RV campgrounds near Cove, Oregon provide year-round access in the high desert terrain of Eastern Oregon where elevations range from 2,500 to over 4,000 feet. Most camping areas experience warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 80-90°F and cold winters with frequent snowfall between November and March. Cellular coverage varies significantly between campgrounds with stronger signals typically available at sites closer to La Grande.
What to do
Wildlife watching: Natural hot springs pools attract abundant wildlife at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. "The resort lies next to a wildlife refuge. There are many birds," notes camper ursala K. Another visitor shared their experience: "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer."
Historical exploration: Mining town visits within 30 minutes of Gold Rush RV Park offer glimpses into Oregon's gold rush era. "We stayed at Gold Rush RV park in Sumpter, OR for one week. We absolutely loved our stay... We really enjoyed exploring the area in the evenings," reports Melissa S. The nearby semi-ghost town provides historical context for your camping trip.
Thermal soaking: Mineral hot springs provide natural relaxation options. "The two hot spring fed soaking pools were open for 'twilight soak' until 11 PM which was a great touch after a long day on the road," shares Paul B. about Grande Hot Springs. Another camper adds, "The soaking spas are wonderful" with options for both warm and hot temperatures.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Pull-through access for larger rigs makes setup easier. "Our site 95 fit our trailer & truck totaling 55″. Full hookups, check in is 3pm out is 11am," notes Jeffry G. at Wildhorse Resort Casino RV Park. The park offers pull-through sites that accommodate big rigs without difficulty.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms receive consistent positive mentions across regional campgrounds. A camper at A-Frame RV Park shares, "The bathrooms were small but very clean. Even though it is 1 minute off the highway it was fairly quiet." At Gold Rush RV Park, visitors note, "The restrooms/laundry room was spotless."
Off-leash dog areas: Designated pet spaces provide exercise options for canine companions. "Lots of green grass areas and dog areas," mentions Richard H. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. A-Frame RV Park goes further with "a 14 acres off-leash dog park" according to Susan N., who appreciated the dog-friendly amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Winter closures affect several campgrounds in the region. "We came in early October, and had lots of space to ourselves," notes Elizabeth S. about Grande Hot Springs, while Scenic Meadows RV Park operates only from "May 1 to October 1," limiting winter options.
Road conditions: Approach directions matter at some locations. "If you approach the campsite from the East, be prepared for a bumpy road. The road from the West (LaGrande) is much better even if it takes you a few miles out of the way," advises Bill B. about accessing Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
Reservation timing: Holiday weekends fill quickly especially at popular spots. "The week of Father's Day is a busy time," warns one camper at Grande Hot Springs. At La Grande Rendezvous RV Park, with its 98 sites, advance bookings become essential during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Casino resorts offer family activities beyond gambling. "Over the years, the casino has added many family activities, including an arcade, a cinema, a food court, and recently a bowling alley with multiple lanes," reports Sandy S. about Wildhorse Resort.
Swimming facilities: Pool access provides cooling options during hot summer days. "Both the hotel and the RV park have separate swimming pools," notes one visitor to Wildhorse Resort Casino RV Park, making it suitable for families seeking water recreation.
Nature exploration: Wildlife viewing opportunities engage children in outdoor education. "Visiting in April on a Sunday to do day use has defined my idea of heavenly. The snow-covered peaks, the clean air, the sounds of the spring birds, and the silence are magical," describes Beth M. about Hu-Na-Ha RV Park, where camping areas provide natural wildlife observation.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality: Water taste and electrical reliability vary between parks. At A-Frame RV Park, Brian P. notes, "Big trees, lots of shade, full hook ups. We have a 36ft travel trailer with slides on both sides. Was able to fit into the pull through no problem with truck parked in front."
Site selection: Corner locations offer additional privacy at busier parks. One camper at Gold Rush RV Park suggests, "We were at site 15 on the top of the hill that overlooked the road and the mountains. In our opinion, it is the best spot in the park."
Check-in procedures: After-hours arrival plans require preparation at some locations. "The office was closed and there were no instructions on how to check in. We had to call the hotel front desk," reports Mike about Wildhorse Resort, highlighting the importance of confirming check-in protocols before arrival.
