Clackamas River

The Clackamas River is located to the west of the Cascade Range and to the south of the Columbia River Gorge in northern Oregon. Flowing northwest from its sources high in the Cascade Mountains, the designated portion of the river, which is 47 miles (75.6 km) in length, runs from Big Spring (headwaters area) to Big Cliff, just south of the town of Estacada. This most picturesque region is entirely within the Mt. Hood National Forest and encompasses forested lands, wetlands, riparian areas and rock cliffs.

Streams and rivers in the Clackamas drainage have been subject to hydroelectric development, with power generation facilities located on the Oak Grove Fork and on the mainstem in the designated corridor. The hydro-power facilities in the designated corridor actually discharge water diverted from the Oak Grove Fork farther upstream back into the Clackamas. Several dams are situated below the designated section between Big Cliff and Oregon City. Photo credit unkown.

The wild and scenic Clackamas River was added to the Federal Wild and Scenic River System in 1988. The Clackamas River flows from its headwaters at Olallie Lake northwestern direction through the Cascade Mountains before entering the Willamette River after passing under Interstate 205 and then Oregon Route 99E (McLoughlin Boulevard) between Oregon City to the south and Gladstone to the north. Clackamette Park lies to the left of the river's last stretch as it enters the Willamette River 25 miles (40 km) above its confluence with the Columbia River .

Pollution:

In March 2008, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) released a report entitled "Pesticide Occurrence and Distribution in the Lower Clackamas River Basin, Oregon, 2000–2005." It details pesticide pollution in the lower Clackamas River, its tributaries, and in pre- and post-treatment drinking water.

In all, 63 pesticide compounds: 33 herbicides, 15 insecticides, 6 fungicides, and 9 pesticide degradates were detected in samples collected during storm and nonstorm conditions. Fifty-seven pesticides or degradates were detected in the tributaries (mostly during storms), whereas fewer compounds (26) were detected in samples of source water from the lower mainstem Clackamas River, with fewest (15) occurring in drinking water.[12]

The study concluded, "Given their frequent and widespread occurrence, especially during storms, pesticides have the potential to affect aquatic life and the quality of drinking water derived from the lower river," and laid out areas for further study.[12]

Outstandingly Remarkable Values

Botanic & Ecologic

Before 1800, coniferous forests covered most of the watershed, and its streams supported big populations of salmon, steelhead and other fish. The Big Bottom area represents forest vegetation that was once common along Cascades-region rivers, including old-growth Douglas-fir forests that are still present along the banks.

Cultural & Historic

There is evidence that the Clackamas River had significant human use prior to European exploration and settlement, as well as a variety of evidence of historic use. The Clackamas has played an important role in local and regional development.

Native Americans hunted, fished and gathered food and materials in the Clackamas River drainage as early as 10,000 years ago. By 2,000 to 3,000 years ago, they had established permanent settlements along the river's lower floodplain.

In the 1800s, Congress granted parcels of land to the Oregon and California (O & C) Railroad for sale to settlers. In 1917, when the railroad company failed to meet the grant's terms, Congress reclaimed these lands, and they returned to federal ownership as public lands.

The river's steep southern bank — rising to more than 1,400 feet — shows evidence of logging, authorized in 1937 when Congress directed that the O & C lands be managed for permanent forest production under the principles of sustained yield management.

Fisheries

The Clackamas River is home to the last significant run of wild late-winter coho salmon in the Columbia Basin, which generally spawn on the main stem of the Clackamas above the North Fork Reservoir. The watershed also has one of only two remaining runs of spring chinook in the Willamette basin and supports a significant population of winter steelhead, cutthroat trout and native lamprey.

2019 Clackamas Spring Chinook Catch

2019 Clackamas Steelhead Catch

PGE Clackamas Daily Fish Counts

Trends and timing of fish migration on the Clackamas River

Clackamas River Bull Trout Reintroduction Project

Recreational

This section of the Clackamas River, convenient to Portland, offers breathtaking mountain views, replete with native wildflowers and wildlife, as well as direct access for fishing, boating and hiking. The area is most recognizable by the green Pratt truss bridge at Memaloose Road, now closed to vehicular traffic, which sits atop the river and connects walkers to the day-use area on the river's south side.

