THOR and the National Forest Foundation are bringing you one step closer to the “hidden gems” of the National Forest system. Get tips for RVing at these national forest destinations and why they are some of the RV community’s best-kept secrets.
Located twenty miles east of Portland, Oregon, and the northern Willamette River Valley, the Mt. Hood National Forest encompasses 1,067,043 acres. The iconic Mt. Hood, the tallest mountain in Oregon, dominates the landscape of this National Forest. From the summit at 11,249 feet, the forest slopes down in all directions into varied and unique landscapes. The northern side of the mountain borders the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area, the western slopes are thick with coniferous trees and lush undergrowth, and the eastern side of the mountain is noticeably drier as you descend into central Oregon.
With its 1 million acres, the Forest hosts many recreational activities for all—including camping, hiking, skiing and snowshoeing, sledding, hunting, boating and fishing, and more—in its 100+ developed campgrounds, 5 ski areas, and 800+ miles of recreational trails.
The Mt. Hood National Scenic Byway follows an exhilarating route around the south side of Mt. Hood, offering views of striking geologic diversity. Experience the formidable last leg of the Oregon Trail on Barlow Road. Add on the Historic Columbia River Highway to close the loop around Mt. Hood with spectacular vistas and intimate encounters with numerous waterfalls.
West Cascades National Scenic Byway is a 220-mile drive extending from Estacada to Westfir, Oregon. This byway offers some of the best up-close views of thundering waterfalls, ancient forests, rushing whitewater, and cool, placid lakes.
Other popular attractions in the area include:
The name Wy’east is often described as the Native American name for Mt. Hood, although there is little evidence to understand exactly which tribe or group of tribes used this term. The current name, Mt. Hood, was coined by British explorers in 1792 who named the mountain after Samuel Hood, an Admiral in the Royal Navy.
Historically, the communities near Mt. Hood National Forest have been heavily dependent on the natural resources as well as job opportunities offered by the forest. From 1933 to 1944 the CCC built campgrounds, picnic shelters, and trails, as well as Timberline Lodge with the help of the WPA. Today you can still visit many of these historic CCC projects.
Learn more about top destinations and tips for camping at National Forests from fellow RVers and the National Forest Foundation.
In 2020, THOR and the National Forest Foundation entered a partnership that will plant at least 500,000 trees on National Forest lands. Join us by supporting our National Forests and help improve the health of important public lands for future generations.
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