Wedding / Event FAQs:

  • Your contracted hours encompass the entire duration of your access to Camp Colton, including setup and cleanup by you, your caterers, vendors, and guests. To ensure a seamless experience, our event coordinator will assist you in creating a timeline that accommodates all aspects of your special day.

    Please ensure that amplified music concludes by 10 PM in compliance with county noise ordinances. To facilitate a smooth conclusion to your event, Camp Colton staff will announce “Last Call” for the bar 1-hour before your contract ends. This allows ample time for farewells and gathering personal belongings without feeling rushed.

    For Wedding Weekend package clients, Camp Colton staff can arrange an "after-party" exclusively for guests staying in your reserved accommodations. After daytime guests have departed and the gates are secured, our staff will transfer your remaining beverages to the Gazebo on the east side of Camp and start a campfire for you. At this point, overnight guests may continue the celebration with unamplified music (speaker not included) at a low volume, being mindful of others who may have retired for the evening.

  • If you anticipate needing additional time beyond the standard contracted hours for your wedding package, please discuss this with our Sales Manager. Additional hours are available based on availability and can be arranged at an extra charge. Additional hours must be confirmed and paid for at least 30 days in advance to ensure appropriate staffing for your event.

  • Camp Colton does not provide an on-site wedding officiant, allowing couples the flexibility to choose someone who best fits their vision. Our Sanctuary is a non-denominational space, free from religious symbols or imagery, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all ceremonies, traditions, and beliefs. Whether you’re planning a spiritual, secular, or unique personal ceremony, you are welcome here.

  • Set-Up

    Camp Colton staff will prepare the event space according to the floor plan and selections made with your coordinator prior to your arrival. Any items or decorations not provided by Camp Colton (such as centerpieces, florals, arbors, etc.) must be set up by your team.

    Clean-Up

    You are responsible for removing all personal items and decorations you have set up on the grounds by the end of your contracted time. Items left behind will be considered abandoned and will be disposed of at the discretion of our staff. Excessive trash, disposal of left items, or failure to complete clean-up by the end of your contracted time may result in a deduction from your deposit. 

  • Yes, we maintain a curated list of experienced vendors familiar with Camp Colton, including photographers, caterers, florists, and more. While you are welcome to choose any vendors that align with your vision, selecting from our preferred list can ensure a seamless experience. Please note that Camp Colton is not responsible for the performance, actions, or services provided by any third-party vendors. All agreements are made directly between you and the vendor.

  • Access for clients, guests, and vendors—including planners, caterers, florists, DJs, bands, officiants, hair and makeup artists, photographers, or any deliveries associated with your event—is limited to the contracted hours. If you require additional time for setup or cleanup, you may add hours to your base package at an extra charge. Please arrange this in advance to ensure proper scheduling.

  • At Camp Colton, we keep our pricing transparent by avoiding the extra fees and gratuities that many venues add to their rental contracts. However, it truly takes a dedicated team to bring each event to life, and tips are greatly appreciated. Your events team will consist of 5-6 Camp Colton staff members, assigned to various areas throughout your event. 

    If you feel our staff has gone above and beyond to make your event special, we encourage you to show your appreciation through gratuity. Cash tips may be given to your Event Coordinator or Site Manager for distribution.

    Thank you for your generosity! Our team works incredibly hard to ensure a seamless experience, and your acknowledgment means the world to us.

  • There are no local taxi services, and Uber and Lyft can be unreliable due to our remote location. We strongly recommend arranging a car service or charter transportation in advance if needed. For recommendations, please visit our Preferred Vendors page.

  • For liability and insurance reasons, we are unable to allow any items to be dropped off before your contracted event time. To ensure the security of your belongings and the smooth operation of all events, all deliveries and setup must take place within your reserved rental period. If you need assistance coordinating drop-offs or have special requests, please reach out to your Event Coordinator in advance.

