The best forest campgrounds near Joseph, Oregon

Looking to camp in the forest near Joseph, Oregon? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 210 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there's a campsite for everyone. Check out the top campsites like McGovern Residence (86 reviews), Northern Star Pallette Ranch (48 reviews), and The High Road Cabins N camping (42 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and showers. And with activities like wildlife watching, fishing, and biking, there's always something fun to do. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

95% (131)

Top-rated campgrounds near Joseph

Looking to camp in the forest near Joseph, Oregon? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 210 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there's a campsite for everyone. Check out the top campsites like McGovern Residence (86 reviews), Northern Star Pallette Ranch (48 reviews), and The High Road Cabins N camping (42 reviews) for a truly memorable experience. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like trash disposal, potable water, and showers. And with activities like wildlife watching, fishing, and biking, there's always something fun to do. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

95% (131)

Top-rated campgrounds near Joseph

1. Serenity on the River

99%

(101)

20mi from Joseph · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Built in the 1940's by the late actor Eugene Pallette as a hideaway from Hollywood and a Refuge from looming world disaster after World War 2. There once was a cannery, a power plant a sawmill and a 5,000 sq' concrete warehouse built to withstand anything and house years of provisions. Many buildings are still standing and utilized.  The past guest list included Cark Gable (Gone with The Wind) Amelia Earhart and her navigator Fred Noonan and Errol Flynn and many more. Located on the shores of the Imnaha river we have 2 miles of accessible, private spots. There is a lot of wildlife here and there is no better place to "unwind" and regroup. Pitch your tent in total privacy along the shores of the River and then kick back and take in all the sights and sounds of Nature. Surrounded by canyons on all sides tucked away in a private Valley is 300+ acres of room to roam along the river.   We have firewood and frozen bottles of water for coolers available for an extra charge And have added 3 outhouses. Potable water, picnic tables, and outhouses on site. Pets are welcome. Camp fires are permitted outside of a fire ban. Our guests love staying here: "Camping at the ranch was pure enjoyment. We did not see or hear anything but the rushing river and the surrounding woods. The stars at night we’re amazing and there was plenty to explore on the property and nearby."

2. Glamp at the Evans Farm

97%

(45)

1.8mi from Joseph · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

The Evans Farm is a Century Farm which has been in our family for three generations (with the fourth generation children enjoying it now).  It was a self sufficient family farm for many years with Jersey Dairy cattle, Suffolk Sheep, pigs, quality horses, both Draft and Riding, and a flock of chickens.  A large garden supplied family vegetables.  A love for the land and the area were all part of the Farm. Located two miles from Joseph, three miles from Wallowa Lake, and close to hiking, fishing, camping, and outdoor adventures, the Farm is secluded but offers easy access to the surrounding area. 

3. Fluit Farms

94%

(8)

5.7mi from Joseph · 10 sites · RVs

We have a 3 acre corner parcel of our 100+acre farm that we are offering for campers! We use natural and organic practices on our farm. You will be located in the country about 5 miles from Joseph, next to a trickling stream in the valley surrounded by farms and ranches. Pets are welcome, including horses. Check out our new Farm Stand within sight of your camp! Featuring seasonal goodies. Activities on our road; McCully trailhead for finding Morels, hiking, or horseback riding and Kinney Lake fishing. Nearby attractions would be lots of hunting, Wallowa Lake, go carts and Tramway, paddle boarding, boating, rodeos events, rail rider cars, concerts, parades, car shows and more!

4. Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

99%

(34)

637 sites · Wallowa Lake, Oregon

Trek up massive peaks or descend into cavernous canyons on Oregon’s largest national forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Catherine Creek State Park

20 sites · Union, Oregon

In Oregon's high desert, this creek babbles through a canyon beneath Ponderosa Pines.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

6. Mountain High

45mi from Joseph · 1 site · Lodging

Wooded forest with spectacular views of Pollock and Granite Mountains and adjacent public land for hiking and exploring. Access to a creek and the Little Salmon River for fishing just 2.7 miles. Less than 30-minute drive to nearby Riggins, New Meadows or McCall for unlimited outdoor activities. Access is through a locked gate via a rough, rocky and steep road. A high clearance vehicle with good tires is required.

