Meditation Point – Walk-in or boat in Campground open if you can access it – Opens May 28
Timothy Lake is a man-made lake located about 75 miles east of Portland, Oregon in the Mount Hood National Forest. Timothy Lake was created by Portland General Electric in 1956 when a dam was constructed at the southwest shore to regulate the flow of water feeding the Oak Grove fork of the Clackamas River. Today, Timothy Lake is better known for its many summertime recreational uses including swimming, fishing, camping, mountain biking, boating, hiking and more.
When to Visit Timothy Lake
Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet and nestled in the Mount Hood National Forest, Timothy Lake is best when visited during the warmer summer months typically in July and August. In the winter all the campgrounds around the lake close and it is common to run into snow making it difficult to get around. Winter snow parking passes are honored for those on the more adventurous side and activities included snowshoeing, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. For those visitors looking to do some camping at Timothy Lake note that most campgrounds are open around mid-May and close in mid to late September.
How to get to Timothy Lake
There is really only one main paved road into and out of the area however for those not afraid of dirt roads you will find several different access points. The main route to the lake is to take Highway 26 from Government camp and after Clear Lake take the Skyline Road exit. Skyline road is paved however is a long and windy road that takes about 15 minutes to navigate after you leave HWY 26. The road is easily large enough for RVs and trailers.
Map of Timothy Lake
Camping at Timothy Lake
Camping is by far the most popular summertime activity at Timothy Lake and with stunning views of Mount Hood as well as over 10 campgrounds to choose from it is no surprise. The camping here is considered by some to be the best in all of Oregon. The campgrounds can accommodate almost any type of camper ranging from horse camping, car camping and hike in only camping.
Timothy Lake and many other campgrounds in Oregon used to operate under the guides of first come, first served but things have changed. Now if you are planning on camping at Timothy Lake, especially on the busy weekends, you will be best suited to make reservations. When reserving a campsite for this popular area you can expect sites to fill up nearly a year ahead of time so planning out your trip is a good idea. In the months of July and August, campers can find out that most campgrounds lack vacancy even during the middle of the week.
Below we have put together a list of all the campgrounds around Timothy Lake.
Weather Conditions
Timothy Lake is located at a relatively high elevation of 3,200 feet. This means that during the winter months the ground is usually covered in snow and in the summer the days are warm and nights are chilly. If you visit the lake early in the spring you may see some patches of snow on the ground and the water will surely be too cold to swim in. During the dog days of summer swimming at Timothy Lake is perfect. No matter when you visit Timothy Lake be sure to bring warm clothing for the cold nights.
Here is a graphic of current weather conditions at Timothy Lake
The below image is a view of a nearby State of Oregon webcam located near the Highway 26 turnoff about 10 miles from Timothy Lake. Please note the altitude at this camera is roughly 800 feet higher than the elevation down at the lake. Even so, it can still give you a decent idea if there is snow on the ground, is it sunny at the lake, etc.
