Tilly Jane Campground

For Oregonians with a spirit of adventure and a deep appreciation for history and pristine mountain wilderness, Tilly Jane Campground on the slopes of Mt. Hood offers a truly unique and memorable experience. Far removed from the typical amenities of developed campgrounds, Tilly Jane provides a rugged, authentic connection to nature and a glimpse into the past. It’s a destination for those who don't mind a dirt road journey and are eager to embrace a more primitive camping style, all while being surrounded by the breathtaking grandeur of Oregon's tallest peak. This historic site, with its rustic charm and access to some of the region's best hiking, is a hidden gem for local outdoor enthusiasts.

Tilly Jane Campground is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a journey into Mt. Hood's storied past and a gateway to serious wilderness exploration. As one reviewer aptly puts it, it's a "very cool campground," despite the notable fact that the "road leading up to the campground is in good shape, although be advised it is a dirt road the whole almost 9 miles." This gravel access emphasizes its rustic character and deters those seeking easily accessible, paved-road camping. The campground itself is undergoing some remodeling by rangers, indicating ongoing care for this historic area. It caters primarily to "walk in sites and a few spots to park a truck/SUV/car, but not many spaces to park an RV or trailer," making it ideal for tent campers and those with smaller vehicles ready for a true mountain experience.

A significant highlight is the surrounding historical infrastructure. "There are multiple gates that lead up to tilly jane campground," hinting at the area's regulated and preserved nature. Beyond the immediate campground, visitors can discover an "old ranger building, garage, ampitheater, and other buildings farther along the trail," forming part of the Cloud Cap – Tilly Jane Historic District. This rich history, including structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1920s and 30s, adds immense value to a stay. While services are primitive, a "bathroom here" (a vaulted pit toilet) is available, and a "small creek if you were in need of water" provides a natural source, though treatment is essential. It's important to note the presence of "stinging bugs...pretty bad here in the summer months," a common consideration for high-country camping. The need for a "camp fee as well as a day use fee or you must have a northwest forrest pass displayed on your rearview mirror" underscores its managed status. Tilly Jane truly offers a secluded and historically rich camping experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Tilly Jane Campground is situated on Cloud Cap Rd, Mt Hood, OR 97041, USA. This places it on the northeastern flank of Mt. Hood, within the Mt. Hood National Forest. The Cloud Cap Road (Forest Road 3512) is the primary access route to the campground and the historic Cloud Cap Inn. Its location at a high elevation, typically around 5,700 feet, provides stunning views and a cooler climate, especially during the summer months. The drive from major population centers like Portland involves navigating scenic highways and then transitioning to the forest service road.

Accessibility to Tilly Jane Campground is a key consideration. As highlighted in reviews, "the road leading up to the campground is in good shape, although be advised it is a dirt road the whole almost 9 miles." This roughly 9-mile stretch of unpaved Cloud Cap Road requires careful driving, but typically "any vehicle" can make the trip in dry conditions, meaning 4WD is not necessarily required, but a higher clearance vehicle might be more comfortable. However, it's crucial to note that "multiple gates that lead up to tilly jane campground" mean seasonal closures. The road is typically closed due to snow from late October until early July, making summer and early fall the primary seasons for vehicle access. During winter months, access becomes strictly by skis or snowshoes, involving a significant trek from the Tilly Jane Sno-Park (often a 2.7-mile hike with 1,900 feet of elevation gain or a 9-mile gently sloping road, depending on the route). For those camping, there are "many walk in sites and a few spots to park a truck/SUV/car, but not many spaces to park an RV or trailer," indicating that it's best suited for tent campers or smaller rigs. The secluded nature of the site is evidenced by a reviewer seeing "only one other vehicle when I visited on 8/20/18," emphasizing its "away from it all" feel. This unique accessibility ensures that Tilly Jane remains a rustic and less crowded destination, appealing to those seeking true mountain solitude.

As a historic and primitive campground, Tilly Jane offers basic services, emphasizing self-sufficiency and a direct connection with nature.

