.
Hiking
The location provides access to multiple hiking opportunities, including trails leading into the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. A user described their hike to Chinidere Mountain, where they enjoyed views of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and other notable peaks.Swimming
Swimming is possible in Wahtum Lake, which is a short but steep hike from the campground. One user described it as a 'beautiful swim.'Winter Activities
No winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
No specific non-motorized water sports mentioned beyond swimming.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire restrictions may be in place seasonally, as noted by user Sivaramakrishna Tagirisa.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention steep terrain and limited parking. Judy B noted that "other campers left garbage out so the raccoons got into it." Sivaramakrishna Tagirisa also noted "lot of mosquitos."
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.2 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 recyclingGarbage cans are provided at the campground. No details about recycling facilities were mentioned.
Proximity to water features"The lake is over 200 feet elevation down trail to lake by my GPS," said Judy B.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight several issues: "No amenities (water, flush toilet etc.)," according to T C. "Parking is limited," noted Michael Palandri.
HostCamp attendants "did a great job of cleaning" according to Judy B.
Campground Map
Driving directionsDirections from Hood River: Travel southwest on Primary Forest Route 13 past Dee. Continue on 13 follow it west when it splits. About one mile past forest boundary, pick up Forest Road 1310. Follow 1310 northwest to the campground.
"The road in takes about 30 min from the main road" according to user Chad Diblasio. Judy B noted that the campground is "10 miles off the main road" and described the route as steep and challenging.Nearby places
Hood River (approx. 25 miles), Portland (approx. 70 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.3
12 reviews
Wahtum Lake Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Wahtum Lake Campground are mixed, with some campers appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility while others criticize the lack of amenities and crowded conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the natural beauty of the area, access to hiking trails, and the peaceful environment. One user referred to it as 'a great hidden gem.'
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include limited parking, steep access to the lake, lack of modern amenities such as water and flush toilets, and crowded conditions at the campground.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially mid-day when day hikers are present. Sites 6 and 7 are recommended for privacy. To avoid strain, take the stairs down to the lake and use the loop...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the most popular time, with user reviews spanning from June to September. However, the campground can be crowded during peak months, and mosquitoes are prevalent during the...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Nice little campground. It's a couple hundred feet above the lake.' 2. 'The road in takes about 30 min from the main road. Easy hike down to the lake but it’s a good hike UP on the way out!' 3....
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 6 and 7 were specifically highlighted for offering the most privacy.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025