Northern Star Pallette Ranch

99%

79 reviews

· Wallowa Lake, Wallowa, Oregon · 300 acres

Hosted by Michelle/Larry O.

6 RV/tent sites

Staff verified

Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

Michelle/Larry is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

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."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.

RV details

Caravans, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Trailer tents, Campervans, and Cars allowed

Vehicles under 7 metres allowed

Accommodates slideouts

Surface type: Loose gravel

some are fairly level

Surface levelness: Requires levelling

some are fairly level

No Motorhome, Campervan, and Class C (larger motorhome with overcab space)

Ask about rv access types

No electrical hookup

No hook up but parking for self contained R.V.'s

No sewage hookup

Ask about water hookup

Ask about TV hookup

Ask about generators

What to expect

RV/tent site

Camping area selected or assigned upon arrival.

4 guests max per site

Toilet available

Pit toilet. We have 3 new centrally located outhouses now available

Pets allowed

On leash. On leash at all times as we have cattle and horses.... thank you

No campfires

Fires are not allowed at this time due to local local restrictions and very warm weather

Drinking water available

Tap, hose, bottled water or jugs. We have water available if you run out for drinking, but water from the river is sufficient for dishes. etc.

Picnic table present

No showers

Bathe in river or stream. outdoor shower coming soon

Pack it out

Cooking equipment absent

We are working on cooking areas... Stand by : )

No wifi

Things to know

Getting there

Check in: After 2:00 PM

Check out: Before 12:00 PM

On arrival: Meet with Host

Cancellation policy: Moderate

Minimum nights: 1 night

Accepts bookings: 6 months out

Park at listing

No wheelchair access

Max 4 vehicles

During your trip

Follow the

Leave it better

Inclusion policyWe have a zero-tolerance policy against discrimination at Hipcamp. We are committed to helping our Host and Hipcamper communities be inclusive.

Reviews

99% Recommend92 ratings · 79 reviews

Palette Ranch offers a truly serene and private camping experience right by the Imnaha River, making it a perfect escape from the busyness of everyday life. The hosts, Michelle and Larry, are known for their warm hospitality and fascinating stories about the ranch's history. Campers frequently highlight the peacefulness, abundance of wildlife, and the beautiful natural surroundings. Although the site is remote, the stunning views and the sound of the river provide a refreshing break for those seeking tranquility.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· July 2025

Tent

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.

Andy M.

1 month on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2025

Heaven on earth

5 m car · With pets

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!

Mariel G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Best Hipcamp in Oregon

5 m campervan

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!

Mallory C.

7 reviews

Recommends

· October 2024

Tent

This was the second time I’ve stayed at the ranch and it was somehow even more magical than the first time! My spot was right on the river and had a bench, a fire pit and a picnic table. I absolutely love it here and hope to return again soon. Thank you Michelle and Larry for another great stay.

Ashley V.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

5 m campervan

True Serenity by the River! Lots of wildlife and beautiful views!

Sally R.

5 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

6 m campervan · With pets

Lovely spot along the Imnaha River. Beautiful drive there. Be sure to go to the Overlook for an amazing view.

Lee D.

7 reviews

Recommends

· September 2024

Tent · With kids

I loved the serene setting and we were close to the river for the kids to have fun and close enough to just listen to nature. Highly recommend this campsite to those who want to experience something different.

Jodi A.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2024

Lovely Solitude.

Tent · Group trip

It was a lovely place to camp over labor day weekend. I didn't see anyone else the entire time I was there. We did however, see lots of wildlife including grouse, turkeys, bald eagles, deer, and a bear. It was a wonderful time.

Rhiannon A.

11 months on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2024

Tent · With pets

The ranch was amazing and exactly what we were looking for. The history of the ranch and area was super interesting to learn about and explore while we were there. The hosts were phenomenal and super helpful. We will definitely be booking again and recommending to friends passing through the area.

Adam V.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2024

Peace and Beauty!!!

Tent · With pets

The campsite we were at was beautiful...so private! The river was clean and a delight to swim in. We had such a great time!!

Karla S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Camping on the river

6 m travel trailer

We loved our stay at Serenity on the river! A unique and private location, with some history. We enjoyed having lots of space and quiet all to ourselves. No crowds here. It was a hot weekend and we loved having the river access to cool off. We even caught a few fish. We met Larry our host and he was super friendly and helpful and we enjoyed visiting with him a bit. I highly recommend this spot for a peaceful camping adventure! We hope to return some day.

Susan M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent · With pets

The Palette Ranch is an amazing place to get away from the world for a bit! The land is beautiful, camping on the river is perfect, and Michelle and Larry are great hosts! We loved learning about the colorful history of the property and enjoying the tranquility of being in such a remote location. As an added bonus, when we experienced a medical emergency while camping, Michelle and Larry opened their home to us, made us food and coffee, and really displayed true kindness. It's worth the drive!

Andrew C.

2 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Tent · With pets

This site is gorgeous!! It’s definitely remote, but we were able to find it. Larry and Michelle were both helpful and responsive. There is lots of good animal watching, and listening to the river at night was amazing. Thank you for a great stay.

