Campers visiting La Grande, Oregon can find accommodations nestled between the Blue Mountains and the Grande Ronde Valley at 2,788 feet elevation. The area combines forest terrain with valley views, creating varied camping options within 30 miles of town. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, while summer camping season typically runs from late May through September.
What to do
Mineral soaking pools: Grande Hot Springs RV Resort features natural hot spring pools for camper relaxation. One camper notes, "The soaking pools were amazing. They even had a twilight soak. Very peaceful and relaxing campground" while another mentions "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 watching: Areas around Grande Hot Springs RV Resort provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," reports one visitor. Another camper mentions, "The resort lies next to a wildlife refuge."
Seasonal events: Visit during special weekends for added activities. One camper at Wildhorse Resort Casino RV Park notes, "The week of Father's Day is a busy time," indicating popular seasonal gatherings. Another mentions "While we don't gamble, we enjoy staying at this resort... the casino has added many family activities, including an arcade, a cinema, a food court, and recently a bowling alley."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Campsites at many La Grande area parks accommodate larger rigs with room to spare. At Gold Rush RV Park, a visitor notes, "Full hookups. 30/50 amps power. Camp area clean. Large sites." Another camper at Grande Hot Springs observed, "Pretty mountain valley campground with many full hookup pull through sites."
Mountain views: The surrounding Blue Mountains provide scenic backdrops at several campgrounds. A camper at Wildhorse Resort describes it as an "Oasis on the road" while another at Grande Hot Springs notes, "Visiting in April on a Sunday to do day use has defined my idea of heavenly. The snow-covered peaks, the clean air, the sounds of the spring birds, and the silence are magical."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight well-maintained restrooms and grounds. At Sumpter RV Park, a visitor stated, "The campground just went under new ownership and they are doing such a great job taking care of it and making it a fun family friendly destination." At Gold Rush RV Park, a camper shared, "The park was clean, and the restrooms/laundry room was spotless."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Some parks fill quickly during peak seasons. At La Grande Rendezvous RV Park, a camper reported, "Big sites. Very nice staff and easy in and out," but advance booking is recommended during busy periods.
Road conditions: Access roads vary in quality around the region. One camper at Grande Hot Springs advised, "If you approach the campsite from the East, be prepared for a bumpy road. The road from the West (LaGrande) is much better even if it takes you a few miles out of the way."
Seasonal operations: Not all facilities operate year-round. Scenic Meadows RV Park only operates "May 1 to October 1," requiring off-season travelers to seek alternatives.
Cell service: Connectivity varies by location and provider. A Grande Hot Springs visitor noted, "The Verizon signal is strong," while another mentioned "Good wifi and cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Off-leash areas for pets: A-Frame RV Park provides exceptional pet amenities. One visitor noted, "Dog Friendly with a 14 acres off-leash dog park!" while another mentioned "The dog park on the back forty was seriously about 40 acres."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer pools or water features. At Wildhorse Resort, a camper highlighted, "Both the hotel and the RV park have separate swimming pools," making it suitable for families with children.
Nature exploration: Kids can enjoy wildlife viewing on easy trails. A Grande Hot Springs visitor shared, "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," providing educational opportunities for young campers.
On-site entertainment: Some parks offer recreational facilities. At Wildhorse Resort, "Over the years, the casino has added many family activities, including an arcade, a cinema, a food court, and recently a bowling alley with multiple lanes."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When RV camping near La Grande, Oregon, choose sites based on your specific needs. At Hu-Na-Ha RV Park, a camper noted, "This park accepts Good Sam discounts. There are a few full timers but are kept clean. The park is right on the edge of town. Nestled between a river and a horse farm."
Hookup details: Check which utilities are available at each site. At A-Frame RV Park, a visitor shared, "Big trees, lots of shade, full hook ups. Pic-Nic tables at each spot... We have a 36ft travel trailer with slides on both sides. Was able to fit into the pull through no problem with truck parked in front."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. Wildhorse Resort offers a "sanitary dump" facility, while another visitor at Hu-Na-Ha RV Park commented on "full hookups" availability making extended stays more convenient.
Winter considerations: Some parks remain open year-round while others close seasonally. La Grande Rendezvous RV Park operates "All year" while Scenic Meadows RV Park is only open "May 1 to October 1," requiring winter travelers to plan accordingly.
