City: Welches, OR

Category: Parks & Recreation

Telephone: (877) 444-6777 (campsite reser

Address: 65000 East US 26

Insider Pick:

Description: You’ll find plenty of gorgeous spots in the Mount Hood Wilderness only 60 miles east of Portland. To get there, take I-205 to Southeast Powell Boulevard, which morphs into US 26, the trail up the hill to all the fun. Backpackers can take one of many trails leading from Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Monument with huge beams and logs for posts and lintels. This justly famous hotel, built in 1937, offers rustic luxury—if such a thing is possible—in its rooms, but campers might be more interested in the wonderful restaurant.For those who want to stay down in the trees, there are plenty of campsites and picnic areas. With 15 sites on the Salmon River Road, Green Canyon is a charming stop close to a store for stocking up on all that gooey stuff that goes into s’mores. To get there, take US 26 to Zigzag (70220 US 26; 503-622-3191) then drive 4 miles northeast on the Salmon River Road (2618) to the campground. One of the prettiest campsites in this wilderness area is Tollgate, on the banks of the Zigzag River 1 mile east of the tiny town of Rhododendron. Another good campground, Camp Creek, with 30 sites, lies on Camp Creek Road a short distance beyond the Tollgate turnoff.One of the largest and most popular campsites in the Mount Hood National Forest is Timothy Lake, acclaimed as one of the 10 best camping spots in the West by Sunset magazine. This scenic lake with its postcard view of Mount Hood is easily accessible from Portland. Take US 26 beyond the junction with SR 35 and turn south on Skyline Road and east on FR 57, both of which are marked with signs to Timothy Lake. Once at this huge lake, which is ringed by fir, hemlock, and pine trees, pick a spot at one of its three main campsites, or simply hike or canoe to a more secluded camp. To make a reservation at Oak Fork, Gone Creek, or Hoodview, call (877) 444-6777, the number for ReserveAmerica. For more information on camping in the Mount Hood Recreational Area, call the Zigzag Ranger District at the number above or write to them at 70220 East SR 26, Zigzag, Oregon 97049. A day-use pass will set you back $5; an annual pass is $30.