The best camping in Minam State Recreation Area, OR

·

Camper favorites near Minam State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Top-rated campgrounds

Overnight at the Oasis

95%
(71)
29mi from Minam State Recreation Area · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Anatone, WA
Boggan's Oasis is in the SE corner of Washington state, right on the breathtaking Grande Ronde River. Visitors can arrive by driving to the bottom of Rattlesnake Grade (WA-129), or the bottom of Buford Grade (OR-3). These two curvacious roads are extremely popular rides for motorcyclists and bicyclists nationally. Visitors may also arrive by water (rafts, driftboats, jetboats, kayaks, etc) coming downriver from Oregon, or upriver from the Snake River (WA/ID). Many other unpaved roads will lead guests to our canyon, which creates great opportunities for off-road vehicle adventures! The Grande Ronde River, which drains much of northeast Oregon's Union and Wallowa counties, is fed by snowpack in the Elkhorn Mountains. The Wallowa River, a major tributary to the Grande Ronde, headwaters in the Wallowa Mountains, mostly within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Twenty-two miles from Boggan's Oasis, the Grande Ronde River flows into the mighty Snake River. The river is surrounded by steep, rugged canyon walls that rise 3000 to 4000 feet above the river level. Dense conifer forests blend into grassy slopes set off by scattered conifer "stringers." Called "The Land of Winding Waters" by Native Americans, the river is home to rainbow trout, dolly varden, whitefish, squawfish, suckers, bass, and steelhead. Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, bear, bald eagles, and a variety of smaller animals and birds can be seen daily. And yes, there are rattlesnakes! Fishing, hunting, hiking, all kinds of boating/floating, offroad vehicle riding, and animal/bird watching are beyond expectations in this area. Seasonally, guests can also successfully gather a variety of mushrooms and berries while on one of the many nearby hiking trails. Many of these short walks also lead to incredible, far-reaching views of the Blue Mountains, Wenaha wildlife sanctuary, Hells Canyon, and the tri-state area. In the hotter summer months, the swimming hole below the Boggan's Bridge is a popular way to cool off. Boggan's Oasis also offers fishing trips, float trips, shuttles, and a FULL restaurant! Check our website for more info.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

Relaxing, Peaceful Lavender Farm

99%
(490)
35mi from Minam State Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Milton Freewater, OR
For years the property was a fruit orchard located close in to town. Over the years crops have evolved. Now we grow pumpkins, garlic, sweet corn and —lavender! Beautiful lavender fields in the heart of the Walla Walla Valley wine country. Learn more about this land: Crockett Road Lavender Farm is located close in to Walla Walla wine country on paved roads. We are just off the main highway between Milton-Freewater and Walla Walla Easy to access for all size RVs on all paved roads. All campers are welcome to pick a spot on our spacious lush lawns surrounded by fragrant lavender fields. Pets are welcome and feel free to wander our alfalfa hay fields and long rows of colorful lavender. We are close to all the area attractions, wineries, golf courses, restaurants and historic sites Crockett Road Lavender Farm an active lavender producing operation and a country themed lavender boutique is on site if you wish to shop! One note--We do not have full RV hookups. Both Hipcamp sites on the farm do have water hooks. And, in a pinch, we can get power to you if absolutely needed. But there are no sewer hookups and no official electricity hookups.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

Balloon Tree CG

14mi from Minam State Recreation Area · 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

