Kingfisher Group Campsite

For Oregonians drawn to the wild heart of the Cascades, Kingfisher Campground offers a genuine wilderness experience, nestled within the sprawling beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest. While the name might suggest a single "group campsite," Kingfisher Campground actually features nearly two dozen individual campsites, and is known for its suitability for families and groups who appreciate a more rustic and natural setting. This isn't a manicured resort; it's a "diamond in the rough" where the untamed beauty of the forest and the dynamic flow of the Hot Springs Fork of the Collawash River are your primary amenities. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, listen to the sounds of nature, and embrace the spirit of outdoor adventure that defines the Pacific Northwest.

Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Kingfisher Campground provides a base camp for exploring a region rich in recreational opportunities. From exhilarating whitewater rafting on the nearby Clackamas River to serene hikes into the Bull of the Woods Wilderness, this area caters to a wide range of outdoor passions. Despite its "unkempt appearance" as some might describe it, this often translates to a more authentic, less commercialized feel, allowing campers to truly connect with the natural environment. For locals seeking an accessible yet wild escape into one of Oregon's most iconic national forests, Kingfisher Campground offers an inviting and memorable experience.

Kingfisher Campground is situated in a prime location within the Mt. Hood National Forest, accessible from the general Oregon 97023, USA zip code area, which corresponds closely to Estacada and the surrounding forest lands. More precisely, it lies next to the scenic Hot Springs Fork of the Collawash River, a tributary to the Wild and Scenic Clackamas River.

Accessing the campground typically involves a drive from Estacada, Oregon. From Estacada, travelers head east on Highway 224 for approximately 26 miles, then turn right onto Road 46, continuing for about 5 miles. A subsequent turn onto Road 63, followed by another 4 miles, and finally a turn onto Road 70 for about 2 miles will lead you directly to the campground. This journey, while winding through the forest, is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the stunning natural beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest.

While the campground aims for a rustic feel, its relative proximity to Estacada (approximately 35 miles northwest) means that basic necessities like dining, shopping, groceries, and fuel are available within a reasonable drive. This balance of feeling remote while still having access to amenities makes Kingfisher Campground a practical choice for Oregon locals planning a trip into the wilderness without venturing too far into isolated areas. Visitors should be aware that while the campground can accommodate RVs, those larger than 19 feet may find navigating the tight turns within the campground challenging. Parking surfaces are a mix of paved and gravel.

Kingfisher Campground offers essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable camping experience while maintaining its rustic, natural ambiance within the national forest. As a U.S. Forest Service campground, it provides fundamental amenities rather than extensive hookups.

• Individual Campsites: The campground features 23 single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for dining and food preparation, and a campfire ring with a grill grate, perfect for cooking over an open flame (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Tent and RV Accommodation: Sites are suitable for both tent camping and RVs. However, campers with RVs larger than 19 feet should note that maneuvering within the campground due to tight turns may be difficult.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available at the campground, ensuring campers have access to a crucial resource.
• Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are provided for visitor convenience. While rustic, these are regularly maintained as part of campground operations.
• Firewood for Purchase: Firewood is often available for purchase at the campground, making it easier for campers to enjoy campfires without having to transport wood from outside the forest.
• No Utility Hookups: It's important for visitors to know that no utility hookups (electric, water, or sewer) are available at individual campsites, which is typical for a U.S. Forest Service campground in a more natural setting.
• Camp Host (Generally Not On-Site): According to some sources, a camp host may not always be on-site at Kingfisher Campground. This implies a greater emphasis on self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
• Reservable Sites: Sites at Kingfisher Campground are often reservable up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov, allowing campers to plan their trips. Group reservations for 10+ campsites might have specific booking procedures through Clackamas County Parks or the managing agency.