  • Provided there are no damages, overages, or violations of the agreement, your full deposit will be refunded within 30 days after your event. If you cancel your event, you will forfeit the deposit, along with any other payments made.

    Damages may include, but are not limited to:

    • Broken dishware

    • Missing items not returned within 48 hours

    • Wax spills

    • Tears or stains on Camp Colton-provided linens

    • Other similar issues

  • To preserve the natural beauty of Camp Colton, cutting, collecting, or damaging plants, trees, and greenery within the main campus—including areas around event buildings and cabins—is strictly prohibited.

    Exclusive Wedding Weekend clients may gather natural elements such as ferns, boughs, cones, moss, and other native materials from a designated 3-acre section of the forest. However, collection must be prearranged and conducted under the guidance of a Camp Colton staff member. This is only permitted Monday–Thursday between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

    Unauthorized collection of greenery is a violation of your contracted agreement and will result in a deposit deduction to cover rewilding efforts. We appreciate your cooperation in preserving the landscape for future guests.

    • Initial Consultation: Your coordinator will schedule a meeting to review your contract, discuss your wedding vision, and preferences, and answer any questions you may have.

    • Floor Plan Creation: After the initial consultation, we’ll confirm your ceremony and reception locations and create a floor plan for each. With your guest count finalized 45 days before your event, we’ll make any necessary adjustments to finalize the layout.

    • Linen Selection: Your package includes table linens and napkins. At 45 days before your event (when the floor plan is confirmed), you’ll select your linen colors, and we’ll place the order to ensure availability and timely delivery.

    • Timeline Management: A detailed wedding day timeline will be created to ensure every aspect of your celebration runs smoothly and on schedule.

    • Vendor Management: On your wedding day, your coordinator will manage and direct all vendors, ensuring they have everything they need and are comfortable throughout the event.

    • Site Visit: Around 45 days before your event, you’ll have a site visit to go over the venue details. This is an excellent opportunity for any friends, family, or vendors assisting with preparations to visit the site and ask questions. Additional site visits may be scheduled based on the availability and discretion of your coordinator.

    • Ceremony Rehearsal: A ceremony rehearsal will be scheduled (Thursdays, except for Wedding Weekends) to practice your ceremony. Your coordinator will guide your bridal party through every element to ensure everyone is comfortable and ready.

    • Day-of Coordination: On your wedding day, your coordinator will be on-site to oversee all logistical details, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy your celebration without any worries.

  • We understand that the term "linens" can sometimes cause confusion. In our contract, "linens" specifically refers to reception linens, including tablecloths and napkins.

    For overnight accommodations, we use the term "bedding", which includes sheets, blankets, and pillowcases.

    If you have any questions about what is included in your package, feel free to reach out—we're happy to clarify!

  • In a canoe on the lake, catching a fish, chopping wood, having a horse and carriage, driving a mini-truck, or other prop photography…the possibilities are endless!

    We would like to encourage you to use your imagination to set up any safe and reasonable request. Please outline your request at least 90-days prior to your event with your coordinator and we will help make the props available to you and your photographer.

    We accept no liability for the skill of the uninitiated, e.g. falling in the lake in your wedding dress.

    Not all locations are available with all packages - Simple Elegance and Classic Elegance have time and location restrictions that the Exclusive Wedding Weekend does not - please see your contract.

  • The only way to secure camping and cabins is to purchase the Weekend Wedding package to reserve all our accommodations for your event.

    Your other option is to try your chances and reserve available spaces via HipCamp, released 90 days before the booking date if not claimed first by another paying event.

    We can currently accommodate about 34-46 people in cabins or yurts, 1-25 people camping, and up to 14 at our 3 RV hookups.

    • Go for the Wedding Weekend package, which includes two overnights in all our available on-site accommodations except Crystal Springs, along with an on-site rehearsal dinner, much more time to decorate, dress and take photos and many other perks only included in this package.

