Why Is It Called Government Camp?
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A true look at the curious name behind Mt. Hood’s alpine village
If you’re making your way up Mt. Hood via Highway 26, you’ll pass through a small mountain town with a name that sounds more like a military outpost than a ski destination: Government Camp. With its cozy lodges, ski shops, and snow-dusted charm, the name feels out of place. So why is it called that?
Let’s break down the history.
A Name Rooted in 1849
The name “Government Camp” dates back to 1849, when a detachment of the U.S. Army was moving a supply train of government-owned military goods across the Oregon Territory. Their route followed the Barlow Road, the final and most treacherous segment of the Oregon Trail that passed around the south side of Mt. Hood.
As they neared the mountain, severe weather and rough conditions forced the soldiers to abandon their wagons and supplies in a clearing on the southern slope.
The “Government Camp” Landmark
After the incident, travelers and settlers began referring to that area as the “Government Camp,” since that’s where government supplies had been left behind. The label stuck, and by the time more settlers moved into the region, it had become a recognized landmark along the route.
Eventually, a small community grew up in that same location, and the name became permanent.
From Outpost to Outdoor Hub
Over the decades, Government Camp transformed from a trail waypoint to a hub for recreation and alpine living. With its proximity to Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood Meadows, and the historic Barlow Road, it became a central spot for skiers, hikers, and mountain lovers.
Locals often call it “Govy” — a nickname that feels much more fitting for a place full of gear shops, pubs, and powder days than its original title.
Final Word
Government Camp got its name from a forgotten moment in frontier history — when progress meant leaving gear behind in the snow and hoping for better weather. Today, it’s one of Oregon’s most beloved mountain towns, but the name still ties it to the grit and determination of those early crossings.
So yes, it’s a strange name. But like much of Mt. Hood’s history, it’s one worth remembering.