Gone Creek Campground
Lakeside Camping
Number of Campsites: 50
Gone Creek Campground is one of the more popular campgrounds on Timothy Lake and is located right on the lake shore with plenty of waterfront campsites. It has two loops and tends to fill up very quickly during the summer months. There is easy access to the Timothy Lake Loop trail, a day use beach area and a boat launch. Learn More…
Hoodview Campground
Lakeside Camping
Number of Campsites: 43
Hoodview Campground is another very popular campground and as the name states it comes with excellent views of Mt. Hood accompanied by lake front camping and beach access. The campground is in a loop format and also has a boat launch and day use area with excellent swimming and boating areas. Learn More…
Oak Fork Campground
Lakeside Camping
Number of Campsites: 47
Oak Fork Campground is one of the first that you will arive to when driving to Timothy Lake from Highway 26. A recent renoovation in 2017 added 7 cabins to the campground and improved upon the existing campsites. Be sure to make reservations as this a popular one!Learn More…
Pine Point campground is located on the south shore of Timothy Lake next to the dam and was recently given a facelift with new paving and campground amenities. You will typically find more RV’s and trailers in this campground and it also has beach front water access, picnic tables and a boat launch. Learn More…
The Cove Campground
Lakeside Hike In Camping
Number of Campsites: 10
The Cove campground is a hike in only area that is located between Gone Creek and Hoodview campgrounds on the lake shore. It only has 10 campsites and is a little more private that the other campgrounds on the lake. The Timothy Lake trail goes right through the campground so expect to see hikers and bikers throughout the day. Learn More…
North Arm Campground
Lakeside Camping
Number of Campsites: 8
The North Arm campground at Timothy Lake is a smaller, more secluded campground nestled on the North shore of the lake. The campground lacks views of Mt. Hood but is a quieter option that still has beach access. Most waterfront sites fill up fast so be sure to make a reservation. Learn More…
Meditation Point Campground
Lakeside Hike in Camping
Number of Campsites: 5
Meditation Point Campground is located on the NW side of Timothy Lake and is a hike in only campground. The hike is roughly a mile or so and is really not difficult but it should be noted that you would want a backpack for this. The campground is extremely secluded and a few sites are right on the water. There is not much of a beach here but you cannot beat the privacy. Learn More…
Little Crater Lake
No swimming, about a mile from Timothy Lake
Number of Campsites: 16
Little Crater Lake campground is located about a mile from Timothy Lake and is a good campground alternative if all other areas on Timothy Lake are full. There is NO SWIMMING at Little Crater Lake though the water is a sight to see. Learn More…
Clackamas Lake Campground
No swimming, about a mile from Timothy Lake
Number of Campsites: 46
Similar to Little Crater Lake, Clackamas Lake is not ideal for swimming but is just a mile or so from Timothy Lake. It is a great option if Timothy Lake is full and Clackamas Lake is a unique site in itself. Learn More…
Dispersed camping
Timothy Lake has 40 dispersed/primitive campsite scattered around the lake. These are first-come, first-served sites with zero services and no fees. These campsites are hard to find but are designated with markers. Think of it as camping in the woods. The road to each site will be different and may not accommodate all vehicles. Here is a map with more information on dispersed camping at Timothy Lake.
Things to do at Timothy Lake
There are plenty of things to do at Timothy Lake during the summertime including hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, biking and lounging in the sun on the beach.
Hiking and Biking around Timothy Lake
There is a great trail that runs around the perimeter of the lake and is open to both hiking and biking and is 13 miles in distance. The west side of the lake is a great area to explore as there are no drive in campgrounds and you can find yourself your own little beach with little effort. For more information on the Timothy Lake Trail check out this P0rtland Hikers post.
Boating on Timothy Lake
There quite a few boat ramps (4) at Timothy Lake making it very easy to launch and be on the water in no time. Ramps are typically found in the campgrounds near the day use areas and there is a parking fee to leave your trailer or care. It is important to note, though, that there is a strictly enforced 10mph speed limit on the ENTIRE lake. It is for this reason that Timothy Lake is more popular with non-motorized boats though you will find motorboats on the lake. Keep in mind that due to its popularity the law is strictly enforced and you will want to make sure you have life vests even on small inflatable rafts.
Swimming in Timothy Lake
Timothy Lake is an amazing place for summertime swimming that is hard to beat anywhere else nearby. On a warm July or August day, the water is perfect and the semi-rocky beaches are great for laying out on. Some of the best swimming in the lake can be found near the day-use areas of Gone Creek Campground and Hoodview Campground and if the weather cooperates you will get excellent views of Mt. Hood. Keep in mind that the lake is man-made so you will find stumps and other odd hazards just under the surface of the water.
Timothy Lake is currently only accessible from the east (Hwy 26) due to the 2020 wildfires. FIRE RESTRICTIONS are in effect on the Mt. Open fires and charcoal grills are PROHIBITED in all areas.
This site can be reserved by calling Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639 or TDD 877-833-6777) or on-line at www.recreation.gov. Fees: Camping: $24/night for single site.
