Camping near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Searching for the best camping near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, OR? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (142)

    1. Wallowa Lake State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    Joseph, OR
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 432-4185

    $26 - $78 / night

    "Located in the far northeast corner of Oregon, this state park has something for everyone. Wallowa Lake is known for it's natural beauty, fishing, and water sports."

    "This was our first stop in Oregon we were in Site C9 which is a pull thru with Full hook up. Big tall pines, the lake & mountains."

    2. Grande Hot Springs RV Resort

    42 Reviews
    Union, OR
    20 miles
    Website

    "We enjoyed the great walking paths around the perimeter of the park to walk our dogs. The pool and hot tub are heated geothermally and are warm, soothing, and oh, so relaxing."

    "The tent and yurt sites are beautifully situated next to a stream full of cattails and lily pads. Wild deer roam nearby and horses graze in the fields around the park. Not far from town either."

    3. Catherine Creek State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Union, OR
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 551-6949

    $10 / night

    "We stayed at campsite 5, which seems like an odd choice since it's right next to the welcome signage and fee drop box, but we really liked it because we were able to spread out along the side of the creek"

    "This site is close to the main road so must watch kiddos and dogs at all times. It is also close to the river, so watch those kiddos. There's a wonderful trail with a wooden bridge to start off."

    4. West Eagle Meadow Campground

    3 Reviews
    Union, OR
    7 miles
    Website

    "It would make a good base camp for visiting Echo and Traverse Lakes.  Camps are spaced around one paved loop up the hill in the trees above the meadow. "

    "Just drive down the road and explore the many turnoffs to find one that suits your needs. Don’t forget to leave time for a day hike up to Echo Lake!"

    5. North Fork Catherine Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 963-7186

    "Lovely location in the mountains of Oregon. We drove a few thousand feet up a gravel road to get to this campsite. Easy access for my little sedan."

    6. Two Color Campground

    3 Reviews
    Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 963-7186

    7. Hurricane Creek Campground

    9 Reviews
    Joseph, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 426-5546

    "tons of beautiful campsites right next to a LOUD rushing creek. plenty of clean bathrooms as well. it seemed to me that this area does get a lot of rain, so just a heads up for that. came in a little Prius"

    "Close to town and service but back in far enough you lose the service and all you hear is the river. There are several sites, we came on a Sunday night and most were full besides a few."

    8. Boulder Park Campground

    1 Review
    Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 963-7186

    "This campground is pretty high up, it's quite a drive to get there, however every bump and curve of the road is worth it. There are fire pits, a bathroom and lots of sites."

    10. Two Color Guard Station

    1 Review
    Halfway, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 963-7186

    $100 / night

    "It’s near the end of 18 miles of unpaved mountain road and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery along the way."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 142 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

360 Reviews of 142 Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Campgrounds


  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Dispersed Sites Near Hells Canyon Overlook

    Sweet find

    Some friends and I were roadtripping around eastern Oregon and hells canyon was part of the route. We were panning to hit up a spot down in the canyon but when we drove by this set up we had to check it out. Plenty of space for multiple tents on multiple sights. Drivable trails around the pond where you can go fishing. A few campers even were set up back there.

    Walking over late in the evening to Stargate over the canyon… And then woke up to watch the sunrise over the canyon. It’s like a two minute walk from this campsite so much space and there was hardly anyone there.

    Will visit again next time I’m through

  • Matt B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Quick and easy

    Quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts. No amenities.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Wolf Creek Reservoir

    Great views and cool weather

    Awesome camp spot, off the main road so no one is here. Love that it’s by the water

  • Amanda P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Hells Canyon Overlook Near Saddle Creek - Dispersed Site

    A wonderful escape

    Tons of changes in terrain but the drive is not for the faint of heart. Be ready to share space with free roaming mountain cattle. Other than a forest service vehicle and maybe 2 others it was just us up there! We came by way of Imanha.

