Kayakers and anglers can launch directly from most sites at Kinnikinnick Campground, where Laurance Lake's 63 acres provide space for paddling and fishing within Mt. Hood National Forest. The campground sits along the lake's shoreline with most of the 20 sites offering water views or direct lake access. A dam creates the lake, which some visitors note affects the natural appearance of the setting.
The open terrain means limited privacy between neighboring sites, and campers report significant foot traffic through waterfront areas during busy periods. Lauren C. describes summer weekends as "pandemonium" with "at least 50 cars waiting to get in due to it being at capacity." Day-use visitors frequently walk through campsites to reach the water, particularly around popular sites near the boat launch.
RVs up to 26 feet can access the campground, though only a few sites accommodate larger rigs. The approach road requires attention from lower-clearance vehicles due to rough sections. Walk-in sites provide more forested settings and privacy compared to the lakeside spots. Vault toilets serve the campground, and campers must bring their own water as none is available on-site.
Fishing opportunities exist throughout the lake, and the LL Wiggle trail crosses the dam for hiking access. Views of Mt. Hood appear from the north side of the lake. The campground operates on a reservation system, which reviewers recommend using well in advance for summer visits. Ashley B. notes "there is also no water, so you need to bring your own."
Weekday visits typically offer a quieter experience, while summer weekends draw heavy crowds from Portland and Hood River areas.
Description
Overview
Kinnikinnick Campground is a hidden gem, situated north of Mt. Hood, just outside of Parkdale, Oregon. Sitting on Laurence Lake, Kinnikinnick Campground offers beautifully landscaped campsites with views of Laurence Lake and the wide-open hills that surround the lake.
Recreation
Laurence Lake allows all non-motorized water sports. There are no rental facilities on site.
Facilities
The campground features well-groomed campsites, including campfire pits and picnic tables. The location offers vault toilets. There is a boat ramp nearby.
Natural Features
Surrounded by Laurence Lake, Kinnikinnick Campground is a natural attraction all its own. With incredible lake views, regular sightings of bald eagles and rock and hill formations that surround this site, it is the perfect place to go "off the grid" and enjoy the outdoors.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (541) 806-0785.
Nearby Attractions
Laurance Lake is great for waterplay and fishing. Kinnickinnick Campground is just a 30-minute drive to nearby ski resorts, where summer hiking and outdoor adventures await.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundKinnikinnick (laurance Lake) Campground is located in Oregon
Directions
From I-84 in Hood River - South on highway 35 to Parkdale. Follow signs to Laurance Lake.
Coordinates
45.4574806 N
121.6634306 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 1 hr 35 min from Portland, OR
- 2 hrs 14 min from Longview, WA
- 2 hrs 21 min from Salem, OR
- 2 hrs 40 min from Albany, OR





























