Dispersed camping options near Sumpter, Oregon provide access to the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,200 to 5,000 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures typically between 75-85°F and cool nights dropping to 45-55°F. Winter camping is available at some locations with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Hike the Olive Lake trail: The trail around Olive Lake spans nearly 3 miles according to GPS measurements. "There is a trail that goes around the lake that they say is only 2 miles long. It was a wonderful hike but according to our sports watches and GPS was almost 3 miles. So be prepared," notes one camper at Olive Lake Campground.
Visit historic mining sites: Sumpter's gold mining history is accessible from nearby camping areas. At Gold Rush RV Park, campers can explore mining attractions. "We stayed at The Gold Rush RV park in Sumpter, OR for one week. We absolutely loved our stay... We really enjoyed exploring the area in the evenings," shares one visitor who used the park as a base for exploring historic sites.
Wildlife viewing: Phillips Lake area offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. A camper at Social Security Point reports, "Beautiful spot near Phillips Lake... Lots of wildlife. Had coyotes go through the area last night which was pretty loud, and we think we've been hearing elk bugling... Lots of birds and other creatures as well."
What campers like
Peaceful seclusion: McCully Forks offers quiet camping with creek access. A visitor explains, "This quite little gem of a camp ground is our favorite spot to get away for a weekend or longer. Beautiful old growth trees, with a stream running through it. Close to Sumpter if you forgot something, or there is always some street activity or flea market happening."
No-cost options: Free camping is available at several locations near Sumpter. One camper at Pilcher Creek Reservoir was impressed: "Free camping on a lake not too far from the freeway. Good roads to the campsite. There are pull through and back in sites that would accommodate good-sized rigs, although some of the sites aren't terribly level. Surprisingly, there weren't any bugs."
Lake access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Social Security Point Trailhead, one visitor noted, "Great little dispersed spot with a clean outhouse. If you keep driving down it'll take you towards the lake, which is where I camped. Wide open, great sunset views!"
What you should know
Water availability: Many sites require bringing your own water. A camper at Southwest Shore Campground advises, "Dry camping with a put toilet, very clean. The camping sites were pretty level. Site 11 we feel was the best. Baker city was just about 20 minutes away along with the old gold mining town of Sumpter about 10 minutes away."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds offer different experiences throughout the year. At Millers Lane Campground, a visitor observed, "Stayed here mid November. When we arrived no one was in the 13 spot campground. Parked at the very end nearest the lake and had spectacular views of the surrounding valley and mountains. We've also been here in the summer when the campground is full which is quite a different experience."
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating unpaved roads. A camper reports about Olive Lake: "I drive from HWY 395 on Forest Service road 10. 27 miles on dirt road. The first 3/4 mile was terrible, by the rest was great traveling."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Choose sites with easy water access for family activities. A camper at McCully Forks Campground recommends: "This campground has 8 sites all but the first site have easy creek access, sites are large and can fit a few tents!"
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most campgrounds in the Sumpter area accommodate dogs and other pets. At Sumpter RV Park, a visitor notes: "I highly suggest this campground for Sumpter Oregon, the campground just went under new ownership and they are doing such a great job taking care of it and making it a fun family friendly destination."
Plan for limited services: Prepare for camping with limited facilities, especially with children. "Clean bathroom. Water was beautiful! As of June 26, 2022 there is tons of firewood stacked in the campground from a pine beetle infestation," reports a camper at Olive Lake about available resources.
Tips from RVers
Level site challenges: Many camping areas near Sumpter have uneven terrain. A camper at Pilcher Creek Reservoir noted: "About 25 minutes off the freeway, last 2 miles are gravel. Beautiful setting and deserted. Plenty of room for any size RV."
Hookup availability: Full-service RV sites are limited to specific parks. One RVer at A-Frame RV Park in nearby Baker City shared: "Big trees, lots of shade, full hook ups. Pic-Nic tables at each spot. Very friendly staff. Easy check in. Good price. Some road noise but not loud enough to be problematic. We have a 36ft travel trailer with slides on both sides. Was able to fit into the pull through no problem."
Site spacing considerations: Some RV parks offer more separation between sites than others. A Gold Rush RV Park visitor observed: "The park was clean, and the restrooms/laundry room was spotless. We really enjoyed exploring the area in the evenings. We were at site 15 on the top of the hill that overlooked the road and the mountains. In our opinion, it is the best spot in the park."