Wildlife

The Clackamas River provides habitat for the bald eagle and the threatened northern spotted owl, and it is potential habitat for the peregrine falcon.

Boat launch locations for the Clackamas River begin at the confluence of the Clackamas and Willamette Rivers. We begin by exiting I-205 at exit 9. At exit 9, take ramp right for OR-99E toward Downtown / Gladstone / Oregon City for 0.2 miles. Turn north onto OR-99E / McLoughlin Blvd for 0.2 miles.  Turn left onto Dunes Dr. for 344 ft. Turn left onto Clackamette Dr. for 0.2 miles to the boat dock at Jon Storm Park or another 0.1 miles to the boat launch at Sportcraft Landing.

To access the boat launch at Clackamette Park located on the south shore of the Clackamas River turn left onto Dunes Dr. and then right onto Turn right onto Clackamette Dr. Follow the road around the corner to the right and turn left onto the next street. Follow the road to the boat launch at Clackamette Park.

To access the boat launch at Meldrum Bar Park. Turn right onto OR-99E / McLoughlin Blvd for 1.0 miles. Turn left onto W Gloucester St for 365 ft. Turn right onto River Rd for 315 ft. Turn left onto Meldrum Bar Park Rd. for 0.5 miles to the boat launch.

Exit I-205 at exit 12 or 12A onto Clackamas Hwy, Clackamas, OR 97015 to access Riverside Park. Head east on OR-224 / OR-212 toward SE 82nd Dr. for 0.5 miles. Turn right onto SE Evelyn St. for 0.6 miles. The road’s name changes to SE Mangan Dr. for 0.3 miles. Turn right onto SE Water Ave to the boat launch. SE Water Ave may be gated at specific times.

Carver Park

From I-205 turn exit onto OR-224 E for 1.9 miles. Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto OR-212 E/OR-224 E for 1.6 miles. Turn right onto OR-224 E for 1.1 miles. Turn right onto Market Rd 39/S Springwater Rd for 0.2 miles. Turn left onto S Springwater Rd for 0.2 mi to the boat launch at Carver Park.

Barton Park on the Clackamas River is 26 miles and some 40 minutes from Portland. Salmon, steelhead, fin-clipped trout are the fish species of interest here. Clackamas River. Good bank access and ADA accessible fishing opportunities. Take Exit 12, off I-205, Estacada/Mt. Hood. Go east on Hwy. 212/224. Turn right onto Hwy. 224. Go about 5 miles. Turn right at Barton Store. County park.

From I-205 turn exit onto OR-224 E for 1.9 miles. Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto OR-212 E/OR-224 E for 1.6 miles. Turn right onto OR-224 E for 6.4 miles. Turn right onto SE Bakers Ferry Rd for 0.2 miles and Continue straight onto SE Barton Park Rd. for 0.2 miles to the Barton Park boat launch.

Feldheimer Park:

Exit I-205 at exit 10 and depart south on OR-213 for 0.6 Miles. Turn right onto Redland Rd for 1.9 miles where the road name changes to S Redland Rd. Follow S Redland Rd. for 3.4 miles to S Fischers Mill Rd.  Turn left onto S Fischers Mill Rd and follow for 3.9 miles to Springwater Rd. Bear right onto S Springwater Rd for 2.0 miles. Turn left onto S Feldheimer Rd an unpaved road to the boat launch at Feldheimer Park located at 0.5 miles.

McIver State Park Lower Ramp: Situated along the scenic Clackamas River, Milo McIver State Park is only 45 minutes from Portland. This beautiful park provides a variety of outstanding recreational opportunities.

Milo McIver's campground features 44 electric sites with full hookups and 9 primitive tent sites.

McIver State Park offers something for everyone. See you there!

Campground info

  • 44 electrical sites with water
  • Nine tent sites with water nearby
  • Hot showers and flush toilets
  • Three reservable group tent camping areas with water, flush toilets and fire rings
  • Three hiker/biker camp sites with water, lockers, solar charging station and fire pit
  • RV dump station

Universal Access
One campsite is accessible to campers with disabilities.