7. Balloon Tree CG

41mi from Joseph · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Balloon Tree – Private, Gated Escape in Oregon’s Blue Mountains Looking for peace, privacy, and a true connection with nature? Balloon Tree is a gated, 40-acre off-grid retreat just 7 miles from Elgin, Oregon, tucked deep in the quiet, scenic Blue Mountains. The campground offers four spacious, private campsites, each surrounded by towering timber, abundant wildlife, and endless outdoor adventure. At the center of camp is a large fire ring (for use when permitted), perfect for cooking, storytelling, and stargazing beneath some of the clearest skies in Oregon—no light pollution, just stars and silence. There’s plenty to do right on the land: • Miles of nearby trails for ATVs, snowmobiles, and hiking • A rustic disc golf course winding through the woods • Several scenic viewpoints for sunrise, sunset, or quiet reflection • A dedicated area to unload and park machines In season, foragers will find wild huckleberries, morel mushrooms, strawberries, and raspberries. Wildlife is abundant—elk and deer sightings are common—and the property borders public timberland, making it an ideal base for fall hunting trips. Access is easy via a well-maintained gravel road, typically 2WD-friendly. The campground is remote, peaceful, and completely off-grid—perfect for group getaways, solo retreats, or anyone needing a break from screens and schedules. A dump station and potable water are conveniently available in Elgin. ⸻ Please Note: • 🔥 Strict fire ban from July 1st - Sept 31st. • 📵 Limited cell service: Most guests can make calls, but plan ahead • 🐾 Wildlife safety: Do not feed animals; store food securely • 🌲 Leave no trace: Please do not cut down or damage trees and pack it in, pack it out. 🌦️ It can be dry and dusty in the summer and cold and wet in the winter. Be prepared. ✅ A liability waiver for each guest must be signed and returned prior to arrival. ⸻ Unplug. Ride. Explore. Reset. Balloon Tree is your basecamp for wild beauty, fresh mountain air, and deep connection to the outdoors.

8. Holiday Farm RV Resort

259mi from Joseph · 3 sites

Nestled in the breathtaking McKenzie River Valley, Holiday Farm RV Resort stands out as a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Located just an hour east of Eugene, Oregon, this resort offers beautiful, private sites surrounded by a magnificent woodland setting, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all visitors. Conveniently situated off Highway 126 at milepost 46.5, the park is only one mile from the renowned Toketee Golf Course. Guests can immerse themselves in a variety of memorable activities, including hiking along the picturesque McKenzie River or exploring the nearby Three Sisters Wilderness Area. Fishing enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to catch trout in the famous McKenzie River, while those seeking adventure can embark on guided whitewater rafting trips. Additionally, the soothing Belknap Hot Springs are just a short distance away, providing a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploration. With its stunning natural surroundings and a wealth of outdoor activities, Holiday Farm RV Resort is the ideal destination for creating lasting memories in the heart of Oregon's scenic landscape. Don't miss the chance to experience the always breathtaking McKenzie River, just a pleasant walk from your campsite!

9. Payette National Forest

78%

(9)

279 sites · Mc Call, Idaho

Lakes, creeks, and peaks, oh my! Payette National Forest has ‘em all. Salmon-Challis National Forest and Nez-Pearce Clearwater National Forest are its neighbors, while its Victor Peak, Loon Creek, Loon Lake, North Loon Mountain, Bruin Mountain, Bear Pete Mountain, and Boulder Creek could keep you busy for months. Forage for mushrooms or berries, fish in the chinook salmon hatchery at the South Fork of the Salmon River, or snowboard down Brundage Mountain. Hike to the three historic fire lookouts, or check out the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, the second largest wilderness area outside Alaska (don’t worry, plenty before you have visited and returned). In this wealth of outdoor activity, it’s hard to tear yourself away for a visit into town. However, you will be glad you took the time to visit the closest town of McCall, where luxury mountain lodges have thermal spas perfect for resting your aching bones in between treks up or down the mountains.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

10. Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

87%

(27)

