Glamping and camping options in Wallowa Whitman National Forest range from riverside sites to high-elevation experiences at 6,990 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures reaching 85°F while winter drops below freezing, making May through October the primary camping season. Visitors should prepare for temperature fluctuations even in summer months when overnight lows can dip into the 40s.
What to do
River activities: Fish or paddle at Hurricane Creek Campground, where campsites are positioned along a fast-moving creek. According to Sara R., "This is a small campground with limited amenities, but a nice amount of privacy for each site. The creek lives up to it's name and is very loud." The creek creates white noise that many campers find relaxing.
Wildlife viewing: Explore near Minam State Recreation Area where deer frequently visit the campground. "Whitetail doe with 2 fawns frequented the campground. Lots of fishing, some small trails and wound up walking down the dirt road with dogs as there was literally no traffic and the views were so outstanding," shares Jill R. The park sits near the confluence of the Minam and Wallowa rivers.
Hiking: Access trails from multiple campgrounds such as Hurricane Creek Trail from Hurricane Creek Campground. Dan M. reports, "This is a very small campground along Hurricane Creek. Private secluded sites, just a few miles from Hurricane Creek Trailhead in the Eagle Cap Wilderness." For families, Catherine Creek State Park offers a wooden bridge trail that starts right at the campground.
What campers like
Mountain views: Wake up to scenic landscapes at Fish Lake Campground, positioned at nearly 7,000 feet elevation. Patrick S. shares, "This is my favorite place to camp. Beautiful views, outstanding action packed trout fishing. Far away from anything. Nice restrooms and natural spring is plumbed in to the campground. Best water I have ever tasted."
Privacy between sites: Find secluded camping at Blackhorse Campground where the riverfront sites offer more separation. "Stayed at site 2, it was huge and very private. All the sites have river access," notes Heather R. The sound of the Imnaha River helps mask noise from neighboring campsites.
Natural hot springs: Soak after a day of outdoor activities at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. "The soaking pools were amazing. They even had a twilight soak. Very peaceful and relaxing campground. Nature trail along the creek was cool. Saw huge bull frogs, tadpoles, and fish. Also saw mule deer," explains Cheryl S. The resort offers both warm and hot mineral pools.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some access roads require caution, particularly to more remote sites. About Hurricane Creek Campground, Kathy B. advises, "Before I drove down here, I'd read some reviews about the road not being pot-holed and washboard, but I decided to risk it with my van and so glad I did!" The road to Minam State Recreation Area includes a narrow 2-mile gravel section that can be challenging for larger vehicles.
Creek safety: Fast-moving water requires vigilance, especially with pets and children. Andrew L. cautions about Hurricane Creek: "My one caution would be that if you have dogs keep them on a leash because if they were to get in the creek that would be all she wrote. That creek is appropriately named as it really moves."
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature swings even during summer months. Jim B. noted about Hurricane Creek Campground: "We scheduled three nights here but after two nights of amazing lightning storms, we skipped the third night." At high elevations like Fish Lake, overnight temperatures can drop significantly even in July and August.
Tips for camping with families
Spacious sites: Choose campgrounds with room for kids to play like Catherine Creek State Park Campground, which features grassy areas and creek access. Ashton B. notes, "The grass is well maintained and green. There's an area for day picnic use and then another area for camping." The wooden bridge trail offers an easy hiking option for children.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Create nature scavenger hunts around campgrounds like Minam State Recreation Area. "Apple trees are everywhere, bringing tons of butterflies and bees to the campground," shares Sara S. These apple trees are remnants of an old homestead, making for interesting historical discussions with children.
Safety considerations: Plan ahead for creek proximity at sites like Hurricane Creek. Deb H. mentions, "Deer wandered through the campground and there are chipmunks." While wildlife viewing is exciting for children, parents should establish clear boundaries near fast-moving water and regarding wildlife interaction.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site dimensions at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort before booking. Paul B. reports, "Pretty mountain valley campground with many full hookup pull through sites. Friendly staff at check-in as well, taking time to help me 3 minutes before closing for the evening." The resort offers level sites with various hookup options.
Seasonal considerations: Visit during shoulder seasons for less crowded experiences. According to Elizabeth S. at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort: "We came in early October, and had lots of space to ourselves. Easy drive-through spots and friendly campers." Bill B. adds, "The week of Father's Day is a busy time."
Utility access: Plan for varied hookup availability across the region. David M. shares about Grande Hot Springs: "Very quiet wide open campground surrounded by snowy peaks. Full hookups at all sites, mostly 30 amp service but many sites have 50 amp also." Some campgrounds like Catherine Creek State Park and Hurricane Creek Campground offer no hookups, requiring self-sufficiency.