  • K
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Hurricane Creek Campground

    Secluded, right by the river

    Close to town and service but back in far enough you lose the service and all you hear is the river. There are several sites, we came on a Sunday night and most were full besides a few. We took site 9 which was close to the bathroom and right beside the river, it does however have no shade on the site itself so keep that in mind. We were fine since it was a cloudy day. The river is shallow in most places but right off this site it has a deep area where you can dip, the water is freezing even in late August, and there's a 3 foot jump down onto the bank. Saw two bucks together early in the morning grazing.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Wallowa Lake State Park Campground

    A large full and bustling spot- but still magic

    There are plenty of places to park, camp, swim, hike and adventure in the Wallowas. This park and surrounding area is a goldmine for the nature and nature adjacent lovers alike. We will return and soon!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Hurricane Creek Campground

    Lovely simple campground

    Small campground by a beautiful but loud creek. Several sites along the creek, some accessible by car only (no trailer turnaround). Sites private. Only a couple of people there on a Sunday evening. No water. Lovely stay!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Spring Creek Campground

    Peaceful, close to freeway

    4 sites only! Pit toilet(1) and clean. No trash pick up. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit. We are the only ones here so far-Sunday eve in August

  • Ibeya A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    North of Spring Creek on Forest Road 21

    Secluded forest with primitive camping

    This type of site is usually what we look for when traveling - dispersed, primitive camping sites spaced far apart from each other. We had a little patch of forest all to ourselves. There's a bit of highway noise in the distance, low cell signal (both AT&T and T-Mobile). We heard gunshots from another site and saw shells at our site, so that's something to be aware of if wandering the forest.


Guide to Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Camping near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Oregon, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails in the area. One camper mentioned, "We hiked up to Chief Joseph trail and did a loop back down to the campsite" at Wallowa Lake State Park Campground. Another noted, "The views of the Eagle Cap wilderness were breathtaking" after taking the tram up Mount Howard.
  • Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking or skiing on the lake. A reviewer at Wallowa Lake State Park Campground said, "The lake itself is great for skiing and there are several docks to borrow for the day."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One visitor at Pilcher Creek Reservoir shared, "Saw a ton of wildlife too (bring your bear spray)."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A review for Grande Hot Springs RV Resort stated, "The amenities are clean and really good."
  • Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at A-Frame RV Park said, "Very friendly staff. Easy check-in."
  • Scenic Views: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A reviewer at Park At The River noted, "The surrounding beauty is off the hook, river, deer, cliff faces, mountains and a lake…truly spectacular."

What you should know:

  • Limited Services: Some campgrounds, like Minam State Recreation Area, do not have water or electric hookups. A camper mentioned, "There is no power in any of the spots."
  • Road Noise: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads. A visitor at Hilgard Junction State Park Campground noted, "The traffic from the freeway can be a little loud."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Bird Track Springs mentioned, "There were plenty of spaces to choose from, even arriving on a Saturday evening."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with fun activities. One family at Wallowa Lake State Park Campground enjoyed "putt putt golf and go-karts" nearby.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier to bring the whole family. A reviewer at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort said, "The staff was great and helpful."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Hurricane Creek Campground warned, "That creek is appropriately named as it really moves."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to check for electric and water hookups before booking. A visitor at Mtn View RV Park noted, "The utilities were in the middle of the pad, which made it nice for our one-night stay."
  • Space for Big Rigs: Look for campgrounds that accommodate larger RVs. A camper at A-Frame RV Park mentioned, "Was able to fit into the pull-through no problem with truck parked in front."
  • Be Prepared for Mosquitoes: Some areas can have a lot of mosquitoes. A reviewer at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort said, "This time there were so many mosquitoes we couldn’t go outside the RV."

Camping near Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Oregon, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed throughout most of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, following standard Forest Service regulations. Campers should set up at least 100 feet from water sources, trails, and developed recreation areas. Taylor Green Pond offers a secluded dispersed camping option off Road 77 in the eastern section of the forest. For those seeking more remote experiences, areas near Two Pan provide access to dispersed camping opportunities before entering the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check for seasonal fire restrictions before your trip.

What are the best campgrounds in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest?

Anthony Lake Campground is consistently rated as one of the best in the forest, offering breathtaking scenery, fishing opportunities, and access to hiking trails. The campground provides a peaceful setting with great stargazing and paddling on the lake. McCully Forks is another excellent choice, providing a serene natural setting with no cell service—perfect for truly disconnecting. For water lovers, Southwest Shore Campground at Philip's Lake offers a delightful small lake experience near Baker City with only 13 non-reservable sites. These campgrounds are particularly popular during summer months, so arriving mid-week is recommended.

What amenities are available at Wallowa Lake campgrounds?

Wallowa Lake State Park Campground offers comprehensive amenities including full hookup sites for RVs, picnic tables, fire pits, clean restrooms, and shower facilities. The campground is nestled among tall pines with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lake. For a different experience near the area, Copperfield Park in Hell's Canyon provides both tiny and large campsites managed by Idaho Power, with convenient access to boat launches. The range of campsites accommodates various camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, though site sizes vary considerably. During peak season, facilities are well-maintained with regular host presence.