    • Add an overnight in the getting-ready cottage(s) included in your wedding package. If you chose the Simple Elegance package, you get one getting-ready cottage for 8 hours, concurrent with the rest of your Camp access (usually from 2:00PM - 10:00PM). If you chose Classic Elegance, you get two getting-ready cottages for 10 hours (usually from 1:00PM - 11:00PM). Depending on what events are scheduled on either side of yours, you may be able to add an overnight the night before or the night of your big day. Ask the Sales Manager or Event Coordinator for pricing and availability if you are interested. Please note: overnight access to the getting-ready cottage(s) does NOT include access to the Gathering Hall, Chapel/Sanctuary or outdoor ceremony sites to move in or start decorating early. Read your contract carefully to confirm hours of access to the spaces included in your rental.

    • Rent one of our RV spots, tiny house or yurts via HipCamp. Limited overnight accommodations may be made available via HipCamp 90 days prior to your event. Check in for our HipCamp accommodations is 3:00PM, and check out is 11:00AM. Please note: HipCamp rentals must be arranged and paid for directly by the guest via the HipCamp platform, and DO NOT include access to the Gazebo fire pit for an after-party or the event spaces (Gathering Hall, Chapel/Sanctuary, outdoor ceremony site) outside of the contracted time. Only registered HipCamp guests may access the East side of Camp during their reserved times, and in accordance with maximum capacities listed for each space.

  • The Gathering Hall Kitchen is available as a prep and warming kitchen only - appliances are not available for use. Any caterer, chef, or food service provider using the kitchen for meal prep, staging, serving, or cleanup must have their own license and insurance. You'll need to submit proof of both at least 45 days before your event.

    The kitchen must be cleaned and returned to its original condition after use. If not, additional cleaning fees may apply.

    Want to use the stoves, ovens, or fryers? They’re available for an extra fee—check with your coordinator for details!

  • Camp Colton has a water station located outside the reception hall, but our staff does not provide water table service. Bussing services are not included in our standard offerings, though they can be added for an additional fee. We recommend coordinating both bussing and water services directly with your caterer. In accordance with food handler laws, Camp Colton staff does not provide food servers, cake cutting, or the transportation of prepared foods and desserts.

  • Camp Colton does not provide serveware, cake cutting utensils, steak knives, platters, bread baskets, or beverage dispensers (for signature cocktails). These items must be arranged through your caterer or a rental company. If you're unsure where to source these items, please see our Preferred Vendors page for recommendations. 

    Please note that Camp Colton does not wash or allow any items that are not the property of Camp Colton to be run through our dishwasher.

  • Yes we are set up for power and water for up to two food trucks behind the Gathering Hall. Check to make sure your choice of food truck will come out to our remote location before booking.

  • A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is required for all events and due 6 months prior to your event date. If you need assistance securing coverage, we recommend Eventsured or E-Wed Insurance — both offer convenient online portals preloaded with our venue’s information.

    Your policy must include:

    • Commercial General Liability Insurance with a minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence

    • Naming Colton Productions II, LLC as an additional insured for the full duration of your contracted event.

    • If alcohol will be served at your event, you are also required to obtain Host Liquor Liability Coverage.

Rental Policies

    • Purchase of a facilities license agreement for use of buildings and grounds, listed on your contract, are available on an a la carte basis. This does not entitle licensee to exclusive use of grounds. Camp Colton reserves the right to unused areas and vacant facilities for any purpose, including but not limited to: tours, construction, & events unrelated to the rental. Exclusive use rights are available at an additional cost.

    • Final headcount, list of all approved vendors, and proof of required licenses & insurance is required no later than 30 days prior to event date. Failure to provide this information may result in restrictions to the event, and/or loss of security deposit.

    • We will adjust pricing for per-person amenities in your contract based on the head count you indicate on your event form. Actual headcounts exceeding contracted and paid amounts will result in overages being withheld from your security deposit refund.

