Dispersed camping options abound near Island City, Oregon, within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest at elevations ranging from 3,200 to 7,000 feet. The area encompasses over 2.3 million acres of diverse terrain, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Unpaved forest roads provide access to numerous remote sites where campers can stay up to 14 days.
What to do
Hiking trails with creek access: At Spring Creek Campground, campers enjoy numerous trails. "It is a designated ATV aria with tons of trails used by hikers and horses in the fall it is a favorite spot for hunters," notes Rayne N.
Backpacking to alpine lakes: The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Mirror Lake sites offer backcountry camping 7.3 miles from Two Pan Trailhead. "The incline is mostly gradual with a nice break of mostly flat trail in a beautiful valley meadow area. The lake is super clear, and worth a swim," according to Sarah R.
OHV riding: Dispersed sites throughout Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 connect to multiple off-highway vehicle routes. "Well maintained roads. Sites are far apart but some lack privacy. I saw Lots of elk and turkeys(?) and a rattlesnake," reports mel B.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Campers appreciate Walla Walla Forest Camp for its water proximity. "Just 4 sites, 2 with great river access. We loved the view and how big and private our site was," shares Heather R.
Equestrian access: Horse camping near Island City includes North Fork John Day Campground with specialized facilities. "There are 4 equestrian sites. The North Fork John Day trail departs from the campground and it is possible to make a loop using the Crane Creek trail if the river crossing is possible," explains Teri A.
Quick overnight stops: Many travelers use the area for convenient stopovers. "Quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts. No amenities," writes Matt B. about Wallowa-Whitman NF 21.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote equestrian camping sites near Island City requires preparation. "The access road was narrow and in pretty rough shape, lots of horse trailers hauling livestock up and down the road," reports Maria S. about Irondyke Forest Camp.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed areas have minimal services. "There was a camp host during our stay but he was only there one of the 3 nights we stayed," notes Teri A. about North Fork John Day Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "If you choose to stay here I would definitely go for a site away from the freeway. Ours was in B loop and you could hear all the vehicles cruising on by on I-84," warns Tiffany L. about Emigrant Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Clean facilities: Spring Creek maintains good conditions for family camping. "Great little campground far enough from the interstate to be peaceful. Vault toilet was very clean," reports Charles T.
Educational programs: Some sites offer learning opportunities. "The park rangers were so nice. They had informed classes about animals in the forest. The Jr rangers program for the children was wonderful and hands on," shares Jenny M. about Emigrant Springs.
Seasonal timing: For horse camping with children near Island City, timing matters. "Most campsites between the town of Lostine and Irondyke campground were taken by 7pm on Friday," notes Maria S., highlighting weekend crowds during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research spots beforehand. "After we decided to hang out in the area for a bit longer, we knew we had to move off the main road as the dust was making our solar pout. We chose the 1st spot on the left for the full solar and gorgeous view of the meadow," recommends Erin H.
Campground spacing: At Spring Creek, "Four campsites, plenty of space between sites for more privacy," notes Brandon C., making it suitable for smaller RVs seeking separation from neighbors.
Overnight accessibility: When arriving late, certain areas work better. "Needed a nice place between destinations and this was perfect. Clean and quiet on the last weekend of July," reports Adrian about Spring Creek Campground, which remains accessible during peak season.
