Recreation Rentals of the Pacific Northwest

US Forest Service

Map of Forests

Bureau of Land Management

Oregon and Washington

National Park Service

North Cascades

Clackamas Lake Historic Ranger Cabin - Oregon

Mt. Hood National Forest

History

The Ranger's Cabin was built in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and is located across the road from the old District Ranger’s office – now a two room Visitor Center -on the Clackamas Lake Historic Ranger Station compound. The cabin logs, knotty pine paneling, and large rock fireplace in this historic two story home highlights its "cabin in the woods" charm. Visit the small museum in the Visitor Center and take an interpretive tour of the compound to learn more about how the Forest Service looked before computers!

Description

The 1,380 square foot two-story cabin features a fireplace insert in the living room, a large dining table, a fully equipped kitchen, sun porch, a bathroom with flush toilet, sink and shower, and 3 large bedrooms with new mattresses. The downstairs bedroom has a queen bed; the east upstairs bedroom, a full and twin bed. The west upstairs bedroom has a set of bunk beds and two twins. The refrigerator, range and hot water heater operate on propane. The lights and electrical outlets are powered by a generator. The cabin interior is knotty pine and the exterior is a semi-lunate half round (tongue and grove siding) to resemble logs in the Cascadian style. On-site volunteer caretakers help maintain the site and provide interpretive tours as well as staff the small Visitor Center/Historic Museum. Fire wood and garbage service are provided as well as mattresses, dishes and dish towels. Sheets and blankets, sleeping bags, and bath towels must be supplied by the renter.

The generator that operates the lights and electricity at the cabin is old, finicky and high maintenance. Future plans include installing a timer, but for now, please run the generator only between 6-10 a.m. and between 5-10 p.m. The cabin is also equipped with four propane lanterns that can provide light outside of those hours or if the generator malfunctions during your stay. There is also a stove top percolator coffee pot and old fashioned toaster. There are no cabin rental refunds if the generator breaks down. The refrigerator, stove, and hot water will all still function and lanterns should provide you an old fashioned cabin experience!

Area Attractions & Activities

It is a short distance to Clackamas Lake, and three miles from the large and popular Timothy Lake. Trails for hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking surround the compound or are nearby.

Amenities

• Refrigerator
• Range
• Hot Water
• Generator

No more than four vehicles are allowed to be parked at the cabin. No occupied RVs are allowed at the site.

Pets

Pets are not permitted.

Smoking

No smoking.

Directions

Access begins at junction Hwy 26 and Forest Service Road 42 also known as Skyline Road. Travel south on Road 42 for about 10 miles. The Clackamas Lake Ranger Station compound is along Road 42 just south (beyond) the intersection with Road 57. The Ranger’s Cabin is on the east (left) side of the road across from the Visitor Center.

Additional Information

Maximum cabin capacity is eight people. The septic system cannot handle more people. No trailers or other groups are allowed on the site. Plug-in appliances such as televisions, stereos, VCR/DVD players, radios, computers, hair dryers, etc. are not allowed due to the rustic nature of the generator. Power surges from the generator can ruin electronic equipment.

Renters are responsible for cleaning the cabin before they leave. This includes sweeping and mopping floors, wiping down all counters and dusting furniture, and cleaning sinks and bathroom. Remove all your belongings and food when you leave. Garbage and dirty dishtowels are stored in the garage with the firewood. A cleaning check list is at the cabin.

It is recommended that renters bring sheets and blankets or sleeping bags, pillows, towels, personal hygiene items, flashlights (especially for kids at night), food and drink, insect repellant, jackets, and sunscreen. Fun items could include games, bikes, swimming and boating for Timothy and Clackamas Lake nearby.