9/17/25 Update: Breitenbush Lake Campground is one of many casualties from the September 2020 Lions Head fire. The campground suffered significant damage, and it appears there are no intentions of resurrection. The road the loops through the campground is nearly unrecognizable and covered by many downed trees and debris. It would be possible to park at the entrance and walk in however the campsites themselves have also experienced damage. Due to the fact that this campground is located on tribal land and the owners originally did not encourage visitation we cannot see a scenario where Breitenbush Campground returns to a usable state.
Breitenbush Lake campground is located on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation and is governed by their rules and laws. The campground is located on the shores of Breitenbush Lake and is fairly difficult to reach due to deteriorated access roads.
The Breitenbush Lake campground sees very little use and you will likely be the only person there depending on the time of year you visit. As such there are also very little amenities and you must bring your own drinking water and pack out your own trash.
Fishing, swimming, wading, and boating in Breitenbush lake is prohibited unless you have a special permit. Dogs must be leashed at all times and are not allowed in the lake. According to a rules and regulations sign posted on site ANY activity performed outside of the bounds of the campground is considered criminal trespass.
Overall the campground is beautiful however due to over-regulation by the Warm Springs Indian Reservation we see little reason to visit here. About the only time it would make sense is if you are spending the night prior to heading out the Pacific Crest Trail or into nearby Jefferson Park. Otherwise the rules state you can literally do nothing but sit in your campsite else risk prosecution due to “criminal trespass”. For a full list of rules and regulations see the photos below.
Paddle craft (kayak or canoe) are allowed as of 2017. Dogs okay on leash only and they are not allowed to swim in the lake. Absolutely bring your own drinking water and pack out your garbage. Many folks complain about the rules, but the Warm Springs tribes “own” it and it’s their right to regulate use so respect their rules. For a lonely campground with no noisy humans around, it’s a very nice primitive place. The Forest Service road 4220 from Skyline Drive out of Detroit is okay but very rough in spots. Plan on about an hour for the seven mile drive. Don’t take the Camaro. The same 4220 road from or to the Olallie lake area is the most difficult drive in the wilderness and is best left to high clearance 4wd trucks and even then, it’s a gamble.
Thanks for the detailed post David, this should help other campers out a ton.