Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground

Hey there, fellow Oregonians! Are you ready for a true wilderness adventure, where the journey is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself? If you’re yearning to unplug, immerse yourself in pristine natural beauty, and enjoy a truly remote escape, then Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground in the Mt. Hood National Forest is calling your name. This isn't a typical drive-up campground with all the bells and whistles; it’s a rugged, yet incredibly rewarding, spot that promises unforgettable memories for those willing to make the effort.

Camp Ten is one of several campgrounds situated around the stunning Olallie Lake, a high-elevation alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views, including distant glimpses of Mt. Jefferson. It's a place where peace and quiet reign supreme, broken only by the sounds of nature. While the path to get there is an adventure in itself, the serene beauty of the lake and its surroundings makes every bump and slow mile worthwhile. It's the perfect antidote to the everyday hustle, forcing everyone to truly disconnect and appreciate the wild heart of Oregon.

Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground is nestled in the heart of the Mt. Hood National Forest, with its address listed as NF-4220, Detroit, OR 97342, USA. While the mailing address points to Detroit, the campground is quite remote and requires a significant drive on unpaved roads to reach.

Accessing Olallie Lake, and thus Camp Ten, is an adventure that requires preparation. As one reviewer aptly described, there's a "very, very, long, pot hole filled, gravel road for about the last 12 to 15 miles of the trip." This stretch can take "about an hour or so to drive due to having to drive so slow," and the "road narrows in multiple spots, and makes it difficult when passing vehicles."

For this reason, a "higher clearance vehicle" is "highly recommend," as "different sections of the road make it extremely difficult for lower clearance vehicles." While some assert that a "Subaru and any other mid-sized SUV will be fine," the general consensus among visitors is to be prepared for a rough, slow journey. It's crucial to "BRING A PAPER MAP OR DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS AS YOU WILL NEED THEM!" because there is "no cell service" in the area. This truly remote location ensures an unplugged experience, but careful navigation is essential. The journey sets the tone for a truly wild and secluded retreat, far from the typical tourist routes.

• Primitive campsites (often first-come, first-served) for tents, and possibly small RVs (though larger RVs may face significant challenges on the access road).
• Vault toilets available on-site for restroom facilities.
• Picnic tables at each site for convenience.
• Fire rings for campfires (always check current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• No potable drinking water available; campers must bring all their own water.
• No cell service, providing a true opportunity to disconnect.
• Nearby Olallie Lake Resort offers a small store that sells ice, some trinkets, and other small forgotten items (cash-only, no ATM, no electricity).
• Non-motorized boating opportunities on Olallie Lake (rowboats available for rent at the nearby resort).

• Unbeatable Remote Beauty: Despite the challenging access, the lake and its surroundings are consistently described as "GORGEOUS" and "WELL WORTH THE DRIVE."
• True Unplugged Experience: With no cell service, it forces visitors to disconnect from technology and fully immerse themselves in nature.
• Non-Motorized Lake Activities: Olallie Lake is ideal for non-motorized boating, fishing (stocked with rainbow trout), and floating in its shallow, calm waters. Note: Swimming is NOT allowed in Olallie Lake, but nearby Head Lake (within 5 minutes of the store) is a great swimming spot.
• Extensive Hiking Opportunities: Access to numerous trails within the Olallie Lake Scenic Area, including a four-mile loop around Olallie Lake itself and direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT).
• Peaceful & Relaxing Atmosphere: The remote location ensures a quiet environment, disturbed only by nature's sounds.
• Views of Mt. Jefferson: The scenic area offers stunning views of the majestic 10,497-foot Mt. Jefferson.
• Rustic Charm: The campgrounds are primitive, offering a genuine wilderness camping experience for those who prefer fewer amenities.
• Seasonal Operation: Typically open seasonally from June to October, depending on snowmelt and road conditions, allowing for summer and early fall visits.

For inquiries about Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground and the Mt. Hood National Forest, it's best to contact the managing Forest Service Ranger District. The provided phone number leads to the Clackamas River Ranger District.

Phone: (503) 668-1700

Mobile Phone: +1 503-668-1700

Address: NF-4220, Detroit, OR 97342, USA (Note: This is a general location, not a physical office.)

For the most current information on road conditions, fire restrictions, and campground status (especially given the remote location and potential for changing conditions), it's highly recommended to call the Clackamas River Ranger District or check the official Mt. Hood National Forest website before planning your trip.

For Oregon locals, Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground embodies the very essence of a rugged, rewarding Pacific Northwest adventure. While the journey there is described as "very, very, long, pot hole filled" and demanding a "higher clearance vehicle," this inherent challenge is precisely what preserves its unique charm and keeps it from being overrun. As one reviewer emphatically stated, "WITH ALL THAT SAID, THIS LAKE WAS WELL WORTH THE DRIVE AND ANXIETY!" This sentiment resonates deeply with Oregonians who seek out hidden gems and are willing to put in the effort for unparalleled natural beauty.

The lack of cell service is a significant highlight for locals desperate to truly "unplug." In an increasingly connected world, having a forced digital detox allows for a deeper connection with family, friends, and the serene environment. The "pretty calm and relaxing area" is perfect for unwinding, whether you're floating on the shallow lake, enjoying the "unbeatable" riverside ambient noise, or simply soaking in the silence.

Beyond the tranquility, the recreational opportunities are abundant. Non-motorized boating, while requiring rentals from the nearby Olallie Lake Resort, allows for peaceful exploration of the lake. Fishing, even if "not the best but fun for the kids and we did catch 2 rainbow trouts," adds to the classic camping experience. The extensive hiking trails, including access to the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, cater to Oregon's active outdoor community, offering everything from leisurely walks around the lake to more challenging treks.

Despite the "completely burned" surroundings in some areas, as noted by a reviewer, the campground still offers "remote beauty and silence," a testament to nature's resilience and the enduring allure of this area. The presence of a small store at the resort, offering forgotten items, provides a helpful safety net in this remote setting. Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground is a destination that appeals to the self-reliant, adventurous Oregonian, offering a genuine wilderness experience, breathtaking views, and the invaluable chance to truly disconnect and recharge in one of our state's most magnificent natural landscapes. It's an adventure waiting to be discovered, one slow mile at a time.

Camp Ten (Olallie Lake) Campground

NF-4220, Detroit, OR 97342, USA