There are nearly 40 designated dispersed campsites around the west, north and east sides of Timothy Lake. These first-come, first-served sites can be accessed by foot, bike or boat.
Pine Point Day Use Area is located on the shores of Timothy Lake in the shadow of Oregon's Mt. Hood. It is a beautiful place for fishing, picnicing, swimming, or starting a hike or bike ride on a nearby trail. The area is accessible.
Pets are welcome in Mt.Hood National Forest and around Timothy Lake as long as owners respect the rules. Around the lake, pets are limited to 2 per site, and must be on a leash at all times.
There are a lot of bears in the Timothy Lake are. Every time I set up my trail camera I get a picture of one and I see a ton of sign. Over the years though I have only had one opportunity at one and I blew it. It is tough hunting but there are definitely bears.
Timothy is a BEAUTIFUL lake. The water is clean and crystal clear. The campgrounds usually get full quickly, but we prefer to load the boat and go across the lake, past Meditation Point, where not many are around.
Experience this 13.2-mile loop trail near Government Camp, Oregon. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and fishing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
New reservations are accepted one day to six months in advance for stays that begin within this time period (effective Jan. 14, 2021). New sites come online at 6 a.m. daily.
How to get to Timothy Lake. There is really only one main paved road into and out of the area however for those not afraid of dirt roads you will find several different access points. The main route to the lake is to take Highway 26 from Government camp and after Clear Lake take the Skyline Road exit.
Motorized watercrafts are permitted on Clear Lake, Timothy Lake, and Lake Harriet with a 10 mph speed limit. Watercrafts powered by electric motors are permitted on Laurance Lake, and Rock Creek Reservoir.
Hikers can make a 12.5 mile loop around the lake by going left on the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 for 3.5 miles before rejoining the Timothy Lake Trail #528 at the north end of Timothy Lake.
Timothy Lake is a lake about 50 miles (80 km) southeast of Portland, Oregon, United States. It is in proximity to Clear Lake and an impoundment of the Oak Grove Fork Clackamas River.
It provides access to enjoyable outdoor activities, including fishing and leisurely canoeing on the calm, mountain lake. Recreation Frog Lake covers 10 acres and is open to fishing, swimming, canoeing and non-motorized…
Dogs must be on a leash on the Trillium area ski trails. Passes: Trillium Lake is a concession operated Forest Service day use site that charges a $5.00 Fee from May 15 through Oct.
Exploring the Columbia River Gorge with your favorite little pup has never been easier. Because the Gorge is so dog-friendly, you can experience the most scenic hikes, dine at the finest restaurants, and stay at the most luxurious cabins with your favorite little buddy right beside you.
Bears around here (black bears) aren't a problem. They are hunted every year and are very shy of humans. You want pepper spray in grizzly bear country, but not around here. It's still a good idea to protect your food, though, by hanging it high or using an Ursack.
Timothy Lake is an artificial lake that was formed when Portland General Electric dammed the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River in 1956 for the generation of hydroelectric power.
Some of the most popular bank fishing is near the dam, where there is plentiful deep water and fishing docks. Day-use anglers and campers alike also can launch a boat or fish from the bank in multiple locations.
The lake is small and shallow. The facility is located in the Clackamas Lake Historic District in Mt. Hood National Forest. It provides access to fishing, swimming and leisurely boating, as well as a number of trails and historic points along the way.
If you´re camping at a state park, you don´t need a day-use parking permit. Just display your current state park camping receipt on your dashboard. If you´re not camping and don´t have an annual permit, you need to buy a daily parking permit. Daily parking permits are $5 per day, per vehicle.
In fact, Oregon is one of the easiest states to find free campsites because about 60 percent of the state is made up of public lands. RV park rates can vary depending on location and amenities. Free camping in Oregon is a great way to save money and get away from the crowds.
Catch and release fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open year round unless otherwise noted. Motor Trolling is allowed with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures, per angler. NOTE: Regulations listed below may not reflect fish species actually found in the lake.
