Campground: Trout Lake Creek
4.4628 reviewsCampground: Trout Lake Creek
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground charges $15 per night for a single site. Additional vehicles cost $5 per night. Payment options include cash, check, or digital payment through the recreation.gov app (recommended to download in advance). There is a 50% discount for single-site camping fees with specific passes (Interagency Senior, Interagency Access, Golden Age, or Golden Access) applicable only to the site occupied by the passholder.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the babbling waters of Trout Lake Creek, this intimate 16-site campground offers a peaceful retreat within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The single loop road meanders through a canopy of towering Douglas firs and graceful maples, leading to spacious sites—including several coveted double spots perfect for group gatherings. Creek-side campsites invite you to fall asleep to the gentle symphony of flowing water and wake to the sight of morning mist rising from the stream. Fly fishing enthusiasts will discover their own paradise here, where native trout dart through crystal-clear pools just steps from camp. The thoughtfully spaced sites, screened by lush deciduous shrubs and wildflower meadows, create private sanctuaries for each camping party. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap, with the legendary Sleeping Beauty trail nearby promising panoramic rewards for those willing to climb.
Trout Lake Creek campground offers primitive camping with no reservations required. The sites cater primarily to tent camping and are generally spacious and private.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this woodland haven into a sun-dappled escape, where warm days invite lazy afternoons by the creek and cool evenings are perfect for campfire conversations. The reliable dry conditions from June through September make this prime camping season, with temperatures that feel refreshingly moderate thanks to the forest canopy and creek breezes. As autumn arrives, the maple trees burst into a spectacular display of gold and crimson. Winter brings a dramatic transformation, blanketing the campground in snow and dropping temperatures below freezing—a season when only the hardiest adventurers venture forth.
ElevationPerched at 2,200 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even during summer's peak. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate—high enough to escape the valley's sweltering heat, yet low enough to extend the camping season well into autumn. The altitude brings crisp mornings that gradually warm to comfortable afternoons, perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of Pacific Northwest beauty unfolds around every campsite, where ancient Douglas firs stretch skyward and native maples paint the understory with seasonal color. The star of the show remains Trout Lake Creek, its crystalline waters carving a melodious path through camp, creating natural swimming holes and peaceful meditation spots. Hidden treasures await the curious explorer—a secluded trail winds to a remote campsite for those seeking ultimate solitude. When autumn arrives, the deciduous canopy explodes in a fireworks display of amber, scarlet, and gold, while spring and summer bring carpets of trilliums, bleeding hearts, and wild rhododendrons. Just a short drive away, the mysterious Ice Cave beckons with its year-round frozen wonderland, while the Natural Bridges showcase nature's sculptural prowess in ancient lava rock.
Geological RegionThis enchanting pocket of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest showcases the diverse ecosystems of the Southern Washington Cascades, where volcanic legacy meets temperate rainforest. The campground rests in a transition zone where dense coniferous forests give way to deciduous groves and meadow clearings, all shaped by centuries of creek erosion and volcanic activity. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in basalt and ash—remnants of Mount St. Helens' ancient eruptions. Natural wonders dot the region like gems: the otherworldly Ice Cave formed in ancient lava tubes, the dramatic Natural Bridges carved by persistent water through volcanic rock, and the alpine splendor of Bird Creek Meadow where wildflowers paint the hillsides each summer. This lower-elevation refuge serves as a perfect basecamp for exploring the geological marvels that make the Cascade Range one of North America's most dynamic landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets at the campground are wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as large and spacious, often able to fit multiple tents comfortably.
Sites PrivacySites provide good privacy due to the surrounding vegetation, including Douglas firs and maple trees.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and creek-side views, choose sites near the water. Avoid areas near the vault toilets if sensitive to odor.
Best CampsitesCampsites along the creek are particularly popular due to their proximity to the water and tranquil views. Campsite 14 has been specifically mentioned as being next to the creek.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days maximum stay per visit.
Groups
There are no designated group camping facilities mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single lazy loop layout with 16 combined sites. Some campsites are double sites, and others are located near Trout Lake Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open seasonally, from May 1 to November 15, depending on weather conditions.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is first-come, first-serve. It is generally not too crowded and often has vacancies during the summer.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Trout Lake Creek campground can engage in a variety of outdoor recreational activities including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural surroundings. Seasonal wildflowers enhance the beauty of the trails and creekside camping experience.
Hiking
The campground features a short, easy trail leading to a remote campsite. Additionally, it is located approximately 4 miles from the popular Sleeping Beauty hike, which is known for its challenging terrain and rewarding views.Fishing
Fly fishing is popular along Trout Lake Creek, although user reviews mention catching small fish. Rainbow trout are noted as the primary species.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is available, with many users praising the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned or facilitated at the campground.Water Sports
No water sports are facilitated, including kayaking or paddleboarding, as the creek is rocky and shallow.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad conditions may be hazardous for trailers and large vehicles. The region has biting flies in some areas and potential wildlife encounters.
Active alertsNone
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.9 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 via the Mt. Adams Ranger Station, which can be reached at 509-395-3402.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingGarbage cans are available at the campground and emptied daily by rangers.
Proximity to water featuresTrout Lake Creek runs through the campground, offering opportunities for fishing, playing, and relaxing.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include rough access roads, generator noise from RVs despite recommendations against their use, and issues with vault toilet cleanliness.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Trout Lake, Washington travel west for over a mile on State Highway 141 to Trout Lake Creek Road. Turn right onto Trout Lake Creek Road. At the forest boundary, this road becomes Forest Road 88. Take Forest Road 88 north for about one mile to Forest Road 8810. There is a sign just before the intersection. At the intersection, turn right and continue down to the bottom of the hill. Cross the bridge and turn right on the spur road, Forest Road 8810-010, and drive to the campground.
The access road to the campground is rough and not recommended for trailers or motor homes. It involves driving on unpaved gravel roads, including Forest Roads 88 and 8810-010.Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be acquired from Trout Lake, WA, which is nearby and accessible by road. A waste station with potable water is also available for a fee at Klickitat County Park off Jenning Rd in Trout Lake.
Camper Reviews
4.5
28 reviews
Campground: Trout Lake Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Trout Lake Creek campground depict a generally positive experience, emphasizing the site's serenity, creekside location, and affordability. However, issues such as vault toilet cleanliness, generator noise from RVs, and accessibility problems have been raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 28 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned in user reviews include the scenic location next to Trout Lake Creek, spacious and private campsites, clean outhouses, and the peaceful ambiance enhanced by the...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints from users include the rough, narrow access road, unpleasant vault toilet odors, occasional generator noise disrupting the serene environment, and limited maintenance in certain areas such...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest bringing your own potable water as there is none on-site, visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds, and being cautious of generator noise caused by brave RV campers using the unimproved...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews highlight that the campground is typically quiet and uncrowded during the summer, with vacancies often available. However, users have noted river damage during winter and spring, leading to...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Amazing campsite. I've been going since the 90's." - Cameron Crook. "Quiet and well-maintained place, but lots of river damage over winter." - Leigh Armstrong. "Vault toilets are clean. The city of...
Based on 28 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews praise campsites next to the creek for their tranquil ambiance, with site #14 specifically noted for its beauty but loud runoff noise. Double occupancy sites like #9 are...
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Accessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible vault toilets are appreciated by users, though their location may require walking distances from some campsites.
Based on 28 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but dogs must remain leashed. One user commented on enjoying camping outdoors under the stars with their dogs.
Based on 28 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025