  • Looking for more adventure?

SUP and Kayak rentals and guided tours - Clackamas River Outfitters | 503-586-3241 | Web: https://clackamasriveroutfitters.com/

These services are provided by an independent business through contract with Oregon State Parks.

McIver State Park Lower Ramp:exit I-205 at exit 10 and depart south on OR-213 for 0.6 Miles. Turn right onto Redland Rd for 1.9 miles where the road name changes to S Redland Rd. Follow S Redland Rd. for 3.4 miles. Turn left onto S.Fischers Mill Rd for 3.9 miles. Bear right onto S Springwater Rd for 2.0 miles to the entrance of Milo McIver State Park. Turn left onto S Entrance Rd for 0.5 miles. Turn left again at 0.9 miles and left again and follow to the boat launch for 0.8 miles.

McIver State Park Upper Ramp: or Clackamas Hatchery is part of the adventure when you spend a day or a week exploring the river, forest and fields associated with the Clackamas River. River-lovers can challenge the sometimes wild (but always picturesque) Clackamas River with rafts, canoes or kayaks. Photo by Oregon State Parks.

McIver State Park Upper Ramp: Exit I-205 at exit 10 and depart south on OR-213 for 0.6 Miles. Turn right onto Redland Rd for 1.9 miles where the road name changes to S Redland Rd. Follow S Redland Rd. for 10.5 miles. Turn right onto S Springwater Rd for 0.7 miles to the entrance of Milo McIver State Park. Turn left into the entrance following the road around to the right for 2.6 miles to the boat launch. When you reach the S River Lake Rd continue traveling straight to the Boat Launch or to the Clackamas Hatchery.

Best time to visit the Clackamas Hatchery is during late spring - early fall. Adult spring Chinook salmon are present June – October and adult winter steelhead are present March-April

Visiting hours: Visitor's Center is open 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily; Hatchery grounds are open during daylight hours.

Fish raised: spring Chinook salmon, winter steelhead and Coho

What to see and do: The hatchery has an inside display area and viewing window into the incubation room.

  • Wildlife: birds of prey, fish, wading birds, waterfowl
  • Facilities: boat ramp, campground, ADA accessible restroom, trails
  • Nearby: McIver State Park offers hiking, camping, picnicking, horse trails and fishing access. There is a year-round day use fee in the park. However, if you’re only visiting the hatchery, no parking pass is necessary.

Estacada Boat Ramp on Estacada Lake.

Access to Estacada Lake is achieved by exiting I-205 at exit 10 and depart south on OR-213 for 0.6 Miles. Turn right onto Redland Rd for 1.9 miles where the road name changes to S Redland Rd. Follow S Redland Rd. for 10.5 miles. Turn right onto S Springwater Rd for 0.7 miles to the entrance of Milo McIver State Park. Turn left into the entrance following the road around to the right for 2.4 miles to the boat launch. Turn right onto the S River Lake Rd 0.2 miles to the Estacada Boat Launch on the left.

Timber Park This day-use park is our closest to Portland and Salem, is great for disc golf and picnicking.

Timber Park is along Estacada Lake above River Mill Dam. There’s shoreline for fishing and paddling, as well as ball fields for organizing sporting events. Two picnic shelters, which can accommodate 100 people, may be reserved for gatherings. There is also a small playground for all ages.

Timber Park is open year-round. The park is free and open to the public. If you want to reserve a picnic shelter, ball field or the disc golf course, there is a fee. Please make a reservation using the Day Use Area Permit Application. Be sure to take a look at our Parks & Recreation Rules. Phone reservations and email requests are accepted year-round. Timber Park: 503-630-5120

Timber Park is on the Clackamas River, 30 miles southeast of Portland. From Portland, take Highway 224, and go one mile west of Estacada. Follow signs for Timber Park.

30878 NW Evergreen Way
Estacada, OR 97023

North Fork Reservoir

North Shore Hand Launch on the North Fork Reservoir is a boating facility managed by Portland General Electric, for additional information call 503-630-7229.

Comments: Winter reservoir water levels fluctuate seasonally and can impact the accessibility of the boating facilities; please contact the operator of this boating facility to determine if the facility is currently accessible.

