Cabin camping near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest puts visitors in proximity to eastern Oregon's largest national forest spanning 2.3 million acres and reaching elevations of nearly 10,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with heavy snowfall limiting access to some cabin facilities from November through May. The forest contains over 500 miles of hiking trails connecting to various cabin accommodations.
What to do
Alpine hiking trails: 3.7 miles from Wallowa Falls Campground, visitors can access the Hurricane Creek Trail offering views of cascading waterfalls. "This campground is extremely beautiful. Good spacing between sites. We were here during the off season. It was quiet and wide open. The town of Joseph was very close and with the visit," notes Phil&Melinda O.
Hot springs soaking: Open until 11 PM at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort where visitors can enjoy twilight soaks. A visitor reports, "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."
Mountain biking: Available via ski lift at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort Campground during summer weekends. "The campground was immaculately maintained and had lots of recreation options. On weekends in the summer, the ski lift becomes a mountain biking lift, there are hiking trails, and of course lakes," explains Raphaela H.
What campers like
Secluded bunkhouse settings: Two Color Guard Station offers spacious grounds for large groups. "It's near the end of 18 miles of unpaved mountain road and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery along the way... The grounds are enormous and close to Eagle Creek. Plenty of room and flat ground for several tent," reports Jim B.
Natural water features: Campers appreciate riverside sites at Blackhorse Campground. "Nice and well maintained campground by the Imnaha River. Plenty of sites with a decent distance between them," shares Andrew L., while another camper notes, "The creek is right next to the sites and is great to sleep next to!"
High-elevation fishing access: Fish Lake Campground sits at 6,990 feet elevation with trout fishing opportunities. "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," according to Patrick S.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Mountain cabin sites experience significant temperature swings. At Wallowa Lake State Park Campground, winter camping requires preparation. "We arrived in late November, when it was cold, snowy, and practically empty. But the campground and all of its facilities were open, and the camp host was extremely friendly and helpful!" shares Matthew K.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Many cabins lack private bathrooms. "The yurt was clean and fresh with a private courtyard and soaking tub backing up to a pond looking up a hillside... the only downside was having to take a hike to use the toilet," notes a visitor to Grande Hot Springs Resort.
Wildlife awareness required: Bears inhabit areas around cabin sites. "Well kept and nice rangers. Accommodating and quiet, lots of wild life. This is bear country so if thats not your thing, i wouldnt camp there," advises Finna G. about Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to activities: Park At The River provides access to family-friendly entertainment. "There are all kinds of amenities within walking distance: stores, restaurants, mini golf, etc.," explains Luke L.
Off-season visitation benefits: Reduced crowds in spring and fall improve family experiences. "We enjoyed our off season stay! Easy back in to our fairly level site," reports a camper at Wallowa Lake State Park Campground.
Dog-friendly options: A-Frame RV Park offers extensive pet areas. "We stayed here just overnight. We used the showers and laundry--both were very clean. Courteous, helpful staff... The dog park on the back forty was seriously about 40 acres," notes John M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: A-Frame RV Park offers shaded sites for summer comfort. "Big trees, lots of shade, full hook ups. Pic-Nic tables at each spot. Very friendly staff. Easy check in. Good price," writes Brian P., adding "We have a 36ft travel trailer with slides on both sides. Was able to fit into the pull through no problem."
Off-season utilities awareness: Water systems at some campgrounds shut down during winter. "Unfortunately they had water hookups shut off for winter (after we made our reservation, but before we arrived). So we had to venture back out to the designated water fill campsite our first morning," shares one RVer.
Cell service considerations: Service varies dramatically between cabin locations. "T Mobile reception good download speed 53Mbs. Wifi would periodically drop out, otherwise was able to stream," reports Richard M. at A-Frame RV Park.
