The best camping in Catherine Creek State Park, OR

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

The best camping in Catherine Creek State Park, OR

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Pondosa, Oregon. Old mill town.

3. Pondosa, Oregon. Old mill town.

97%
(223)
11mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Baker City, OR
Learn more about this land:Campsites are gravel parking with park-like lawn, well kept, and surrounded by a small picnicking area with extra parking, porta potty, garbage receptical, BBQs, tables and chairs on sprawling grassy lawns shaded with 100 year old large trees. Perfect for a large group. We have a big tree swing and an adult size teeter totter for you to enjoy. There is a horseshoe area. The camping sites are back in only, so if you have trouble backing in, I am happy to help. Each spot has a fire pit with first firewood supplied, (additional be purchased) and a picnic table. Surrounding area is sagebrush, 2 miles from Wallowa National Forest with miles and miles of wilderness trails, lakes and Mountain fishing, ATVs, hiking, biking. You can ride your ATVs right from the camp. There is huckleberry and mushroom picking in early summer and late spring. Local wildlife consists of deer, elk, eagles and owls, pheasants, quail, wild turkeys, all kinds of birds, (even an occasional farm chicken may wander by) and coyotes and frogs calling at night. My friendly labs like to come say hi. Campsites are for tents or RVs. Our electric is shared among the campsites. Our water is from a wonderful deep cold well that’s piped to a shared outlet in the middle of the RV camp. Bring a hose to hook up, we have one if you need one. Guest Wi-Fi if you’re close to the store. Cell service is limited. I do allow generators if you are not sharing the park with anyone else. If you’re the only ones, no quiet time, if others are camping, quiet time is from 10:00 pm - 7:00 am. Site 1: largest fire pit, close to the power hook up, the most shady spot but still sunny, closest to the park. Site 2: A bit of shade, most of the day in sun. Closest to water hook up. Site 3: A Sunny site, a little late afternoon shade. A little more privacy as it’s the last spot. Farthest stretch for water and power, but I provide an extension power cord to it. Our little store has items you may need if you run out or forget something. We also sell regular gas.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Towering Tamaracks

7. Towering Tamaracks

95%
(33)
39mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Baker City, OR
Heavily forested mountain property way off the grid in the Elkhorn Mts and borders National Forest. Enjoy hiking, biking, climbing, hammocking, watching wild animals, star gazing, etc. Sorry, no sounds of the city. Host will send you driving directions that need to be printed. There is a short hike (4 to 5 minutes) to each camp site from the Common Parking area, so I suggest packing as lightly as possible. Feel free to use the supplied cart to carry your gear. Campers have also enjoyed kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, hiking, and the mountain biking trails at Phillips Lake, which is a little over eight miles from TT. For trails, visit Trailforks.com and search Phillips Lake. Trails range from Easy to Black Diamond. This area used to have train tracks nearby, thus the road name Old Trestle Lane. Legend has it that "there's gold in them there hills". Visit nearby gold mining town, Sumpter (about 45 minute drive), while you're here. There is an authentic gold dredge you can walk through or you can schedule a steam powered train ride. http://www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org/index.html If you don't mind the hour drive, explore the history of Baker City and check out the Oregon Trail Museum just outside of town.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$25
 / night
It's 5:00 at the "Three Spruces"

8. Serenity on the River

99%
(101)
44mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Imnaha, OR
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."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night
Balloon Tree CG

13. Balloon Tree CG

37mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Elgin, OR
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
A-Frame RV Park (formerly Oregon Trails West RV Park)

17. A-Frame RV Park (formerly Oregon Trails West RV Park)

24mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 1 site · Baker City, OR
Discover the charm of A-Frame RV Park, a unique destination that combines comfort and convenience for travelers seeking a restful retreat. Our park offers a diverse range of accommodations, including 30amp and 50amp RV sites, inviting tent sites, and cozy cabins, ensuring that every guest finds their perfect spot to unwind. In addition to our well-equipped sites, A-Frame RV Park features essential amenities such as propane services, a dog walk for your furry friends, and a selection of souvenirs to commemorate your stay. Guests can enjoy clean showers and a laundry facility, making it easy to refresh and recharge during your visit. Conveniently located just off the freeway, A-Frame RV Park serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, local dining options, or unique shops, you'll find plenty to do in the surrounding area. Whether you need a quick overnight stop or a peaceful getaway, A-Frame RV Park is ready to accommodate your needs and provide a memorable experience.
Pets
Toilets
Mt. View RV Park

18. Mt. View RV Park

25mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 1 site · Baker City, OR
Nestled in the heart of Historic Baker City, Oregon, Mtn. View RV Park stands out as a unique full-service RV resort that embodies the rustic charm of the Oregon Trail. This inviting campground offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and historical allure, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure. Guests at Mtn. View RV Park enjoy convenient access to a variety of nearby attractions. Explore the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, where you can delve into the rich history of the pioneers. Stroll through the charming streets of historic downtown Baker City, or venture to nearby ghost towns for a glimpse into the past. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the breathtaking landscapes of Hells Canyon and the scenic rides on the Sumpter Valley Railroad. For those interested in local culture, the Oregon Trail Regional Museum and the iconic Geiser Grand Hotel are just a short drive away. Whether you're looking to relax or embark on outdoor activities, Mtn. View RV Park serves as the perfect base for your adventures. Come and experience the beauty and history of the Oregon Trail while enjoying a comfortable stay with us.
Pets
Toilets
Park At The River

