Tent camping options near Summerville, Oregon extend throughout the Blue Mountains, with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. This region typically experiences warm summer days with temperatures in the 80s and cool nights dropping into the 40s even in summer months. Most forest service roads accessing dispersed sites aren't maintained in winter, with camping season generally running May through October depending on snowfall.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several sites in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest provide excellent wildlife spotting. At Wallowa-Whitman NF 21, campers report seeing "Lots of elk and turkeys" throughout the area. The more remote sites offer better chances for viewing.
Creek swimming access: During summer months, the water at Hurricane Creek Campground provides relief from heat, though "the water is freezing even in late August, and there's a 3 foot jump down onto the bank." Sites positioned close to the creek offer easy water access.
Trailhead proximity: For hikers seeking backcountry access, Moss Springs Campground serves as an excellent basecamp. "Most people use this campground for parking to hike into the Minam Lodge or to backpack into the Little Minam, or to park their trailer to ride their horses into the area."
What campers like
Natural sound barriers: The rushing water at Williamson Campground creates pleasant background noise that enhances privacy. One camper noted "the river is a great backdrop and sound" with "good trees for hammock" setups at most sites.
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at Hurricane Creek Campground, with one reviewer noting "Private, shady, and quiet" conditions with "a nice amount of privacy for each site." Sites accommodate "space for 1 tent easily...maybe a 2nd in some."
Quick access for travelers: For those just passing through, Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 offers convenience with its location near main routes. One camper called it a "quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to the best tent camping near Summerville deteriorates during wet weather. For Bone Spring Campground, "I wouldn't attempt this route without a 4x4 with decent ground clearance" as many roads become rutted after rainfall.
Water supply requirements: Almost all campgrounds in this region lack potable water. Most sites require campers to either bring all water needed or filter from nearby streams. Pack accordingly with at least 1 gallon per person per day for drinking and cooking.
Human impact concerns: Some areas show signs of overuse. At Wallowa-Whitman NF 21, "trash is an issue as well as people using the bathroom right on the ground and leaving used baby wipes everywhere. So watch out for human waste if you use a tent."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural boundaries: For families with small children, Hurricane Creek Campground provides physical barriers that help contain adventurous kids. However, one camper warns to "keep an eye on your dogs" as the "river is fast" and the same applies to children.
Consider bathroom facilities: When camping with kids, vault toilets become important. The High Road Cabin tent sites provide basic toilet facilities while still offering a primitive camping experience with more predictable bathroom access than fully dispersed sites.
Security considerations: Some dispersed sites experience occasional disruptive visitors. One camper at Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 reported people "driving up and down the road multiple multiple times a day at high rates of speed leaving dust flying," creating potential safety issues for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most forest service roads leading to tent camping areas near Summerville have significant clearance requirements. One RVer noted sites at Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 are "likely tough to do without high clearance and/or 4WD when wet."
Alternative parking arrangements: For RVers wanting to tent camp, Moss Springs offers a practical solution where you can "park your trailer" while accessing backcountry areas, making it suitable for those who want to leave their larger vehicles and explore with tents.
Space considerations: Smaller RVs can access some campgrounds, but Hurricane Creek campers note "sites are not especially big" with many being "close to the road" while others require leveling. Bring blocks if planning to use a small trailer or van at these locations.
