Camping in the Richland area of eastern Oregon sits at elevations ranging from 1,900 to 7,000 feet with dramatic temperature shifts between seasons. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F while winter brings snow and freezing conditions to higher elevation sites. The region features distinct geological zones including the Snake River corridor, pine forests, and high desert terrain that create varied camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Brownlee Reservoir: Woodhead Park gives anglers direct access to some of the best fishing in eastern Oregon. "If you fish and have a boat this is it!! Nice big spots, great facilities but the terrain is super steep, not much in the way of beaches and ability to enjoy the water without a boat," notes Mike M. at Hells Canyon Recreation Area - Woodhead Campground.
Hiking forest trails: McBride Campground offers quick access to forested hiking routes. "Nice dog walking and biking forest roads directly off campground. Pit toilets, non potable water source, fire pits," writes Cheryl M. The campground sits along a creek and provides shade during hot summer months.
Water recreation: The Snake River system offers multiple water-based activities from swimming to boating. "We spent three days and nights nude here. Very pleasant and relaxing at the river, not too crowded and there were only a few other campers there. I did some short hikes and swam in the river each day," reports NudistGirl M. at Swedes Landing.
What campers like
High elevation escapes: Fish Lake Campground sits at nearly 7,000 feet, making it significantly cooler than lower elevation sites during summer. "Beautiful views, outstanding action packed trout fishing. Far away from anything. Nice restrooms and natural spring is plumbed in to the campground. Best water I have ever tasted," shares Patrick S. about Fish Lake Campground.
Clean facilities: Hells Canyon sites typically maintain well-kept facilities. "The showers and restrooms were exceptionally clean. Camp hosts came around introduced themselves and were very friendly," reports Phillip C. about Woodhead Campground. Many sites feature regular maintenance even during busy seasons.
River access: Direct water access ranks as a top feature for many campers. "We love this place... this is our go-to campground and one of our favorites. Kids can go swimming and fishing or just hung out by the water!" says G K. about Hells Canyon Recreation Area Copperfield Campground.
What you should know
Heat conditions: Summer temperatures in Hells Canyon can become extreme. "This campground was so nice and well kept and the host was amazing! However, I would not recommend going during summer as the heat is unbearable unless you have a camper with an A.C., and even then, the cooler has an issue with keeping up with the heat," warns GoldDust D. about Copperfield Campground.
Road access challenges: Some of the best places to camp near Richland, Oregon require navigating rough roads. "This campground is approximately 18 miles down a series of dirt roads in the Payette national forest. Road condition was fairly good," explains Mike E. about Spring Creek Campground.
Seasonal availability: High elevation campgrounds have limited seasons. Fish Lake Campground typically operates June through October while many Snake River sites remain open year-round. As Ash C. notes about Fish Lake, "Great sites especially in fall with aspen groves. Dusty road but all gravel - drove in with my little Nissan Sentra just fine."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets but with restrictions. "Stayed 2 nights in the tent area, early April 2021. Tent sites have power, but they are close. 6 foot leashes for dogs gives you an idea?" reports Dave S. about McCormick Park.
Swimming access: Look for gradual water entries for children. "This campground near the Idaho/Oregon border is your typical State Park. The sites are wide open with little privacy though there are some larger trees with the park," notes Ashley M. about Farewell Bend State Recreation Area.
Site privacy considerations: Campgrounds near popular recreation areas often have limited privacy between sites. "There are plenty of places to park, camp, swim, hike and adventure in the Wallowas. This park and surrounding area is a goldmine for the nature and nature adjacent lovers alike," says Kimberly D. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Large RVs face challenges at certain campgrounds. "Road has many sharp curves but large rigs can make it there," Mike M. notes about Woodhead Park, while Spring Creek Campground has a "paved but very narrow loop road and trailers over 25 ft will need to be very careful to get into these sites if at all."
Electric hookup availability: Eagle Valley RV Park in Richland offers full hookups with electric, water and sewer. "Clean, quiet, and very inexpensive. Nice owners. Close to the Snake River. They have pull through spots, showers, restrooms, laundry, and fish cleaning areas," reports Tracey D.
Dump station considerations: Some campgrounds have limited waste handling capacity. "They ask that you don't offload a full black/grey tank at your site, as the septic system can't handle it... in my experience, the dump site may not be able to handle it either," cautions Amancay B. about Wallowa Lake State Park.
