Cabin accommodations near Summerville, Oregon provide access to the Blue Mountains region at elevations ranging from 4,100 to 7,000 feet. The cabins in this area experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs in the 80s and winter temperatures that can drop below zero. Most cabins require advance reservations due to limited availability, especially during peak summer months and hunting season.
What to do
Soak in mineral hot springs: At Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, visitors can enjoy natural hot spring soaking pools with health benefits. "The two hot spring fed soaking pools were open for 'twilight soak' until 11 PM which was a great touch after a long day on the road," notes one camper. The resort features both a warm and hot pool for different preferences.
Hike wilderness trails: The area offers extensive hiking opportunities in alpine settings. "There's a nice trail system behind the campground," reports a visitor at Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area. At Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground, trails circle the small lakes at 7,000 feet elevation, with "beautiful campsite, nice walk around the lake" according to a recent review.
Stargaze under dark skies: The remote location means minimal light pollution. At Godman Guard Station, "The southern end of the camping area has an unobstructed 240(ish) degree view of the sky, facing south. The nearest town is too far & too small to create any loom, so on a moonless night it's incredibly dark here."
What campers like
Historic connections: Cabins near Summerville often feature connections to the region's past. Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area sits on a historic stop along the Oregon Trail. As one camper notes, "This has been a historic place to stop on the way through the Blue Mountains since the Oregon Trail."
Wildlife viewing: Wallowa Lake State Park Campground offers opportunities to see local fauna. "I saw a ton of coralroot orchids and mountain lady slippers in mid June," reports a visitor to the area. Another camper mentions, "Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer."
Seasonal advantages: Off-season visits provide a different experience. "We arrived in late November, when it was cold, snowy, and practically empty. But the campground and all of its facilities were open, and the camp host was extremely friendly and helpful!" reports a winter visitor to Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area cabins are located near Interstate 84. "The road noise is extreme; very loud. If you can get past that the place is really sweet. The sites have water fire pit and picnic table and lots of trees for privacy," warns one visitor. Another notes, "This campground is TOO close to the highway and too noisy even with ear plugs or music."
Bathroom facilities: Many cabin rentals have separate bathroom buildings rather than in-room facilities. At A-Frame RV Park, "Washrooms were small but very clean." Wallowa Lake State Park Campground maintains facilities throughout the property, but distances can be inconvenient depending on your site location.
Mosquito presence: Insects can be prevalent in certain seasons. At Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, a visitor observed, "Lots of mosquitos!" While at Anthony Lakes Campground, one visitor noted that walk-up sites around the back of the lake "had more mosquitos, but were very spacious."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Park At The River offers proximity to family attractions. "The area is a great little getaway with a myriad of activities to do. Besides the lake there is a (pretty expensive) tram that takes you up the mountain, go carts, miniature golf, discovery centers, museums, etc."
Wildlife education: Rangers at some properties offer educational programs. "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," shares a visitor who held a family reunion at Emigrant Springs.
Food storage precautions: Small wildlife can be persistent around cabins. "Lots of chipmunks, so watch what you leave out (even momentarily)," warns a camper at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At A-Frame RV Park, "The spots are pretty level for being gravel." Another visitor notes, "We have a 36ft travel trailer with slides on both sides. Was able to fit into the pull through no problem with truck parked in front."
Seasonal road conditions: Access to some cabin properties requires careful planning. "If you approach the campsite from the East, be prepared for a bumpy road. The road from the West (LaGrande) is much better even if it takes you a few miles out of the way," advises a visitor to Grande Hot Springs.
RV park alternatives: For those seeking more seclusion with an RV, The High Road Cabin offers tent spots near a cabin structure. "This space provides a locked gate to give you privacy and peace of mind! Minimal light pollution will provide you gorgeous starry skies."
