RV camping near Wallowa, Oregon places visitors between the dramatic Eagle Cap Wilderness mountains and the rolling agricultural landscape of eastern Oregon. Summer highs reach 85°F while winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with most campgrounds closing seasonally. Cell service varies dramatically throughout the mountainous terrain, with stronger coverage in Joseph and Enterprise but limited connectivity at the lake and surrounding wilderness.
What to do
Natural hot springs soaking pools: At Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, visitors can enjoy mineral-rich soaking pools. "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," reports Cheryl S.
Wildlife viewing: The Wallowa area provides excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. "The resort lies next to a wildlife refuge," notes ursala K. about Grande Hot Springs. Visitors regularly spot mule deer, wild turkeys, frogs, and various bird species throughout the region.
Alpine tram experience: Located near Wallowa Lake State Park Campground, the gondola provides access to mountain hiking. "We took the tram up and visited a mountain summit 3700 feet above our location at the campground. There were numerous hiking trails, and fishing was a popular pastime for many campers," shares Kellie T.
What campers like
Seasonal flexibility: While many Wallowa rv parks close during winter, some remain accessible year-round. "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!" reports Matthew K. about Wallowa Lake State Park.
Spacious sites: La Grande Rendezvous RV Park offers larger spaces for rigs. "Big sites, very nice staff and easy in and out," notes Kathy F. This contrasts with some campgrounds where sites are closer together.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently ranks high in visitor feedback. "Very clean and well maintained. Roads and all sites are gravel. Lots of green grass areas and dog areas," writes Richard H. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
What you should know
Reservation policies: Advance bookings are essential, especially during summer. Wallowa Lake State Park sites "book up months in advance," according to Kellie T. Some smaller rv parks near Wallowa manage reservations differently - a camper at Mountain View Motel and RV Park reported reservation issues: "When asked what happened the guy said he must have answered the phone while out on the property and didn't write down the reservation."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate limited seasons. Scenic Meadows RV Park runs May 1 to October 1, while Wallowa River RV Park operates April 15 to November 1.
Wildlife precautions: Campers should take proper precautions. "This is bear country so if thats not your thing, i wouldnt camp there," warns Finna G. about Wallowa Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Lake access activities: Scenic Meadows RV Park provides entertainment beyond camping. "You are surrounded by wildlife, and entertained by the go carts. They even had food trucks," shares Tracy M.
Off-season camping advantages: Camping during shoulder seasons offers a quieter experience. "We came in early October, and had lots of space to ourselves. Easy drive-through spots and friendly campers," notes Elizabeth S. about Grande Hot Springs RV Resort.
Clean bathrooms matter: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "The most outstanding thing about this RV site is the bathroom! WOW what a beautiful bathhouse! Super Duper Duper Clean! You could eat off those floors," Tracy M. enthusiastically reports about Scenic Meadows.
Tips from RVers
Approach routes matter: Log House RV Park and Campground provides convenient access to Joseph attractions. "This is a nice little RV park that is close to most things in the Joseph area," notes Ashley B. When approaching Grande Hot Springs RV Resort, Bill B. advises: "If you approach the campsite from the East, be prepared for a bumpy road. The road from the West (LaGrande) is much better even if it takes you a few miles out of the way."
Hookup variations: Different rv parks in Wallowa, Oregon offer varying hookup configurations. Some provide 50-amp service exclusively while others offer 30-amp. According to David M., Grande Hot Springs has "Full hookups at all sites, mostly 30 amp service but many sites have 50 amp also."
Septic system limitations: Some campgrounds have septic constraints. A camper at Wallowa Lake State Park notes: "They ask that you don't offload a full black/grey tank at your site, as the septic system can't handle it."
