Best Campgrounds in Eastern Oregon for Family Adventures

Readers, are you looking for the perfect getaway spot for your family? Eastern Oregon offers stunning landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and a plethora of campgrounds ideal for creating unforgettable memories. But with so many options, choosing the right campground for your family can seem overwhelming.

Don’t worry! I’ve spent countless hours exploring the best campgrounds in Eastern Oregon and have analyzed countless reviews and recommendations to bring you the ultimate guide. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, you’ll find the perfect campground to fit your family’s needs.

Campgrounds with Amenities for Every Family

Eastern Oregon boasts a wide array of campgrounds catering to families of all sizes and interests. From full-hookup RV sites to primitive campsites, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable stay. Regardless of your family’s preferences, there’s a campground that will make your trip memorable.

Here are some of the top-rated campgrounds known for their excellent amenities and family-friendly atmosphere:

Campgrounds for RV Enthusiasts

For families who prefer the comfort and convenience of RV camping, Eastern Oregon offers several campgrounds with full hookups and modern facilities. These campgrounds provide a seamless camping experience, allowing you to enjoy every moment of your trip.

Many RV campgrounds feature amenities like:

Full hookups (electricity, water, and sewer)
Dump stations
Paved or gravel sites
Picnic tables
Fire rings
Restrooms and showers

These campgrounds often provide a central location for exploring nearby attractions, making it convenient for families to visit various destinations.

Campgrounds with Playgrounds and Recreation Areas

For families with young children, campgrounds with dedicated playgrounds and recreation areas are a must. These facilities allow kids to let loose and burn off energy while parents can relax and enjoy the scenery.

Many campgrounds offer:

Playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing structures
Sports fields for games like basketball or volleyball
Picnic areas with tables and grills
Hiking trails for families to explore the surrounding nature

These campgrounds create a fun and engaging environment for families with kids of all ages.

Campgrounds with Swimming Pools

Beat the summer heat and cool off in a refreshing swimming pool at one of the many campgrounds offering this amenity. Swimming pools provide a perfect way to relax and enjoy some quality family time.

Campgrounds with pools also often have:

Lifeguards
Sunbathing areas
Poolside restrooms and showers
Picnic tables and grills

These campgrounds are especially popular during the summer months, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for families to swim and play.

Family Adventures in Eastern Oregon

Eastern Oregon offers a vast array of activities for families to enjoy, creating lasting memories during your camping trip. From exploring scenic hiking trails to discovering hidden waterfalls, the region caters to every adventure seeker.

Here are some of the most popular activities for families in Eastern Oregon:

Hiking

Eastern Oregon is a hiker’s paradise, with countless trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views or a peaceful walk through the forest, you’ll find a trail that suits your family’s abilities.

Some popular hiking trails include:

The Pacific Crest Trail: This iconic trail traverses through Eastern Oregon, offering stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the high desert.
The Steens Mountain Loop: This scenic loop trail circles the majestic Steens Mountain, showcasing diverse landscapes, from alpine meadows to volcanic craters.
The Wallowa Lake Loop: This trail encircles the stunning Wallowa Lake, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Fishing

Eastern Oregon is known for its abundant fishing opportunities, with numerous rivers, lakes, and reservoirs teeming with fish. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, you’ll find plenty of spots to cast your line and hook a trophy catch.

Some popular fishing destinations include:

The Snake River: This major river flows through Eastern Oregon, known for its salmon and steelhead runs.
Wallowa Lake: This pristine lake offers excellent fishing for trout, kokanee, and bass.
Owyhee Reservoir: This large reservoir is known for its abundant populations of bass, crappie, and catfish.

Boating

Eastern Oregon offers many opportunities to enjoy boating on its scenic lakes and reservoirs. Whether you prefer leisurely paddling or thrilling waterskiing, you’ll find a way to get on the water and enjoy the beauty of the region.

Some popular boating destinations include:

Wallowa Lake: This lake is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Owyhee Reservoir: This reservoir is ideal for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and tubing, providing plenty of space to enjoy water sports.
Prineville Reservoir: This reservoir offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, making it a popular destination for families.

Wildlife Viewing

Eastern Oregon is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers. From majestic elk and mule deer to soaring eagles and bald eagles, you’ll encounter many fascinating creatures during your trip.

Some popular wildlife viewing areas include:

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is a haven for migratory birds, including sandhill cranes, geese, and ducks.
Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge: This refuge is home to the largest herd of pronghorn antelope in the United States.
Steens Mountain: This mountain range is known for its abundant populations of bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and marmots.