Promontory Park Boat Ramp a boating facility located on the North Fork Reservoir is managed by Portland General Electric. Call 503-630-7229 for additional information.

Comments: Winter reservoir water levels fluctuate seasonally and can impact the accessibility of the boating facilities; please contact the operator of this boating facility to determine if the facility is currently accessible. Click on the photo for a larger view.

Promontory Park Paddle Launch a boating facility located on the North Fork Reservoir is managed by Portland General Electric Call 503-630-7229 for additional information.

Comments: Winter reservoir water levels fluctuate seasonally and can impact the accessibility of the boating facilities; please contact the operator of this boating facility to determine if the facility is currently accessible.

Memaloose Weigh Station Paddle Launch a boating facility located on the Clackamas River is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. For additional information call 503-630-5721.

Restriction 10 mph limit on that portion of the reservoir which lies upstream from a line drawn across the reservoir at right angles to the thread of the stream at a point 2.3 miles upstream from the North Fork Dam measured along the thread of the stream.

Moore Creek Paddle Launch a boating facility located on the Clackamas River is managed by Portland General Electric. Call 503-464-8515 for additional information. 

10 mph limit on that portion of the reservoir which lies upstream from a line drawn across the reservoir at right angles to the thread of the stream at a point 2.3 miles upstream from the North Fork Dam measured along the thread of the stream.

No jet pump drives above a point 2.3 miles upstream of the North Fork Dam.

Big Eddy Day Use/Picnic Site

Carter Bridge Paddle Launch a boating facility located on the Clackamas River is managed by  U.S. Forest Service. Call 503-630-5721 for additional information.

Camping & Cabins

  • Carter Bridge Campground located on the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River 14.5 miles from Estacada, OR southeast on OR 224. The campground is a compact single loop through cedars, maples, and alders.  A couple of berry patches suggest good picking in late-summer.  Some of these sites have great views of the river.  Recreation activities include fishing and whitewater rafting.

  • Carter Bridge Day Use/Picnic Site
  • Lockaby Campground: Lockaby Campground is ideally located next to the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River in the lush, green mountains of northern Oregon. It provides access to some of the area's greatest whitewater rafting, as well as a famous place to fish. Whether it is relaxation or recreation, there's something for everyone at the campground.
  • Armstrong Campground is a small but beautiful place to camp, right on the edge of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. The river flows right by spacious, lush, family-friendly campsites, giving visitors plenty of access to the river, as well as to the surrounding forest. Directions From Estacada, OR, travel east on Highway 224 for 15 miles to Armstrong Campground.
  • Fish Creek Campground/Day Use is ideally located next to the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River in Mt. Hood National Forest. It provides access to some of the area's greatest whitewater, as well as a famous place to fish. Whether it is relaxation or expansive exploration, there's something for everyone at Fish Creek. Directions from Estacada, OR - go 15 miles southeast on OR  Highway 224 for approximately 16 miles.
  • Explore Fish Creek Trailhead (Clackamas River Trail)

    • Fish Creek Boat Slide a boating facility located on the Clackamas River is managed by the  U.S. Forest Service. Call 503-630-5721 for additional information.

    10 mph limit on that portion of the reservoir which lies upstream from a line drawn across the reservoir at right angles to the thread of the stream at a point 2.3 miles upstream from the North Fork Dam measured along the thread of the stream.

    No jet pump drives above a point 2.3 miles upstream of the North Fork Dam.

    Hole in the Wall a boating facility located on the Clackamas River is managed by Portland General Electric. Call 503-464-8515 for additional information.

    10 mph limit on that portion of the reservoir which lies upstream from a line drawn across the reservoir at right angles to the thread of the stream at a point 2.3 miles upstream from the North Fork Dam measured along the thread of the stream.

    No jet pump drives above a point 2.3 miles upstream of the North Fork Dam.

    Roaring River Campground is located across from the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River in the beautiful Cascade Range of northern Oregon. The small, rustic campground has some charm and provides visitors with access to a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including world-famous whitewater rafting. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for 20 miles to the campground.

