Northeast Oregon offers diverse camping options near Haines. With elevations ranging from 3,000-7,000 feet throughout the region, campsites experience significant temperature drops at night even during summer months. Many campgrounds remain open from May through October, with several spots requiring no reservations.
What to do
Riverside relaxation: Spool Cart Campground provides peaceful sites along the Grand Ronde River. According to Kathleen H., "Only myself and another campsite occupied during the weekend I was there. My site was a single (#4) and had nice river access."
Old-growth exploration: Wetmore Campground features an accessible paved trail through impressive trees. Shayla J. notes, "Nice little paved hike that is wheelchair accessible and lets you see some nice big trees. Very quiet on a Friday night in June."
Lake recreation: Union Creek Campground offers boat ramp access to Phillips Lake. Andy M. shares it has "Access to lake very large boat ramp and docking." The lake supports fishing, paddling and swimming, though water levels can fluctuate seasonally.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Grande Hot Springs RV Resort features mineral pools with extended hours. Paul B. writes, "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."
Wildlife viewing: Grande Hot Springs Resort borders a wildlife refuge with excellent bird watching opportunities. Ursala K. shares, "There are many birds. The resort lies next to a wildlife refuge." Campers can spot various waterfowl species and occasionally deer.
Stargazing opportunities: The 7,000-foot elevation at Anthony Lake Campground creates ideal conditions for night sky observation. One visitor mentions, "It was peaceful and lovely with great views of the stars at night."
What you should know
Limited services: Most forest service campgrounds require self-sufficiency. Laura M. from Spring Creek Campground reports, "No garbage service or any other kind of service. $15/night, self pay at the entrance with cash or check."
Road conditions: Access roads to remote sites can be challenging. Jacob D. describes Spring Creek's approach: "It's a rough road about 1.2 miles, that's bumpy and has lots of pot holes."
Water pressure considerations: Some RV parks have extremely high water pressure. At Mtn View RV Park, MickandKarla W. caution, "As the water pressure here is around 100 psi, you need to use a reducer."
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated recreation areas: Catherine Creek State Park Campground includes family-friendly amenities. Ashton B. explains, "There's an area for day picnic use and then another area for camping. 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."
Swimming options: Unity Lake State Recreation Site offers lake swimming despite occasional water quality issues. Isabel notes, "Kids swam and had a good time in the cool water but the water was gross."
Glamping alternatives: For families considering glamping in Haines, Oregon area, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground provides yurts as comfortable alternatives to tents. The resort's yurts offer a convenient luxury camping experience at 7,000 feet elevation.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many parks offer complete services. At Mtn View RV Park, MickandKarla W. describe, "We had pull through site126 with FHUs, which was a little narrow but doable getting our 39' Vilano 5th wheel into place."
Seasonal considerations: For RVers considering glamping near Haines, Oregon in spring, flexibility helps. Melissa J. mentions Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground was "mostly empty with some snow patches still on the ground" during her April visit.
Internet connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically by location. Erin H. advises about Spring Creek, "Cell signal comes in stronger on this ridge, but still a little fickle without a booster... note to self, get booster."