Experience Walla Walla Tranquility

100%
(10)
40mi from Minam State Recreation Area · 1 site · RV · Walla Walla, WA
Nestled near many of Walla Walla’s most renowned wineries with a tasting room a short 600 ft stroll away, this serene retreat offers a perfect blend of nature and convenience. Expand your wine-tasting adventure with several other acclaimed wineries located within a 10-mile radius. Located 350 feet from a county road, this peaceful space is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Walla Walla Valley, offering extraordinary views. The farm is "odor-free," featuring only field crops and no livestock, ensuring a clean and tranquil environment. Walk the farm trail along the creek to Whitman Memorial and Museum. The site provides easy access to a spacious 20 x 50 ft parking area, perfectly situated between a charming antique barn and a farm shop, out of sight from the main house. It accommodates RVs or self-contained trailers of any size or length, with ample room for towed cars or trailers to park and maneuver. Site is next to a private 18 x 35 ft patio with a picnic table and a propane-powered fire pit, ideal for relaxing and soaking in stunning views of the fields, nearby creek, and the Blue Mountains. Guests can also take leisurely walks along the farm fields, vineyard, or railroad tracks (provided no active farming operations are underway, which isn't very often). Adding to the charm of this property is a friendly large dog named Oso, who roams the land to ensure its security from wildlife (deer, coyotes, etc). I can keep Oso in my yard during the day (please see the pet policy and wildlife guidelines for more details). Once he checks you out, you’ll be his new best friend. This peaceful retreat offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and flavors of Walla Walla wine country while enjoying unparalleled tranquility. Note: this is a working farm, and it’s impossible to schedule farming activities. A few times per year there will be tractor or harvesting work during the day – enjoy the hustle and bustle of how food is grown and harvested!
Pets
Potable water
from 
$59
 / night

Last Chance Glass and Getaway

99%
(353)
39mi from Minam State Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Walla Walla, WA
Learn more about this land: Last Chance Glass Getaway is a small eleven acre farm exceptionally situated in the gorgeous Walla Walla Valley. There are level access and pull through camp sites along the Burlingame Canal and the South fork of the Little Walla Walla river (a creek). Enjoy nature here on the Old Oregon trail in the form of beaver ponds, coyote song, deer trails, bird watching and star gazing - just a half mile from the historic Whitman Mission. Park on the partial pavement (Mountain and Garden Sites) or drive gently on the grass to one of the well separated sites. Each site has its own picnic table and fire pit. There is self service firewood for sale. Fresh eggs most days. Both available as an "extra" on the app. ($10, $5) Orchard Site and Park Site are shady and cool on the north side of the drive. Park is nestled in the trees next to the barn. Orchard site has mature trees for both shade and sunshine. Park site has it's own water spigot and is within reach of a 110amp electrical outlet with your extension cord. No A/C or high amp use please. Mountain Site and Garden site are both situated along the Burlingame Canal, a historic waterway and engineering marvel worth googling. Both have an unobstructed east facing view of farmland and the Blue Mountains - perfect for full moons and sunrises. These two sites are generally in the shade around dinner time. Note: The canal is empty August and Sept Creekside Site is the newest site. Fully fenced. Full hook up. Private and secluded. Quiet dogs permitted on leash only. Professionally maintained Sani-can. Beautiful potable well water. In general it is my policy to not review people who are relaxed and camping. I do appreciate your private suggestions and continued good public reviews! I strive hard to be a TRULY hospitable and peaceful getaway! I feel grateful every day to be living in such a pretty place. Walla Walla, Washington... who knew?! It is a joy to share it. Hipcamp has been a wonderful adventure. Thank you so much! Owners request that you don't throw anything for the friendly working border collies, if you see one. The farm is 7 miles from downtown Walla Walla. 4 miles to Walmart super center. Quiet hours (no generators) from 9 pm.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

