If you’re looking for a serene getaway in the Pacific Northwest, Timothy Lake in Oregon is the perfect spot for you. With miles of scenic trails, abundant fishing, and breathtaking views of Mount Hood, this is the ideal destination for camping enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Timothy Lake has something for everyone.
There are several campgrounds around Timothy Lake, each with its unique charm. From the Hoodview Campground to the Pine Point Campground, you’ll find a variety of camping options to suit your needs. The Hoodview Campground sits on the shores of Timothy Lake, offering barrier-free campsites and restrooms, while Pine Point Campground is perfect for larger groups and families. With standard sites and a large group camp, Pine Point Campground provides endless recreation possibilities.
No matter which campground you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the forest and the lake. You can spend your days hiking, fishing, paddling, mountain biking, or horseback riding while taking in the spectacular views of Mount Hood. With over 200 campsites available, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy all that Timothy Lake has to offer.
Getting to Timothy Lake
Directions and Transportation
Getting to Timothy Lake is easy with a few different options available to you. 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, it 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.
If you’re coming from Sandy, OR, you can travel east on Highway 26 for approximately 40 miles to Skyline Road (Rd 42). Turn right on Skyline Road, travel south 9 miles. Turn right on FS Road 57, west 2 miles, turn right at the Hoodview Campground entrance sign.
Portland General Electric provides access to Timothy Lake through their campgrounds. You can park your vehicle at one of the designated parking areas and then hike, bike, or boat to your campsite.
Parking Information
Parking at Timothy Lake varies depending on where you are camping. If you are staying at one of the campgrounds provided by Portland General Electric, there are designated parking areas available. If you are camping at one of the other campgrounds, parking is typically available near your campsite.
It is important to note that parking is limited at Timothy Lake, so it is recommended that you carpool or arrive early to secure a parking spot. Additionally, some areas may require a parking permit or fee, so be sure to check the specific parking regulations for the area you plan to visit.
Overall, getting to Timothy Lake is relatively easy and there are several options available to you. Whether you’re driving or hiking, be sure to plan ahead and check the specific directions and parking information for the area you plan to visit.
Campgrounds and Accommodations
Campsite Overview
Timothy Lake offers a variety of camping options for all kinds of travelers. The campground has a total of 10 campgrounds, including Hoodview, North Arm, Clackamas Lake, Oak Fork, and Pine Point. Each campsite offers a picnic table, fire ring, and access to vault toilets. Drinking water is available, but it is recommended to bring your own water as a backup.
The campsites are available for tents, trailers, and RVs up to a maximum occupancy of 8 people per site. The campsites are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding forest. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are subject to availability.
RV Camping Details
If you are planning to bring your RV to Timothy Lake, then you will be happy to know that the Hoodview and Pine Point campgrounds offer RV camping. The campsites have electrical hookups and access to restrooms with showers. The campsites are available for RVs up to a maximum length of 35 feet.
Reservation Guidelines
If you prefer to make a reservation, then you can do so online through Recreation.gov. The reservation fee is $10, and the campsites cost between $20 and $30 per night. The campsites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance, and a maximum stay of 14 days is allowed. The cancellation fee is $10, and there is a $10 change fee for any modifications to your reservation. Note that some campsites may have non-refundable fees, so be sure to read the reservation details carefully before making a reservation.
In conclusion, Timothy Lake offers a wide range of camping options for all kinds of travelers. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or something in between, you are sure to find a campsite that meets your needs. With beautiful views, well-maintained campsites, and plenty of recreational activities, Timothy Lake is the perfect destination for your next camping trip.
Recreational Activities
Timothy Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer hiking, swimming, fishing, or boating, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful destination. Here are some of the most popular activities to consider during your visit:
Hiking and Trails
With miles of scenic trails around the lake, hiking is one of the most popular activities at Timothy Lake. The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail passes through the area and offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and mountains. The Timothy Lake Trail is another great option for hikers of all skill levels, offering easy access to the lake and plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area.
Water Activities
Timothy Lake is a popular destination for water activities such as swimming, boating, and paddling. The lake is large enough to accommodate motorized boats, but there are also plenty of opportunities for non-motorized water activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Sailing and windsurfing are also popular on the lake.
Fishing and Wildlife
Timothy Lake is a great destination for fishing enthusiasts, with a variety of fish species available including rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass. The lake and pond fishing opportunities are abundant, and there are several access points to the lake for shore fishing. Wildlife viewing is also popular in the area, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, and other animals in their natural habitat.
Overall, Timothy Lake is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors and experience the natural beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest. Whether you prefer hiking, swimming, fishing, or boating, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful destination.
Amenities and Services
Food and Supplies
When it comes to food and supplies, you’ll find everything you need at Timothy Lake. The Pine Point and North Arm campgrounds both have a camp store where you can purchase basic groceries, snacks, and camping supplies. If you need more substantial supplies, there are several grocery stores and gas stations located within a short drive of the lake.
Facility Features
Timothy Lake offers a range of amenities and services to make your camping experience as comfortable as possible. For example, there are several vault toilets located throughout the campgrounds for your convenience. Additionally, there are several picnic areas scattered around the lake where you can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the beautiful scenery.
If you’re interested in boating, there is a boat launch located near the Pine Point Campground. The launch is open to motorized boats, as well as kayaks and canoes. There are also several hiking trails located around the lake for those who prefer to explore on foot.
Overall, Timothy Lake has everything you need to enjoy a comfortable and relaxing camping experience. Whether you’re looking for basic supplies, a place to picnic, or a spot to launch your boat, you’ll find it all at Timothy Lake.
Rules and Safety
Regulations and Compliance
When camping at Timothy Lake, it is important to follow the rules and regulations set by the campground to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. The campground has occupancy limits, and you must register and pay fees before setting up camp. You should also be aware of any Forest Service closure orders that may be in effect.
Generators are allowed in some areas of the campground, but there are restrictions on their use. Effective 2024, generator use is allowed only from 8 am to 8 pm, and it is prohibited to operate generators outside of these hours. If you plan to use a generator, make sure to bring enough fuel and keep it in a safe location away from flammable materials.
Environmental Awareness
As you enjoy the beauty of Timothy Lake, it is important to be environmentally aware and minimize your impact on the natural surroundings. To help preserve the area for future generations, please follow these guidelines:
- Use the provided RV water tanks instead of dumping wastewater on the ground.
- Do not leave trash or food out, as it can attract wildlife and disrupt the ecosystem.
- Be mindful of campfire safety and follow any restrictions on open flames. Wildfires can be devastating to the forest and surrounding areas.
- Respect wildlife and their habitats. Do not feed or approach them, and keep a safe distance at all times.
By following these rules and being environmentally conscious, you can help preserve the beauty of Timothy Lake and ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for everyone.
