Kingfisher Group Camp

Greetings, fellow Oregonians! Are you planning a large family reunion, a scout troop adventure, or a memorable gathering with friends amidst the stunning natural beauty of our state? If so, then Kingfisher Group Camp in Milo McIver State Park, near Estacada, should be at the very top of your list. As locals, we know the value of finding the perfect spot that combines spaciousness, natural charm, and a sense of peaceful seclusion, all within a convenient distance. This article is your comprehensive guide to Kingfisher Group Camp, designed to provide clear, engaging, and factual information to help you plan an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Kingfisher Group Camp is not just any campsite; it's renowned as one of Oregon's favorite group campsites, offering ample space and a unique setting that overlooks the majestic Clackamas River. It provides a rare opportunity for large groups to enjoy the tranquility of nature without being crowded by other campers. While one reviewer mentioned an abundance of yellow jackets in their experience, and a "treacherous descent" to the riverbank, these points serve as reminders to always be prepared and aware of your surroundings in nature. However, the overall consensus highlights clean facilities, a huge park with plenty of shade, and excellent options for river floating. This guide will delve into its ideal location, the practical services it offers, and the standout features that make it particularly suitable for large gatherings, ensuring you have all the necessary contact information to plan your group's next great Oregon adventure.

Kingfisher Group Camp is located within Milo McIver State Park, with its address noted as S Entrance Rd, Estacada, OR 97023, USA. This prime location places it firmly within the beautiful Clackamas County, providing excellent accessibility for residents throughout Oregon, especially those in the greater Portland metropolitan area and the Willamette Valley. Estacada is a charming gateway to a vast outdoor playground, and Milo McIver State Park is a significant highlight of the region.

For Oregonians, the drive to Kingfisher Group Camp is manageable, offering a relatively quick escape from urban environments into a serene natural setting. Its position along the S Entrance Road ensures clear directions and straightforward access for vehicles of all sizes, including those transporting large groups and their gear. The park's location along the Clackamas River means direct access to a beloved Oregon waterway, renowned for its recreational opportunities. Additionally, being part of a well-established state park ensures that roads are generally well-maintained. The proximity to the town of Estacada also provides convenient access to last-minute supplies, groceries, or local dining options, balancing the feeling of being "tucked away" with practical convenience. This combination of natural beauty and easy accessibility makes Kingfisher Group Camp an ideal choice for Oregon locals seeking a substantial outdoor experience without extensive travel.

Kingfisher Group Camp, as part of Milo McIver State Park, offers a selection of essential services and amenities designed specifically to accommodate larger groups and enhance their camping experience. While specific features are tailored to group needs, general park amenities also contribute to a comfortable stay.

• Spacious Group Site: The primary offering is a very spacious group campsite, ideal for accommodating large numbers of people without feeling cramped.
• Flush Toilets: The group site is equipped with two dedicated flush toilets, a significant convenience for larger gatherings.
• Water Access: Potable water faucets are available at the site, ensuring easy access to drinking and cooking water.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are provided for campfires and cooking, allowing groups to enjoy traditional camping experiences.
• Picnic Tables: Numerous picnic tables are available within the group site, facilitating communal meals and activities.
• Secluded Location: The site is intentionally not near other individual campsites, offering a heightened sense of privacy and seclusion for the group.
• Proximity to Vortex Trail: The group camp is situated along the Vortex Trail, providing direct access to hiking opportunities.
• River Access: While the descent to the Clackamas Riverbank from the group site may be "treacherous" according to one review, there is indeed access to the river for water activities.
• On-Site Park Management: As part of a State Park, visitors can expect the presence of park rangers and staff to provide assistance and maintain park rules.
• No Power Outlets: It is important to note that the group camp site does not have power outlets, so campers should plan accordingly for their electrical needs.
• RV Dump Station: Milo McIver State Park has an RV dump station available for use by registered campers, located just past the registration booth.

Kingfisher Group Camp offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a standout choice for group camping in Oregon.

• Overlooks Clackamas River: The camp provides scenic views and direct, albeit potentially challenging, access to the beautiful Clackamas River, a popular spot for floating, fishing, and other water activities.
• Exceptional Seclusion: A significant highlight is its isolated nature. The site is intentionally set apart from individual campsites, ensuring a private and uninterrupted experience for large groups.
• Abundant Shade: Reviewers note "lots of shade," which is a crucial feature for comfort during Oregon's warmer months, providing natural cooling and protection.
• Spacious Layout: Described as "very spacious," the group camp offers ample room for multiple tents, activity areas, and gathering spaces, accommodating large numbers of people comfortably.
• Access to Vortex Trail: Being along the Vortex Trail provides immediate hiking opportunities for group members, allowing them to explore the park's natural landscape.
• Clean Facilities: The presence of clean, flush toilets at the group site is a considerable advantage for large gatherings, enhancing comfort and convenience.
• Part of Milo McIver State Park: This means access to the wider park's amenities, which include a world-class 27-hole disc golf course at the Riverbend Day-use Area, seven miles of hiking and horseback trails, and a fish hatchery.
• Opportunities for River Floating: The Clackamas River is well-known for its floating options, and while access from the site might require care, the "lazy ride(s)" on the river are highly praised.
• Natural Beauty: The park itself boasts over 950 acres of lush forest and grassy meadows, with vistas of Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Adams on clear days.

For reservations or more information regarding Kingfisher Group Camp within Milo McIver State Park, please use the following contact details. Note that specific phone numbers for individual group camps are not typically provided, but general park information lines are available.

Address: S Entrance Rd, Estacada, OR 97023, USA

For general inquiries about Milo McIver State Park, including Kingfisher Group Camp, and to make reservations, it's best to use the Oregon State Parks reservation system and general contact information. While a direct phone for Kingfisher Group Camp isn't listed, the park's general information line or the reservation hotline for Oregon State Parks would be the primary points of contact.

Oregon State Parks & Recreation Department (General Information): You can typically find a contact number on the official Oregon State Parks website for Milo McIver State Park. Online reservations are often made via the Reserve America website.

Alternatively, the Clackamas River Ranger District of the Mt. Hood National Forest, which is in the broader area, can be reached at (971) 333-4100, though this pertains more to other campgrounds within the National Forest, not directly Kingfisher Group Camp within the State Park.

Kingfisher Group Camp is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, particularly for those planning large gatherings, family reunions, or organized group trips. Its primary appeal lies in its unparalleled spaciousness and seclusion, a rare find for group campsites in our often-busy state parks. This allows groups to enjoy their activities and conversations without disturbing, or being disturbed by, other campers, fostering a truly intimate and personal outdoor experience.

The camp's location within Milo McIver State Park offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities that resonate deeply with Oregonians. With direct access to the Clackamas River, groups can indulge in beloved local pastimes like river floating and fishing, embracing the aquatic adventures our state is famous for. The availability of clean flush toilets and potable water at the site significantly enhances comfort for larger numbers, making the camping experience more enjoyable and less rustic than more primitive sites.

Furthermore, its proximity to the Portland metropolitan area makes it incredibly convenient. Oregonians can easily transition from urban life to a wild, natural setting without enduring lengthy travel times, allowing for more time spent enjoying the outdoors. The presence of features like the Vortex Trail for hiking and the broader park's disc golf course ensures there's something to engage everyone in the group. Despite the mention of yellow jackets and a challenging river descent, these are minor considerations that highlight the authentic natural environment, which many Oregonians cherish. Kingfisher Group Camp truly offers a unique and memorable setting for locals to gather, connect, and immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes that define our beloved Oregon.

Kingfisher Group Camp

S Entrance Rd, Estacada, OR 97023, USA