Blackhorse Campground

For those of us who live in Oregon, the call of the wild is often answered by venturing into the state's diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Among the many gems our state offers, Blackhorse Campground in Imnaha stands out as a truly authentic and tranquil escape. Tucked away in the majestic Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, this campground provides a serene setting along the Wild and Scenic Imnaha River, offering a perfect blend of peaceful solitude and access to one of Oregon's most iconic natural wonders: Hells Canyon. If you're looking for a place to unplug, listen to the calming sounds of the river, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Eastern Oregon, Blackhorse Campground is a destination that delivers a genuine, no-frills outdoor experience, inviting you to reconnect with nature on your own terms.

Blackhorse Campground is located on NF-39, near Imnaha, OR 97842, USA, placing it within the vast and awe-inspiring Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Its setting is particularly notable as it lies along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway and the Wild and Scenic Imnaha River. This location makes it an ideal base for exploring the deeper parts of Hells Canyon, known as the deepest river gorge in North America.

Accessibility to Blackhorse Campground is generally straightforward, though visitors should be prepared for typical forest road conditions. From Enterprise, you can travel south on Oregon State Highway 82 towards Joseph for about 6.5 miles, then turn left on Oregon State Highway 350 and continue for about 8 miles to the Wallowa Loop Road (also known as the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway). Turn right onto the Wallowa Loop Road, which eventually becomes Forest Road 39, and follow it for approximately 23.5 miles to the campground. Alternatively, from Halfway, you can head east on Record Road to Highway 86, then travel about 9 miles to Wallowa Loop Road (Forest Road 39) and turn left, traveling about 23.5 miles to the campground. It's important to note that the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (Forest Road 39) is usually closed by snow from late October through late May or early June, making it impassable by motor vehicles during those months. Therefore, planning your visit during the open season is crucial. A significant highlight of its location is its proximity to the Hells Canyon Overlook, which is just about 8 miles away and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon. This overlook also notably has 4G/LTE cell service, providing a convenient spot to reconnect if needed, as cell service is generally unavailable directly at the campground.

Blackhorse Campground offers a rustic yet comfortable camping experience, focusing on essential services that cater to those seeking a true outdoor adventure. It's designed for campers who appreciate nature and are prepared for a more self-sufficient stay.

• Campsites: The campground features a number of sites suitable for both tents and RVs. Reviews indicate that sites are generally large and offer a good amount of space and privacy, with some located directly along the Imnaha River. There are 16 sites in total.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Pits/Rings: Fire pits or rings are available at each site, perfect for campfires and cooking, contributing to the classic camping experience. Visitors should always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained vault toilets. Multiple reviews commend their cleanliness, which is a significant amenity for a more remote campground. Some reviews refer to them as "pristine," indicating a high standard of upkeep.
• No Potable Water: A crucial detail for visitors is that there is no potable water available at Blackhorse Campground. Campers must pack in all their drinking and cooking water.
• No Garbage Collection: Blackhorse Campground operates on a "pack it in, pack it out" policy for garbage. Visitors are responsible for carrying out all their trash, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace.
• First-Come, First-Served: The campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not generally accepted. This can make scoring a site easier during midweek or off-peak times.
• No Cell Service: While a highlight for those seeking to disconnect, it's important to note that there is no cell service directly at the campground. As mentioned, the Hells Canyon Overlook, about 8 miles away, does offer connectivity.

Blackhorse Campground is celebrated for its unique features and highlights, making it a favorite among those who appreciate tranquility and natural beauty.

• Riverside Location: Many sites are located directly along the Wild and Scenic Imnaha River, providing the soothing background noise of flowing water. This natural soundtrack contributes significantly to the peaceful atmosphere.
• Quiet and Secluded: Visitors consistently describe Blackhorse as a quiet and well-tended campground. Even during busy periods, the spacious sites help maintain a sense of seclusion and privacy.
• Spacious Campsites: The sites are generally large, suitable for both tenting and RVs, offering ample room for campers to spread out and enjoy their surroundings without feeling crowded.
• Proximity to Hells Canyon Overlook: Being only about 8 miles from the Hells Canyon Overlook is a major advantage. This allows easy access to breathtaking panoramic views of the deepest gorge in North America.
• Outdoor Activities: The campground serves as an excellent base for a variety of outdoor pursuits. Popular activities include fishing in the Imnaha River, hiking on nearby trails (with expansive wilderness trails available just a couple of miles away), picnicking, and exploring the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. Hunting is also popular during the fall seasons.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: With no cell service and a remote location, Blackhorse Campground offers incredible opportunities for stargazing, away from light pollution.
• Well-Tended: Despite its rustic nature and limited amenities (like no water or garbage service), reviews highlight that the campground is consistently well-maintained, with clean facilities and tidy sites.
• Ideal for Disconnecting: The lack of cell service encourages campers to truly disconnect from digital distractions and immerse themselves in the natural environment, fostering a deeper connection with the outdoors.

For more information or inquiries about Blackhorse Campground, particularly concerning current conditions, road access, or fire restrictions, it's best to contact the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.

Address: NF-39, Imnaha, OR 97842, USA

Phone: (541) 426-4978 (This number is typically for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest office or a related ranger district that manages the campground.)

Since Blackhorse Campground is generally first-come, first-served and lacks cell service, it's highly advisable to call the Forest Service office before your trip. They can provide essential updates on road conditions (especially concerning snow closures for NF-39/Hells Canyon Scenic Byway), current fire danger levels, and any other alerts that might impact your stay. While the exact phone number for direct campground contact may vary or not exist, the general Forest Service number for the area is your best bet for reliable information.

For us Oregonians, Blackhorse Campground is a perfect example of why we love exploring our own backyard. It offers a genuine, unplugged experience that's becoming increasingly rare. We appreciate the large, spacious sites that provide a sense of privacy, allowing us to truly relax by the calming sounds of the Imnaha River. The fact that it's "pack in and pack out" with no potable water or garbage collection simply means we need to be prepared, a common expectation for those of us who venture into Oregon's more remote and pristine areas. This self-sufficiency is part of the appeal, fostering a deeper connection to the land and a greater appreciation for the wilderness. Its strategic location near the breathtaking Hells Canyon Overlook provides an easy opportunity to witness one of North America's most impressive natural wonders. Whether you're an avid angler looking to fish the Imnaha River, a hiker ready to explore the vast Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, or simply someone seeking a quiet escape from the daily grind, Blackhorse Campground delivers. It embodies the rugged beauty and peaceful solitude that define Oregon's outdoor spirit, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking an authentic and unforgettable camping adventure right here in our incredible state.

Blackhorse Campground

NF-39, Imnaha, OR 97842, USA