    • Professionally licensed caterers, bartenders, and food service staff only, are permitted to provide catering, alcohol, and food services on Camp Colton premises. Proof of license & insurance is required. Client or any food service company and their workers must adhere to the kitchen use policy.

    • Camp Colton facilities and outdoor spaces are rented on an “as is” basis, and naturally change with the seasons. Plantings, landscape, and natural wildlife will not be adjusted or changed for any specific event. Camp Colton reserves the right to change or remove landscaping & seasonal displays on the property, at our sole discretion. Furthermore, nothing is to be removed from the property, including all plant matter, animals, rocks, or any other naturally occurring substance.

    • Do not disturb wild animals. Camp Colton is not responsible, and will hold no liability for injury or damages to personal property caused by wildlife on the premises.

    • All event activity must begin and end within the contracted time. The purchased event time includes all setup, duration of the event, and breakdown by client, guests, and vendors. Unscheduled overtime is billed at a set rate per hour for the Gathering Hall.

    • Any equipment left on site more than three days after event will be charged a storage fee, to be determined depending on size and location of equipment, unless communicated and agreed upon in writing.

    • All guests are subject to Camp Colton policies while onsite. Client assumes full responsibility for the conduct of, and/or damages or loss caused by guests, participants, vendors/employees, or any other person associated with their event, per terms of facility license agreement. Young children must be under adult supervision at all times. Client is responsible for unattended children, and their actions. Camp will not be held liable for any injuries or damage to personal property caused by unattended children.

    • Crossback wooden banquet chairs may only be used behind Reception hall only if there is a waterproof canopy or tent covering back patio. Exceptions may be made depending on weather, to be determined no more than 48 hours in advance. Plastic chairs may be used without covering.

    • Client may add wedding colors to rented sites by bringing floral arrangements, bows, and/or table decorations. No nails, tacks or staples may be used.

    • All signs, displays or decorations proposed by the client are subject to Camp Colton approval. No nails, tacks or staples may be used on the premises, unless approved by Camp Colton in advance. Bubbles, sparklers, candles anything involving heat and/or fire may be used in a safe manner with prior approval by Camp Colton only. Confetti, glitter, rice and birdseed are not allowed due to difficulty of clean up, and potential harm to the ecosystem.

    • Client is responsible for taking with them any decorations, signs, food, catering items, etc. brought with them. If you bring it, it needs to leave with you. Be sure to allow enough time at the end of your event for proper tear down. All things connected to the event must fall within your contracted time.

    • Client may not move existing furniture, decor, or Camp Colton equipment. Client will be held liable for damage resulting from failure to adhere to this policy. Please request assistance if needed. Camp Colton will not be held responsible for any injuries resulting from unauthorized moving and/or use of our property.

    • Please respect the property and do not disturb the natural surroundings. No walking or standing off trails and paths. No climbing on any plant material or building structures. Do not gather foliage for decor. Any disturbance to structures, animals, plants, plant material, ground cover, or any other aspect of nature will result in additional fees & possible loss of security deposit.

    • Camp Colton is not responsible for ANY lost or stolen items. Including, but not limited to: gifts, personal belongings, rented equipment, or decorations.

    • Parking in approved areas is provided free of charge. However, Camp Colton is not responsible for, and will not be held liable for any damages or theft that may occur.

  • At Camp Colton, we have a great appreciation for animals; however, we reserve the right to restrict pets on the property. Any unauthorized, unapproved, or misbehaving pets may be asked to leave at any time. Prior approval is required and must be confirmed by your coordinator. Failure to obtain approval may result in the removal of the pet and/or forfeiture of your security deposit.

    Any guests you invite who bring pets must also adhere to these policies. Pets are not allowed to be left in cars for any amount of time while on the property. 

    Q: Can my pet enter any buildings on the property?
    A: Pets are not allowed in all Camp buildings, except for designated pet-friendly accommodations (Cottage, River Falls Lodge, Puff Ball Yurt) unless a certified service animal.

