The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest near Summerville, Oregon offers diverse camping options at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 feet. The region features pine and fir forests intersected by clear mountain streams and meadows. Winter conditions often close many roads and trails from November through April, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-85°F.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: The Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed area connects to an extensive network of trails. "Saw Lots of elk and turkeys(?) and a rattlesnake," reports one camper, noting the well-maintained roads make for good access points to riding trails. Summer weekends can get busy with ATV users sharing these routes.
Fishing opportunities: Cold mountain streams in the area offer fishing for rainbow and brown trout. At North Fork John Day, a camper recommends to "Bring your ATV'S, hiking boots, and fishing polls because this area has it all!" The North Fork John Day River provides accessible fishing spots directly from the campground.
Stargazing: The remote location away from urban light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Godman Guard Station, one visitor notes: "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
Privacy between campsites: At Spring Creek Campground, campers appreciate the layout. "Four campsites, plenty of space between sites for more privacy," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Surrounded by fir and pine, pleasant breeze, and cool, shaded sites."
Water access: Several sites offer access to streams and rivers. At Walla Walla Forest Camp, a camper notes, "Just 4 sites, 2 with great river access. We loved the view and how big and private our site was." Though swimming may be limited due to cold temperatures and fast currents.
Cell service information: While reception varies throughout the forest, some sites maintain connectivity. At Wallowa-Whitman NF 21, a reviewer reports: "We found good phone service (verizon) and a uneventful night." Spring Creek Campground offers "Verizon was 2 bars, 4g but slow. Wifiranger with AT&T was very fast."
What you should know
Horse camping regulations: Equestrian camping near Summerville requires proper management of horses. One reviewer at Irondyke Forest Camp notes: "We stayed in a tent camp site that allowed horses, so it was ample with a clearing that provided sunny areas." Pack in water for horses as natural sources may be unreliable.
Weather considerations: Summer afternoons can bring thunderstorms, while nights remain cool even in July and August. At West Eagle Meadow Campground, a camper observed: "Late spring was a perfect time to spend a couple days in the mountain wilderness. Wildflowers we're in bloom and temperatures were moderate during the day and a little cold at night."
Road conditions: Many access roads are unpaved and can be challenging after rain. At Spring Creek Campground, a visitor warns: "About a mile of decent dirt road, a few washboards and potholes, just go slow." High clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing more remote sites, especially during wet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer natural history learning experiences. At Emigrant Springs State Heritage Area, a family reports: "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."
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters are possible. Be prepared for insect activity, especially in wetter areas. One camper at Walla Walla Forest Camp advises: "Just bring bug spray and check for ticks!" Another at Mirror Lake notes the presence of horses: "Lots of horse traffic on this trail, so watch your step!"
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise that might disturb light sleepers. A visitor to Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 comments: "Light sleepers would have a hard time here due to highway noise but overall good rest stop." Consider sites further from major roads for a quieter experience with children.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: Most equestrian-friendly dispersed sites can accommodate trailers, but size limitations exist at established campgrounds. At Spring Creek Campground, an RVer notes: "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."
Water and electrical hookups: Most sites lack utility connections. Bring sufficient water for both human and equine needs. For longer stays, portable power solutions are recommended as generator use may be restricted at certain locations.
Dump station locations: No dump stations exist within the immediate forest area. The nearest facilities are in La Grande, approximately 25 miles from most sites. Plan accordingly for longer stays with holding tanks.
