Grande Ronde Campground

For Oregonians seeking a peaceful mountain escape without sacrificing accessibility, Grande Ronde Campground presents an excellent option in the heart of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Nestled in the picturesque Anthony Lakes Recreation Area, this charming, smaller campground offers a serene alternative to its larger neighbor, Anthony Lakes Campground, providing a more intimate connection with nature. It’s a place where the high mountain air invigorates, the cool pine-fir forest offers ample shade, and the nearby Grande Ronde Lake beckons with opportunities for quiet recreation.

Grande Ronde Campground is highly regarded by those who have discovered its tranquil appeal. With only eight sites, it maintains a cozy, uncrowded atmosphere, perfect for campers who value solitude and a quieter experience. Visitors appreciate that the spots are generally larger and more level than those at Anthony Lakes Campground, allowing for easier setup of bigger travel trailers and RVs. Despite its smaller size, it comes equipped with essential amenities that enhance comfort without detracting from the natural environment. Its location above Grande Ronde Lake, surrounded by cool pine-fir forest, provides picturesque views of the lake and adjacent meadow, creating a truly idyllic setting.

One of the most appealing aspects for Oregon locals is the campground’s first-come, first-served policy, offering flexibility for spontaneous adventures without the need for advance reservations. The affordable nightly rate, with an even more significant discount for Senior Pass holders, makes it a highly economical choice for extended stays. As one reviewer noted, even in August, the nights can be very cold, emphasizing the high-elevation mountain environment that promises crisp air and a refreshing escape from summer heat. The absence of light pollution ensures a "fabulous" night sky, providing unparalleled stargazing opportunities that highlight the raw beauty of Oregon's eastern wilderness.

Grande Ronde Campground is located in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, in the Anthony Lakes Recreation Area. While its specific address is listed simply as "Unnamed Road, OR, USA," public information pinpoints it above Grande Ronde Lake. It is approximately one mile from Anthony Lakes Campground, off of the same highway, making it easily findable once you are in the vicinity of the Anthony Lakes area. The nearest towns offering services would include Baker City, which is approximately 36 miles away.

To reach Grande Ronde Campground from Baker City, Oregon, one would typically head north on Highway 30 toward Haines for about 10 miles. In Haines, turn left and follow the Anthony Lake Highway signs (this road eventually becomes Forest Road 73) for approximately 25 miles until you reach the Anthony Lakes Recreation Area. Grande Ronde Campground is located about a mile past the Anthony Lake Ski Area, or you may find it by looking for Forest Road 43 and following it for about half a mile. The gravel road leading into Grande Ronde Campground is relatively short, only about half a mile from the highway, which contributes to its accessibility despite its high mountain setting.

Its elevated position, offering picturesque views of the lake and meadow, is part of its charm. While the area is known for cold nights even in summer, this is a hallmark of high-altitude camping in Oregon and a key part of the experience for many seasoned campers. The proximity to Anthony Lakes Campground means visitors can enjoy the amenities and beauty of the larger recreation area while retreating to the quieter, smaller Grande Ronde Campground. For Oregon locals, the journey into this part of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest is a well-trodden path to some of the state's most beloved mountain escapes, making Grande Ronde Campground a familiar and welcoming destination.

Grande Ronde Campground provides a thoughtful selection of services that enhance the camping experience while maintaining a rustic, natural feel. These amenities contribute to a comfortable stay without over-developing the site.

• P Eight Campsites: The campground is a small, intimate site with 8 tent/trailer campsites, 3 of which are accessible, ensuring a less crowded experience.
• P Larger, Level Spots: Unlike some other campgrounds in the area, sites at Grande Ronde are noted for being bigger and generally more level, accommodating larger travel trailers and RVs with ease.
• P Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are provided for basic sanitation needs, contributing to the cleanliness and environmental management of the campground.
• P Pressurized Water (Potable): Central faucets provide potable water, a significant convenience that eliminates the need for campers to bring or filter all their drinking water.
• P Trash Receptacles: Trash services are available, allowing campers to dispose of their waste properly and helping to maintain the cleanliness of the area.
• P Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a dedicated space for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• P Fire Rings: Fire rings are available at each site for safe campfires, providing warmth and cooking opportunities, subject to current fire restrictions.
• P Boat Ramp Access: A nice boat ramp provides direct and easy access to the small Grande Ronde Lake for non-motorized watercraft.
• P First-Come, First-Served: Sites are not reservable and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• P Affordable Fees: A nightly fee of $12 per single family campsite (as of recent data), with a 1/2 price discount for Interagency Senior/Access Pass holders ($5), makes it a very economical option.