Margo S.

3 reviews

Recommends

· July 2024

Dream getaway.

6 m pop-up camper

Absolutely stunning setting, couldn’t have asked for more. Very clear communication from host and great historic info and stories. We hope to be back!

Adrienne K.

6 reviews

Recommends

· June 2024

Tent

This place was great, the getaway we needed. Also loved hearing the history of the land from Larry and Michelle and seeing the peacocks they have roaming around there was beautiful. They were a great help and awesome hosts. We camped right by the river and enjoyed every minute of it. One of the prettiest places I’ve been.

Bad Habbit Records M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· June 2024

6 m campervan

Michelle and Larry have a little slice of heaven! We spent our Memorial Day weekend on their lush, 300 acre ranch roaming the property and fishing the Imnaha River. This ranch is steeped in history, and I imagine not much has changed since the 1940's. This is the place to come and unplug. Days feel a little slower here. The Pallette Ranch was a breath of fresh air from our everyday grind. Michelle and Larry are gems themselves and the perfect hosts. The Pallette Ranch is a 5 out of 5! I hope you get to experience it one day....

Kristy O.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2024

Tent · With pets

Very peaceful and quiet. Beautiful spot right on the river. Deer and Wild Turkey running through the property. Loved the experience! Will be back!

William R.

3 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2023

5 m car · With pets

We loved this ranch. Almost don’t want to write about it because more people will go!

Edward M.

1 year on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2023

Tent

Michelle and Larry were very welcoming and provided clear instructions to find the ranch. I loved tent camping along the river - stunning landscape, wild turkeys, deer, peacocks, eagles and more. Very special land.

Kristen R.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2023

Best of all time

6 m campervan · With pets

So incredibly SERENE! We talked under the fabulous stars and agreed that this was our no. 1 campsite of all time. Parked right next to a beautiful rushing stream. Hosts are very nice and welcoming, letting us explore their property. We were booked for 1 night and immediately decided we needed to stay at least 2, so we did! The only challenging thing for some might be the remoteness, but we loved that aspect too. Just perfect- Thanks!!

Wendy Carol T.

8 reviews

Recommends

· August 2023

Do it! You won’t regret it.

Tent · Group trip

The campsite, right on the river, is just amazing! My friends and I camped off motorcycles and had a fabulous time hanging out and relaxing all afternoon and evening. The hosts are very welcoming and accommodating. I highly recommend!

Brad S.

2 reviews

Recommends

· August 2023

Tent · With pets

A private place on the river! Very remote and very beautiful. Hosts were nice! We had to leave a night early but enjoyed our stay. Stars were AMAZING

Nicole S.

6 reviews

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent · With pets

We loved staying at the ranch. Quiet. Peaceful. Larry and Michelle were very helpful and kind hosts! Will definitely be back!

Claire S.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2023

BEST!!! Experience (priceless)

Tent · With pets

The History, the Beauty, the surrounding Environment, the Sounds/Smells, and Larry & Michelle made this camping trip one of the most priceless experiences. I will definitely be back to experiences this, Again & Again. Thank you, Larry and Michelle for sharing your lives with us❤️Larry, Lisa, Olive and Daisy

L L.

2 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· July 2023

Tent

The directions to the ranch that are provided on Hipcamp are shaky at best. Michelle will contact you beforehand. I highly recommend asking for detailed directions. Her detailed directions were perfect. Once at the site, 1) it seems there's only 1 site along the river and 2) we were swarmed by mosquitoes as it had rained the day before. Come with plenty of citronella, OFF, and any other mosquito sprays or candles you can get. The river is gorgeous. Didn't use the composting toilet but it was well kept and clean. We had the whole place to ourselves, so that was nice.

Frank And Jen W.

4 reviews

Recommends

· July 2023

All Around Extraordinary

Tent

We loved everything about this trip! Larry and Michelle were great from beginning to end — made sure we made the journey successfully and were kind, flexible and accommodating hosts! It’s a beautiful location, on the river and lots of land/animals/landscape for the eyes. Will definitely be going back!

Steven W.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2023

Tent

This place is amazing is my second time there and love it.

Armando B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· June 2023

This place is a paradise love it. Is a long drive sense I live in Portland but is worth it. I’m planing to go next mont again.

Armando B.

2 reviews

Recommends

· October 2022

Tent

i loved my stay at palette ranch! i was worried about being able to find the site, however the coordinates provided in google maps were quite accurate! michelle and larry were so kind, welcoming us even though they were closed for the season and showing us around and telling us about the history. the place is super secluded and off the grid feeling, so make sure you come prepared with everything you need

Amanda R.

13 reviews

Recommends

· August 2022

May the Forest Be With You

4 m car

We loved camping on the Imhaha river Larry Was very Pleasant and accommodating. There is Awesome stories about the History of this working Ranch . We had a beautiful experience the valley was completely dark until the full Moon peaked Over the mountain The first thing to light up was all of the ripples on the Imhaha What a site . Ten minutes later we could see the whole canyon floor just like Daylight You Will be right on the water We Will definitely be back Thank you Larry