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Best Campgrounds near Cove, OR

406 Reviews

Cove, Oregon sits at the gateway to multiple camping options in northeastern Oregon's Eagle Cap Wilderness and surrounding areas. Established campgrounds like Moss Springs Campground, located about 9 miles up a forest service road from Cove, provide basic tent camping facilities with picnic tables and fire rings. The region includes several developed options including Grande Hot Springs RV Resort in La Grande, which accommodates tents, RVs, and offers cabin and yurt rentals. Catherine Creek State Park Campground near Union provides a mix of tent and RV sites with toilets and picnic tables during its operating season from mid-April to mid-October.

Road access to campgrounds near Cove varies significantly by location and elevation. Forest Service roads leading to wilderness-adjacent sites like Moss Springs may not be paved but are generally navigable without specialized vehicles. Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with peak availability from late spring through early fall. Most developed sites around Cove close by mid-October due to snowfall and freezing temperatures at higher elevations. Temperature fluctuations can be significant, with cool nights even during summer months. A camper noted that "Moss Springs is a quiet campground on the edge of the Eagle Cap about 9 miles up the forest service road from Cove, OR. The road back to Cove, while not paved, isn't bad."

Campers frequently mention the natural surroundings and recreational opportunities as highlights of the region. The Eagle Cap Wilderness access points near Cove draw backpackers and horse riders using campgrounds as base camps for wilderness exploration. Several visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere of smaller campgrounds like Moss Springs, with one review explaining "most people use this campground for parking to hike into the Minam Lodge or to backpack into the Little Minam, or to park their trailer to ride their horses into the area." Facilities at wilderness-adjacent campgrounds tend to be basic, with tent and RV sites offering picnic tables and fire rings but limited amenities. For those seeking more developed experiences, hot springs access at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort provides a popular amenity with heated pools and more robust facilities including showers and hook-ups for extended stays.

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Best Camping Sites Near Cove, Oregon (143)

    1. Grande Hot Springs RV Resort

    42 Reviews
    Union, OR
    9 miles
    Website

    "We enjoyed the great walking paths around the perimeter of the park to walk our dogs. The pool and hot tub are heated geothermally and are warm, soothing, and oh, so relaxing."

    "The tent and yurt sites are beautifully situated next to a stream full of cattails and lily pads. Wild deer roam nearby and horses graze in the fields around the park. Not far from town either."

    2. Catherine Creek State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Union, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 551-6949

    $10 / night

    "We stayed at campsite 5, which seems like an odd choice since it's right next to the welcome signage and fee drop box, but we really liked it because we were able to spread out along the side of the creek"

    "This site is close to the main road so must watch kiddos and dogs at all times. It is also close to the river, so watch those kiddos. There's a wonderful trail with a wooden bridge to start off."

    3. Wallowa Lake State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Joseph, OR
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 432-4185

    $23 - $78 / night

    "Located in the far northeast corner of Oregon, this state park has something for everyone. Wallowa Lake is known for it's natural beauty, fishing, and water sports."

    "This was our first stop in Oregon we were in Site C9 which is a pull thru with Full hook up. Big tall pines, the lake & mountains."

    4. Moss Springs Campground

    1 Review
    Cove, OR
    6 miles
    Website

    "Moss Springs is a quiet campground on the edge of the Eagle Cap about 9 miles up the a forest service road from Cove, OR (which is about 14 miles past La Grande)."

    5. Hilgard Junction State Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    La Grande, OR
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 551-6949

    $10 / night

    "There is a trail if you head North that winds up and puts you on the Oregon trail, I biked it on my ebike, it is pretty strenuous and bumpy."

    "Hilgard Junction is a small, Riverside day use area, travel rest-stop and campground at the junction of I-84 and Highway 244 on the Grande Ronde river at the base of Mt. Emily."