413 sites · Pierce, Idaho

Get out of town! No, really. Need a little vacation from everyday life? The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest provides premium “unplug and unwind” opportunities. The four million diverse acres offers breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing galore, ample hiking and backpacking trails, and basically any outdoor activity you can imagine. Whether you’re lookin’ for a cozy cabin escape, a family reunion getaway, or to explore the backcountry, folks of all strokes will be pleased with the array of overnight accommodations. From the dry rugged canyons, to the moist cedar forests. to the rolling uplands, the varied landscape is home to a myriad of animal inhabitants. Known for their wild character, nearly half of the forests are designated wilderness. Ready for some ragin’ rapids? The forests are home to three rivers, popular among adrenaline junkie floaters—the Selway, the Lochsa, and the Salmon. Whatever your MO, there’s a way to relax and recharge at this National Forest!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Umatilla National Forest

72%

(9)

394 sites · Summerville, Oregon

Rivers, canyons, striking peaks and abundant wildlife welcome you to an expansive Northwest forest.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Hilgard Junction State Park

17 sites · La Grande, Oregon

Beneath the towering ponderosa pine and cottonwood of Northeastern Oregon sits this little slice of heaven. The Grande Ronde River flows through the park, so grab an inner tube and float on down--without getting tangled in the overhanging weeping willows. Or grab your fishing pole and see if you can reel in some dinner. Try to spot beaver, mink, deer, and a bustle of birds on the river bank. History buffs, rejoice: at the nearby Blue Mountain Crossing Interpretive Park you can actually see the ruts made by wagons rolling through the Oregon Trail in this area. Ideally situated right off of Interstate 84, the park serves as a great homebase for exploring the miles of scenic roads that wind through the region. And forget noisy crowds; with only 18 primitive campsites, this is the perfect place to hide away for the weekend.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

13. Red Bridge State Wayside

20 sites · La Grande, Oregon

Inhale the fresh pine scent from the ponderosas' yellow bark full of sweet-smelling sap.

Toilets

Campfires

Picnic table

Public campgrounds near Joseph

Hurricane Creek Campground

3.6mi from Joseph · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Walla Walla Forest Camp

8.7mi from Joseph · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

100%

(1)

Williamson Campground

8.9mi from Joseph · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Irondyke Forest Camp

8.9mi from Joseph · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Canyon Forest Campground

9mi from Joseph · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Turkey Flat Forest Camp

9.4mi from Joseph · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Arrow Forest Camp

9.7mi from Joseph · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Shady Campground

9.9mi from Joseph · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

100%

(2)

Two Pan Campground

10mi from Joseph · 5 sites · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Lick Creek Campground

16mi from Joseph · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Boundary Campground

18mi from Joseph · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Indian Crossing Campground

20mi from Joseph · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Howl propane fire pit backdropped by the silhouette of the Wallowas.

Teri

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Fluit Farms

This site is great for boon-docking on solar power, while enjoying great views of the Wallowa Mountains and surrounding farm/ranch land in relative privacy. Graveled Tucker Down Road runs on the west side of the sites, separated by a small creek, deciduous trees, and wild shrubs & flowers. The road gets a fair amount of ranch and farm traffic, but the trees do knock down most of the dust. While the site is flat, be ready for ann uneven surface with lots of tall grass, clover, & thistles. We were happy to be able to light our Howl propane fire pit for an evening under the stars. The site location is convenient with a short 5 minute drive to Joseph and just a 15 minute drive to Wallowa Lake & the Tramway. I can understand comments about the $75 per night being steep since there are no hookups but for us it was worth it.

S

Shelly

September 2025

2 nights at Glamp at the Evans Farm

What a wonderful place Grady Sr. and Kathleen have created on their beautiful farm. The Glamping tent was perfect for exploring the Joseph area. The nights were quiet and the bed was the most comfortable we've ever slept in. The outdoor shower was the perfect way to relax after a day on the trails. Very private and sitting on the front deck watching the sunsets over the mountains will be memorable. We will surely be back when in Joseph. Thanx Grady Sr and Kathleen. So great meeting you both. Shelly and Shelley

A

Andy

September 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Serenity on the River

This place exceeded our expectations. The site was very private with expansive access to the river, which is gorgeous. You are really 'away' here, the hosts are available for help but our site was about .5 mi from their house. Amazing place to unplug and unwind. Michelle & Larry were friendly and available to help with water, ice, and questions. There's an old hiking trail you can access - we saw plenty of recent bear evidence! (Be aware there are large Idaho Power lines running through that can be noisy at times.)

