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Dispersed Camping

Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping is located in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. The area features forested terrain with a reservoir nearby. Temperatures range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit in winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Visitors can explore the nearby Eagle Cap Wilderness and Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

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Location

Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.97143166449027 N
117.49244414692879 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Fish Lake Campground

Fish Lake Campground

2 hrs 50 min away

Ice Lake

Ice Lake

3 hrs 14 min away

Drive Time

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping needs a permit.

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General Info


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3.0

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 18, 2023

Very difficult road

Do not try and tow a trailer up this road!!! I made that mistake and barely made it out. Didn’t make it up to the reservoir

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2022

Boondocking

Directions:  About 13 miles from Medical Springs on a gravel road (half hour or so). Take Big Creek Rd to Collins Lane.  That turns into USFS 67, then 72.  The gravel road is good, but access to the camping is pretty narrow and rougher.  Probably not a good place for a big nice camp trailer.  

Camping is dispersed, mostly on the west side of the reservoir. The east side has a few spots but the road is really rough toward the dam. Fish are stocked. Boats with oars, paddles or electric motors are allowed. There are no improvements.  Check fire restrictions.  Campfires are prohibited almost every year for most of July, August and September.  Cattle graze here.  The water level gets pretty low by August.

Sitewest side of reservoir, about half way around
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping by Judy W., August 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping by Judy W., August 8, 2022
  • Review photo of Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping by Judy W., August 8, 2022
  • (8) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of camping are available at Balm Creek Reservoir?

Balm Creek Reservoir offers dispersed camping opportunities in a primitive setting. The camping areas are rustic with no developed facilities. The access roads to camping spots are narrow and rough, making this location best suited for tent camping or small vehicles. Large camp trailers or RVs are not recommended due to the challenging access conditions and limited turning space.

When is the best time to visit Balm Creek Reservoir for camping?

The best time to visit Balm Creek Reservoir for camping is during summer and early fall when road conditions are most favorable. The remote location and elevation make access difficult during wet or winter conditions. Late spring through early autumn provides the most reliable access, though road conditions can be challenging even in good weather. Always check current conditions before attempting the drive, especially if there has been recent precipitation.

Where is Balm Creek Reservoir located in Oregon?

Balm Creek Reservoir is located approximately 13 miles from Medical Springs, Oregon. To reach the reservoir, take Big Creek Road to Collins Lane, which transitions into USFS Road 67 and then Road 72. The drive from Medical Springs takes about half an hour along gravel roads. The reservoir is situated in a remote area that requires some navigation through Forest Service roads in Northeast Oregon.

What fishing opportunities are available at Balm Creek Reservoir?

Balm Creek Reservoir provides fishing opportunities in a secluded setting. While specific fish species aren't detailed, the reservoir offers typical Northeast Oregon mountain reservoir fishing. Anglers should bring all necessary equipment as there are no services at the site. For the most current fishing information, regulations, and stocking schedules, check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife before your trip.