Lick Creek Campground

For us Oregonians, the pursuit of genuine outdoor experiences is part of our very fabric. We cherish the diverse landscapes, from our rugged coastlines to our majestic mountains, and are always on the lookout for those special places that offer both tranquility and adventure. Lick Creek Campground, nestled within the vast Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, is one such place. Situated along the renowned Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, it provides a simple yet profound connection to one of Oregon's most dramatic and beautiful regions.

Lick Creek Campground isn't about luxury; it's about authenticity. It’s a spot where you can truly unplug, listen to the sounds of nature, and enjoy the stunning scenery that makes Eastern Oregon so captivating. Whether your ideal getaway involves challenging day hikes, serene relaxation, or simply being immersed in a pristine natural environment, this campground offers an inviting setting. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative guide to Lick Creek Campground, highlighting why it’s a perfect choice for our fellow Oregonians looking to explore the Hells Canyon area.

Lick Creek Campground is located in the beautiful Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, specifically within the general vicinity of Oregon 97846, USA. Its precise location is along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, also known as Forest Road 39. This byway is a significant route that winds through the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, providing spectacular views and access to numerous recreational opportunities.

To reach the campground, typical directions involve traveling south from Enterprise, Oregon, on Oregon State Highway 82 to Joseph (about 6.5 miles). From Joseph, you'd turn left onto Oregon State Highway 350 for approximately 8 miles, then turn right onto the Wallowa Loop Road (which becomes Forest Road 39, the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway). The campground is located about 16 miles down this road, on the left side after crossing Lick Creek. The closest towns for supplies and services are Joseph and Enterprise, offering provisions roughly 30 minutes to an hour away, depending on your starting point and the specific segment of the Byway you use. It's crucial for visitors to note that the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, and thus access to Lick Creek Campground, is typically closed by snow from late October through late May or early June, making it accessible only during the warmer months (generally June through October). Always confirm road conditions before planning your trip, especially early or late in the season. Despite its remote feel, the accessibility via a scenic byway makes it a manageable destination for most vehicles, including those with trailers, allowing for a comfortable journey into the wilderness.

• Tent/Trailer Campsites: Lick Creek Campground offers 12 designated campsites suitable for both tent camping and small trailers. These sites are designed to provide a comfortable base for your outdoor adventures.
• Picnic Tables: Each individual campsite is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient surface for outdoor dining, food preparation, and leisurely gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Campers will find fire rings at each site, allowing for enjoyable campfires. These are perfect for cooking, providing warmth on cooler evenings, and creating that classic camping ambiance. (Always remember to check for current fire restrictions to ensure safety.)
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, ensuring essential and accessible restroom facilities for visitors. These are typically rustic but well-maintained for public use.
• No Potable Water: It is important to note that Lick Creek Campground does not provide potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking, and washing, or have a means to filter and treat natural water sources.
• First-Come, First-Served (FCFS): All sites at Lick Creek Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This means sites cannot be reserved in advance, emphasizing the need for early arrival, especially during peak season or on weekends, to secure a spot.
• Overnight Fee: There is an overnight fee required for camping. Public data indicates a single unit campsite fee of $10.00 per night, payable via a self-service fee station at the campground. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes may provide a 50% discount.
• No Showers or Hookups: As a primitive campground, Lick Creek does not offer showers or utility hookups (electric, water, sewer) at individual sites. This contributes to its rustic, natural appeal.

• Prime Location on Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: Being situated directly on this renowned scenic route provides unparalleled access to one of Oregon's most spectacular natural wonders. The byway itself offers breathtaking views, numerous pull-offs, and trailheads.
• Quiet and Laid-Back Atmosphere: Lick Creek is known for offering a "laid back camping experience" and is often described as having "light usage." This translates to a peaceful and less crowded environment, perfect for those seeking solitude and relaxation away from bustling tourist spots.
• Excellent for Day Hiking and Exploration: The campground serves as a fantastic base for hikers. The Lick Creek Trailhead, which is an entrance point to both Hells Canyon Wilderness and Eagle Cap Wilderness, is located nearby, offering challenging and rewarding trails with stunning views, particularly of the Imnaha River Valley.
• Scenic Riverside Setting: The campground is positioned along Lick Creek, offering the soothing sounds of running water and a beautiful forested backdrop. This creates a highly immersive natural experience.
• Access to Wilderness Areas: Its proximity to the Eagle Cap Wilderness and Hells Canyon Wilderness provides access to a vast network of backcountry trails and pristine natural landscapes for more extensive exploration.
• Affordable Camping: With a modest overnight fee, Lick Creek Campground offers a very budget-friendly way to experience a significant and beautiful part of Oregon's wilderness.
• No-Frills, Authentic Experience: For those who appreciate primitive camping, Lick Creek delivers. It provides the essential amenities (vault toilets, fire rings, picnic tables) without the distractions of more developed campgrounds, allowing for a pure connection with nature.
• Seasonal Accessibility: While a highlight, it also serves as a reminder to plan visits during the open season (typically June to October), when the byway is free of snow, ensuring a safe and accessible trip.

Address: Oregon 97846, USA (Specific location is within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, near Joseph and Enterprise).

While a direct phone number for Lick Creek Campground itself isn't commonly provided for individual inquiries, it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. For the most up-to-date information regarding Lick Creek Campground – including current conditions, opening and closing dates, potential fire restrictions, or road status (especially for the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway) – it is best to contact the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Supervisor's Office or the Wallowa Mountains Office.

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Supervisor's Office Phone: (541) 523-6391

Wallowa Mountains Office Phone: (541) 426-5546 (This office, located in Joseph, OR, is more directly relevant to the area.)

Checking the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest is also highly recommended for alerts and detailed recreation information.

For us Oregonians, Lick Creek Campground truly encapsulates the essence of what we seek in an outdoor escape. Its suitability for locals is found in its perfect blend of raw natural beauty, a genuine camping experience, and strategic access to one of our state’s most iconic landscapes.

Firstly, being situated directly on the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway means we have a readily accessible gateway to a region of unparalleled grandeur. We know that Hells Canyon offers some of the most dramatic vistas and profound wilderness experiences in Oregon, and Lick Creek provides a convenient and beautiful base camp for exploring it. The opportunity for "killer day hikes" and "endless exploration" within the nearby wilderness areas speaks directly to our love for active outdoor pursuits.

Secondly, the "laid-back" and often quiet atmosphere of the campground is a significant draw. In a state that sees increasing tourism, finding a spot with "light usage" where you can truly relax and enjoy the sounds of nature – including Lick Creek itself – is invaluable. The simplicity of the amenities, with clean vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, allows for an authentic, no-frills camping experience that many of us prefer, emphasizing connection with the environment over excessive comforts.

While the absence of potable water means a bit more planning, it's a trade-off many locals are willing to make for the peaceful setting and the stunning surroundings. The affordable overnight fee also makes it a budget-friendly option for regular getaways. Lick Creek Campground is more than just a place to set up a tent; it’s a tranquil sanctuary where you can truly unwind, appreciate the majestic Wallowa Mountains, and tap into the adventurous spirit that defines our Oregon outdoor culture. It's an ideal retreat for any Oregonian seeking a peaceful and enriching experience in the heart of our state's wild beauty.

Lick Creek Campground

Oregon 97846, USA