Limberlost Campground
4.0129 reviewsLimberlost Campground
$165.00 - $165.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$165.00
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
$165 daily fee per Standard Nonelectric site. Fees apply only during peak season (April 30 - Sept 6). Discounts possible with senior or access passes for individual sites only. Reservation-specific service fees (e.g. $8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person). Cancellation fees may apply.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Willamette National Forest, Limberlost Campground offers an intimate escape where the modern world fades into the whisper of Lost Creek. This hidden gem features just 12 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each cradled beneath a cathedral canopy of ancient Douglas firs and aromatic cedar trees. Here, simplicity reigns supreme—each site comes equipped with the camping essentials: a sturdy picnic table for gathering and a fire ring for evening storytelling. While you'll need to bring your own water supply, this rustic detail only adds to the authentic wilderness experience that draws adventurers seeking genuine connection with nature.
Limberlost Campground accommodates tent and small trailer camping. Group sites are available, and there are no RV hookups.
Historical SignificanceLimberlost carries a story as enchanting as its surroundings, drawing its name from Gene Stratton-Porter's beloved novel 'Girl of the Limberlost.' This literary connection weaves a thread between the written word and the natural world, honoring both the power of storytelling and the inspiration found in wild places. The campground stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between literature and landscape, inviting visitors to create their own chapters in this storied setting.
Weather and SeasonsThe Western Cascades work their seasonal magic at Limberlost, painting each visit with distinct character. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and mostly clear skies, though afternoon showers occasionally dust the forest with fresh mountain rain—nature's way of keeping the landscape lush and vibrant. Even during peak season's warmest days, Lost Creek maintains its refreshing chill, perfect for cooling tired feet after a day of exploration. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-draped wonderland, where only the hardiest souls venture to experience the profound silence of a forest at rest.
ElevationPerched at the characteristic elevation of the Western Cascades, Limberlost occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp without becoming thin, and where the forest ecosystem thrives in perfect balance. This mid-range mountain setting creates ideal conditions for both comfortable camping and diverse wildlife viewing throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where nature has crafted the perfect forest retreat. The campground serves as your basecamp to the nearby Three Sisters Wilderness Area, while closer to camp, a tapestry of native vine maple and wild thimbleberry creates natural privacy screens between sites. The ever-present melody of Lost Creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay, its gentle murmur mixing with the rustle of leaves overhead. Morning mist often dances through the trees, while dappled sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating an ever-changing play of light and shadow that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionLimberlost sits in the heart of the Western Cascades' ancient forest ecosystem, where centuries-old Douglas Firs stretch skyward alongside Western Hemlocks and fragrant Western Redcedars. This classic Pacific Northwest old-growth forest represents one of the planet's most productive temperate ecosystems. Lost Creek has carved its path through this landscape over millennia, creating the gentle valley that now cradles the campground. The proximity to the volcanic peaks of the Three Sisters Wilderness Area adds geological drama to the horizon, reminding visitors of the powerful forces that shaped this magnificent landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityLimited information; the campground is described as compact and rustic with steep and rocky terrain near creek access.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally small, suitable for tents and small trailers. Large trailers over 15 feet are not recommended based on user reviews.
Sites PrivacyWhile some sites offer privacy due to trees and layout, others are closer together, which may compromise privacy during peak times. "Sites are relatively close together, but the layout and trees offer decent privacy." - Lainie S.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Site 10 for privacy and creek access. Avoid Site 3 due to proximity to restroom pipe. Site 12 offers great views but is near the road.
Best CampsitesSites 1, 10, and 12 are recommended by reviewers; Site 10 noted for privacy and small river access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum 14 nights per visit
- cumulative 14 nights per 60 days allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCompact layout; sites close together but offer some privacy due to vegetation. Loop configuration.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 30 to September 6; no reservations outside this window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations on Recreation.gov; accessible online, via app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability; no guarantees. Peak season reservations strongly recommended due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed anytime before scheduled arrival date; $10 fee charged. Late cancellations (starting midnight 1 day prior to check-in) result in forfeiting first night's recreation fee. No changes allowed on check-in day.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and biking. Nearby attractions such as Belknap Hot Springs and McKenzie Pass offer additional opportunities for recreation.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity with access to nearby Three Sisters Wilderness Area and Mt. Washington Wilderness. Trail descriptions are not specifically provided for Limberlost.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, and Lost Creek is noted as 'fly fishable' by one user. However, the creek's swift current may pose challenges.Biking
Several biking trails are available outside of Wilderness Areas, but detailed descriptions are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species commonly seen are not specified, but the old-growth forest and creek environment suggest opportunities for nature observation.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically detailed for Limberlost Campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported due to the swift current of Lost Creek.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Visitors encouraged to source firewood locally to avoid invasive species risks.
Hazards
General hazardsSwift creek water poses risks to small children. Potential wildlife encounters, including bears. Rocky terrain may challenge some visitors.
Active alertsAlerts on fire closures (e.g., Aufderheide road closure). Check local updates before traveling.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Ranger Station at McKenzie Bridge (~2 miles); nearest hospital is null; police station null.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 30 to September 6
Trash and recyclingGarbage service is available, and dumpsters are reportedly clean and well-maintained. No recycling facilities were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lost Creek; steep and rocky access. Creek noted as cold and fast-moving, limiting recreational use.
Common complaintsReservation discrepancies; double-booking issues. Bathrooms sometimes unclean; lack of host presence during busy periods. Limited trailer accessibility. Creek dangerous for swimming, especially for children.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom McKenzie Bridge, travel east on Hwy 126 to Hwy 242. Follow Hwy 242 approximately 2 miles east to Limberlost Campground.
Limitations for trailers over 15 ft; access generally straightforward from main highways; Hwy 242 leads directly to the entrance.Nearby places
McKenzie Bridge (~2 miles), Blue River (~5 miles)
Nearby supplies
General stores and restaurants available in McKenzie Bridge (~2 miles) and Blue River (~5 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.0
29 reviews
Limberlost Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives mixed reviews, with praise for its quiet atmosphere, beautiful natural setting, and proximity to recreational areas. Complaints include issues with reservations, lack of potable water, and site maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the campground's tranquility, old-growth forest setting, and proximity to Lost Creek and nearby attractions. Vault toilets are described as clean by some reviewers.
Based on 29 reviewsCommon Concerns
Reservation issues are commonly reported, including double bookings and outdated reservation signage. Other concerns include lack of potable water, proximity of sites compromising privacy, and...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water as there is no potable water available. Sites 1 and 12 are highly recommended for privacy and scenic spots.
Based on 29 reviewsSeasonal Insights
During peak summer months, the campground is described as quiet despite higher visitor numbers: "Small campground, 12 sites. Very quiet during a high summer season." - Joan Neslund. Winter usability...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful campground -- was very quiet and peaceful, with about half the sites filled." - Grady Nichols
"Stayed hers during the summer. It is a nice and quiet little campground." - Richard...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1: Best suited for tent camping.
Site 3: Avoid due to unpleasant odors and limited usable space.
Sites 10 and 11: Highly recommended for privacy and creek access.
Site 12: Right on the road but...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility information; steep terrain near water access may pose challenges for mobility-impaired visitors.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but no detailed reviews on pet-owner experiences.
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025