About Takhlakh Lake Campground
Overview Takhlakh Lake Campground sits at an elevation of 4,400 feet in a well-shaded location next to its namesake lake. The campground sits at the base of Mt. Adams, providing visitors with incredible views in every direction. The campground has a short season, but it's a particularly popular destination for hikers exploring the trails around Mt. Adams. Recreation The campsite offers access to the Takhlakh Loop, an accessible trail suitable for all ages and skill levels and the Takhlakh Meadow Trail. The lake provides an ideal spot for anglers to cast for rainbow trout and for boaters looking to kayak or canoe. The lake is reserved for non-motorized use only. Facilities The campground consists of 54 back-in sites with unpaved parking spurs that vary in length from 15 to 40 feet. Some sites are tent only. No drinking water is provided at this campground, but other amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables and campfire rings. Takhlakh Lake Campground offers accessible sites and activities and amenities that support current accessibility standards. Natural Features Takhlakh Lake is part of the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District, which is located in the northernmost portion of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This location offers breathtaking views of not only Mt. Adams, but also Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Saint Helens. Contact Info This location has limited staffing. Please call (360) 686-3008 for general information. Nearby Attractions Near the campground, hikers can access trailheads for the 2,663-mile Pacific Crest Trail. This leads to the Highline Trail, which attracts experienced hikers and backpackers for its views of Mt. Rainier, Mount St. Helens and Oregon's Mt. Hood. Charges & Cancellations Cancellations Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A visitor who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee i
How to Get There
From I-5: Take exit 68 and head east on US Highway 12 to Randle, Washington. Turn south onto State Highway 131 and travel 1 mile, stay left at the Y and continue southeast on Forest Road 23 for 30 miles to Forest Road 2329. Turn left onto Forest Road 2329 and follow it through the junction with Forest Road 5601. Proceed on Forest Road 2329 for 3/4-mile to the campground. The last 7 miles of Forest Road 23 are gravel surfaced.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Takhlakh Lake Campground
Heading to Takhlakh Lake Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Takhlakh Lake Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Takhlakh Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232861) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Takhlakh Lake Campground?
From I-5: Take exit 68 and head east on US Highway 12 to Randle, Washington. Turn south onto State Highway 131 and travel 1 mile, stay left at the Y and continue southeast on Forest Road 23 for 30 miles to Forest Road 2329. Turn left onto Forest Road 2329 and follow it through the junction with Forest Road 5601. Proceed on Forest Road 2329 for 3/4-mile to the campground. The last 7 miles of Forest…
How do I contact Takhlakh Lake Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-338-7869.
References & Official Resources