    6. Pilcher Creek Reservoir

    13 Reviews
    North Powder, OR
    22 miles
    Website

    "Although there’s not a ton of spots, it’s lovely and was a quiet solitude away from the road but not too far. Saw a ton of wildlife too (bring your bear spray)."

    "Most of the sites overlooked a beautiful lake stick among the hills, and we’re in decent shape with a fire ring, table and little grill."

    7. Morgan Lake - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    5 Reviews
    La Grande, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 962-1352

    "But that's the only downside to this nice FREE campground just outside of LaGrande, OR.  I had the whole place to myself mid-week in May. You're up high, so beautiful view of the sky."

    "The sites are nice and most are lake front. There were a few other campers but none near our site. The road up is steep and bumpy gravel but we managed in our two wheel drive van."

    8. La Grande Rendezvous RV Park

    3 Reviews
    La Grande, OR
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 962-0909

    $58 - $78 / night

    9. North Fork Catherine Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, OR
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 963-7186

    "Lovely location in the mountains of Oregon. We drove a few thousand feet up a gravel road to get to this campsite. Easy access for my little sedan."

    10. Minam State Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    Wallowa, OR
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 551-6949

    "Near the confluence of the Minam and Wallowa rivers, this is a perfect base camp for exploring the waters and towns of the Wallowa mountains."

    "I had originally intended on staying at one of three closer campgrounds that I ultimately rejected and made the decision to drive on to Minam State Park. Was I ever happy I did."

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Recent Camping Photos near Cove, OR

104 Photos of 143 Cove Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cove, OR

406 Reviews of 143 Cove Campgrounds

  • Anthony T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Sumpter RV Park

    Fantastic Campground Great Weekend Destination

    I highly suggest this campground for Sumpter Oregon, the campground just went under new ownership and they are doing such a great job taking care of it and making it a fun family friendly destination. 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.

  • B
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Dispersed Sites Near Hells Canyon Overlook

    Sweet find

    Some friends and I were roadtripping around eastern Oregon and hells canyon was part of the route. We were panning to hit up a spot down in the canyon but when we drove by this set up we had to check it out. Plenty of space for multiple tents on multiple sights. Drivable trails around the pond where you can go fishing. A few campers even were set up back there.

    Walking over late in the evening to Stargate over the canyon… And then woke up to watch the sunrise over the canyon. It’s like a two minute walk from this campsite so much space and there was hardly anyone there.

    Will visit again next time I’m through

  • Matt B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Quick and easy

    Quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts. No amenities.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Wolf Creek Reservoir

    Great views and cool weather

    Awesome camp spot, off the main road so no one is here. Love that it’s by the water

  • K
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Hurricane Creek Campground

    Secluded, right by the river

    Close to town and service but back in far enough you lose the service and all you hear is the river. There are several sites, we came on a Sunday night and most were full besides a few. We took site 9 which was close to the bathroom and right beside the river, it does however have no shade on the site itself so keep that in mind. We were fine since it was a cloudy day. The river is shallow in most places but right off this site it has a deep area where you can dip, the water is freezing even in late August, and there's a 3 foot jump down onto the bank. Saw two bucks together early in the morning grazing.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Wallowa Lake State Park Campground

    A large full and bustling spot- but still magic

    There are plenty of places to park, camp, swim, hike and adventure in the Wallowas. This park and surrounding area is a goldmine for the nature and nature adjacent lovers alike. We will return and soon!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Hurricane Creek Campground

    Lovely simple campground

    Small campground by a beautiful but loud creek. Several sites along the creek, some accessible by car only (no trailer turnaround). Sites private. Only a couple of people there on a Sunday evening. No water. Lovely stay!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Spring Creek Campground

    Peaceful, close to freeway

    4 sites only! Pit toilet(1) and clean. No trash pick up. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit. We are the only ones here so far-Sunday eve in August

