Dispersed camping near Union, Oregon ranges from primitive forest sites to waterfront reservoir access. Most locations offer basic amenities, with many operating from spring through mid-fall at elevations between 2,500 and 5,000 feet. Mountain roads leading to camping areas can be steep with uneven surfaces, requiring careful navigation during wet conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Wolf Creek Reservoir offers several pull-through camping spots directly adjacent to the water. "A handful of great places to camp for the night- very clean and well taken care of so please leave no trace. Just a spot and a table, no water, restrooms etc," notes Paige P. about Wolf Creek Reservoir.
Wildlife viewing: The area around La Grande provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "The nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," reports Cheryl S. about her stay at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
Hiking options: Forest trails near Union connect to historic routes. "There is a sweet hike that starts right at the bridge," mentions Beth M. about Catherine Creek State Park Campground. For more challenging terrain, North Fork Catherine Creek Campground provides access to wilderness trails with riverside views.
What campers like
Thermal soaking: The mineral hot springs offer therapeutic benefits year-round. "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," explains Paul B. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, which maintains separate temperature pools for different comfort levels.
Water sounds: Creek-side sites provide natural white noise for peaceful sleeping. "It was lovely listening to the creek all day (and waking up to it)," writes Hannah O. about North Fork Catherine Creek Campground, where sites are situated just yards from the water.
Lake views: Many campers appreciate the reservoir settings that offer morning fog and evening reflections. "The location is right next to the reservoir. The site we got was nicely graveled and a pull through," reports Heidi S. about Wolf Creek Reservoir, where waterfront camping requires no permits or fees.
What you should know
Road conditions: Mountain access requires appropriate vehicles for some camping areas. "The road up to this campground is VERY steep--definitely smelled my brakes on the way down," warns Kathy B. about reaching higher elevation sites like North Fork Catherine Creek Campground.
Site availability: Many popular campgrounds fill early during summer months. "It's a nice little spot, but very few sites. Get there early or have a backup," advises Luke L. about North Fork Catherine Creek Campground, noting they ended up in "an unnamed spot just up the road."
Temperature variations: Eastern Oregon experiences significant day-to-night temperature swings. "We stayed in the middle of July and it was delightfully cool, in the mid 70s during the day and dropped down to the upper 40s over night," notes Hannah O. about camping in the Union area's higher elevations.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible water play: Sites near shallow creek areas provide safer water access for children. "Spent 4 days and it was quiet, clean and very friendly. Will stay there again just to get away," shares James C. about Catherine Creek State Park Campground, which offers both camping and day-use areas.
Wildlife education: Kids can observe various amphibians and fish in protected areas. At Hilgard Junction State Park Campground, "Crystal clear water runs this high in the Grande Ronde, making for fun swimming and water play," according to Brandon K., who adds there's potential for gold panning in the shallow riverbed.
Off-season benefits: Shoulder season camping offers fewer crowds and more open space. "We came in early October, and had lots of space to ourselves. Easy drive-through spots and friendly campers," reports Elizabeth S. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, which remains open year-round.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many forest campsites require adjustment for comfortable RV parking. "Sites were nice, but very much on top of each other, IMHO. I prefer more privacy for longer stays," notes Amancay B. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground, located about an hour from Union.
Dump station access: Plan waste management carefully around available facilities. "There is a trail if you head North that winds up and puts you on the Oregon trail, I biked it on my ebike, it is pretty strenuous and bumpy. For some reason the app says there's rv dumps here when there isn't any," warns Travis T. about Hilgard Junction State Park Campground.
Pull-through availability: Several camping areas offer easier access for larger rigs. "There are plenty of campsites available. Campsites are drive up with fire pits and picnic tables," mentions Cameron about Pilcher Creek Reservoir, adding that the dirt access road posed "no issue for my Honda Civic."