• Riverside Location: A significant highlight is the campground's serene location directly adjacent to the Hot Springs Fork of the Collawash River. This proximity allows for the soothing sounds of the river, easy access for fishing, and a picturesque setting.
• Access to Wild and Scenic Rivers: The campground is a gateway to the Collawash River and the nearby Wild and Scenic Clackamas River. This makes it an ideal base for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts, with some stretches offering exhilarating Class III-IV rapids.
• Proximity to Bull of the Woods Wilderness: Just south of the campground lies the Bull of the Woods Wilderness, offering numerous trailheads for hikers seeking challenging and rewarding wilderness experiences in a less-trafficked area.
• Mountain Biking Opportunities: Several primitive forest roads in the vicinity are open to mountain biking, providing additional recreational options for cyclists.
• Bagby Hot Springs Nearby: Located approximately 5 miles southwest of the campground, Bagby Hot Springs is a popular tourist attraction for soaking and relaxing in natural hot spring pools. This provides a unique and rejuvenating side trip for campers.
• Rich Natural Setting: Situated within a mixed evergreen forest at an elevation of about 1,250 feet, the campground is home to a variety of birds and wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for observation and photography.
• Cascades Scenic Byway Access: The campground is not far from the Cascades Scenic Byway, which traces the Clackamas River, offering stunning scenic drives and access to other attractions within the Mt. Hood National Forest.
• Fishing: Catch-and-release fishing for trout is generally allowed on the main fork of the Collawash River, providing opportunities for anglers.
• Rustic, Nature-Focused Ambiance: Kingfisher Campground maintains a "true nature feel," appealing to those who prefer a less manicured, more immersive forest camping experience.

For inquiries, reservations, and the most current information regarding Kingfisher Campground (often referred to interchangeably with "Kingfisher Group Campsite" due to its suitability for groups and location), the primary managing entity is the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the Mt. Hood National Forest, and its concessionaire partners like those operating through Recreation.gov.

Address: Oregon 97023, USA (This general zip code points to the region around Estacada and the Mt. Hood National Forest where the campground is located. The more precise location is within the Mt. Hood National Forest along the Hot Springs Fork of the Collawash River.)

Phone: For campground inquiries, including Kingfisher Campground, the general number for the Clackamas River Ranger District of the Mt. Hood National Forest is typically the best point of contact. This number is often listed as: (503) 630-5721 or (503) 668-1700 (Mt. Hood National Forest Headquarters). For group reservations (10+ campsites) specifically related to Clackamas County Parks, which sometimes manage aspects of recreation in the broader area, a number like (503) 742-4414 might be relevant, but for this specific USFS campground, the Forest Service or Recreation.gov is primary.

For reservations, the most reliable method is through the official Recreation.gov website. You can search for "Kingfisher Campground, Mt. Hood National Forest" on their platform to check availability, make reservations, and view detailed site information. Additionally, the official Mt. Hood National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/mthood) provides valuable information on current conditions, alerts, and regulations for the area.

Kingfisher Campground is an excellent and highly suitable destination for Oregon locals, particularly those from the Portland metropolitan area and surrounding communities, seeking an authentic and adventurous outdoor escape. Its location within the majestic Mt. Hood National Forest offers a relatively accessible journey for a weekend trip or extended stay, providing a direct gateway to the kind of rugged, wild beauty that defines Oregon.

What makes Kingfisher particularly appealing for locals is its focus on river-based recreation and wilderness access. For Oregonians who love whitewater rafting, kayaking, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of a flowing river, the proximity to the Collawash and Clackamas Rivers is a major draw. The opportunity to hike into the Bull of the Woods Wilderness or explore nearby forest roads on a mountain bike offers endless adventure for all skill levels. Furthermore, the added allure of Bagby Hot Springs nearby provides a unique and relaxing side trip, allowing campers to soothe tired muscles after a day of exploration.

While Kingfisher Campground embraces a more rustic approach with basic amenities and no hookups, this is precisely what many local outdoor enthusiasts seek: a true immersion in nature, away from the crowds and conveniences of urban life. It fosters self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the environment. For families and groups, its suitability lies in providing a collective basecamp for shared adventures and creating lasting memories amidst Oregon's stunning natural landscapes, making it a cherished choice for a genuine Pacific Northwest camping experience.

Kingfisher Group Campsite

Oregon 97023, USA