     Q: Am I responsible if my pet causes any injury or damage?
    A: Yes! As the Licensee, you’re responsible for any injury or damage caused by any pets brought on the property, as well as any pets brought by your guests or vendors. Camp Colton isn’t liable for any incidents involving pets on the property.

    Q: Do I need to supervise my pet?
    A: Absolutely! Pets must be attended to or securely contained at all times. We ask that you avoid letting dogs run in packs to ensure everyone stays safe.

    Q: What about pet waste?
    A: You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet and properly disposing of any waste on Camp Colton grounds. Please bring your own bags and dispose of waste in the trash receptacles located outside rooms and buildings. Let’s work together to keep the area clean and enjoyable for everyone!

    • Camp Colton does not provide catering services, nor takes responsibility for the creation, serving, monitoring, timing, or clean up of any food or equipment.

    • Use of the Reception Hall kitchen by any food service company, chef, or other food handler for the purpose of meal creation, staging, serving, and clean up shall require their own license and insurance. Proof of license & insurance is required no less than 30 days prior to event date for authorized use of Reception Hall kitchen.

    • Reception Hall kitchen & equipment must be cleaned, mopped, and returned to its original condition after use by client, caterers, and/or any food handlers. Client will be held responsible for failure to comply, and will incur additional cleaning fees.

    • With the exception of Camp owned plates, glasses, & silverware, which will be provided, (renter) and affiliated food service staff must provide their own service utensils, and serving equipment. Camp Colton owned service utensils, and serving equipment are not available for use by client/caterer. Client will be held liable for damaged and/or missing equipment.

    • All food waste, garbage & recycling must be separated and disposed of properly in designated area.

    • Camp Colton is not responsible, and may not be held liable, for improper handling of food by client, caterer, or any food service worker resulting in foodborne illness.

    • No unsupervised children are allowed inside the kitchen at any time. All children must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18 years old. Any adult working separately, and independent of child(ren) inside the kitchen, may not be considered the child supervisor.

    • Smoking is allowed in designated areas only. Designated areas will be clearly marked with a sign, & an ashtray will be present.

    • Due to threat of fire and litter contamination, smoking in unauthorized areas may result in fees deducted from security deposit.

    • Excessive litter, (cigarette butts), in unauthorized areas will result in additional clean up fees.

  • Camp Colton is cannabis-friendly, and you may hire a Licensed Budtender to serve legal forms of THC, CBG, or CBD to of-age guests. However, due to licensing regulations, alcohol and cannabis cannot be served at the same event. To minimize fire risk and environmental impact, smoking is only permitted in designated areas.

    As with any substance, please partake responsibly. For any questions or to discuss add-ons, please reach out to your Event Coordinator!

  • Alcoholic beverages are permitted at Camp Colton when served by a Camp Colton OLCC-Licensed Bartender, included as part of our wedding packages. Your event insurance must include host liquor liability protection.

    Service & Timing: Bar service begins after the ceremony during cocktail hour. Welcome drinks are not recommended but may be added for an additional fee—please consult your Event Coordinator for details.

    Alcohol Restrictions:

    • Only beer, wine, and champagne may be served. Shots are strictly prohibited.

    • Hard liquor is only permitted when used in pre-mixed signature cocktails. Signature cocktails are limited to two and must be prepared in advance, contained in a ready-to-pour decanter, and include pre-cut garnishes.

    • Signature cocktails may be served starting at cocktail hour and ending after dinner service (up to 2.5 hours).

    Service Location & Rules:

    • All alcoholic beverages are served exclusively from the Creekside Bar at the Gathering Hall. Table service is not permitted.

    • Beer may be served from bottles, cans, or kegs. We offer two keg taps with adjustable CO2 carbonation, suitable for serving beer, wine, or kombucha.

