The Elgin area offers camping in Oregon's Blue Mountains region, situated between 2,600 to 4,000 feet in elevation, providing diverse terrain for campers. The region experiences distinct seasons with hot, dry summers and cold winters that can limit camping options from November through April. Several private and public camping facilities operate within a 45-mile radius of this northeastern Oregon town.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Minam State Recreation Area, campers can access productive fishing spots along the Minam River. "The views from this campsite are great! There is access to great swimming holes from this campground," notes Kelly N. The park is located near the confluence of the Minam and Wallowa rivers, making it a strategic base for anglers.
Hot springs soaking: Visitors can enjoy natural mineral waters at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. "The soaking pools were amazing. They even had a twilight soak. Very peaceful and relaxing campground," reports Cheryl S. The resort features two soaking pools with different temperatures, available for evening use until 11 PM.
Wildlife viewing: Nature trails provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," mentions a Grande Hot Springs visitor. At Minam State Recreation Area, campers regularly spot deer, with one reviewer noting, "Whitetail doe with 2 fawns frequented the campground."
What campers like
Natural hot springs: The mineral-rich soaking pools at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort receive consistent praise. "I was grateful for the health benefits of the mineral soak. The resort is well taken care. It's new and clean," writes ursala K. The pools operate with extended hours including twilight soaks for guests.
River access: Campsites near water rank highly among reviewers. "For $6 (!) you get a great spot literally just a few dozen feet from the water. Fan-freaking-tastic!" shares Tom B. about Minam State Recreation Area. The riverside locations provide cooling opportunities during hot summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 85°F.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness stands out in many reviews. At Blue Valley RV Park in nearby Walla Walla, visitors appreciate "Clean bathrooms, showers, laundry, and gathering space," according to Rich J. Another reviewer adds, "Nicely spaced concrete pads. Shower, bathrooms an laundry were clean an well kept."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several rv parks near Elgin, Oregon limit their operating seasons. Wallowa River RV Park runs from April 15 to November 1, while Scenic Meadows RV Park near Joseph operates May 1 to October 1. This reflects regional weather patterns that bring snow and freezing temperatures to the area from late fall through early spring.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "There is no cell service at the campground," reports Rod D. about Minam State Recreation Area. At rv parks Elgin Oregon and surrounding areas, service tends to be stronger near towns but decreases in canyon and remote mountain locations.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigation on unpaved roads. For Minam State Recreation Area, a reviewer cautions, "The only downside was the 2 mile, narrow, gravel road into the park. A little bit of a nail biter with a bigger rig." Similar access challenges exist for several camping areas in the Blue Mountains.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming areas: River access provides natural recreation for children. "We enjoyed a refreshing dip in the river after a hot drive," shares one family about Minam State Recreation Area. The gradual entry points along the Minam River offer safer swimming for children during summer months.
Consider activity centers: Some campgrounds offer additional entertainment options. At Scenic Meadows RV Park, "You are surrounded by wildlife, and entertained by the go carts. They even had food trucks," notes Tracy M. These added amenities help keep children engaged during longer stays.
Check bathroom facilities: Clean restrooms make family camping more comfortable. "WOW what a beautiful bathhouse! Super Duper Duper Clean!!!! You could eat off those floors," exclaims a reviewer about Scenic Meadows RV Park. Family-friendly campgrounds typically maintain their facilities with daily cleaning.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Prepare for potentially uneven parking surfaces. One RVer at RV Resort Four Seasons advises, "The sites are annoyingly un-level. Make sure you have pads and a septic ramp." Bringing leveling blocks is essential for comfortable camping at many area sites.
Route planning: RV drivers should research road conditions before travel. "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 Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
Hookup placement: RV utility connections vary in location between campgrounds. "The utilities are towards the back of the pad, so I had to use two sewer hoses to get from the main black tank on our Brinkley G model," shares an RVer at Blue Valley RV Park. Bringing extension hoses ensures proper connections regardless of site configuration.
