Sunset Falls Campground is located adjacent to the East Fork of the Lewis river and is divided into two sections. The main camping area, to the right when you drive in, has normal drive up car camping sites. These sites are along the river however it is a steep hill to actually get down to the river. The road leading the the campground is paved and there is access to both very private and non-private campsites. There is a nice variety of Cedars, Maples, Alders and Doug Firs in the area which prevent much sun from actually getting through, thus making the campground relatively shady. If you veer left when you enter the campground you will find a nice grouping of walk-in only campsites that are very private.
Due to its proximity to Vancouver and Portland Sunset Falls Campground can fill up quickly on a busy weekend so be sure to arrive early if you want to get a spot.
I have been to Sunset Falls campground several times and it is a great spot to getaway for the weekend. Definitely worth a visit.
Sunset Falls is nice because it is so close to town if you are coming from Vancouver or Portland. It makes it a nice and easy trip if you just want to go camping for the weekend.
You can now reserve a campsite here on recreation.gov
Here is the direct reservation link
The falls in the photo above is actually not Sunset Falls. It is a photo of Lower Falls on the Lewis River. Lower Falls can be accessed via Forest Road 90. It is the primary attraction for Lower Falls Recreation Area (Campground). Sunset Falls CG is a nice campground for exploring the Silver Star Scenic Area’s many trails. The hike up to Silver Star Mountain via Ed’s Trail is the most popular on the north end, and is considered one of the best hikes in the entire SW Washington and NW Oregon for it’s impressive display of wildflowers and grand sweeping views of the area, as well as Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Hood, and sometimes even Mt. Jefferson.
Thanks for the correction Jayson! I have changed out the image and added the photos you uploaded. I appreciate the contribution!
Their site: http://www.recreation.gov/camping/sunset-falls-campground/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&parkId=110542
says “Know Before You Go….NO WATER AVAILABLE”
Know before you book/go: Sites 12 and 13 are VERY close together with no trees or coverage in between. These would be great sites for two sets of friends, but would not be fun if someone you didn’t know pulled in next to you. Also, there was no firewood for sale on site.
Good information, Patti. Thanks for sharing this!