Panther Creek Campground
4.62112 reviewsGifford Pinchot NF Mt Adams Ranger District, CARSON, WA 98610, USA
Panther Creek Campground
$25.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$45.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites range from $25.00 to $45.00 per night during peak season. There is an $8.00 extra vehicle fee per night and a firewood bundle available for $10.00 at the host site.
About this campground
Nestled where ancient trails meet towering evergreens, Panther Creek Campground offers 33 pristine sites carved into the heart of the wilderness. Here, the legendary Pacific Crest Trail crosses through your backyard, while the melodic waters of Panther Creek serenade lucky campers who snag one of the coveted creekside premium sites. This forested sanctuary promises the kind of privacy and tranquility that makes you forget the outside world exists.
Panther Creek Campground offers various camping options including tent camping, RV camping, and group sites. Premium sites close to the creek provide added amenities such as picnic tables and grill-equipped fire pits.
Historical SignificanceSince its establishment in 1982, the Mount Adams Ranger District has stood as a testament to conservation done right. This corner of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest preserves some of the Pacific Northwest's most magnificent old-growth forests, where centuries-old giants still stand sentinel over pristine natural habitats. Every trail tells a story of environmental stewardship and the enduring legacy of protecting these irreplaceable wilderness treasures for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Mother Nature shows her gentler side at Panther Creek, blessing visitors with gloriously comfortable conditions. Days unfold with temperatures dancing between a refreshing 60°F in the morning to a pleasant 83°F by afternoon. The air stays remarkably comfortable throughout the season, free from the oppressive humidity that plagues other summer destinations—perfect for everything from morning hikes to evening campfire gatherings.
ElevationPerched at 1,200 feet above sea level, Panther Creek Campground occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills. This goldilocks elevation creates an enchanting microclimate where mild temperatures nurture a verdant paradise of ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. It's high enough to escape the valley heat, yet low enough to maintain the lush, rainforest-like atmosphere that makes the Pacific Northwest so magical.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral where towering cedars, Douglas firs, and alders create a multi-layered canopy overhead. Beneath these gentle giants, a rich understory of shade-loving ferns, huckleberries, and moss-draped maples provides natural privacy screens between campsites. Beyond the campground, the Mount Adams Ranger District unfolds like a greatest hits album of Pacific Northwest landscapes—from glacier-carved peaks to mirror-still alpine lakes, from wildflower-painted meadows to mysterious wetlands teeming with life.
Geological RegionPanther Creek Campground sits within the spectacular Gifford Pinchot National Forest in southwest Washington's Mount Adams Ranger District—a geological wonderland where fire and ice have sculpted the landscape for millennia. This remarkable region showcases nature's full portfolio: ancient old-growth forests that predate European settlement, crystalline lakes born from glacial tears, wetlands that serve as nurseries for countless species, and meadows that transform with elevation from verdant lowland gardens to alpine wildflower galleries. It's a living museum of Pacific Northwest geology and ecology.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, as noted in the authoritative sources.
Sites SizeThe campground has 33 back-in sites, with parking spurs varying from 20 to 40 feet in length. Double sites are spacious and can accommodate larger groups or trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced and private, buffered by mature vegetation including cedars, ash, firs, and alders.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site 10 due to no shade; site 25 highly recommended for proximity to creek and spacious layout.
Best Campsites"BEST campsite is #24. Right across the camp road from a creek." Sites numbered higher (e.g., 23, 25, 26) are closer to the creek and shaded, offering privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum 8 guests permitted per site.
Groups
Group sites are spacious and can accommodate multiple tents and vehicles. One user mentioned a double site fitting five vehicles, five tents, and having two picnic tables.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are back-in with parking spurs varying from 20 to 40 feet in length. Premium sites are located adjacent to Panther Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 23rd, 2025 to September 20th, 2025. First-come, first-served period from June 20th, 2025 to June 24th, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable during the first-come, first-served period from June 20th to June 24th annually. Walk-up sites generally fill quickly during holiday weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10.00 fee if made at least 2 days prior to the reservation start date. Late cancellations will forfeit the first night's fees. No-shows are assessed a $20.00 fee and forfeit the first night's fees. Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days after the reservation end 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Panther Creek Campground provides a wide range of recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts and families. Highlights include access to the Pacific Crest Trail, proximity to Panther Creek Falls, and opportunities for creek wading and wildlife observation.
