Tent campsites near Oxbow, Oregon offer diverse camping experiences across varying elevations in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Summer temperatures at higher campsites can drop into the 30s overnight even when daytime temperatures reach 80°F. Access roads to remote camping areas typically open between late May and mid-June, depending on snowmelt conditions and seasonal rainfall patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fish Lake Campground provides exceptional trout fishing in a high alpine setting. As camper Patrick S. notes, the lake offers "outstanding action-packed trout fishing" that makes it a worthwhile destination for anglers willing to make the journey to 6,990 feet elevation.
Creek exploration: Hurricane Creek Campground features multiple sites positioned along a fast-moving creek with several swimming holes. According to Kaitlyn P., "The river is shallow in most places but right off this site it has a deep area where you can dip, the water is freezing even in late August, and there's a 3-foot jump down onto the bank."
Hiking access: Tent sites at Aneroid Lake Backcountry Dispersed Campsite require a significant hike but reward visitors with high alpine lake access. Camper Nick J. explains that "The dispersed camping for backpackers is on the North side of the lake" and mentions the lake "is stocked every few years with rainbow trout, and has a good supply of brook trout."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Hurricane Creek campsites offer consistent wildlife observation opportunities. Deb H. reports, "Deer wandered through the campground and there are chipmunks," while other visitors frequently mention spotting various mammals and birds during morning and evening hours.
Creek sounds: The rushing water at Hidden Campground provides natural white noise that many campers appreciate. Adam H. describes the campground as "Quiet, beautiful and river access" noting that despite arriving on July 4th, they "had no issues finding a site."
Natural spring water: Fish Lake Campground offers access to natural spring water, a rare amenity in the region. As Jim F. explains, the campground "is a pay site ($6/night) with on-site water and metal fire pits and vault toilets," making it exceptionally convenient compared to many primitive sites in the area.
What you should know
Site spacing and privacy: Campgrounds in this region typically feature well-spaced sites that provide good separation between campers. At Hurricane Creek, Janet K. describes it as a "Small campground by a beautiful but loud creek" with "sites private" and minimal crowds even during summer weekends.
Road conditions: Many forest roads require careful driving but remain accessible to standard vehicles. Kathy B. notes about Hurricane Creek Campground, "Before I drove down here, I'd read some reviews about the road not being pot-holed and washboard, but I decided to risk it with my van and so glad I did!"
Weather variability: Storm patterns can develop quickly in summer months. One camper at Hurricane Creek mentioned scheduling "three nights here but after two nights of amazing lightning storms, we skipped the third night," indicating the need for weather awareness and flexibility.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife awareness: Bears have been reported in several campgrounds. At Hurricane Creek, Kathy B. advises to "Be bear aware here. Didn't see any bears, but they were around the week before I came." Food storage precautions are essential.
Water safety: Creek and river access points require supervision. Andrew L. cautions about Hurricane Creek 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."
Bathroom facilities: Fish Lake Campground offers maintained vault toilets that remain clean throughout the season. Brooklyn P. notes about another nearby campground that there are "plenty of clean bathrooms" making extended stays more comfortable for families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Limited turnaround space: Many campgrounds have sites suited for tents or small trailers but lack adequate turnaround areas for larger rigs. Janet K. notes that at Hurricane Creek some sites are "accessible by car only (no trailer turnaround)."
Leveling requirements: Riverside sites often require leveling equipment. A Hurricane Creek camper reports, "took another closer to the river for the second night where I had to use my leveling blocks. But so worth it."
Site selection for size limitations: The campgrounds near Oxbow frequently have sites with varying capacities. Jim B. mentions that at Hurricane Creek "The campsites are spaced quite far apart, some only large enough for a tent," indicating RV campers should arrive early for the limited number of suitable spaces.
