Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation in Oregon's Blue Mountains, where the continental climate creates distinct seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night, while winter brings heavy snowfall that closes many campgrounds from mid-October through mid-April. The region's volcanic soil supports diverse ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests that provide natural habitats for elk, deer, and numerous bird species.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Camas Creek running through Ukiah-Dale Forest State Scenic Corridor offers seasonal trout fishing. "The stream going by has a decent flow but it is mid summer and slowing down," notes Just K., who adds that despite being a roadside campground, the creek provides a nice fishing spot.
Swimming in natural pools: Beaver activity has created swimming areas in several locations. "Simple but very cute CG...currently damned by a local beaver and therefore good for a dip," reports Ansgar D. about the natural swimming options at Ukiah-Dale during summer months.
Hiking forest trails: The North and South Winom Trailheads Campground connects to extensive trail systems. "Beautiful day of touring the countryside in Eastern Oregon," writes Paul A., who accessed the Blue Mountain byway from I-84 exit 147 before reaching this remote campsite with "fire rings and picnic tables."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Most campgrounds maintain low occupancy even during peak season. Joseph B. mentions, "When I pulled into the campground it was just me and the camp hosts. They gave me the pick of what site I wanted. I swooped on one next to the river." Many sites offer substantial privacy between campsites.
Creek access: The sound of running water enhances many camping experiences near Ukiah. At Lane Creek Campground, visitors appreciate the peaceful setting. "Stayed here in the off season. Still plenty of snow on the ground, and was the only one there for the night," writes B B., who found the "pit toilets were accessible and clean."
Affordability: Most forest service campgrounds charge modest fees compared to developed sites elsewhere. Dani K. found "Quiet 27 spot state campground. No hookups, but the bathroom has automatic lights and electric outlets and is kept very clean. $10 a night self pay." Note that rates have increased since this review.
What you should know
Limited services: The town of Ukiah provides minimal supplies. "Ukiah is nearby, but has very minimal supplies. If you head into these areas have water, a full tank of gas and all your supplies already on board," advises Jill R., who camped at Bear Wallow Creek Campground. Sara R. adds that "This is a small Forest Service campground right on the river. The sites are very simple, with picnic tables and fire rings."
Seasonal access: Most forest campgrounds close from mid-October through April. Joy M. notes that Ukiah-Dale has "water spouts nearby, the perfect trees for hammock, shade trees, and bathrooms. The onsite staff was super friendly and informative."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires driving on unpaved roads. Judy T. mentions, "There are few places to camp along Highway 395 unless you drive into the national forests to disperse camp," making the accessible Ukiah-Dale location particularly valuable for those with limited off-road capabilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Crawdad hunting and shallow wading areas appeal to children. "There were crawdads, fish and even a beaver damn nearby," notes Joy M., who found Ukiah-Dale Forest State Park and Campground "easily accessible from the hwy. Easy to pull into with a trailer."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk offer the best times for spotting elk and deer. Cindy U. describes Bear Wallow Creek as being "in the mist of the larges elk herd" and notes that one group site even has "an area to hook up your kill" for hunters.
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds offer only vault toilets, though Ukiah-Dale maintains flush toilets. "The bathrooms and areas to top off your water," were appreciated by Joseph B., who found "the campground was beautiful and sites were good distances from each other."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Few campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs over 25 feet. According to Cindy U., at Frazier Campground, there are three distinct areas: "entrance with covered picnic area and two campsites along with a ramp to unload OHV. Middle loop with #15 to #20 camp site. Then upper loop with #3 to #14 camp site, five of those sites are group sites."
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds welcome dogs but require leashes at all times. "This is a small, dry campground that is as good as it gets. Only bummer for me (having dogs) is that there aren't any trails," notes Jill R., highlighting that while pets are welcome, dedicated pet facilities are minimal.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are rare in the Ukiah area. Spencer K. explains that North and South Winom Trailheads Campground has "Three large group sites are the main draw for most people, with plenty of room for RVs, trailers, and extra vehicles," though these sites lack hookups.
Ranger