Hiking
The campground directly connects to the Pacific Crest Trail, offering scenic views and hiking opportunities. Panther Creek Falls and Falls Creek Falls are nearby and highly praised by users for their accessibility and beauty.Fishing
Fishing is possible at nearby Goose Lake, which offers trout fishing opportunities. Panther Creek itself is not ideal for fishing but is accessible for wading and creekside relaxation.Swimming
Panther Creek features multiple swimming holes that campers can access easily. The water is cold but refreshing during hot summer days.Wildlife viewing
The campground offers excellent opportunities for observing diverse flora and fauna. One user reported seeing bear prints, indicating a rich wildlife presence.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not available at the campground, as the facility closes during the colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned or supported.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are restricted to designated pits and may be banned during droughts.
- Quiet hours are Nighttime quiet hours are enforced.
Hazards
General hazards"Bear prints near trails" were reported by a visitor. The narrow gravel road poses driving challenges, especially for trailers above 15 feet in length.
Active alertsSeasonal fire bans or road closures may affect usability.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest emergency services are located in Carson, WA, including police stations and medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23rd, 2025 to September 20th, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are provided but are limited to the entrance area. Recycling facilities are not mentioned. User reviews suggest more bins near bathrooms or campsites would be ideal.
Proximity to water featuresPanther Creek runs adjacent to several campsites. Panther Creek Falls is located 4.7 miles upstream, accessible via FR65.
Common complaints"Bathrooms were dirty," "murky water from the pump," and "trash in fire pits" were noted by some visitors.
HostHosts are described as "friendly and helpful," with some going "extra miles" for cleanliness and service.
Campground Map
Gifford Pinchot NF Mt Adams Ranger District, CARSON, WA 98610, USA
Driving directionsFrom Carson, WA: Travel 6 miles north to Old State Highway, (follow signs) turn right and then take your first left on Panther Creek Road. Proceed on Panther Creek Road for 4 miles to the campground.
Access is via a narrow one-lane road for approximately 2 miles before reaching the campground. "There are small areas on that road where one can pull to the side but the space is very limited." User reviews mention difficulty for trailers over 15 feet, with tight corners and limited passing space.Nearby places
Carson (12 miles north, approximately 15 minutes), Hood River (approximately 30 minutes southwest).
Nearby supplies
Carson, WA offers groceries, fuel, restaurants, and supplies such as camping equipment. "Wind River Market has camping supplies and Dollar General provides basic necessities." Hood River also includes laundromats and specialized stores.
Camper Reviews
4.6
112 reviews
Panther Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Panther Creek Campground receives highly positive reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.53 across all reviews. Common praises include the lush natural environment, privacy between sites, and proximity to hiking trails and waterfalls. Issues raised by users include occasional maintenance lapses in restrooms and accessibility challenges for larger trailers.
Review Summaries
Based on 112 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious sites, access to Panther Creek and hiking trails, helpful hosts, and well-maintained vault toilets.
Based on 112 reviewsCommon Concerns
Maintenance issues such as dirty bathrooms and silty water from pumps. Narrow and challenging roads for trailers, and some users reported noisy neighbors.
Based on 112 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring earplugs for weekend stays to avoid disturbance from noisy campers." "Select higher-numbered sites closer to the creek for more privacy." "Plan ahead for large trailers to avoid difficulties...
Based on 112 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are highly praised for creek access and hiking opportunities. Early fall offers fewer bugs and vibrant foliage. Winters and early spring are not ideal due to campground closure.
Based on 112 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great campground with large sites—quiet, private, and scenic." "The camp host was accommodating, and the vault toilets were clean." "Panther Creek provides swimming holes that are cold but...
Based on 112 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 23: Ideal for large groups; fits five vehicles and five tents. Site 24: Highly recommended for proximity to the creek and privacy. Site 10: Avoid due to lack of shade unless you bring canopies.
Based on 112 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites are noted but detailed accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in either authoritative sources or user reviews.
Based on 112 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Most sites are pet-friendly, with ample room for multiple tents and dogs. Several users specifically praised the campground for accommodating pets.
Based on 112 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025