Putting down roots with a tree growing out of an old foundation.

Michael

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

Absolutely heaven! Just got home from an amazing Labor Day weekend at this amazing property. Beautiful wide open space with no other campers on top of us or even within ear shot. So peaceful and quiet, exactly what we needed for the weekend. I could’ve stayed forever. Michelle and Larry are awesome hosts. The communication from Michelle leading up to the trip with perfect directions and a reassurance of our decision to stay there was awesome. Then to be greeted by her wonderful smile and the ever so friendly and welcoming Larry! Larry guided us right to our spot. Gave us a great lay of the land, a brief history lesson and some helpful tips. Super amazing people. I’m excited to get back and visit them soon. Oh and to have a vault toilet was a plus in my wife’s eyes. Thanks Larry and Michelle! See you soon.

M

Meredith

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

Tent platform spot by the river was delightful for a peaceful getaway!

S

Steve

August 2025

With pets

3 nights at Glamp at the Evans Farm

The tent was very clean and full of amenities / nice surprises. The view is beautiful

amy

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Serenity on the River

Communication was on point, Michelle was wonderful and gave me a good recommendation as I was on a roadtrip. She was very understanding and caring. Larry met me at the gate and was knowledgeable about the property and very helpful with questions. They are a lovely couple with a beautiful property. I am a backpacker and it felt like I was backpacking because of how remote it felt. The drive out was also beautiful. I had no issues finding the property with the directions provided. Thanks you both for the healing stay on your gorgeous land.

B

Brittany

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

Michelle & Larry are all stars! My friend and I ended up having tire troubles on the drive in and they were beyond helpful…patching the tire, filling with air, etc. Their land is also spectacular. The sites are spacious with gorgeous views of the river! Book now, you won’t regret it!

J

Joy

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

Amazing! Privacy, views, wildlife, great riverside site. Don't forget to look up on that clear night ;) Plan on taking your time getting there, it's a long and winding road with a nice bumpy finish, but sooo worth it!

F

Floortje

July 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

We had an amazing time at this beautiful campground right alongside the river! Definitely recommend.

T

Tracy

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

The spot on the river was super private and beautiful. Lying in the hammock by the river was idyllic!! I wish there had been a picnic table for cooking.

A

Andy

July 2025

Tent

1 night at Serenity on the River

Really sweet campsite by the river with plenty of space for ourselves. Felt very private and serene :) Larry shared some of the storied history of his ranch after taking us down to the site. Pretty rustic overall for the price, but it had what we needed. Would be good for a big group if you’re worried about the campgrounds nearby filling up. I’d like to come back in a tougher vehicle and drive up to Imnaha.

M

Mariel

July 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

This place is truly heaven on Earth. The owners are incredibly sweet and attentive, always checking in to make sure we were doing okay. The natural beauty is unbelievable—tons of wildlife, a breathtaking river, and so many trails and hidden spots to explore! My dog Sebastian had the time of his life. As a cow and horse lover, I was in awe—the owners have cattle and horses on the property, and they’re absolutely gorgeous. I loved every single piece of it. It’s super private, incredibly peaceful, and completely removed from the noise of everyday life. Honestly, I would pay anything to live here. Can’t recommend it enough!

Mallory

May 2025

18 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Serenity on the River

We absolutely adored our time at the ranch! Michelle and Larry were lovely and showed us to our gorgeous site right by the river. We will definitely be back!

Jaime

May 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Glamp at the Evans Farm

We loved our stay in the glamping tent at Evan’s Farm! Kathy and Grady were so welcoming and helped us find our way even in the dark! We woke up to the most stunning view of the farm with the mountains behind and ponies there to greet us! We got an insider tip from Grady on an amazing hike, went paddle boarding at Wallowa Lake and ended the night with a fire and s’mores at the farm! Kathy and Grady have thought of and provided everything to make it the easiest glamping trip and the bed lived up to the hype! We were so cozy and comfortable. Thank you for hosting us and we can’t wait to come back and stay longer!