Campgrounds near Meacham, Oregon range in elevation from 2,000 to 7,000 feet across the Blue Mountains, creating diverse camping conditions throughout the region. Winter temperatures drop well below freezing while summer days reach the 80s with cool nights in the 40s. Roads to backcountry sites often remain snow-covered until late May, with accessibility improving significantly by mid-June.
What to do
Fishing streams and lakes: Spring Creek Campground provides access to numerous fishing spots on the Grande Ronde River. As one camper noted, "There is a small campground with 6 sites mostly good for campers or tent in a grove of trees with a vaulted outhouse. In the surrounding aria there are plenty of dispersed campsites that can hold any size RV Around the form almost completely shaded to full sun."
Hiking forest trails: At Anthony Lake Campground, visitors can access multiple hiking paths. "We paddled on the lake, hiked around it, drove up to the top of the ski area for the view and part of our group hiked down from there," shared one camper about the trails available from this 7,000-foot elevation site.
Soaking in natural hot springs: Grande Hot Springs RV Resort offers mineral-rich soaking pools with different temperature options. According to a visitor, "The soaking pools were amazing. They even had a twilight soak. Very peaceful and relaxing campground. Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer."
What campers like
Forest isolation: Many campers value the privacy at Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor, which offers secluded sites despite proximity to Highway 395. "Simple but very cute CG. Good sized sites, clean bathrooms right on little river currently damned by a local beaver and therefore good for a dip. Beautiful area with lots of options," reported one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Catherine Creek State Park Campground provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. One camper shared their experience: "We had plenty of critters - plenty of butterflies, a few more spiders than I usually notice. There were the usual gnats, mozzies, bees, wasps, and flies too, but no more than any other campground, as well as some creek specific ones since we were so close to the creek."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of several campgrounds enables excellent night sky viewing. At Mottet Campground, one visitor reported, "Great place for astrophotographers when conditions are right!" The higher elevation and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for viewing stars and planets.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds in the area sit close to highways, affecting the camping experience. At Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area, one camper warned, "The road noise is extreme; very loud. If you can get past that the place is really sweet. The sites have water fire pit and picnic table and lots of trees for privacy."
Road conditions to remote sites: Access to secluded campgrounds often requires driving on rough forest roads. For Mottet Campground, a camper advised, "You will need a higher clearance vehicle to reach this campground, and signage may be limited so make sure you know your step by step directions beforehand. The road is basically a forest service road with ruts and high bumps."
Seasonal availability: Many glamping options near Meacham, Oregon operate only during warmer months. Catherine Creek State Park Campground typically opens mid-April and closes mid-October, with similar seasons at other area campgrounds due to mountain snow conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Some campgrounds offer ranger-led activities for children. One visitor to Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area recalled, "We have stayed here many times. 10 years ago was one of our favorites. 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."
Creek access safety: Families camping with young children should be aware of water hazards. At Spool Cart Campground, access to the Grande Ronde River requires supervision. One camper noted, "Limited access to the river because of the brush. Fee was $10 per night. No cell service."
Wildlife precautions: Parents should prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. At Minam State Recreation Area, campers report seeing "Whitetail doe with 2 fawns" in the campground regularly, while other sites post warnings about bears, cougars, and rattlesnakes that children should understand.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RV campers seeking seclusion should target specific areas at Wildhorse Casino. "There is a lot of light in the rv area, and it's not very quiet from both the close road and the trucks on the freeway," warns one RVer, suggesting selecting sites farther from road areas.
Power requirements: RVers requiring specific electrical service should verify availability before arrival. Grande Hot Springs RV Resort provides full hookups at all sites, with a visitor noting, "Very nice RV park. very clean and well maintained. Roads and all sites are gravel. Lots of green grass areas and dog areas. All sites are pull through and can accommodate large RVs."
Seasonal road access: RVers with larger vehicles should check road conditions before attempting remote campgrounds, particularly early or late in the season. Spring Creek Campground reports "About a mile of decent dirt road, a few washboards and potholes, just go slow," making it challenging but accessible for moderate-sized RVs.
