Hey I am new to the forum but have something to add, I live in Forest Grove just outside of Browns Camp, I ride here most every weekend so if there is a desire to meet here I may be able to help since i know the area.
Not far. When 26 splits and you can go to Bend or Hood River, it's only about another 10 minutes... so I'd say it's between 20 and 30 minutes past Government camp, if that.
McCubbins Gulch is pretty close to the cut off for Mt Hood Meadows, Its been awhile since I have rode there but it is a nice area with lots of good trails. The only downside is that the rocks there tend to shread tires at a fast rate. I tore off a few knobs on my tire as did my buddies.--Dan