Camp Blog

Mt Hood National Forest Fire Ban

Effective immediately fires are prohibited within Mt. Hood National Forest.  Unlike most fire restrictions this one includes fires within developed campgrounds.  Other restrictions include the

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Cultus Lake Campground Closure

The Cultus Lake Campground, Day Use Area and Boat ramp have been closed for the 2017 camping season by the Deschutes National Forest Service due to dangerous trees in the area.

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Elk Cove Hike

If you have ever hiked the 40 mile long Timberline Trail that circumnavigates Mt. Hood then you are familiar with the beautiful meadows of Elk Cove on the north side of the mountain. Elk Cove is tucked away in a remote area of Mt. Hood far from any roads, ski areas or cabins and it is this seclusion that gives it its charm. There are several ways to get to Elk Cove but for this hike we approached it from the Elk Cove trailhead near Laurence Lake just outside of Parkdale.

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Willamete National Forest Campground Fee Increases

The Willamette National Forest is considering fee increases for camping, cabin and day use areas starting in 2017.  The fee increases are long due and the area has not seen an increase in over 8 years. What’s more, there has been a massive surge in outdoor recreation over the last few years which has put an increased strain on our parks systems in Oregon.

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Elk Meadows Hike

Elk Meadows on the southeast side of Mt. Hood is one of the most quintessential hikes in the northwest region.  It is relatively easy to get to, has moderate crowds and delivers almost everything the average hiker could want including mountain streams, flowery meadows and glacial views.  The 6.5 mile hike is easy to do for even novice hikers and there are many different options for those more advanced hikers looking to add on a little something extra.

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