Stargazing

With its vast, dark skies, Eastern Oregon is an incredible destination for stargazing. Away from city lights, you’ll witness a dazzling display of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way.

Many campgrounds provide designated stargazing areas, allowing you to relax and admire the night sky with your family. Some even host stargazing events, inviting experts to share their knowledge about the constellations and other celestial wonders.

Top Recommended Campgrounds in Eastern Oregon

Now that you’ve learned about the adventures Eastern Oregon offers, let’s go over the top-rated campgrounds that are perfect for family vacations. Each campground provides unique experiences and amenities to suit your family’s preferences.

Campgrounds near the Wallowa Mountains:

The Wallowa Mountains offer breathtaking scenery and a variety of activities for families to enjoy. Here are some of the best campgrounds near this majestic mountain range:

1. Wallowa Lake State Park

Wallowa Lake State Park is one of the most popular campgrounds in Eastern Oregon, offering stunning views of the Wallowa Mountains and Wallowa Lake. The campground provides a variety of amenities, including:

Full hookups for RVs
Tent camping sites
Restrooms and showers
A playground
A boat launch
Hiking trails

Wallowa Lake is a perfect spot for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The park also offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing, making it a perfect base for exploring the Wallowa Mountains.

2. Eagle Cap Wilderness

For families seeking a more remote and adventurous experience, Eagle Cap Wilderness offers a truly wild and scenic adventure. The wilderness area is home to towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

While the wilderness does not have traditional campgrounds, it offers numerous backcountry campsites that provide a unique and immersive experience. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, and exploring the magnificent beauty of this untouched wilderness.

Campgrounds near the Steens Mountain:

Steens Mountain is another gem in Eastern Oregon, offering stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Here are some of the best campgrounds near this unique mountain:

3. Steens Mountain Wilderness

Steens Mountain Wilderness is a vast and remote area with numerous dispersed camping opportunities. You can find secluded spots with stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve this pristine wilderness.

Steens Mountain Wilderness offers an exceptional opportunity for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Explore the challenging trails leading to volcanic craters, alpine meadows, and high-desert landscapes.

4. Blitzen Valley Campground

Located south of Steens Mountain, Blitzen Valley Campground offers a more developed camping experience. The campground provides basic amenities, including:

Tent camping sites
Picnic tables
Fire rings
Restrooms

The campground is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, including the spectacular Steens Mountain and the Alvord Desert.

Campgrounds near the Owyhee River:

The Owyhee River is a popular destination for rafting, fishing, and enjoying the stunning high desert scenery. Here are some of the best campgrounds near this scenic river:

5. Owyhee River Canyon Campground

Owyhee River Canyon Campground is located along the Owyhee River, providing a picturesque setting for your camping trip. The campground offers amenities such as:

Tent camping sites
RV sites with hookups
Restrooms
Picnic tables
Fire rings

The campground offers easy access to the Owyhee River, perfect for rafting, kayaking, fishing, and exploring the surrounding canyons.

6. Owyhee River Trail

For a truly immersive experience, consider taking a trip along the Owyhee River Trail. This trail winds through the Owyhee River Canyon, offering stunning views of dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and the Owyhee River itself.

The trail offers various dispersed camping opportunities, allowing you to enjoy the solitude of the high desert. You’ll have a chance to encounter desert wildlife, including bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and desert tortoise.

Campgrounds near the Ochoco National Forest:

The Ochoco National Forest is an expansive area offering a wide range of activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and horseback riding. Here are some of the best campgrounds in this national forest:

7. Prineville Reservoir State Park

Prineville Reservoir State Park offers a variety of camping options, including:

RV sites with full hookups
Tent camping sites
Restrooms
Showers
A playground
A boat launch
A swimming area
Hiking trails

The park is a perfect base for exploring the Ochoco National Forest and enjoying various activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

8. Ochoco National Forest Dispersed Camping

The Ochoco National Forest offers many dispersed camping opportunities, allowing you to find secluded spots for a truly wild camping experience. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of your surroundings.

Ochoco National Forest is perfect for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and stargazing. The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and various birds.

Campgrounds near the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument:

The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a unique destination for families interested in paleontology and natural history. Here are some of the best campgrounds near this fascinating monument:

9. Painted Hills Campground

Painted Hills Campground is located near the Painted Hills unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. The campground offers amenities such as:

Tent camping sites
RV sites with hookups
Restrooms
Picnic tables
Fire rings

The campground provides easy access to the Painted Hills, a stunning landscape of colorful rock formations, making it a great place to explore the monument’s unique geological features.

