Camping opportunities near Pendleton, Oregon range from basic forest campsites to upscale accommodations across the Blue Mountains region. The area sits at elevations between 1,200-5,500 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates within short distances. Summer temperatures can fluctuate 30 degrees between day and night, making layered clothing essential even during July and August camping trips.
What to do
Explore local Native American heritage: The Wildhorse Resort and Casino offers cultural experiences alongside camping. "Golf, museum, movies, walking trails, nature and special events! This week was the annual July Pow Wow!" shares Theresa O.
Visit historical Oregon Trail sites: Campers at Emigrant Springs can learn about pioneer history through interpretive displays. According to Aaron B., the nearby Mottet Campground offers "access to a few trails" and is "a great place for astrophotographers when conditions are right!"
Fishing at multiple locations: The Fishhook Park provides river access for anglers. Wendy S. notes, "The back in spots were not too close together. Some spots offer shade, others are full on sun. And the catfish were biting!"
Cool off in nearby waters: While not all water areas are suitable for swimming, some campgrounds offer pleasant alternatives. Kathleen H. describes Spool Cart Campground: "My site was a single (#4) and had nice river access."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike crowded camping areas, several campgrounds offer spacious layouts. At Ukiah-Dale, Dani K. notes: "Quiet 27 spot state campground. No hookups, but the bathroom has automatic lights and electric outlets and is kept very clean."
Night sky viewing opportunities: The region's elevation and distance from urban areas creates excellent stargazing conditions. "Great place for astrophotographers when conditions are right!" explains Aaron B. about Mottet Campground.
Natural water features: Multiple campers mention enjoying creek and river access. James W. describes Spool Cart Campground as "A real gem on the Grand Ronde River. No water, no trash cans but two composting toilets."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for restrooms and common areas. Judy W. appreciated the "Well spaced private campsites" at Spool Cart, though noted there was "Limited access to the river because of the brush."
What you should know
Highway noise affects some sites: Several campgrounds sit near major roadways. At Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area, sparkleblaster S. warns: "The road noise is extreme; very loud. If you can get past that the place is really sweet."
Seasonal closures limit options: Many campgrounds operate only during summer and early fall. Jill R. advises: "If you head into these areas have water, a full tank of gas and all your supplies already on board."
Limited facilities at remote sites: Basic campgrounds may lack amenities. At Spring Creek Campground, Jacob D. describes: "It's a rough road about 1.2 miles, that's bumpy and has lots of pot holes... The actual camp area is concrete platforms with a picnic table and fire pit in a roundabout around the vault restroom."
Reservation requirements vary: Some sites cannot be reserved in advance. Kevin C. notes that Spool Cart charges "$10/night" and Denise D. mentions Spring Creek has "4 sites only! Pit toilet(1) and clean. No trash pick up."
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational programs: Some campgrounds offer special activities for children. Jenny M. shares about Emigrant Springs: "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."
Consider campgrounds with playgrounds: Family-friendly facilities make camping with kids easier. At Hood Park, Chris A. mentions: "This campground offers developed sites with hookups for campers. There is a playground and interpretive events for kids in the evenings."
Check for swimming areas: Not all water features are suitable for children. Nathan B. describes Hood Park: "It's right on the snake river, so you can practically fish from your camp site if you want. There is a connected park that is only open during the day with a beach."
Plan for weather fluctuations: Mountain elevations can experience significant temperature changes. Vera S. explains: "Eventually we got used to it and it faded into the background as white noise. Convenient but not idyllic."
Tips from RVers
Big rig access varies significantly: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. At Spring Creek Campground, Erin H. advises: "Not for bigger rigs. 4 spots fairly close together, picnic tables, pit toilets. Loop in is tight, and while we are only 34' long, we're 13.8 on truck and had to do some creative maneuvering to get ourselves back out."
Check hook-up availability beforehand: Not all sites offer full services. Charles T. notes about Spring Creek: "4 spots available so it fills up fast. About a mile of decent dirt road, a few washboards and potholes, just go slow. Vault toilet was very clean."
Consider cell service needs: Coverage varies widely across the region. Stephen M. describes Wildhorse Resort: "Sites were fairly level with lawn and a picnic table. Property is well maintained... The RV park is well behind the casino complex - you need to drive past the truck stop and casino going north to reach the access road."
