Lostine, Oregon sits at approximately 3,400 feet elevation in the Wallowa Valley, with the towering peaks of the Wallowa Mountains rising dramatically to the south and east. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs typically ranging from 75-90°F. The area's campgrounds open seasonally with most facilities closing during winter months when mountain roads can become snow-covered and impassable.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: access mineral pools at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, open until 11 PM for evening relaxation. "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," shares reviewer Paul B.
Wildlife viewing: explore natural areas within walking distance of camping areas. "The resort lies next to a wildlife refuge," notes ursala K. at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. At Wallowa Lake State Park Campground, campers can spot diverse wildlife. "This is bear country so if thats not your thing, i wouldnt camp there," advises Finna G.
Alpine exploration: ride the tram near Wallowa Lake State Park Campground for mountain views. "We took the tram up and visited a mountain summit 3700 feet above our location at the campground," writes Kellie T., noting the significant elevation gain and panoramic vistas available.
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: level pull-through options for larger vehicles at many area parks. "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," notes Amancay B. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: well-maintained bathhouses at Scenic Meadows RV Park in Joseph. "WOW what a beautiful bathhouse! Super Duper Duper Clean!!!! You could eat off those floors," enthuses Tracy M., highlighting the exceptional cleanliness standards.
Nature trails: explore waterways surrounding camping areas. "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," shares Cheryl S. about her experience at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: limited winter availability for most RV parks in the region. "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 Matthew K. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Reservation management: confirm bookings prior to arrival, especially during peak season. At Mountain View Motel and RV Park, a camper experienced challenges: "When the first part of our party showed up to check in we were told they had no idea about our reservation and they were full," recounts Ashley B., recommending travelers "make sure you get a reservation number or email confirmation."
Road conditions: approach directions matter when traveling to the area. "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," advises Bill B. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: go-karts and mini-golf available near Wallowa Lake. "There are go carts and mini golf nearby for families, and the gondola provides gorgeous views," notes Joan H. about activities surrounding Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Shared spaces: expect social camping at busier rv parks near Lostine, Oregon. "It's large and busy and full of people. There aren't many trees, and you're pretty much next to your neighbors," explains Stephanie Z. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground during peak season.
Campsite selection: reserve early for family-friendly locations. "This campground is a nice well maintained place with clean facilities and well dispersed sites," shares Heidi P., adding that Wallowa Lake State Park Campground has "nice tree cover and a River right at the edge of where we were."
Tips from RVers
Sewer systems: monitor tank emptying carefully at certain facilities. "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," warns Amancay B. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Site navigation: large rig maneuverability can be challenging at some Lostine area RV parks. "Really big rigs could have a problem with the turns," cautions Tracy M. about La Grande Rendezvous RV Park, highlighting the importance of considering vehicle size when selecting a destination.
Hookup availability: water access may be seasonally restricted. "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," reports Amancay B. about late-season camping at Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
