Tent camping around Enterprise, Oregon provides backcountry wilderness experiences in the Wallowa Mountains at elevations ranging from 3,600 to 8,000 feet. Camping season typically runs from late May through October, with higher elevation sites opening later due to snowpack. Water sources include the Lostine River, Hurricane Creek, and alpine lakes throughout the Eagle Cap Wilderness.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Aneroid Lake Backcountry Dispersed Campsite offers excellent fishing for both rainbow and brook trout. "The lake is stocked every few years with rainbow trout, and has a good supply of brook trout," notes camper Nick J., who recommends bringing lightweight fishing gear for this backcountry destination.
Wildlife viewing: Camping near rivers provides chances to observe local fauna. At Walla Walla Forest Camp, campers can explore the Lostine corridor. "There are several campsites along the Lostine corridor, we decided just to drive until we found a spot we liked," shares Sweetclover S., adding, "this site had all we needed: solitude, water, vaulted toilet and some beautiful forest walk-abouts."
Alpine hiking: Many campsites serve as gateways to extensive trail networks. The trail from Two Pan to Mirror Lake covers 7.3 miles with moderate elevation gain. According to Sarah R., "The incline is mostly gradual with a nice break of mostly flat trail in a beautiful valley meadow area. Lots of horse traffic on this trail, so watch your step!"
What campers like
Creek-side sites: The sound of rushing water provides natural white noise at many campsites. At Williamson Campground, Adam H. appreciated that "the river is a great backdrop and sound. Space for 1 tent easily...maybe a 2nd in some. Good trees for hammock."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. "Just 4 sites, 2 with great river access. We loved the view and how big and private our site was," reports Heather R. about her experience at Walla Walla Forest Camp.
Wildlife encounters: Dawn and dusk bring opportunities to spot local wildlife. Kaitlyn P. recounts her stay at Hurricane Creek Campground: "Saw two bucks together early in the morning grazing," and adds that her site was "close to town and service but back in far enough you lose the service and all you hear is the river."
What you should know
Creek safety concerns: Fast-moving water requires caution, particularly with children and pets. Andrew L. warns about Hurricane Creek: "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. That creek is appropriately named as it really moves."
Mosquito preparation: Insect activity varies by location and season. Sweetclover S. advises about Walla Walla Forest Camp: "The other two spots are closer to the water, so you don't have to contend so much with misquitos... Just bring bug spray and check for ticks!"
Water management: With limited drinking water available, campers must plan accordingly. Brooklyn P. notes about Hurricane Creek Campground: "no water hookups, so just remember to bring your own :)"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly sites: Choose campsites with adequate space and natural features. Deb H. reports that at Hurricane Creek Campground, "Sites 12 and 13 at the end of the road have a lot of trees and good tent areas. Nice large picnic tables and fire pits. Only a 5 mile trip into Joseph. Deer wandered through the campground and there are chipmunks."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer. Brooklyn P. observes: "it seemed to me that this area does get a lot of rain, so just a heads up for that."
Campsite noise considerations: Creek noise can be soothing but sometimes overwhelming. Dan M. shares his experience: "The creek is very loud, so much so that I wore earplugs at night to sleep."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access limitations: Road conditions may restrict larger vehicles. Kathy B. states about her trip to Hurricane Creek: "Before I drove down here, I'd read some reviews about the road not being pot-holed and washboard, but I decided to risk it with my van and so glad I did! I found a level site for my van with neighbors not too close."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for sites near water. "Spent one night in that spot then took another closer to the river for the second night where I had to use my leveling blocks. But so worth it. Could hear nothing but the rushing river," explains Kathy B.
Security considerations: More remote campgrounds may have varying levels of security. At Boundary Campground, Kathy B. observed: "This is a free First come First Serve National Forest Service campground and thus, there seem to be folks living here full time. Lots of trailers, cars that looked like they didn't run and dogs off leash... I didn't feel entirely safe, also not unsafe either."
