Adams Fork Campground
4.4849 reviewsGifford Pinchot NF, Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Randle, WA 98377, USA
Adams Fork Campground
$25.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Peak season rates range from $25.00 to $45.00 per night for standard nonelectric sites. An extra vehicle fee of $8.00 applies for the third vehicle.
About this campground
Where ancient conifers whisper stories of the Pacific Northwest, Adams Fork Campground invites you to experience the raw beauty of Washington's volcanic wilderness. Tucked along the rushing waters where Adams Creek meets the Cispus River, this serene retreat offers both intimate single sites and spacious double sites perfectly suited for families and groups. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath towering evergreens or settling in with your RV, you'll find yourself at the gateway to some of the region's most spectacular adventures, with the legendary Mount St. Helens and miles of pristine trails beckoning just beyond your campfire's glow.
Adams Fork Campground accommodates a mix of RV and tent campers. It includes single and double sites, with group camping options available at the double sites.
Historical SignificanceYour campground sits within the storied Gifford Pinchot National Forest, a landscape forever changed when Mount St. Helens erupted in a spectacular display of nature's power in 1980. Two years later, the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument was established, preserving this dramatic testament to Earth's dynamic forces. As you explore these lands, you're walking through both ancient forest history and the relatively recent chapters of volcanic rebirth, where life continually finds new ways to flourish.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives with a gentle transformation as lingering snow yields to wildflower meadows and the forest awakens from its winter slumber. Summer brings those coveted Pacific Northwest days when sunshine filters through the canopy and temperatures hover in the comfortable zone perfect for hiking and riverside relaxation. While the region's famous mists occasionally roll through, savvy campers know the secret: the clearest skies and driest conditions often align to create those magical camping weeks where every sunrise rewards early risers with crystal-clear mountain views.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable mountain elevation that offers relief from summer heat while remaining accessible throughout the camping season, Adams Fork provides that perfect balance between mountain atmosphere and ease of access.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches forming a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Several prime campsites claim coveted spots right along the Cispus River's banks, where the soothing soundtrack of flowing water becomes your constant companion. Adventure calls from every direction – the rugged peaks of Goat Rocks Wilderness rise to the east, while Glacier View Wilderness spreads its alpine splendor to the west, both offering endless opportunities for those seeking higher ground.
Geological RegionSituated in the northernmost reaches of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Adams Fork occupies a remarkable corner of southwest Washington where volcanic legacy meets ancient forest. Here, the landscape tells a story written in stone and water – the glacially-fed Cispus River carves its path through dense forests that blanket the terrain in every shade of green imaginable. This is quintessential Cascade Range country, where volcanic peaks, pristine rivers, and endless forests create the Pacific Northwest paradise that draws adventurers from around the world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features were provided for Adams Fork Campground.
Sites SizeSites are generally described as small, with a maximum parking spur length of 30 feet. Double sites can accommodate larger groups, with space for 12-25 individuals.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Site 11 is highlighted for its seclusion, while sites close to the river (20-24) lack privacy and feel more like a group site. Many campsites are separated by trees and undergrowth.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 11 is noted for its privacy and secluded river trail, ideal for tents and small groups. Site 18 offers similar features with river access.
Best CampsitesSites 11 and 18 are highly praised for privacy and proximity to the river, with private access trails and sandy beaches.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Single sites accommodate a typical number of visitors
- double sites can handle 12-25 campers.
Groups
Three double sites can accommodate between 12 and 25 campers. These are suitable for larger groups but lack hookups and other amenities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 24 paved back-in sites, including three double sites, some of which are situated along the riverbanks.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 6 to September 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available first-come, first-serve starting June 20, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days before incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations on the day before or day of arrival forfeit the first night's fee in addition to a $10 service fee.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Adams Fork Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and off-road vehicle (ORV) use. The nearby Valley Trail network provides 50 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, and ATV/ORV riders.
Hiking
The Valley Trail network offers hikers views of the Cispus River Valley and Tongue Mountain. Specific trails are not located directly within the campground, but nearby options include the Council Bluff Trail.Fishing
Brook trout fishing is available in the Cispus River, which runs alongside the campground.Swimming
The river offers some swimming opportunities, but conditions vary. 'The river was a bit too fast to feel comfortable jumping in,' noted one reviewer. Access to sandy beach areas is limited to certain campsites.Biking
Mountain bikers can use the Valley Trail network near the campground, which also accommodates hikers and horseback riders.Wildlife viewing
Campers report chipmunks and other small wildlife are commonly seen. The surrounding forest offers opportunities for wildlife observation.Beach activities
Certain campsites, such as site 18, offer private trails leading to sandy beaches along the river.Winter Activities
Winter use is limited; the campground may be covered in snow during colder months, as noted in user reviews.Water Sports
Limited to river-related activities like fishing or casual swimming; no designated water sports facilities are described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted unless under a burn ban. Firewood is available for purchase on-site for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThe river current can be fast and hazardous for swimming. Hosts recommend caution, especially with children.
Active alertsNo current alerts are listed. Past reviews mention fire bans during some seasons.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are accessible in Randle, approximately 1 mile from the main highway.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 6, 2025, to September 20, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThe campground does not provide trash or recycling facilities. Campers must pack out their trash, which some reviewers found inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Cispus River, with some sites offering direct access to private trails and sandy beaches.
Common complaintsSome reviews noted limited privacy between sites, insufficient garbage disposal facilities, and occasional host-related issues such as unavailable or inattentive hosts.
HostHosts are available with limited staffing. Mixed reviews indicate varying levels of responsiveness and helpfulness.
Campground Map
Gifford Pinchot NF, Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, Randle, WA 98377, USA
Driving directionsTake I-5 to State Highway 12 and exit at Randle, Washington. Follow State Highway 131 for 1 mile, staying left at the fork, and continuing on Forest Service Road 23. Stay left at next fork for Forest Service Road 21 to Forest Service Road 56 to arrive at the campground.
The approach from Randle is fully paved but narrows to one lane with pullouts for the last stretch.Nearby places
Randle - approximately 1 mile from State Highway 131.
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are available in Randle, WA.
Camper Reviews
4.5
49 reviews
Adams Fork Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.27 for the campground. Common praises include clean facilities, a relaxing environment, and proximity to recreational trails. Negative comments highlight limited amenities, lack of trash disposal, and inconsistent camp host quality.
Review Summaries
Based on 49 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the clean vault toilets, well-maintained campsites, and the natural beauty of the area. 'The sound of the river all night was amazing,' noted Jessica Carvalho. Many describe the...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of trash facilities is a frequent concern, with one reviewer stating, 'Living with the garbage 5 people created and trying to stash the garbage bags in our vehicles was getting old.' Some...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water, as the hand pump may be far from certain sites. Campers recommend reserving sites near the river for better access to water activities. Pack out all trash, as no disposal...
Based on 49 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during summer, with some reviewers noting overcrowding. Snow can impact access during winter months. Midweek visits are quieter and more relaxing.
Based on 49 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Site 11 is tucked back in the woods up a hill and is very private.' - B F
2. 'The sound of the rushing river in the pitch black night, provided a real life ambient experience to fall asleep to.'...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 is highly recommended for privacy, while site 18 offers a private trail to a sandy beach. Sites 20-24 lack privacy but provide direct river access.
Based on 49 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews addressed accessibility features.
Based on 49 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, as one reviewer mentioned bringing dogs, but no complaints or praises specific to pet policies were highlighted.
Based on 49 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025