Camping opportunities near Oxbow, Oregon feature a diverse landscape at the edge of the Wallowa Mountains and Hells Canyon region, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to nearly 7,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic seasonal shifts, with hot, dry summers and cold winters that limit some campground accessibility to the June-October window. Weather patterns can change rapidly at higher elevations, particularly around the Eagle Cap Wilderness.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: At Hurricane Creek Campground, multiple trails lead to stunning mountain vistas. "There are several hikes that can be done in a single day or stretched out to multi day trips that go along mountaintops and alpine lakes," notes Celine K. The campground connects to the Eagle Cap Wilderness trail system.
Mountain wildlife viewing: The Seven Devils area offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. A visitor at Seven Devils Campground advises: "Watch out for black bears, rattlesnakes, mountain goats in the area." The high elevation provides unique habitats for diverse wildlife compared to the lower canyon areas.
Visit historical lookouts: Drive to nearby fire lookouts for panoramic views. "We were lucky to meet and chat with the couple taking care of it learning a lot about local fires, mountain ranges and enjoying time on top of one of the most beautiful lookouts in the area with views of four states," reports Kirsten I. about visiting the Heavens Gate lookout near Seven Devils Campground.
What campers like
River sounds: Many campgrounds sit alongside creeks or rivers providing natural white noise. "The creek is very loud, so much so that I wore earplugs at night to sleep," mentions Dan M. about Hurricane Creek Campground. Similarly, a camper at Blackhorse Campground appreciated how "River sound drowns out noises from the road or other campers."
Secluded sites: Blackhorse Campground offers exceptional privacy along the Imnaha River. "Stayed at site 2, it was huge and very private. All the sites have river access," notes Heather R. The campground features vault toilets but no water or trash services.
Natural springs: While several campgrounds lack piped water, some feature natural sources. At Fish Lake Campground, campers can access spring water on site. The campground sits at 6,990 feet elevation and features pine forests with spectacular fall colors when aspens change.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many campgrounds requires driving on unpaved forest roads. Regarding the Seven Devils area, Kirsten I. warns: "After 45 minutes drive on dirt road we reached this rustic campground." Similarly, a visitor to Fish Lake Campground noted: "Dusty road but all gravel- drove in with my little Nissan Sentra just fine."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. Jim F. explains that Fish Lake Campground has "on site water and metal fire pits and vault toilets. However there is other sites that are dispersed nearby on NFD Rd. 66 and NFD Rd. 6625 along the road to DeadMans Trail."
Weather fluctuations: The area experiences rapid weather changes, especially at higher elevations. One camper at Hurricane Creek Campground reported: "We scheduled three nights here but after two nights of amazing lightning storms, we skipped the third night."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Select campgrounds with safe water access. At Farewell Bend State Recreation Area, "You can walk down the long grass to the river and down steps to the water. Or just sit around camp and squirrel watch!" according to Dani K. However, be aware that "the waters edge is not clean sadly, polluted with litter and river foam."
Avoid swift waters with children: Hurricane Creek lives up to its name with fast currents. Andrew L. cautions: "My one caution would be that if you have dogs keep them on a leash because if they were to get in the creek that would be all she wrote. That creek is appropriately named as it really moves."
Bug protection: Insect activity varies by season and location. At Farewell Bend, one camper warned: "Very many mosquitos, like swarms of them." Pack appropriate repellent, especially for evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Mtn View RV Park in Baker City, spaces can be tight but manageable. MickandKarla W. reported: "We had pull through site126 with FHUs, which was a little narrow but doable getting our 39' Vilano 5th wheel into place. Great water pressure (about 100 psi) so we needed our regulator."
Water pressure variations: Several RV parks in the area have exceptionally high water pressure. One reviewer noted at Mountain View RV: "As the water pressure here is around 100 psi, you need to use a reducer." Always bring a water pressure regulator when camping in this region.
Alternative glamping options: For those seeking premium glamping close to Oxbow, Oregon without hauling an RV, Evans Farm - Glamp on the River provides upscale tent accommodations. "This property is peaceful and expansive. Cozy up in your Montana Wall Tent that offers a wood-burning stove, two burner propane cook stove, and pillow top queen sized mattress," notes Ashley F.
