Tent camping near Richland, Oregon provides access to high-elevation wilderness areas within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,500 to nearly 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during peak daylight hours. Forest service roads accessing most primitive sites require cautious driving, with several becoming impassable after heavy rainfall or early in the camping season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Fish Lake Campground, campers can enjoy "outstanding action packed trout fishing" with one visitor noting it's "far away from anything" while providing excellent angling access. The lake maintains healthy fish populations throughout the summer season.
Wildflower viewing: Late spring and early summer bring extensive wildflower blooms to the meadows surrounding West Eagle Meadow Campground. One camper reported, "Late spring was a perfect time to spend a couple days in the mountain wilderness. Wildflowers were in bloom and temperatures were moderate during the day and a little cold at night."
Hiking to alpine lakes: The area serves as a gateway to mountain lakes. A visitor to West Eagle Meadow Campground advised, "Don't forget to leave time for a day hike up to Echo Lake!" Most lake trails range from 2-6 miles one-way with moderate elevation gain.
What campers like
Natural spring water: Several campgrounds feature natural springs. At Fish Lake Campground, a visitor praised the "natural spring plumbed in to the campground" calling it the "best water I have ever tasted." Springs are typically operational from June through September.
Creek sounds: Many sites position campers near moving water. At Hurricane Creek Campground, one reviewer noted the "fast-moving creek creates a soothing white noise that we found calming," though another mentioned wearing "earplugs at night to sleep" due to the volume.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk bring wildlife opportunities. A Hurricane Creek visitor reported, "Saw two bucks together early in the morning grazing," while others mention bear activity requiring proper food storage. Chipmunks are commonly seen throughout the camping areas.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful navigation. A visitor to West Eagle Meadow Campground described, "Getting there is a bit of a chore: about 20 miles of dirt track, but well worth the effort." Most roads require high-clearance vehicles after rain.
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds provide minimal amenities. A camper at West Eagle Meadow noted, "There is one clean vault toilet for the area, close enough to the campsites. Campsites are essentially a driveway with a picnic table, and suitable for small trailers or tents."
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly. A Hurricane Creek Campground visitor reported, "We scheduled three nights here but after two nights of amazing lightning storms, we skipped the third night." Afternoon thunderstorms are common July-August.
Tips for camping with families
Creek safety: Fast-moving water requires vigilance with children. A reviewer at Hurricane Creek Campground cautioned, "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."
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on specific family needs. At Boulder Park Campground, a visitor noted, "There are fire pits, a bathroom and lots of sites. Eagle creek is right there and wildlife is abundant." Sites closer to restrooms typically fill first.
Temperature preparation: Pack for cold nights even in summer. Temperatures at higher elevations can drop below 45°F overnight, requiring proper sleeping bags and layers for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have restricted maneuvering areas. At Hurricane Creek Campground, a visitor observed "Several sites along the creek, some accessible by car only (no trailer turnaround)." Small trailers under 20 feet generally have more site options.
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain. One RVer at Hurricane Creek noted, "Spent one night in that spot then took another closer to the river for the second night where I had to use my leveling blocks. But so worth it." Bring leveling blocks and chocks for all wheel positions.
Site selection timing: For the best tent camping near Richland, Oregon, weekday arrivals significantly improve site availability. A visitor to Hidden Campground found, "We got here July 4th and had no issues finding a site. A bit of a way out but well worth the extra effort."