Clear Lake is open to fishing from the fourth Saturday in April to October 31. The lake offer good harvest opportunity for stock rainbow trout and kokanee. Chumming is permitted. The lake also supports naturally reproducing populations of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass.
Keep straight here on Highway 35 South for Odell, Parkdale and Mt. Hood. Drive 22.1 miles, and turn right onto Cooper Spur Road. Continue 2.3 miles, and then make a sharp left turn onto Cloud Cap Road.
Bagby Hot Springs is CLOSED and is expected to reopen in 2023. These natural hot springs are located among towering firs adjacent to a secluded tributary of the Clackamas River, 40 miles southeast of Estacada. The springs are accessible by a 1.4 mile trail, offering a unique, rustic experience.
Travelers heading to Mount Hood will ecnounter congestion and snow packed roads along U.S. 26 and Oregon Highway 35. Chains or traction tires are currently required on the mountain.
Trillium Lake is one of the most picturesque locations in the world and what better way to enjoy it then to float over the water in a kayak, canoe, or stand up paddle-board. Mt.Hood Outfitters is NOW OFFERING onsite rentals at both Trillium and Timothy lake by the hour.
Swimming is not allowed (you would quickly freeze to death anyway). To find the lake, drive the Mount Hood Highway (U.S. 26) over the hump at Government Camp and continue toward central Oregon.
Recreation: Boating, swimming and fishing are popular on 63-acre Trillium Lake. A small boat ramp is available within the campground and a larger ramp is available in the nearby day-use area. An accessible fishing pier is also available.
Timothy Lake is currently only accessible from the east (Hwy 26) due to the 2020 wildfires. FIRE RESTRICTIONS are in effect on the Mt. Open fires and charcoal grills are PROHIBITED in all areas.
Waldo Lake is a large natural lake, approximately 31 miles east of Oakridge and 70 miles from the Eugene, Springfield area. Waldo is located at an elevation of 5,414 feet in the Oregon Cascades. To reach Waldo Lake from I-5, travel east on Highway 58 about 60 miles to the junction of Forest road 5897.
This site can be reserved by calling Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639 or TDD 877-833-6777) or on-line at www.recreation.gov. Fees: Camping: $24/night for single site.
Some of the most popular bank fishing is near the dam, where there is plentiful deep water and fishing docks. Day-use anglers and campers alike also can launch a boat or fish from the bank in multiple locations.
How to get to Timothy Lake. There is really only one main paved road into and out of the area however for those not afraid of dirt roads you will find several different access points. The main route to the lake is to take Highway 26 from Government camp and after Clear Lake take the Skyline Road exit.
Experience this 13.2-mile loop trail near Government Camp, Oregon. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4 h 38 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking, camping, and fishing, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Hikers can make a 12.5 mile loop around the lake by going left on the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 for 3.5 miles before rejoining the Timothy Lake Trail #528 at the north end of Timothy Lake.
Catch and release fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is open year round unless otherwise noted. Motor Trolling is allowed with up to 3 hooks, baits, or lures, per angler. NOTE: Regulations listed below may not reflect fish species actually found in the lake.
Clear Lake is open to fishing from the fourth Saturday in April to October 31. The lake offer good harvest opportunity for stock rainbow trout and kokanee. Chumming is permitted. The lake also supports naturally reproducing populations of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass.
There are a lot of bears in the Timothy Lake are. Every time I set up my trail camera I get a picture of one and I see a ton of sign. Over the years though I have only had one opportunity at one and I blew it. It is tough hunting but there are definitely bears.
Timothy Lake is a lake about 50 miles (80 km) southeast of Portland, Oregon, United States. It is in proximity to Clear Lake and an impoundment of the Oak Grove Fork Clackamas River. ...
Fisheries: North Fork Reservoir is stocked regularly with rainbow trout. Wild cutthroat, bull, brown, and brook trout are also in the reservoir but these fish are catch and release only. Only adipose fin-clipped trout may be kept.
Introduction: My name is Greg O'Connell, I am a delightful, colorful, talented, kind, lively, modern, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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