Best Campgrounds near North Powder, OR

The North Powder area in eastern Oregon provides a range of developed campgrounds within striking distance of the Blue Mountains. Anthony Lake Campground, situated at 44.96 degrees north, represents one of the premier established camping areas in this mountain region. Camping options near North Powder include facilities for tents, RVs, cabins, and even yurts at sites like Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground. Several campgrounds in the area feature mixed-use facilities where both tent campers and RV enthusiasts can find appropriate accommodations, including Grande Hot Springs RV Resort and A-Frame RV Park in nearby Baker City.

Elevation significantly impacts camping conditions around North Powder, with most sites located in higher mountain terrain. Anthony Lake Campground operates primarily from early July through mid-September due to mountain weather patterns. One visitor noted, "We were able to drive through the campground with the 27' trailer we had rented but none of the spaces would have accommodated us (that we could see)." Access to many sites requires navigation of mountain roads, with several campgrounds offering varying levels of amenities from primitive to full-service hookups. Cell service varies throughout the region, with limited coverage in more remote mountain locations. Verizon users report between 2-3 bars at some campgrounds, while others have minimal connectivity.

Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty of the high mountain lakes as a primary attraction in the North Powder region. Phillips Lake (near Union Creek Campground) and Anthony Lake provide popular water recreation opportunities when water levels permit. A camper described Anthony Lake as "a great choice to get away from smoke" with "peaceful and lovely" spots for paddling and hiking. Many campgrounds in the area maintain vault toilets and basic amenities, while RV resorts offer more extensive facilities including showers, hookups, and in some cases, geothermal hot springs. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with visitors reporting deer sightings at multiple campgrounds. Winter accessibility becomes limited at higher elevations, making seasonal planning essential for visitors to this part of Oregon.

Best Camping Sites Near North Powder, Oregon (153)

    1. Grande Hot Springs RV Resort

    42 Reviews
    Union, OR
    15 miles
    Website

    "We enjoyed the great walking paths around the perimeter of the park to walk our dogs. The pool and hot tub are heated geothermally and are warm, soothing, and oh, so relaxing."

    "The tent and yurt sites are beautifully situated next to a stream full of cattails and lily pads. Wild deer roam nearby and horses graze in the fields around the park. Not far from town either."

    2. Pilcher Creek Reservoir

    13 Reviews
    North Powder, OR
    8 miles
    Website

    "Although there’s not a ton of spots, it’s lovely and was a quiet solitude away from the road but not too far. Saw a ton of wildlife too (bring your bear spray)."

    "Most of the sites overlooked a beautiful lake stick among the hills, and we’re in decent shape with a fire ring, table and little grill."

    3. A-Frame RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Baker City, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 523-3236

    "Great stop over RV Park in the mountains between Idaho and Oregon in Baker City oregon. Full hookups pull throughs a small shop and a great little town. Well managed and clean. Large dog run."

    "Nice clean bathrooms, reasonable price (and don’t mind car charging), a little loud from the highway."

    4. Wolf Creek Reservoir

    3 Reviews
    North Powder, OR
    5 miles

    "The location is right next to the reservoir. Rhe site we got was nicely graveled and a pull through."

    5. Mtn View RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Baker City, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 523-4824

    "This park is in Baker City and close to many restaurants as well grocery stores. This unique park is well kept and had a store which was a plus!"

    "As the water pressure here is around 100 psi, you need to use a reducer. Sites are close to one another but you still have a grass yard with some separation."

    6. Catherine Creek State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Union, OR
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 551-6949

    $10 / night

    "We stayed at campsite 5, which seems like an odd choice since it's right next to the welcome signage and fee drop box, but we really liked it because we were able to spread out along the side of the creek"

    "This site is close to the main road so must watch kiddos and dogs at all times. It is also close to the river, so watch those kiddos. There's a wonderful trail with a wooden bridge to start off."

    7. A & A RV Park & Storage

    1 Review
    North Powder, OR
    0 miles
    +1 (541) 898-2638

    "I was too tired to drive all the way to Boise. This place was clean, the owner, Steffi, lives on the premises, and everything works. I slept well except for the occasional train."

    8. Thief Valley Reservoir Campground

    2 Reviews
    North Powder, OR
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 963-1001

    9. Anthony Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    Haines, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 894-2332

    $12 - $100 / night

    "We headed this way to get away from smoke caused by the 2020 Central Oregon fires.  It was a great choice.  Still hazy long distance views but had great views of the stars at night. "

    "**Ranger Review: Midland Radios at Anthony Lakes Campground Review: **

    This is my favorite place in Oregon."

