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Map showing campground location near Wallowa Whitman National Forest, Oregon
Camper submitted image from Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Mirror Lake BackCountry SitesView 2 Photos
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Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Mirror Lake BackCountry Sites

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Mirror Lake sits roughly 7.3 miles from Two Pan via a mostly gradual trail through a valley meadow, with free dispersed sites ringing the lake on all sides. The lake draws enough visitors that sites fill fast on Friday evenings, and sound carries clearly across the water when the area is busy. Horse traffic is common on the approach trail. The lake itself is clear enough to swim in, and a nearby trail leads to Eagle Cap summit. This setup works best for backpackers who don't require solitude and want a relatively low-elevation entry into the Wallowas.

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Map & DirectionsWallowa-Whitman National Forest, Mirror Lake BackCountry Sites is located in Oregon near Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

45.17888921 N
117.31372275 W

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Pets

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews1 Camper Review - Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Mirror Lake BackCountry Sites

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1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2021

Beautiful but very popular

These coordinates are one of the first sites on the right, when arriving from Two Pan Trailhead, but there are dozens around the lake if you follow the trail.

This was my second time backpacking in the Wallowas, and my first time at Mirror Lake. The lake is big with lots of dispersed sites, but when we arrived on Friday evening we felt lucky to find a place. (Some folks resorted to camping on vegetation areas—please don't do this!) The lake was so full and the sound carried over the water so much that you could hear conversations. Luckily it seemed to clear out by Saturday morning, for whatever reason.

We clocked the hike in from Two Pan Trailhead at 7.3 miles. The incline is mostly gradual with a nice break of mostly flat trail in a beautiful valley meadow area. Lots of horse traffic on this trail, so watch your step! The lake is super clear, and worth a swim. The trail to summit Eagle Cap is close by and a great day-hike for amazing views.

If you're looking for a secluded place in the Wallowas, I would head elsewhere. If you want an easy backpack in, and don't mind being around lots of other people, Mirror Lake is a great choice.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Mirror Lake BackCountry Sites by Sarah R., August 9, 2021
  • Review photo of Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, Mirror Lake BackCountry Sites by Sarah R., August 9, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Mirror Lake in the Wallowa Mountains of Oregon?

Mirror Lake is accessible via a hike from Two Pan Trailhead in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The trailhead serves as the starting point for the backcountry trek to Mirror Lake. The hike covers several miles of Wallowa Mountain wilderness terrain, so come prepared with proper hiking gear and maps. Be sure to check road conditions to Two Pan Trailhead before departing, especially during shoulder seasons when access roads might be affected by weather conditions.

What permits are required for camping at Mirror Lake in Eagle Cap Wilderness?

Camping at Mirror Lake in Eagle Cap Wilderness requires a wilderness permit, which is self-issued at the trailhead. During peak season (typically summer months), there may be additional regulations or quotas in place. A Northwest Forest Pass is needed for parking at Two Pan Trailhead. Always practice Leave No Trace principles while in the wilderness area. Contact the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest office for the most current permit information before your trip.

What is the best time of year to camp at Mirror Lake in the Wallowas?

The optimal time to camp at Mirror Lake is mid-summer through early fall (July through September) when the high-elevation trails are typically free of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. August offers warm days and cool nights with generally stable weather patterns. Early season (June) may still have snow on parts of the trail or at the lake, while October brings increased chances of cold temperatures and early snow. Weather in the Wallowas can change quickly at any time, so always check forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.

What are the best camping spots around Mirror Lake in Oregon?

Mirror Lake offers dozens of dispersed backcountry sites around its shoreline. Some of the best spots are located on the right side when arriving from Two Pan Trailhead. The lake is large with numerous camping options if you follow the trail that circles the water. For more privacy, continue past the immediate sites near the trail entrance and explore the perimeter. Remember that all sites are primitive with no facilities, so choose spots that are already established to minimize environmental impact.

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