Services Offered:

• Vault Toilet: A pit toilet is available, described as a "vaulted pit toilet," providing a basic sanitation option. It is even noted that one of the Guard Station cabins has an attached pit toilet for luxury.
• No Running Water: Campers must be prepared for no potable water. Water can be obtained from the "small creek" that runs by the campground, but it "should be treated" before consumption.
• Campfire Rings: Each campsite likely includes a campfire ring, allowing for campfires (subject to fire restrictions, which should always be checked).
• Picnic Tables: While not explicitly stated for every campsite, it's typical for developed campsites to have picnic tables.
• Walk-in Campsites: The campground primarily features "many walk in sites," catering to tent campers who prefer a more secluded setup.
• Limited Vehicle Parking: "A few spots to park a truck/SUV/car" are available, but it's not suitable for many RVs or trailers.
• Camp Fees: There is a "camp fee as well as a day use fee" or a required "Northwest Forest Pass displayed on your rearview mirror." Pricing is noted as $20/night for a single unit, with an extra vehicle fee of $10/night.
• Historic Structures Nearby: While not a service, the presence of the historic A-Frame cabin, Guard Station, and Amphitheater are key features that can be explored. (Note: A-Frame and Guard Station are reservable cabins, not part of the standard campground).

Tilly Jane Campground's true allure lies in its unique features and highlights, blending historical significance with rugged natural beauty.

Features / Highlights:

• Historic District Setting: Part of the Cloud Cap – Tilly Jane Historic District, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century recreational development on Mt. Hood.
• Proximity to Historic Cabins: A short hike leads to the Tilly Jane A-Frame and Guard Station cabins, and the Cloud Cap Campground and Inn, all with rich histories.
• Direct Trailhead Access: Serves as a trailhead for popular and challenging hikes, including the Tilly Jane/Cooper Spur Trail, offering stunning views and access to the Mt. Hood Wilderness.
• Secluded & Quiet Atmosphere: Due to the dirt road access and focus on primitive camping, it remains less crowded than more developed sites, fostering a sense of peace and solitude.
• Natural Water Source: The presence of a "small creek" provides a source for water (requires treatment), a unique feature for primitive camping.
• Amphitheater: A historic amphitheater is located nearby, adding to the unique character and potential for informal gatherings.
• Remodeling in Progress: Rangers are actively working on remodeling the campground, suggesting ongoing improvements.
• Beautiful Forested Environment: Surrounded by the stunning alpine forests on the slopes of Mt. Hood, offering picturesque scenery.
• Wildlife: While not explicitly stated, being in a natural setting, there is potential for wildlife viewing. (However, stinging bugs can be an issue in summer).
• Scenic Drive: The 9-mile dirt road leading to the campground is described as "beautiful," offering scenic views even before arrival.

For information regarding Tilly Jane Campground, permits, and current conditions, it's best to contact the managing authority for the Mt. Hood National Forest, specifically the Hood River Ranger District.

Address: Cloud Cap Rd, Mt Hood, OR 97041, USA (Physical location of the campground)

Contact for Hood River Ranger District (Managing Office):

Phone: (541) 352-6002

Email (for Guard Station/A-Frame inquiries, may be applicable for general info): reservations@tillyjanecabins.org

Website: The official USDA Forest Service page for Tilly Jane Campground & Day Use on the Mt. Hood National Forest website (fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood/recarea/?recid=53310) is the most reliable source for current operating status, fees, and alerts regarding road conditions, especially the seasonal closures of Cloud Cap Road. Reservations for the Tilly Jane A-Frame and Guard Station cabins (which are separate from the campground sites) are typically made through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to check the Forest Service website or call the Ranger District before planning your trip, particularly for road accessibility and fire restrictions.

Tilly Jane Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Oregon locals who are seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and crave an authentic, rugged mountain experience. Firstly, its distinctive character, accessible via a 9-mile dirt road and emphasizing walk-in sites, naturally appeals to those who prioritize solitude and escape from the bustling crowds of more developed areas. For Oregonians familiar with the demands of backcountry travel, this provides a perfect opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the quiet grandeur of Mt. Hood.

Secondly, the campground's rich historical context, with its proximity to the Tilly Jane A-Frame, Guard Station, and Amphitheater—structures built in the early 20th century—offers a unique educational and cultural dimension to a camping trip. Locals interested in the heritage of their state's recreational areas will find this blend of nature and history particularly compelling. It’s a chance to explore a preserved piece of Oregon's past while enjoying its present-day beauty.

Finally, as a direct trailhead to the challenging Cooper Spur and other wilderness trails, Tilly Jane serves as an excellent basecamp for serious hikers and mountaineers. For Oregonians looking to push their limits and explore the higher elevations of Mt. Hood, this campground offers unparalleled access to some of the most rewarding and scenic routes. The requirement of a Northwest Forest Pass or payment of a fee ensures that resources are maintained for the enjoyment of responsible users, aligning with the values of many local outdoor stewards. Tilly Jane Campground is not just a destination; it's an adventure that deeply connects locals with the wild heart of Oregon.

Tilly Jane Campground

Cloud Cap Rd, Mt Hood, OR 97041, USA