    10. Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground

    2 Reviews
    Haines, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 894-2332

    $30 / night

    "On weekends in the summer, the ski lift becomes a mountain biking lift, there are hiking trails, and of course lakes."

    "Beautiful campsite, nice walk around the lake. It was mostly empty with some snow patches still on the ground."

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Showing results 1-10 of 153 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near North Powder, OR

418 Reviews of 153 North Powder Campgrounds



Guide to North Powder

Camping near North Powder, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hot Springs Relaxation: Check out the Grande Hot Springs RV Resort for a soak in natural hot springs. One visitor said, "The pools that are fed by the springs are great, especially after a long day on the road."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Pilcher Creek Reservoir, you can enjoy a quiet night while spotting wildlife. A camper noted, "Saw a ton of wildlife too (bring your bear spray)."
  • Hiking Trails: Explore the trails around Hurricane Creek Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Spent one night in that spot then took another closer to the river... Could hear nothing but the rushing river."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like A-Frame RV Park. A visitor shared, "Nice clean bathrooms, reasonable price... a little loud from the highway."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Olive Lake Campground. One camper said, "Great experience. Host very nice. Bathrooms clean."
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Campers at Bird Track Springs love the tranquility. A reviewer noted, "Gorgeous tall trees, sites are spread out, very peaceful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hilgard Junction State Park Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "There was trash service, toilets and water that you can fill up water jugs with."
  • Wildlife Precautions: At Hurricane Creek Campground, be aware of wildlife. One visitor cautioned, "Be bear aware here. Didn't see any bears, but they were around the week before I came."
  • Road Noise: Some sites, like those at Mtn View RV Park, are near highways. A camper noted, "The traffic from the freeway can be a little loud but it is clean and has flush toilets that are clean."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby hiking trails, like Olive Lake Campground. A family shared, "We biked around the lake (little less than 4 miles), would be a good easy hike with kids."
  • Play Areas: Some campgrounds, like Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, are better suited for older kids. A reviewer mentioned, "But otherwise, a great stop, and really, a better stop for a more mature crowd."
  • Pack Games: Bring outdoor games for downtime. One camper at A-Frame RV Park suggested, "Big trees, lots of shade, full hook ups."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to verify the availability of electric hookups at places like Mtn View RV Park. A visitor noted, "The utilities were in the middle of the pad, which made it nice for our one-night stay."
  • Level Sites: Look for level sites, especially at Pilcher Creek Reservoir. A camper mentioned, "Good roads to the campsite. There are pull through and back in sites that would accommodate good-sized rigs."
  • Bring Water: Many campgrounds, like Bird Track Springs, do not have water hookups. A visitor reminded, "No water hookups, so just remember to bring your own."

Camping near North Powder, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to check the specific amenities and features of each campground to make the most of your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Pilcher Reservoir campground in North Powder?

Pilcher Reservoir campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The site provides vault toilets, potable water access points, and designated campsites with fire rings. Unlike the more developed Union Creek Campground which has electric hookups, Pilcher is more primitive but still accommodates RVs. The campground is big-rig friendly with suitable parking areas. Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire pit. There are no showers or electrical hookups available. The reservoir itself serves as the main attraction, offering fishing, boating, and water recreation opportunities right from the campground.

Where is Pilcher Reservoir campground located near North Powder?

Pilcher Creek Reservoir is located in northeastern Oregon, not far from North Powder. The reservoir is situated in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, approximately 10 miles from North Powder. Similar to the nearby Thief Valley Reservoir Campground, access is via country roads. From North Powder, you'll need to take Highway 237 and then turn onto rural roads to reach the reservoir. The campground offers a scenic setting with mountain views and is positioned close to the water's edge, making it convenient for fishing and water activities.

When is the best time to camp at Pilcher Reservoir near North Powder?

The best time to camp at Pilcher Reservoir is from late spring through early fall, typically May through September, when temperatures are moderate and the area is most accessible. Like nearby Anthony Lake Campground, the location's higher elevation means summer provides the most comfortable camping conditions with warm days and cool nights. The reservoir area, similar to other eastern Oregon locations like Southwest Shore Campground, can experience significant winds, especially in afternoons. Early summer offers lush landscapes, while late summer provides more stable weather. The campground typically closes during winter months due to snow and freezing conditions.