20. Park At The River

27mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 583 sites · Joseph, OR
Discover a unique camping experience at our park, where nature meets comfort with a variety of accommodations and amenities designed for every type of traveler. Our campground features 49 full-hookup sites, perfect for RV enthusiasts seeking convenience and accessibility. For those looking for a cozy retreat, we offer three charming cabins that provide a home-like atmosphere amidst the great outdoors. Guests can enjoy clean and well-maintained men's and women's restrooms, complete with showers for a refreshing experience after a day of adventure. Our on-site laundromat adds to the convenience, making it easy to keep your gear fresh during your stay. We also cater to groups with special rates, making it an ideal destination for family reunions, retreats, or gatherings with friends. Planning ahead is easy, as we accept reservations up to a year in advance, ensuring you secure your spot in this beautiful setting. Whether you're here for relaxation or outdoor activities, our park is the perfect base for exploring nearby natural features, swimming holes, and local dining and shopping options. Come and experience the perfect blend of nature and comfort at our campground!
Pets
Toilets
Showers

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Catherine Creek State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Catherine Creek State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Pondosa, Oregon. Old mill town.

97%
(223)
11mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Baker City, OR
Learn more about this land:Campsites are gravel parking with park-like lawn, well kept, and surrounded by a small picnicking area with extra parking, porta potty, garbage receptical, BBQs, tables and chairs on sprawling grassy lawns shaded with 100 year old large trees. Perfect for a large group. We have a big tree swing and an adult size teeter totter for you to enjoy. There is a horseshoe area. The camping sites are back in only, so if you have trouble backing in, I am happy to help. Each spot has a fire pit with first firewood supplied, (additional be purchased) and a picnic table. Surrounding area is sagebrush, 2 miles from Wallowa National Forest with miles and miles of wilderness trails, lakes and Mountain fishing, ATVs, hiking, biking. You can ride your ATVs right from the camp. There is huckleberry and mushroom picking in early summer and late spring. Local wildlife consists of deer, elk, eagles and owls, pheasants, quail, wild turkeys, all kinds of birds, (even an occasional farm chicken may wander by) and coyotes and frogs calling at night. My friendly labs like to come say hi. Campsites are for tents or RVs. Our electric is shared among the campsites. Our water is from a wonderful deep cold well that’s piped to a shared outlet in the middle of the RV camp. Bring a hose to hook up, we have one if you need one. Guest Wi-Fi if you’re close to the store. Cell service is limited. I do allow generators if you are not sharing the park with anyone else. If you’re the only ones, no quiet time, if others are camping, quiet time is from 10:00 pm - 7:00 am. Site 1: largest fire pit, close to the power hook up, the most shady spot but still sunny, closest to the park. Site 2: A bit of shade, most of the day in sun. Closest to water hook up. Site 3: A Sunny site, a little late afternoon shade. A little more privacy as it’s the last spot. Farthest stretch for water and power, but I provide an extension power cord to it. Our little store has items you may need if you run out or forget something. We also sell regular gas.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

Towering Tamaracks

95%
(33)
39mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 4 sites · Tents · Baker City, OR
Heavily forested mountain property way off the grid in the Elkhorn Mts and borders National Forest. Enjoy hiking, biking, climbing, hammocking, watching wild animals, star gazing, etc. Sorry, no sounds of the city. Host will send you driving directions that need to be printed. There is a short hike (4 to 5 minutes) to each camp site from the Common Parking area, so I suggest packing as lightly as possible. Feel free to use the supplied cart to carry your gear. Campers have also enjoyed kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, hiking, and the mountain biking trails at Phillips Lake, which is a little over eight miles from TT. For trails, visit Trailforks.com and search Phillips Lake. Trails range from Easy to Black Diamond. This area used to have train tracks nearby, thus the road name Old Trestle Lane. Legend has it that "there's gold in them there hills". Visit nearby gold mining town, Sumpter (about 45 minute drive), while you're here. There is an authentic gold dredge you can walk through or you can schedule a steam powered train ride. http://www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org/index.html If you don't mind the hour drive, explore the history of Baker City and check out the Oregon Trail Museum just outside of town.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$25
 / night

Serenity on the River

99%
(101)
44mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Imnaha, OR
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."
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$70
 / night

Balloon Tree CG

37mi from Catherine Creek State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Elgin, OR
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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

Other options near Catherine Creek State Park

The best camping in Catherine Creek State Park, OR guide

Overview

About

With the Wallowa Mountains rising in the background, this tree-lined canyon is a respite in the High Desert. Bring your fishing gear, because you don't want to miss the rainbow trout. They'll tease you with their silvery fins. Your fly-fishing must be at the top of its game.

Work off your picnic lunch with the Horseshoe pits or a 3-mile nature trail. Then take a nap under the towering pines.

Campgrounds in the park offer you a perfect home base for exploring the area. Nearby Hells Canyon is the deepest gorge in North America. A few pioneer graveyards remind you of how difficult it was to settle these lands 150 years ago.

The Oregon Trail Interpretive Center near Baker Cityexplains the area's human history. Anglers definitely need to check out Eagle Creek for more great fishing.

You can pick from one of 20 rustic campsites with water nearby. The parking lot can accommodate self-contained RVs.

Nearby attractions

Unleash your adventurous spirit while camping in the Alvord Desert, a unique haven offering a stark, yet stunning, landscape. This vast, flat desert is a playground for camping, stargazing, and even land sailing.

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