10. Sheep Rock Unit

The Sheep Rock Unit is another area of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument with dispersed camping opportunities. You can find secluded spots with stunning views of the canyons and surrounding landscapes.

The Sheep Rock Unit offers various hiking trails leading to fossil sites, allowing families to learn about the region’s rich paleontological history.

Campground Planning and Reservations

Now that you’ve learned about some of the best campgrounds in Eastern Oregon, let’s discuss how to plan your trip and secure your reservations.

1. Plan Your Trip in Advance:

Most popular campgrounds in Eastern Oregon, especially during peak season, fill up quickly, so planning in advance is crucial. Start by deciding on your desired dates and location.

2. Make Reservations:

Most state parks and national forests require reservations for camping. You can make reservations online or by phone.

3. Obtain Necessary Permits:

Some areas may require permits for dispersed camping. These permits are usually available online or at ranger stations.

4. Pack Essential Gear:

Ensure you have all the necessary gear for a comfortable and enjoyable camping trip. This includes tents, sleeping bags, camping chairs, cooking equipment, flashlights, and other essentials.

5. Follow Leave No Trace Principles:

Camping responsibly is crucial to preserve the natural beauty of Eastern Oregon. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment:

Pack it in, pack it out: Carry out everything you bring in.
Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
Dispose of waste properly.
Minimize campfire impacts.
Respect wildlife.
Be considerate of other visitors.

FAQ About Best Campgrounds in Eastern Oregon

1. What are the best campgrounds for families with young children?

Campgrounds with playgrounds, recreation areas, and swimming pools are ideal for families with young children. These campgrounds provide opportunities for kids to play and burn off energy while parents relax and enjoy the scenery. Some of the best campgrounds for families with young children include Wallowa Lake State Park, Prineville Reservoir State Park, and Campgrounds with dedicated playgrounds and recreation areas.

2. What are the best campgrounds for RV campers?

Campgrounds with full hookups, paved or gravel sites, and ample space are perfect for RV campers. These campgrounds provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience. Some of the best campgrounds for RV campers include Wallowa Lake State Park, Prineville Reservoir State Park, and Owyhee River Canyon Campground.

3. What are some tips for planning a family camping trip to Eastern Oregon?

Plan your trip in advance, make reservations, obtain necessary permits, pack essential gear, follow Leave No Trace principles, choose a campground that suits your family’s needs, and most importantly, have fun!

Conclusion

Eastern Oregon is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, offering stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable experiences for families. From exploring scenic hiking trails to discovering hidden waterfalls, you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Eastern Oregon offers the perfect campground to fit your family’s needs. Be sure to check out our other articles about Eastern Oregon for more tips and information about the region’s stunning natural beauty.

As you plan your next family adventure, consider the vast and scenic landscapes of Eastern Oregon. From towering mountains to shimmering lakes, the region offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation and memorable experiences. Whether you’re seeking exhilarating hikes, refreshing swims, or simply a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these campgrounds provide a perfect base for your explorations. Each campground boasts unique features that cater to different preferences, ensuring you find the ideal location for your family’s needs. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embrace the spirit of adventure in Eastern Oregon’s captivating wilderness.

With its diverse range of campgrounds, Eastern Oregon caters to families seeking different levels of amenities and activities. Some campgrounds offer modern conveniences like flush toilets, showers, and RV hookups, while others provide a more rustic experience with pit toilets and limited facilities. Regardless of your chosen campground, you’ll be enveloped by the tranquility and beauty of the natural surroundings. Whether you’re captivated by the majestic peaks of the Wallowa Mountains, the awe-inspiring expanse of the Steens Mountain, or the serenity of the Owyhee River, Eastern Oregon’s campgrounds offer a gateway to unforgettable adventures.

Remember to respect the environment and practice Leave No Trace principles while enjoying the beauty of Eastern Oregon. Pack out everything you pack in, dispose of waste properly, and minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystem. By doing so, you’ll help ensure that future generations can enjoy the same pristine landscapes that have captivated generations before you. As you navigate the winding roads and immerse yourselves in the wonders of Eastern Oregon, create lasting memories with your loved ones. Let the majestic mountains, shimmering lakes, and boundless wilderness spark a sense of wonder and adventure in your hearts.

Unplug and reconnect! Discover the best campgrounds in Eastern Oregon for family adventures. Stunning landscapes, fun activities, and unforgettable memories await.