  • Sunstrip Campground is a primitive campground on the banks of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. It provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, but retains the look and feel of true nature, with only a few amenities. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for about 21 miles to the campground.
  • Pup Creek Waterfall 
  • The Narrows
  • Three Lynx Falls

    • Sandstone Paddle Launch a boating facility located on the Clackamas River is managed by Portland General Electric. Call 503-464-8515 for additional information.

  • Indian Henry Group Site Group Campground Area Status: Closed. Closed to group camping. You can make reservations at  Recreationlgov or call 1-877-444-6777 for individual sites. Directions. Access via Forest Road 4620.
  • Alder Flat Trailhead. Parking area for 4-5 vehicles, with limited overflow on Highway 224.  Last maintenance 4/15/17. Directions from Portland, OR travel east on US Hwy 26 to Sandy. Turn right (southwest) on OR Hwy 211 and travel 6.1 miles to OR Hwy 224. Turn left (southeast) on OR Hwy 224 and travel 29.9 miles to the parking lot on the west side of OR Hwy 224 (approximately 0.15 miles south of milepost 49). Walk in approximately one mile on Alder Flat Trail #574.
  • Timber Lake directions from Estacada to FR 4630 to the lake at 0.2 miles.
  • Surprise Lake directions from Estacada to FR 4630 to the restricted use Forest Service access rd. for 1.0 miles. Take the closed forest service approximately 0.7 miles on the left.
  • Frog Lake directions from Estacada to FR 4630 for 1.4 miles to the Pipeline Rd for 1.1 miles to the lake.
  • The historic Ripplebrook Guard Station is now operating as the Ripplebrook Camp Store offering camping supplies, food, maps, and souvenirs to forest visitors. The store is located about 0.7 miles from the Ripplebrook Campground near the junction of Highway 224 and Forest Road 46. Call the store for current hours: (503) 834-2322. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for 26 miles to the Ripplebrook Camp Store, which is about 0.7 miles before Ripplebrook Campground. Ripplebrook Pond.
  • Ripplebrook Campground is a charming facility for nature enthusiasts and lies in a beautiful forest setting. Fly fishing and whitewater rafting are popular near the campground, as it neighbors the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. The small facility is geared more toward tent camping, however, tent trailers and small RV's may enjoy it. Located on the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for 26 miles to the campground, which is just past the Ripplebrook Camp Store.
  • Rainbow Campground provides ample access to the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River. The campground offers a great location to enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful mountains of northern Oregon. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking, biking and rafting. Located on the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224/Road 46 for 26 miles to the campground. 
  • Lake Harriet Campground/Day Use sits on the eastern shores of crystal clear Lake Harriet. It is located between the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River, which flows into the lake, and the nearby forest highway. It is a great location for camping, fishing and boating. The campground is wheelchair accessible and has an accessible fishing dock. Direction from Estacada, OR - take OR-224/Clackamas Hwy east for 26 mile to the old Ripplebrook Guard Station, 1/4 mile past the Guard Station. Cross the bridge and turn left on Forest Service Road 57 going toward Timothy Lake. Travel 5 miles, crossing the concrete bridge take a left onto Forest Service Road 4630, A narrow gravel road, and on to Lake Harriet Campground and Day Use area.
  • Shellrock Creek Campground is primitive camping at its finest.  It is located on the banks of Shellrock Creek which feeds into the Oak Grove Fork and then eventually the Clackamas River.  This campground delivers a feeling of really being “out there”. Each site is separated by dense growth allowing for camper privacy. Shellrock Creek is a small brook in the woods which creates that tranquil sound of running water which can be heard throughout the campground. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for about 26 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 57 and continue about 7 miles.  Turn left onto Forest Service Road 58 and continue about 1/2 a mile to the campground. 
  • Buck Lake
  • Hideaway Lake Campground travel from Estacada, OR - go approximately 24 miles southeast on OR Highway 224, 7 miles east on Forest Road 57, 3 miles north on FR 58, and 5 miles west on FR 5830.The campground is a single loop above the scenic high Cascade Hideaway Lake.  The campsites are tucked under a heavy canopy of mixed conifers, including  douglas fir and hemlock.  Rhododendron and ample spacing provide excellent privacy.  A very attractive, tranquil campground.  Recreation activities include non-motorized boating, and fishing.
  • Sunstrip Campground is a primitive campground on the banks of the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. It provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, but retains the look and feel of true nature, with only a few amenities. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for about 21 miles to the campground. 
