RV parks near Joseph, Oregon provide convenient bases for exploring the Wallowa Mountains region at elevations around 4,400 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures often below freezing. Joseph's RV accommodations typically operate from spring through fall, with some offering year-round service despite the region's significant snowfall from December through March.
What to do
Alpine adventures: Wallowa Lake State Park Campground offers access to numerous hiking trails and a mountain summit tram. "We took the tram up and visited a mountain summit 3700 feet above our location at the campground. There were numerous hiking trails, and fishing was a popular pastime for many campers," notes a visitor who appreciated the variety of outdoor activities.
Off-road exploration: 16 miles north of Council on Lost Valley Reservoir Road leads to camping opportunities with ATV access. According to a camper at Lost Valley Reservoir, "Beautiful views, great hiking, refreshing water, and several families had ATV's. Huckleberries are usually ripe 1st/2nd weeks of August."
Wildlife viewing: Wallowa Lake State Park provides opportunities to observe local fauna. "Well kept and nice rangers. Accommodating and quiet, lots of wild life. This is bear country so if that's not your thing, I wouldn't camp there," cautions a visitor who enjoyed the natural setting.
What campers like
Geothermal soaking: Grande Hot Springs RV Resort features natural mineral pools. A visitor explains, "The hot tubs are small, but it really doesn't matter if no one is there. They are pool noodle friendly when it's not high occupancy. The Verizon signal is strong."
Riverside relaxation: Canyon Pines RV Resort offers sites along the Salmon River. "We weren't able to use due to fire restrictions in the area. There is a camp store that has just about everything you might need including a good selection of wine and beer," mentions one camper who found the amenities comprehensive.
Off-season tranquility: Many RV parks near Joseph maintain lighter crowds during spring and fall. "We arrived in late November, when it was cold, snowy, and practically empty. But the campground and all of its facilities were open, and the camp host was extremely friendly and helpful!" reports a winter visitor to Wallowa Lake State Park.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer is peak season for RV parks in Joseph, Oregon, requiring advanced planning. "This campground makes for a great home base for those that want to fly fish the Little Salmon and Salmon Rivers. You can also walk to downtown Riggins for a bite to eat or do some shopping," notes a visitor to Riverside RV Park.
Camping density: Some parks have closely spaced sites. "Sites were nice, but very much on top of each other, IMHO. I prefer more privacy for longer stays. Wouldn't want to be there in peak season," mentions a camper at Wallowa Lake State Park.
Seasonal water access: Water systems may be winterized at some locations. "Unfortunately they had water hookups shut off for winter (after we made our reservation, but before we arrived). So we had to venture back out to the designated water fill campsite our first morning," explains a fall visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pet amenities: A-Frame RV Park features extensive pet areas. "Dog Friendly with a 14 acres off-leash dog park! Washrooms were small but very clean. Even though it is 1 minute off the highway it was fairly quiet," reports a satisfied pet owner.
Lake activities: Wallowa Lake offers swimming, boating, and fishing options. "Large, pretty open campground. Right on the lake, great for family camping. Lots of hiking nearby!" shares a visitor who found the location ideal for family outings.
Entertainment options: Mini-golf and go-kart facilities operate near some RV parks in Joseph. "This place is a gem in the rough. You are surrounded by wildlife, and entertained by the go carts. They even had food trucks," notes a visitor to Scenic Meadows RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Bathroom access: Not all RV parks provide shower facilities. "Just a note there isn't shower/restrooms facilities in the park so you will need to use your rigs. We would definitely stay again," explains a visitor to Riverside RV Park.
Site spacing: Log House RV Park and Campground offers variable site spacing. A visitor noted, "There are several RV sites as well as tent sites. There are also several sites that look like full time RVer's that live in the park. The bathrooms and showers were clean."
Water and sewage systems: Some parks have capacity limitations. "They ask that you don't offload a full black/grey tank at your site, as the septic system can't handle it... in my experience, the dump site may not be able to handle it either," cautions an RV camper about system limitations at Wallowa Lake State Park.
