Badger Lake Campground

Lakeside camping is easy to come by in the Mount Hood National Forest, but with beautiful mountain views over an alpine lake come the crowds to appreciate it. Less so with dispersed campsites like Badger Lake, whose difficult access tends to repel the more casual camper. With that in mind, those who brave the difficult access and minimalist amenities will find to their delight a quiet lake with a small selection of campsites ripe for those hoping to secret away for a weekend.

Amenities are limited. There are four campsites and one vault toilet. Being a dispersed campground, no reservations are accepted and sites are tent only. The campsites are not right on the lake, but they are a short walk away. Past visitors have created dispersed campsites that are all around the lake, including about five great sites, some are big enough for several tents. Please consider recommendations to camp beyond 200 feet from fresh water.

This is a fantastic lake! It is warm enough for swimming, fishing, and paddling. Area wildlife includes otters and deer that are comfortable enough with people to pass through camp with little fear. Badger Lake, perhaps in spite of its name, is really a resevoir. By August, and the lake is drained for farmer irrigation. As such, this is a great lake location during the spring through July.

The road to Badger Lake is very rough, and high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. For reference, a Subaru Outback has no problems on the drive.