Eastern Oregon's Baker City sits at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet surrounded by the Elkhorn Mountains, offering RV travelers year-round camping options with distinct seasonal considerations. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F with very low humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing. The area's volcanic soil composition contributes to unique drainage patterns at campgrounds throughout the region.
What to do
Mineral soaking pools: Grande Hot Springs RV Resort offers natural hot spring soaking pools with significant health benefits. "The soaking pools were amazing. They even had a twilight soak. Very peaceful and relaxing campground," reports Cheryl S. The resort is situated next to a wildlife refuge with opportunities for wildlife viewing on nature trails.
Historic exploration: Sumpter RV Park provides access to the area's mining history. "Sumpter has a lot to offer and we can't wait to go back do the train and hopefully rent a side by side and explore the trails in the area," notes Anthony T. The nearby historic town features gold mining artifacts and seasonal events.
Fishing opportunities: At Oasis on the Snake RV Park & Campground, fishing is exceptionally productive. "Fisherman were catching catfish hand over fist. Right there at camp of the docks they had caught over 20 in 1 day!!! Fishing from the boats they caught 80 in 3 days!!!!" shares Kathe M. The adjacent public boat ramp provides convenient water access.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Gold Rush RV Park offers well-maintained camping areas with generous spacing. "We absolutely loved our stay. The park was clean, and the restrooms/laundry room was spotless. We really enjoyed exploring the area in the evenings. We were at site 15 on the top of the hill that overlooked the road and the mountains," says Melissa S.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at RV parks near Baker City. "The bathrooms were nice and very clean. Happily, people were picking up after their dogs. They have a nice little store with sundry and gift items," notes MickandKarla W. about their stay at Mtn View RV Park.
Pet-friendly amenities: A-Frame RV Park receives positive comments for its dog facilities. "Dog Friendly with a 14 acres off-leash dog park! Washrooms were small but very clean. Even though it is 1 minute off the highway it was fairly quiet," writes Susan N. Another camper, John M., confirms: "The dog park on the back forty was seriously about 40 acres."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several RV parks near Baker City have nearby train tracks. "Trains going by on the Idaho side could bother some, but after a few times it blended into the background," mentions Dale L. about Oasis on the Snake RV Park. Light sleepers should consider earplugs or selecting sites furthest from tracks.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies by carrier and location. "T Mobile reception good download speed 53Mbs. Wifi would periodically drop out, otherwise was able to stream," reports Richard M. about his stay at A-Frame RV Park. Campers requiring reliable internet should verify coverage before arrival.
Water pressure variances: Mtn View RV Park has notably high water pressure. "Great water pressure(about 100 psi) so we needed our regulator," writes MickandKarla W. RVers should pack pressure regulators to protect their plumbing systems when camping in this area.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Seasonal swimming availability varies by location. "The pool was refreshing and had plenty of space," notes a camper at Mtn View RV Park, while Grande Hot Springs RV Resort offers year-round soaking options that children particularly enjoy.
Nature exploration: Grande Hot Springs provides wildlife viewing opportunities appropriate for children. "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," shares Cheryl S., highlighting educational wildlife viewing opportunities.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require flexible packing. "We came in early October, and had lots of space to ourselves," notes Elizabeth S. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, but adds that weather can change quickly, requiring layers and rain gear even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend reviewing park layouts before arrival. "The sites are pretty level for being gravel. The sites are clean, and the people were friendly," reports Vincent W. about A-Frame RV Park, while another camper suggests requesting sites away from highway-facing boundaries for quieter stays.
Hook-up configurations: Pay attention to electrical service details when booking. "The pad was plenty long enough for our 40' 5th wheel and our F450. The utilities were in the middle of the pad, which made it nice for our one-night stay," shares MickandKarla W. about Mtn View RV Park.
Winter preparedness: For cold-weather camping, confirm availability of freeze-protected amenities. "The sewer cap at my site was so tight that I couldn't remove it by hand, but that didn't seem to be the case at any of the other sites," notes Paul B. about his stay at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, highlighting the importance of having proper tools for cold-weather RV camping.