McGovern Residence

100%
(122)
39mi from Minam State Recreation Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pomeroy, WA
The McGovern Residence is a magical little world we've created at the base of the Blue Mountains. We're about an hour South of Palouse Falls, an hour East of Walla Walla wine country, and about an hour West of Lewiston/Clarkston. The property consists of 28 acres on the Tucannon River with mature Ponderosa Pines, wildflowers, curated gardens, hiking trails, incredible valley views, and direct access to 1.4 million acres of public land. Multiple stocked lakes are accessible for fishing just a few miles up the road. Close to the river, The Flat can accommodate up to 2 tents and 4 people. The main campsite includes a hammock, picnic table, fire ring with benches, and parking for up to 2 cars. Immediately off the parking area is a secondary site with another picnic table and fire ring for those camping directly out of their vehicle. Campers have a faucet for fresh potable water and an outhouse for 24/7 bathroom needs. A short path from either campsite leads to a small river clearing for cooling off and lazy afternoons by the water. The Flat is the only site that we offer and we keep the group size low to ensure a peaceful and relaxing experience for everyone. We allow tents, cars, and smaller camper vans, but unfortunately cannot accommodate trailers or RV's. The main property is a pocket of green with mature cottonwood, ponderosa pines, choke cherry and elder scrub. Our property borders the Wooten Wildlife area which leads into the Umatilla National Forest - so that's 1.4 million acres of public lands directly to our South. Just down the road are some really great hiking trails and access points to the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, or if you prefer to stay close, our property gains 1000' from river to property line. An afternoon trek to the top is challenging but provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Tucannon River valley. Pack some beer and some snacks and hang out for a wicked sunset. We're working hard on our hiking trail - currently it's 3/4 mile (1.5 mile round trip), and growing in length by the week. During your stay you'll probably see some wild turkey, quail, and some white tailed or mule deer. The area is known to have cougars (we run into them occasionally) bighorn sheep, rattlesnake, black bears, bobcats, and even the occasional moose! There's no shortage of wildlife in the area, and we enjoy when they visit us. Be on the lookout at dusk for the nightly bat show! We also have a flock of chickens that free-range during the day, so don't be surprised to get a visitor or two poking around for scraps. Our property is rural, but not isolated. Depending on where you stake your tent you might see some neighbors, but we can direct you to the right spot if you want to avoid it. The towns of Dayton and Pomeroy are both about 20 minutes away. Both have their own charm and offer a grocery store, a couple bars, gas, and supplies. There's an RV park and general store about a mile up the road if you need some quick essentials or a few gallons of gas. At the center of the property is a log cabin we're slowly renovating. We live here full time so when we're home we're out and about working on projects or clearing brush. You'll see us wandering, so interact with us as much as you want or just do your thing. This is our home and we like to host, but it's not necessary. On that note, this is not a 'campground'. We have a beautiful property with a campsite and like to share it! We hope you enjoy yourself while also respecting our home :)
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

Other options near Minam State Recreation Area

The best camping in Minam State Recreation Area, OR guide

Overview

About

If remote, secluded and rugged is your thing, look no further. This park is located in a steep valley where large pine trees dominate the landscape.

The Wallowa River flows right through the primitive campground that offers 22 first-come, first-served sites. It only sounds like nothing's happening here. This Oregon state park is a haven for fisherpeople, kayakers, rafters, and boaters.

Anglers flock to Minam Recreation Area in the spring and fall for some serious steelhead fishing. River floaters find rental rafts at the Minam Store, 2 miles from the campground.

Set off on the 90-mile float down the Wallowa and Grande Ronde Rivers. It's guaranteed to wash all civilized-world cares and plugged-in stressors away.

Sometimes just quietly soaking up Mother Nature's simply profound beauty is enough action and entertainment. The occasional spotting of a Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, bear or cougar is plenty stimulating.

Notable campgrounds

  • Minam State Recreation Area Campground - A remote, primitive camping experience with river access and scenic trails.
  • Minam Station - A convenient year-round boat launch with nearby trails and visitor information.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Plan ahead and reserve early, especially for peak summer months when the park is most popular.
  • Visit during off-peak seasons for a better chance at securing a spot without a reservation.
  • Keep an eye on the park's website for any updates on campsite availability and potential cancellations.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan in case the park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Minam State Recreation Area is from late May to November, when the weather is favorable and all facilities are fully operational. Winter visits offer solitude but come with the challenge of snow and limited services. Always check current conditions before planning your trip.

Know before you go

  • Check for any park notices or advisories before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Be prepared for primitive camping; the campground offers basic amenities and is closed in winter.
  • Remember that fires are only allowed in designated fire pits within the campground.
  • Smoking is prohibited throughout the park, except within personal vehicles.
  • For a smooth visit, familiarize yourself with the park's rules, including those regarding wildlife and trail use.
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.