Bonney Crossing Campground

Bonney Crossing Campground, nestled within the picturesque Mt. Hood National Forest in Oregon, offers a tranquil and relatively primitive camping experience. As part of the Campgrounds & RV Parks category, it provides essential facilities for campers seeking a connection with nature, particularly those interested in activities like fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. This campground is especially appealing to individuals and families looking for a quiet escape at the foot of the Badger Creek Wilderness.

The environment surrounding Bonney Crossing Campground is one of its most significant assets. It is strategically located along the beautiful Badger Creek, providing the soothing sounds of flowing water as a constant backdrop. The campground serves as one of the key portals to the Badger Creek Wilderness, an expansive area characterized by its diverse ecosystems and old-growth trees. The immediate surroundings of the campground feature a transition from drier ponderosa pine and oak woodlands at lower elevations to more moist mixed conifer forests as one ascends into the wilderness. This ecological variety creates a rich habitat for wildlife and offers varied scenic beauty. The elevation of the campground itself is approximately 2,200 feet, providing a comfortable climate during the warmer months. Being at the eastern flank of the Mt. Hood National Forest, the area offers impressive mountain views and a distinct transition from the dense, wet forests of the western Cascades to the drier, sage-brushy landscapes of Eastern Oregon. This unique geographical position contributes to a truly diverse outdoor experience.

In terms of services, Bonney Crossing Campground embraces a rustic approach, meaning campers should come prepared for a largely self-sufficient stay. The campground does not offer modern amenities such as electricity, water, or sewer hookups. Potable water is explicitly noted as not being available, so campers must bring their own supply for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. For restrooms, a vault toilet is provided. While basic, these facilities are functional for the type of primitive camping offered. There is no dump station on-site, which is an important consideration for RV users. Despite the lack of extensive amenities, the campground is managed to be clean and functional, with an operating entity (Alaska Recreational Management) overseeing its maintenance. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. This adds to its appeal for spontaneous trips but also requires flexibility, especially during peak seasons when finding an available site might be challenging. While vehicles are accommodated, there is a maximum vehicle length restriction of 16 feet mentioned for wilderness access, indicating that larger RVs or trailers may find access challenging, though general reports suggest it can accommodate small RVs or trailers.

The features of Bonney Crossing Campground are tailored to outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate a less developed setting. It comprises a small number of sites, typically around 8, including both single and double units. Each campsite generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for traditional campfire cooking and gathering (subject to seasonal burn bans). A significant feature is its direct access to the popular and scenic Badger Creek Trail (#479), which extends over 12 miles upstream into the Badger Creek Wilderness, eventually reaching Badger Lake. This makes the campground an ideal base for:

• Hiking: Day hikes or extended backpacking trips into the Badger Creek Wilderness are popular activities. Wilderness restrictions apply, and free, self-issued wilderness permits are required from May 15 to October 15 if provided at a portal. All mechanized vehicles, including mountain bikes and game carts, are prohibited within the wilderness area.
• Fishing: Badger Creek is known for fishing opportunities, appealing to anglers.
• Horseback Riding: The trail system is also popular among equestrians, making it a good spot for horse camping.

The quiet atmosphere, especially with the sound of Badger Creek flowing nearby, is a frequently lauded feature by visitors. The campground is also generally dog-friendly, with pets expected to be leashed. The relatively secluded nature of the campground, positioned between the forested and dryer parts of the Mt. Hood National Forest, provides a unique ecological experience.

Promotional information for Bonney Crossing Campground often highlights its accessibility as a quiet, rustic getaway. Fees for camping are typically $16 per night for a single unit, with an additional $8 for an extra vehicle. Day use is available for $10 per vehicle. Discounts on camping fees are offered for holders of Interagency Senior Passes or Interagency Access Passes (50% off single site camping). For day use, the $30 Annual Northwest Forest Pass is accepted in lieu of payment. The campground is promoted as a place for those who enjoy the simple pleasures of nature, offering a peaceful environment away from more crowded recreational areas. Its location as a "portal" to the Badger Creek Wilderness is a key promotional point, attracting hikers and equestrians. The availability of first-come, first-served sites is also a selling point for those who prefer spontaneity in their travel plans. Alerts regarding road conditions or specific closures (e.g., temporary delays for hazard tree work) are usually communicated by the Forest Service to ensure visitor safety and preparedness. The campground's charm lies in its untouched feel and the ample opportunities it provides for immersion in the natural beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest.