The Enterprise area sits at approximately 3,750 feet elevation in the Wallowa Mountain region, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. The surrounding national forest lands support diverse wildlife including mule deer, osprey, and occasionally bears. Winter glamping options remain limited, with most sites closing after the first significant snowfall in late October.
What to do
Fish the Minam River: Access prime fishing spots at Minam State Recreation Area, where the confluence of the Minam and Wallowa rivers creates excellent trout habitat. "Great fishing along the river. Need to be on the look out for bears, as this was a homestead place many years ago and they have apple trees on the property," notes camper Rod D.
Soak in natural hot springs: Travel approximately 40 miles to Grande Hot Springs RV Resort for mineral-rich soaking pools. "The soaking pools were amazing. They even had a twilight soak. Very peaceful and relaxing campground. Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish," reports Cheryl S.
Hike Hurricane Creek Trail: Just a short drive from Enterprise, Hurricane Creek Campground provides direct access to Eagle Cap Wilderness trails. "We planned to hit the nearby hiking trail, but when we got to the trailhead, the parking lot was completely packed. When we go there again, we will stay and relax at the campground," advises Jim B.
What campers like
Secluded riverside sites: Campers appreciate the private settings along Hurricane Creek. "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," shares Kaitlyn P., who enjoyed site 9 with its river access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife year-round. "Whitetail doe with 2 fawns frequented the campground. Lots of fishing, some small trails and wound up walking down the dirt road with dogs as there was literally no traffic and the views were so outstanding," writes Jill R. about Minam State Recreation Area.
Quiet natural surroundings: Many campgrounds offer noise buffers from running water. "Hurricane Creek Campsite is super nice. Sits right along Hurricane Creek and has a lot of well maintained spots. My one caution would be that if you have dogs keep them on a leash because if they were to get in the creek that would be all she wrote," notes Andrew L.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. "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. The only downside was the 2 mile, narrow, gravel road into the park. A little bit of a nail biter with a bigger rig," cautions Jill R.
Water hazards require caution: Fast-moving creeks pose risks, especially with children or pets. "The creek lives up to its name and is very loud. The sites are not especially big, just enough space for two small tents," explains Sara R. about Blackhorse Campground.
Limited cell service: Most wilderness camping areas have no connectivity. "There is no cell service at the campground," reports Rod D. about Minam State Recreation Area, making it important to plan ahead with offline maps and emergency information.
Tips for camping with families
Choose creek-side sites carefully: While water features appeal to families, safety concerns exist. "This is a small campground along Hurricane Creek. Private secluded sites, just a few miles from Hurricane Creek Trailhead in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The creek is very loud, so much so that I wore earplugs at night to sleep," advises Dan M.
Look for wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings from safe distances. "Deer wandered through the campground and there are chipmunks," notes Deb H. about Hurricane Creek Campground, making it an educational opportunity for young campers.
Consider glamping in Enterprise, Oregon for convenience: Families seeking comfort with outdoor access might prefer Catherine Creek State Park Campground, which offers a balance of amenities and natural setting. "Cute little campground in the middle of 'nowhere,'" says Brandon C., while Jeane L. adds, "There were a few water spigots around and a trash can for each site. It was lovely listening to the creek all day."
Tips from RVers
Verify site access before arrival: Some campgrounds have limited turnaround space. "Small campground by a beautiful but loud creek. Several sites along the creek, some accessible by car only (no trailer turnaround). Sites private," cautions Janet K. about Hurricane Creek Campground.
Book ahead for luxury glamping options: Higher-end glamping in Enterprise typically requires advance planning. While Evans Farm offers safari tents, other nearby options like Log House RV Park and Campground provide full hookups. "This is a nice little RV park that is close to most things in the Joseph area. There are several RV sites as well as tent sites," notes Ashley B.
Check seasonal availability: Most RV accommodations operate seasonally. "Perfect stop for a night or few days. We loved this little first-come, first-serve campground. It's small and squeezed in between the creek, mountain highway and steep hillside with some grazing cattle on the other side," shares Jeane L. about Catherine Creek State Park Campground.
