McCubbins Gulch Campground

Oregon, a state renowned for its diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to dense forests and volcanic peaks, offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. For those of us who call Oregon home, finding that perfect camping spot often involves balancing natural beauty with access to our favorite activities. While some seek quiet solitude, others crave the thrill of off-highway vehicle (OHV) adventures. For the latter, McCubbins Gulch Campground stands out as a premier destination, providing an exhilarating blend of forested trails and comfortable camping right in the heart of the Mt. Hood National Forest.

McCubbins Gulch Campground is not just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a dedicated hub for OHV enthusiasts, particularly dirt bikers and ATVers. It’s a well-established favorite for families and individuals who enjoy combining their love for camping with the excitement of exploring miles of designated trails. This unique focus sets it apart from many other campgrounds in Oregon, making it a specialized retreat for the motor-sport community.

The campground's reputation for being a "favorite camp / ride spot that's a quick drive away" for local families, with some having visited for "over 10 years now," speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and suitability for repeated visits. It’s a testament to the consistent quality of the experience, combining the ruggedness of off-road adventure with the comforts of a maintained campsite. For Oregonians looking for a dynamic outdoor experience that caters specifically to their passion for OHV riding, McCubbins Gulch Campground truly delivers an unforgettable adventure.

McCubbins Gulch Campground is located at NF-2110, Maupin, OR 97037, USA. This places it within the vast and beautiful Mt. Hood National Forest, a significant natural landmark in Oregon. Maupin, a small town on the Deschutes River, serves as a gateway to this region, known for its recreational opportunities. The address, specifically "NF-2110," indicates its location on a National Forest road, which is common for campgrounds within federal lands.

Accessibility to McCubbins Gulch Campground is considered "a quick drive away" for many locals, particularly those residing in the Portland metropolitan area or central Oregon. The campground is situated about 23 miles west of Maupin on County Road 216, then 2 miles northeast on Forest Road 2110. While within the national forest, the access roads are generally manageable. It's important to note that the campground is located at an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet, within forested terrain. This means that road conditions can be affected by weather, especially during winter months, as the OHV trail system typically closes from December 1 to March 31 to protect winter range for wildlife and due to snow.

Its position at the edge of the national forest and near the Warm Springs Tribal Lands requires visitors to be mindful of boundaries and regulations, emphasizing that tribal land is private land and requires permits for access. Despite its natural setting, the campground is not overly remote, allowing for reasonable travel times from various parts of Oregon, making it a convenient escape for a weekend or weekday adventure.

McCubbins Gulch Campground provides a range of essential services designed to accommodate campers, especially those with OHVs. Based on visitor reviews and common Forest Service campground standards, these services include:

• Campsites: The campground offers individual campsites with a rustic feel. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring, providing basic comforts for cooking and gathering.

• Outhouses (Vault Toilets): Restroom facilities are provided in the form of outhouses, which are noted by long-time visitors as being "regularly maintained," ensuring cleanliness and basic sanitation.

• Direct Trail Access: A key service is the direct access to the McCubbins Gulch OHV designated trail system. This allows campers to ride directly from their campsites onto miles of trails, catering specifically to dirt bike and ATV enthusiasts.

• No Potable Water: It's important for campers to be aware that there is generally "no potable water" available directly at the campsites. Visitors must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, a common expectation for more rustic Forest Service campgrounds.

• No Showers or Hookups: The campground does not offer showers or RV hookups (electric, water, sewer), maintaining its rustic appeal.

• Permitted OHV Use: The area is specifically designed for Class 1 (ATV) and Class 3 (dirt bike) OHVs up to 50 inches wide. Oregon ATV permits and US Forest Service approved spark arrestors are required.

• Day Use Area: Besides camping, there is a day-use staging area available for those only coming to ride the trails.

McCubbins Gulch Campground boasts several features and highlights that make it a distinct and highly favored destination, especially for its target audience:

• Extensive OHV Trail System: The most significant highlight is the direct access to "50 miles of Easiest to Most Difficult Class I and III trails" for dirt bikes and ATVs. This extensive network provides endless opportunities for riding adventures, from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging single-track sections.

• Beautiful Natural Setting: Campers consistently praise the "beautiful creek, views" and "forested terrain." The sites are often "shady" and many are "adjacent to a creek," providing a serene natural backdrop for camping.

• Regularly Maintained Facilities: The positive feedback regarding "outhouses are regularly maintained" is a testament to the care taken to ensure a comfortable experience, even with basic amenities.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Being a "family's favorite camp / ride spot" for over a decade indicates a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all ages, fostering a sense of community among fellow riders and campers.

• Weekdays Offer Tranquility: While weekends can get "really wild" with activity, visiting "Monday thru Thursday" offers a more peaceful experience, allowing campers to choose the ambiance that suits them best.

• Quick Drive from Populated Areas: Its relatively close proximity to major Oregon population centers makes it an ideal spot for a convenient and impactful outdoor escape.

• Opportunity for Views: The campground offers views of the surrounding natural landscape within the Mt. Hood National Forest, contributing to the scenic appeal.

For more information, current conditions, or inquiries about McCubbins Gulch Campground, you can contact the managing forest service office:

Address: NF-2110, Maupin, OR 97037, USA

Phone: (503) 668-1700

Mobile Phone: +1 503-668-1700

It is highly recommended to call the local US Forest Service office (often the Barlow Ranger District for this area) before your visit to inquire about current trail status, fire restrictions, seasonal closures (especially December 1 - March 31), and any required permits for OHV use. This ensures a safe and enjoyable trip, and helps to avoid disappointment from unexpected closures or regulations.

McCubbins Gulch Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, particularly those with a passion for off-highway vehicle riding. Its prime location within the Mt. Hood National Forest, coupled with direct access to an extensive OHV trail system, makes it a unique and highly desirable spot. For families and groups who bond over dirt biking and ATV adventures, this campground provides the perfect blend of recreational thrills and comfortable, rustic camping.

The consistent maintenance of its facilities, even the basic outhouses, reflects a commitment to visitor experience. The ability to choose between a lively weekend or a more serene weekday visit allows for flexibility to suit different preferences. While it is primarily an OHV destination, its beautiful natural setting, complete with a creek and forest views, offers a relaxing environment even for those who aren't riding.

For Oregonians seeking an active, adventurous, and well-regarded camping experience that caters to their love for off-road exploration, McCubbins Gulch Campground is an indispensable local resource. It’s a place where lasting memories are made on the trails and around the campfire, cementing its status as a beloved outdoor hub in our incredible state.

McCubbins Gulch Campground

NF-2110, Maupin, OR 97037, USA