Lick Creek Campground

For those of us who call Oregon home, or who deeply appreciate the untamed beauty of our state's wild places, Lick Creek Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse ourselves in nature. Tucked away in the majestic Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, near the charming town of Joseph, this campground embodies the tranquil, rugged essence of Eastern Oregon. We Oregonians know that the best outdoor experiences often come with a bit of a journey, leading us to serene spots far from the hustle and bustle. Lick Creek Campground provides just that – a remote yet accessible haven where the quiet hum of the forest replaces city noise, and the vast Oregon sky becomes your ceiling. Whether you're seeking a peaceful fishing trip, a challenging hike into the wilderness, or simply a calm place to relax by a campfire, this campground is perfectly suited. Its commitment to cleanliness and the pristine natural surroundings make it a standout choice for anyone looking to embrace the authentic outdoor lifestyle that defines our beloved state.

Lick Creek Campground is situated near Joseph, OR 97846, USA, deep within the scenic Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. To reach this remote but rewarding destination, from Enterprise, Oregon, you’ll travel south on Oregon State Highway 82 to Joseph, which is approximately 6.5 miles. In Joseph, you'll turn left onto Oregon State Highway 350 (also known as Imnaha or Little Sheep Creek Road) and continue for about 8 miles. Here, you'll turn right onto the Wallowa Loop Road, which is also designated as Forest Road 39 or the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. You will then travel on this road for approximately 16 miles. The campground will be on your left, shortly after you cross Lick Creek. While described as "remote," the roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, allowing for good access. It's important to note that the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, which leads to the campground, is typically closed by snow from late October through late May or early June, making it impassable by motor vehicles during those months. This seasonal closure enhances the secluded feel of the campground when it is open. This journey into the forest provides a gradual transition into the wilderness, offering stunning views and a true sense of escape as you approach this peaceful retreat.

Lick Creek Campground, while providing a rustic and immersive outdoor experience, ensures that essential services are well-maintained to enhance your stay. It operates with a focus on core amenities that support a comfortable camping trip in a natural setting.

• Campsites for Tents and Trailers: The campground offers a mix of sites suitable for both tent camping and small trailers. These sites are described as "super clean" and are often raked, providing a tidy space for campers.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with an oversized picnic table, offering ample space for meal preparation, dining, and gathering with your group. This makes outdoor eating convenient and enjoyable.

• Firepits with Adjustable Grills: Campers will find very nice Pilot Rock firepits at each site. These firepits include adjustable grills, allowing for versatile cooking over an open flame and providing a cozy spot for evening campfires.

• Impeccably Clean Vault Toilets: A standout feature highlighted by visitors is the exceptional cleanliness of the vault toilet rooms. These facilities are maintained to a very high standard, often noted for their cleanliness and even a "pleasant aroma," which is a significant comfort in a primitive campground setting.

• No Potable Water On-Site: It is important for campers to note that potable water is not available at Lick Creek Campground. Visitors must bring their own drinking water to ensure a self-sufficient and prepared camping experience.

• No Fees or Passes Required: As of available information, there are no fees or passes required for using Lick Creek Campground, making it an excellent and accessible option for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts.

Lick Creek Campground distinguishes itself with several features and highlights that draw Oregonians and visitors alike to its serene location. These attributes contribute to a truly memorable and authentic outdoor experience.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: A consistent highlight mentioned by campers is the incredibly quiet and laid-back nature of the campground. Despite its remote feel, it offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and escaping the noise of daily life.

• Proximity to Lick Creek: The campground is located directly along Lick Creek, offering a lovely natural setting. There are often nice areas to sit by the creek, and the soothing sounds of the water contribute to the peaceful ambiance.

• Good Fishing Opportunities: The area around Lick Creek and the broader Wallowa-Whitman National Forest is known for good fishing, providing excellent opportunities for anglers to cast a line and enjoy the peaceful pursuit of fish.

• Gateway to Eagle Cap Wilderness: Lick Creek Campground serves as a key access point to the magnificent Eagle Cap Wilderness. The Lick Creek Trailhead, located nearby, offers an entrance point for challenging day hikes and extended backpacking trips into one of Oregon's most stunning wilderness areas.

• Part of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway: The campground's location along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway means that scenic drives and exploration opportunities are right at your doorstep. This byway offers breathtaking views and access to various points of interest within the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

• Opportunities for Mountain Biking: As noted by past visitors, the surrounding roads and trails offer excellent opportunities for mountain biking. This provides an active way to explore the forested terrain and take in the natural beauty, with even a buffalo farm sighted on a ride up the road.

• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse natural habitat surrounding the campground provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, from various bird species to larger forest animals.

• Remote Yet Accessible: While often described as "remote," visitors frequently praise the "good roads" leading to the campground and the sense of a "new ranger station at the far end," suggesting a well-maintained and managed forest environment.

For inquiries or to learn more about Lick Creek Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: Joseph, OR 97846, USA

Phone: (541) 523-6391

Mobile Phone: +1 541-523-6391

For us Oregonians, Lick Creek Campground represents an authentic and highly desirable slice of our state's natural bounty. We value places that offer a true escape, where the air is clean, the sounds of nature prevail, and the starry night sky is unobstructed. Lick Creek Campground delivers on all these fronts. Its "remote but nice" character, combined with its reputation for being "quiet," truly appeals to our desire for peaceful outdoor experiences away from crowded destinations. The impeccably clean vault toilets and "super clean camp sites" speak volumes about the care taken to maintain this natural space, a detail that greatly enhances the comfort of a rustic camping trip. We appreciate the basic yet effective amenities, like the oversized picnic tables and Pilot Rock firepits with adjustable grills, which facilitate enjoyable outdoor living. The fact that there are "no fees or passes required" further adds to its appeal as an accessible and welcoming spot for all Oregonians. More importantly, its prime location offers direct access to the magnificent Eagle Cap Wilderness and the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, providing endless opportunities for the hiking, fishing, and exploration that define our outdoor lifestyle. Whether you're looking to cast a line in a quiet creek, embark on a challenging mountain bike ride, or simply unwind in the solitude of the forest, Lick Creek Campground is a perfect reflection of why we love living in Oregon. It’s a place to create "great memories" and to truly "look forward to going back."

Lick Creek Campground

Joseph, OR 97846, USA