Atkisson Group Camp
Gifford Pinchot NF Mt Adams Ranger District
Atkisson Group Camp
$115.00 - $115.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Standard Nonelectric fees are $115 per night during peak season (May to September). Additional fees may apply, such as reservation service fees...
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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$115.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$115.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider509-427-3677
About this campground
Nestled within the pristine wilderness of Mount Adams Ranger District, Atkisson Group Camp offers an exclusive retreat where families and friends can gather beneath towering evergreens. This thoughtfully designed campground welcomes groups with a spacious paved area that easily accommodates both RVs and tents, while a charming central picnic shelter complete with a crackling wood-burning stove serves as the heart of your outdoor adventure. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature, featuring vault toilets and traditional fire pits where stories and s'mores are shared under starlit skies.
Atkisson Group Camp is designed for group camping and offers a spacious, paved site suitable for RVs, trailers, and tents. It operates seasonally from May to September and transforms into a sno-park during the winter.
Historical SignificanceStanding sentinel over the campground, Mount Adams commands respect as Washington State's second-largest peak and a potentially active stratovolcano that has shaped both the landscape and the human story of this region for millennia. This geological giant continues to influence the area's ecosystems, weather patterns, and the profound sense of awe that visitors experience when camping in its shadow.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of the Pacific Northwest as each season transforms Atkisson into a unique wonderland. Summer unveils perfect hiking and mountain biking conditions with mild temperatures and endless daylight, while autumn paints the forest in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter's dramatic arrival brings pristine snowfall and exhilarating winds, creating a paradise for snowmobilers and Nordic skiing enthusiasts who seek adventure in the hushed, snow-laden forest.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery upon your arrival, the campground's mountain setting promises that refreshing high-country air and cooler temperatures that make summer camping a delight.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of Pacific Northwest ecosystems where ancient old-growth giants stand alongside regenerating second-growth forests, creating a living timeline of nature's resilience. The majestic silhouette of Mount Adams dominates every vista, while hidden meadows burst with wildflowers, tranquil wetlands teem with wildlife, and distant glaciers glisten like nature's jewelry. This diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for exploration and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of Gifford Pinchot National Forest's easternmost frontier, where the Mount Adams Ranger District showcases nature's most dramatic contrasts. Here, the potentially active Mount Adams stratovolcano presides over an extraordinary mosaic of ecosystems—from moss-draped old-growth forests and recovering second-growth stands to alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, mysterious wetlands harboring rare species, and ancient glaciers that tell the story of ice ages past. This geological wonderland offers visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing dance between volcanic forces and the persistent march of life.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe group site accommodates up to 50 people and includes a 99-foot paved driveway, making it suitable for RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides plenty of space for group activities, and its large size ensures minimal interference from neighboring campers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for large groups (up to 50 people) needing ample space for RVs, trailers, and tents. Proximity to ice caves is an added advantage.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 is the designated site for all group activities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 people and is equipped with a large paved area, a covered picnic building, a fire ring, and picnic tables. It is specifically designed for large gatherings, such as family reunions or group excursions.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle large paved area designed for group camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between May and September; becomes a sno-park during the winter season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; site is exclusively reservable.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fees if canceled within 14 days of check-in date.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Atkisson Group Camp offers a variety of recreational activities tailored to both warm and cold seasons. During warmer months, hikers and bikers can explore the flat terrain, while huckleberry and mushroom picking are permitted. Winter activities include Nordic skiing and snowmobiling, making this an all-season recreational hub.
Hiking
The flat terrain is ideal for hiking, with accessible trails suitable for all skill levels. The proximity to Mt. Adams makes it a great base for exploring larger hiking trail systems.Biking
The flat terrain is described as perfect for biking, and user reviews highlight its suitability for children to ride bikes on the paved areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities include Nordic skiing and snowmobiling, which are highly popular at this location, especially since the campground doubles as a sno-park during the winter season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable or mentioned for this campground.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Using local firewood is encouraged to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity requires campers to store food in bear-proof containers. Winter hazards include heavy snowfall and icy conditions.
Weather forecast
36
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services available in Trout Lake (5 miles) or Carson (12 miles), including basic medical care.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 19, 2025, and June 5, 2026 - September 20, 2026.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are provided regarding trash and recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features directly nearby, but Mt. Adams’ glaciers and the Wind River area are within the ranger district.
Common complaintsUser complaints include lack of water, poor bathroom maintenance, and occasional garbage left behind by previous groups.
HostThis location has limited staffing; contact via phone (509) 427-3677 for general information.
Campground Map
Gifford Pinchot NF Mt Adams Ranger District
Driving directionsFrom I-5 at Vancouver, take Highway 14 east for 66 miles and continue on Highway 141 north for 15 miles to Forest Service Road 2400 (5 miles south of the town of Trout Lake). Turn northwest and head 3.5 miles to the Group Camp.
Accessible via paved roads; some portions may require cautious driving through forest service roads.Nearby places
Trout Lake: 5 miles (approximately 10 minutes), Vancouver: 81 miles (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes), Carson: 12 miles (approximately 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Trout Lake, which offers restaurants and shopping options.
Camper Reviews
4.8
9 reviews
Atkisson Group Camp is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight Atkisson Group Camp as a spacious and well-suited location for large groups, with many praising its capacity and facilities. However, some reviews note issues with cleanliness and maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is frequently praised for its large size, accommodating up to 50 people, and its suitability for group activities. Users appreciated the 'large outdoor enclosed room with a wood...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users raised concerns about maintenance, such as 'the bathrooms were not maintained in the slightest' and garbage left by previous visitors. Another user mentioned that the shelter is 'in the...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend ensuring the gate is closed to prevent locals from using the space and advise bringing drinking water, as it is not provided on-site. Additionally, the large paved areas are perfect...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the site's spaciousness and suitability for group activities like biking and hiking. Winter reviews are absent but emphasize its dual use as a sno-park for Nordic skiing and...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Very cool place. Gives you access to major trail systems and offers a place to hold a family reunion or other large camping excursion.' - Awsome Sauce
- 'It was perfect for our large group. Lots...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews pertain to the single group site (campsite 001, AREA ATKISSON) and are generally positive, emphasizing its spaciousness and suitability for group camping. However, one user noted...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features or experiences are not specifically addressed in the user reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences at this campground.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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