    • Bottles (wine, champagne) and pitchers may not be placed on reception tables to comply with OLCC regulations.

    • If hosting a rehearsal dinner on-site, you may self-serve alcohol for that meal.

    Compliance & Enforcement:

    • Camp Colton’s licensed bartenders have the right to refuse service to anyone appearing intoxicated, disruptive, or unwell.

    • Proper identification is required for anyone appearing under the age of 25 before being served alcohol.

    • Any alcohol not served by our OLCC-Licensed Bartender will be confiscated.

    • Guests sneaking in alcohol will be asked to leave the property.

    • Bartenders will call last call one hour before the event ends to encourage safe and sober departures.

  • A final headcount, list of approved vendors, and proof of required licenses must be submitted 45 days prior to the event. Failure to comply may result in restrictions or forfeiture of the security deposit.

    • Catering & Food Services: Only professionally licensed caterers and food service staff may provide food on-site. Proof of license and insurance is required.

    • Facility Condition: Rentals are provided "as is." Landscaping, wildlife, and natural elements will not be altered for events.

    • Wildlife & Nature Protection: Do not disturb wildlife. Removal of plants, animals, rocks, or other natural features is prohibited.

    • Equipment Storage: Any equipment left after an event may incur a storage fee unless prior arrangements are made.

    • Guest Conduct: The Licensee is responsible for the conduct and any damages caused by guests, vendors, or children.

    • Chairs & Furniture: Wooden chairs may be used outdoors only in dry weather. Plastic chairs will be used in damp conditions. Furniture and décor must not be moved without permission.

    • Decorations & Signage: Must be pre-approved. The use of nails, staples, confetti, glitter, rice, and birdseed is prohibited.

    • Lost & Stolen Items: Camp Colton is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.

    • Parking: Provided free of charge, but Camp Colton is not liable for vehicle damages or theft.

  • To comply with local regulations and ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests, no amplified sound is allowed outdoors after 10 PM. Excessive noise in camping areas is also not permitted after hours. Failure to adhere to the noise policy or requests by Camp Colton staff to lower volumes may result in fees deducted from deposits.

  • Campfires are allowed with overnight accommodation packages in designated areas and must be supervised by an adult at all times. During periods of high forest fire risk, burn bans may be in effect. Camp Colton adheres to the recommendations and restrictions set by state and local authorities, and we are unable to make exceptions to these regulations. When campfires are permitted, firewood will be provided in designated areas. However, depending on the fire risk level and availability, wood fires may be replaced with propane fire pits. If Camp Colton is required to evacuate due to fire danger during your scheduled event, we will work with you to reschedule and apply all funds paid to the new event date.

    • Booking our Wedding Weekend Package is the only way to reserve all our on-site housing for you and your guests.

    • We also rent some of our accommodations through HipCamp. Clients who wish to rent one or more of these accommodations may do so on HipCamp if they are available.

    • A security deposit of $1,500 is required to save the dates.  The security deposit will NOT be applied to the cost of your selected wedding option. If there are no damages or overages, the deposit will be returned in full.

    • A nonrefundable amount of fifty percent (50%) of the Facility Use Fee will be due no later than 6 months prior to the event date.

    • The remaining nonrefundable fifty percent (50%) of the Fee will be due no later than 30 days prior to the event.

    • Clackamas County Lodging Tax is assessed based on overnight accommodation charges.

    • All of our clients are required to obtain and maintain, at their own expense, commercial general liability insurance including host liquor liability protection in the amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence naming Colton Productions II, LLC as an “Additional Insured” for the duration of the contracted term.

    • Proof of insurance must be presented to Camp Colton 6 months prior to the event date.

    • Check out the “Event Insurance” section of our Preferred Vendor page for links to event insurance providers.

  • Once contracted, if you cancel your event, you forfeit your security deposit along with any other monies paid.

The information above is for informational purposes only. Fees, terms and conditions outlined in your contract supersede any information outlined here.

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