Guide to Cove

Camping near Cove, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Wallowa Lake State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "We kayaked on the lake and went up Mount Howard on the tram where the views of the Eagle Cap wilderness were breathtaking."
  • Fishing: The Minam State Recreation Area is great for fishing. A visitor shared, "Great fishing during trout season. Make sure you get here early if you have an RV or trailer during the summer."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Pilcher Creek Reservoir enjoyed spotting wildlife. One reviewer noted, "Saw a ton of wildlife too (bring your bear spray)."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites. At Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, a guest said, "The staff was great and helpful, and the amenities are clean and really good."
  • Scenic Views: Many enjoy the beautiful surroundings. A camper at Park At The River exclaimed, "This campground is wonderful. We were lucky enough to get a site next to the river and couldn't be happier."
  • Friendly Staff: The welcoming atmosphere is a highlight. A visitor at A-Frame RV Park mentioned, "Very friendly staff. Easy check-in."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways. A camper at Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area noted, "I was amazed at the freeway noise. Very loud."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. At Bird Track Springs, a visitor pointed out, "There’s no drinking water, no electric hookups, and no showers."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Minam State Recreation Area mentioned, "This state park is first come first serve and cost $10/night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with fun activities. At Wallowa Lake State Park Campground, a parent shared, "Putt putt golf and go-karts also make for some great memories."
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets. A visitor at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort said, "The campground is very dog-friendly!"
  • Safety Precautions: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Pilcher Creek Reservoir advised, "Bring your bear spray."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Mtn View RV Park mentioned, "The utilities were in the middle of the pad, which made it nice for our one-night stay."
  • Space for Big Rigs: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs. A camper at A-Frame RV Park noted, "We have a 36ft travel trailer with slides on both sides. Was able to fit into the pull-through no problem."
  • Wi-Fi Availability: Check Wi-Fi options if you need to stay connected. A visitor at Mtn View RV Park said, "WIFI was so-so/normal for this type of campground."

Camping near Cove, Oregon, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Cove camping?

Campgrounds around Cove offer varying levels of amenities. Red Bridge State Wayside provides spacious sites with running water, picnic tables, and fire pits. The facilities include clean, accessible restrooms with friendly hosts. For those seeking more primitive camping, Two Pan offers basic amenities with picnic tables, fire pits, and horse tie-ups. Most Forest Service campgrounds feature vault toilets but limited drinking water. The La Grande area also has RV parks with full hookups, shower facilities, and dump stations for those wanting more conveniences.

Do I need a reservation for Cove camping?

Reservation requirements vary by campground in the Cove area of Eastern Oregon. Southwest Shore Campground near Baker City operates on a first-come, first-served basis with only 13 non-reservable sites. In contrast, Grande Hot Springs RV Resort requires reservations, especially for their pull-through sites with full hookups. For most Forest Service campgrounds in the area, reservations aren't accepted, so arriving early on weekdays is recommended, especially during summer months and holidays when sites fill quickly.

Where is Cove camping located and how do I get there?

Cove camping is located in northeastern Oregon, approximately 14 miles east of La Grande. Moss Springs Campground sits about 9 miles up a Forest Service road from Cove, OR, on the edge of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. This quiet campground serves as a gateway for hikers accessing Minam Lodge or backpacking into Little Minam. The area is nestled among the Wallowa Mountains, offering spectacular views. Access typically involves driving east from La Grande on Highway 82, then following local roads to the campground entrances, though specific directions vary by site.

When is the best time of year to visit Cove camping?

The ideal time to visit Cove camping is late spring through early fall (May-September). Anthony Lake Campground showcases beautiful scenery during summer months when you can enjoy activities like paddling and hiking with clear night skies perfect for stargazing. Wallowa Lake State Park Campground is spectacular in summer when snow-capped peaks surround the pristine lake. Many higher-elevation campgrounds in the Eagle Cap Wilderness area remain snow-covered until June, while fall offers colorful foliage and fewer crowds. Winter access is limited due to snow, with many Forest Service roads closed seasonally.

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