  • Indian Henry Group Site Group Campground Area Status: Closed. Closed to group camping. You can make reservations at  Recreationlgov or call 1-877-444-6777 for individual sites. Directions. Access via Forest Road 4620.
  • Alder Flat Trailhead. Parking area for 4-5 vehicles, with limited overflow on Highway 224.  Last maintenance 4/15/17. Directions from Portland, OR travel east on US Hwy 26 to Sandy. Turn right (southwest) on OR Hwy 211 and travel 6.1 miles to OR Hwy 224. Turn left (southeast) on OR Hwy 224 and travel 29.9 miles to the parking lot on the west side of OR Hwy 224 (approximately 0.15 miles south of milepost 49). Walk in approximately one mile on Alder Flat Trail #574.
  • Timber Lake directions from Estacada to FR 4630 to the lake at 0.2 miles.
  • Surprise Lake directions from Estacada to FR 4630 to the restricted use Forest Service access rd. for 1.0 miles. Take the closed forest service approximately 0.7 miles on the left.
  • Frog Lake directions from Estacada to FR 4630 for 1.4 miles to the Pipeline Rd for 1.1 miles to the lake.
  • The historic Ripplebrook Guard Station is now operating as the Ripplebrook Camp Store offering camping supplies, food, maps, and souvenirs to forest visitors. The store is located about 0.7 miles from the Ripplebrook Campground near the junction of Highway 224 and Forest Road 46. Call the store for current hours: (503) 834-2322. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for 26 miles to the Ripplebrook Camp Store, which is about 0.7 miles before Ripplebrook Campground. Ripplebrook Pond.
  • Ripplebrook Campground is a charming facility for nature enthusiasts and lies in a beautiful forest setting. Fly fishing and whitewater rafting are popular near the campground, as it neighbors the Clackamas Wild and Scenic River. The small facility is geared more toward tent camping, however, tent trailers and small RV's may enjoy it. Located on the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for 26 miles to the campground, which is just past the Ripplebrook Camp Store.
  • Rainbow Campground provides ample access to the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River. The campground offers a great location to enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful mountains of northern Oregon. Visitors enjoy fishing, hiking, biking and rafting. Located on the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224/Road 46 for 26 miles to the campground. 
  • Lake Harriet Campground/Day Use sits on the eastern shores of crystal clear Lake Harriet. It is located between the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River, which flows into the lake, and the nearby forest highway. It is a great location for camping, fishing and boating. The campground is wheelchair accessible and has an accessible fishing dock. Direction from Estacada, OR - take OR-224/Clackamas Hwy east for 26 mile to the old Ripplebrook Guard Station, 1/4 mile past the Guard Station. Cross the bridge and turn left on Forest Service Road 57 going toward Timothy Lake. Travel 5 miles, crossing the concrete bridge take a left onto Forest Service Road 4630, A narrow gravel road, and on to Lake Harriet Campground and Day Use area.
  • Shellrock Creek Campground is primitive camping at its finest.  It is located on the banks of Shellrock Creek which feeds into the Oak Grove Fork and then eventually the Clackamas River.  This campground delivers a feeling of really being “out there”. Each site is separated by dense growth allowing for camper privacy. Shellrock Creek is a small brook in the woods which creates that tranquil sound of running water which can be heard throughout the campground. Directions from Estacada, OR - travel east on Highway 224 for about 26 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 57 and continue about 7 miles.  Turn left onto Forest Service Road 58 and continue about 1/2 a mile to the campground. 
  • Buck Lake Directions: From Portland, OR - travel east on US Hwy 26 to Sandy. Turn right (southwest) on OR Hwy 211 and travel 6.1 miles to OR Hwy 224. Turn left (southeast) on OR Hwy 224 and travel 30.2 miles to Oak Grove Fork Road (Forest Road 57) (approximately at milepost 50). Turn left (east) on Oak Grove Fork Road and travel 7.4 miles to High Rock Road (Forest Road 58). Turn left (northeast) on High Rock Road and travel 1.1 miles to Forest Road 5810. Turn right (east) on Forest Road 5810 and travel 4.9 miles to Forest Road 5810-210. Turn left (northwest) on Buck Lake Road (Forest Road 5810-210) and travel 0.5 mile to the marked trailhead at a pullout on the left (west) side of the road. Rainbow trout are the species of interest here.
  • Hideaway Lake Campground travel from Estacada, OR - go approximately 24 miles southeast on OR Highway 224, 7 miles east on Forest Road 57, 3 miles north on FR 58, and 5 miles west on FR 5830.The campground is a single loop above the scenic high Cascade Hideaway Lake.  The campsites are tucked under a heavy canopy of mixed conifers, including  douglas fir and hemlock.  Rhododendron and ample spacing provide excellent privacy.  A very attractive, tranquil campground.  Recreation activities include non-motorized boating, and fishing.

