Primitive camping options close to Unity, Oregon allow for a more rugged outdoor experience. Located in eastern Oregon at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 4,500 feet, the area experiences hot, dry summers and cold winters with significant temperature drops at night even in summer months. Nearby Wetmore Campground features 14 primitive sites nestled in forest settings with vault toilets but no drinking water available.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Dixie Campground provides access to numerous hiking trails with abundant wild berries. According to a camper, "Absolutely beautiful area with wild strawberries and blueberries and salmon berries, currants and more. Loved the peace and tranquillity of this campground but close enough to Prairie City."
Fishing opportunities: Union Creek Campground offers excellent fishing access with boat ramp facilities. A visitor noted, "Access to lake very large boat ramp and docking," making it convenient for anglers to launch their boats.
Wildlife viewing: The area around Middle Fork Campground provides opportunities to observe native wildlife along the John Day River. One camper shared, "Along the access road, there has been reclamation of the John Day changing it from a dredged out mess to a meandering river with newly planted pine trees and tree trunks to enable the salmon to return."
What campers like
Private campsites: Wetmore Campground offers spacious sites with good separation. A reviewer mentioned, "Lots of space between spaces. In the trees. Clean pot toilet," highlighting the privacy many campers seek.
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, many campgrounds maintain clean restrooms. At Bates State Park, a camper noted, "The pit toilets are the nicest/cleanest that I have every used...serious!" This attention to cleanliness makes primitive camping more comfortable.
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds near Unity provide quiet, serene settings. A visitor at Slide Creek Campground shared, "This area is on your up to strawberry campground, its nice and clean and quite! It's gorgeous and the creek is just a few feet to go get water for animals and your fire pits."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity is minimal in most areas. At Middle Fork Campground, there's virtually no reception, creating a true disconnect from technology.
Prepare for insects: Summer brings mosquitoes to many campgrounds. At Farewell Bend State Recreation Area, a camper warned, "Very many mosquitos, like swarms of them," suggesting bug spray is essential.
Weather fluctuations: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night. At higher elevations, prepare for cold evenings with proper sleeping gear and clothing layers.
Water availability: Most primitive sites lack drinking water. One camper at Middle Fork Campground advised, "There is no water or garbage so bring your own water and pack out your garbage."
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible water features: Shallow creeks provide safe play areas for children. At Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site, a reviewer mentioned, "There's a small creek that runs by the camp where you can wade and kids try to catch crayfish."
Consider glamping options: For families wanting more comfort than tent camping, look beyond Unity Lake's yurts. At Farewell Bend State Recreation Area, cabin accommodations provide additional glamping options close to Unity, Oregon with easier setup for families with small children.
Choose campgrounds with open spaces: Mtn View RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including "a fenced playground and swimming pool," making it ideal for families with active children who need space to play safely.
Plan for limited shade: Many campgrounds in the area have young trees that provide minimal shade. One visitor to Unity Lake noted, "Trees were very small and didn't provide much shade. In about 5 years it may be a better place to camp."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. At Union Creek Campground, a camper confirmed, "Full hookups" are available with "water and electric price, $27."
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds have extremely high water pressure. At Mtn View RV Park, a visitor cautioned, "As the water pressure here is around 100 psi, you need to use a reducer," highlighting the importance of bringing proper equipment.
Road accessibility: Most campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles, though site dimensions vary. A visitor to Mtn View RV Park shared, "The pad was plenty long enough for our 40' 5th wheel and our F450. The utilities were in the middle of the pad, which made it nice for our one-night stay."
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with hookups have dump stations. Check availability before arrival, as some like Farewell Bend State Recreation Area have them while others require finding facilities in nearby towns.