Grande Ronde Campground boasts several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Oregonians seeking a memorable outdoor experience in the Anthony Lakes area. These elements contribute to its unique charm and appeal.

• P Small, Quiet, and Shady Atmosphere: Unlike the larger Anthony Lakes Campground, Grande Ronde offers a much smaller, quieter, and shadier environment, perfect for those seeking solitude and a more intimate connection with nature.
• P High Lake Setting: Situated above Grande Ronde Lake in a cool pine-fir forest at a significant elevation, it provides a refreshing escape from warmer temperatures and offers picturesque mountain views.
• P Non-Motorized Boating on Grande Ronde Lake: The presence of a boat ramp and the restriction to non-motorized boats on the lake ensure a peaceful aquatic experience, ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• P Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Grande Ronde Lake is popular for fishing, particularly for stocked rainbow trout, making it a favorite spot for anglers.
• P Fabulous Night Skies: With minimal light pollution in this remote mountain setting, the campground offers exceptional stargazing opportunities, making for truly unforgettable nights.
• P Day Hiking Opportunities: The surrounding Anthony Lakes Recreation Area provides numerous trails for day hiking, allowing campers to explore the beautiful forest and discover scenic viewpoints.
• P Proximity to Anthony Lakes Recreation Area: Being only about a mile from the main Anthony Lakes Campground, visitors can easily access additional amenities or explore the larger recreation area while returning to the quiet of Grande Ronde.
• P Suitable for Larger RVs/Trailers: Despite its "forest camp" feel, the sites are noted to be level and spacious enough to accommodate bigger travel trailers and RVs, offering versatility for different camping setups.
• P Accessible Gravel Road In: The short, half-mile gravel road from the highway is relatively easy to navigate, ensuring good accessibility without being directly on a busy main road.

For inquiries and the most current information regarding Grande Ronde Campground, which is managed by the USDA Forest Service within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (specifically the Whitman Ranger District), visitors should direct their questions to the relevant office.

Address: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Supervisor's Office, 1550 Dewey Avenue, Suite A, Baker City, OR 97814, USA (This serves as a central point for the forest managing the area).

Phone: (541) 523-6391 or (541) 523-4476 (General numbers for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest that manages various campgrounds and recreation areas in the vicinity).

It is highly recommended to contact the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest office before planning your trip to Grande Ronde Campground. They can provide essential updates on current road conditions (especially important for gravel roads and mountain passes), any fire restrictions in place (which are common in Oregon's forests, particularly during dry seasons), water availability, and other important alerts or regulations that might affect your stay. Given that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has no cell service, gathering up-to-date information beforehand is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Grande Ronde Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, offering a quintessential high-mountain camping experience that perfectly balances rustic charm with essential comforts. Its defining characteristics—a small, quiet, and shady atmosphere—make it an ideal retreat for those seeking genuine solitude and a break from the often-crowded popular campgrounds. For Oregonians who value peace and quiet in their outdoor adventures, Grande Ronde offers an invaluable sanctuary.

The location within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, above the beautiful Grande Ronde Lake, provides a stunning backdrop for various recreational activities. Locals can enjoy serene non-motorized boating, excellent fishing for stocked trout, and invigorating day hikes on trails within the Anthony Lakes Recreation Area. The opportunity to explore these picturesque landscapes, with their cool pine-fir forests and open meadows, offers a refreshing contrast to the more populated areas of Oregon. The "fabulous" night skies, free from light pollution, are a particular highlight, providing an awe-inspiring experience that truly connects one with the natural world.

Furthermore, the practicalities of Grande Ronde Campground make it highly appealing to locals. Its first-come, first-served policy provides flexibility for spontaneous getaways, a common desire for many Oregon residents who cherish impromptu outdoor excursions. The affordable nightly fee, coupled with a generous discount for Senior Pass holders, makes it an economical choice for frequent or extended stays, ensuring that quality outdoor experiences remain accessible to all. Even the capacity for larger RVs and trailers, despite the rustic setting, adds to its versatility. For any Oregonian yearning for a serene, beautiful, and accessible high-lake camping experience that promises both relaxation and outdoor adventure, Grande Ronde Campground stands as a true local treasure in the heart of our majestic state.

Grande Ronde Campground

Unnamed Road, OR, USA