Camping opportunities near Mikkalo, Oregon provide access to the natural terrain of Eastern Oregon at elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snowfall. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from May through November when weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Trail riding: The Blue Mountain Scenic Highway corridor offers equestrian trails with varying difficulty levels for horse camping enthusiasts. At Crow Butte Park, "There are hiking trails around the camp grounds," according to camper Gyro, who visited with a teardrop camper during cooler weather.
Hiking to caves: Gibson Caves accessible via a 2.5-mile trail provides an interesting geological destination within walking distance of camping areas. At Brooks Memorial State Park Campground, "There were a bunch of trails that ran through out the park that provided a nice alternative to get to the other side of the park or climb to the top of the hill near the power lines," notes Ashley B.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot deer, elk and various bird species across the sagebrush terrain. At Hunt Park, camper David B. mentions the location "Borders a large cattle ranch so you may hear cattle mooing but that's about it. Very peaceful!"
What campers like
Ample parking: The large parking areas accommodate horse trailers and RVs with sufficient turning space. At Coalmine Hill, Ashley B. notes it has "a large cul-de-sac parking lot" and is "definitely a campground geared for equestrians with a horse corral available."
Serene environment: Many campgrounds provide quiet settings away from urban areas. Hunt Park offers "Beautiful Scenery & Serene Surroundings," according to David B., who adds, "Very peaceful!"
Shaded sites: Tree cover provides relief from summer heat at several campgrounds. Cutsforth Park camper Hallie appreciates "the serenity of being away from town in the woods where all we could hear were the birds and the creek nearby."
What you should know
Highway noise: Proximity to main roads can impact the camping experience. At Cutsforth Park Campground, "The roads are gravel and wind their way up a steep hill, but the sites provide decent privacy," according to Hallie.
Insect preparation: Summer months bring increased mosquito activity across Eastern Oregon campgrounds. Ashley B. warns about Brooks Memorial that "be careful about leaving food out, zipping your tent up, leaving car doors open. The mice were pretty bad and came out at night driving my dog crazy."
Limited facilities: Most equestrian camping areas provide minimal amenities beyond basic necessities. At Coalmine Hill, Ashton B. notes "The ground isn't very level, so tent camping would be bumpy and on an incline."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Identify age-appropriate trails and viewpoints before arrival. Crow Butte Park is "a really nice place for the kids to play," according to Benjamin B., who considers it a "Great family campground."
Wildlife education: Bring field guides to identify local plants and animals for an educational experience. At Crow Butte Park, Ben B. found it offered a "fun little park for the kids and nice little beach for swimming."
Safety considerations: Establish clear boundaries for children at campsites with uneven terrain. Ashton B. cautions about Coalmine Hill: "there is also little tree trunk scattered out through out the whole place so it is kinda dangerous for kids to ran around a play."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Check which utilities are available at each campground before arrival. David B. notes Hunt Park has "lots of RV space for all sizes. Self register at the gate and find your spot."
Generator etiquette: Be considerate with generator usage in shared camping areas. Ashley B. recommends avoiding campers who run generators excessively, noting at Coalmine Hill "Aside from the horse trailer/RV that ran its generator most of the night and morning, it was a great spot to camp."
Water management: Bring additional water supplies for horses and campers during peak summer months. Derek R. mentions Crow Butte Park charges "$40.00 a night for RV $30.00 for veterans $20.00 for tents" with river access available.