    • Hideaway Lake

    Hideaway Lake is a remote, high elevation lake accessible by four-wheel drive. It has crystal clear, blue green water, and is surrounded by dense Douglas fir forest. Hideaway Lake is used as a base camp to fish lakes in the surrounding area such as the Rock Lakes and Shellrock Lake. Size: 15 surface acres, Depth: 17' average depth, 30' maximum depth, Elevation: 4,120 feet

    • Vehicle/Fishing Access: 2 X 4
    • Barrier Free Access:
    • Hiking:
    • Driving Directions: Hideaway Lake is approximately 39 miles east of Estacada off State Highway 228 and Forest road 58.
    • Fish Species: Brook trout, cutthroat trout
    • Fishing Methods: Fly, Spin
    • Angling Season: Summer
    • Campgrounds: Hideaway

    Shellrock Lake

    Shellrock Lake is geographically adjacent to Hideaway Lake and the Rock Lakes Basin lakes. It is a relatively short, easy hike into the lake. Douglas fir forest dominates the shore line of this small, pristine, high elevation lake. Size: 17 acres, Depth: 7' average, 13' maximum, Elevation: 4,200 feet

    • Vehicle/Fishing Access: 2 X 4
    • Barrier Free Access:
    • Hiking: 0.8 mile
    • Driving Directions: Shellrock Lake is approximately 38 east of Estacada off State Highway 228 and Forest road 58. Directions To Hideaway Lake Campground and Shellrock Lake trailhead: From Estacada, OR - go approximately 24 miles southeast on OR 224 then 7 miles east on Forest Road 57 then 3 miles north on Forest Road 58, and 5 miles west on Forest Road 5830. The trailhead to Shellrock Lake is located on the rightside of Forest Road 5830 just past of the Hideway Lake loop road.
    • Fish Species: Brook trout, cutthroat trout
    • Fishing Methods: Fly, Spin
    • Angling Season: Summer
    • Campgrounds: Hideaway, approximately one half mile to the south.
  • Cottonwoods Meadows Trailhead

    • Timothy Lake

    Timothy Lake is a popular recreation lake noted for it's scenery and views of Mt. Hood. An artificial lake, it has many developed campgrounds, and is one of a few lakes on the Mt. Hood National Forest that allows motorized boating. In addition for fishing for many different fish species, the lake is a popular site for boating, sailing and windsurfing. Trout are stocked in the lake several times a year.

    • Size: 1,388 surface acres,
    • Depth: 45' average depth, 80' maximum depth,
    • Elevation: 3,227 feet.
    • Vehicle/Fishing Access: 2 X 4, Boat
    • Barrier Free Access:
    • Hiking:
    • Driving Directions: Timothy Lake is approximately 78 miles southeast of Sandy off State Highway 26.
    • Fish Species: Rainbow trout, brook trout, kokanee and cutthroat trout
    • Fishing Methods: Fly, Spin, Bait
    • Angling Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Campgrounds: Pine Point, Cove, Gone Creek, Hoodview, North Arm, Oak Fork, Meditation Point (hike or boat only)

    Timothy Lake E-Bird Sighting Record

    Timothy Lake Parks and Campground

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