Pataha Campground

For those of us in Washington who cherish true solitude and the raw beauty of the forest, Pataha Campground offers a uniquely quiet and secluded escape. Nestled within a less-traveled area of the Umatilla National Forest near Pomeroy, this is not your typical bustling campground. Instead, it’s a primitive, free camping experience designed for those who appreciate getting off the beaten path, where the sounds of the city are replaced by the whispers of the wind through the trees and the gentle murmur of a creek.

As one seasoned camper noted, "This campground is in an area of the Umatilla National Forest that is not close to anything else. I drove all the way out there and back and never saw another vehicle." This speaks volumes about the level of quiet and seclusion you can expect. While the area has experienced wildfires in the past, leading to a mixed landscape of recovery and unburned sections, the forest is resilient and "growing back." Pataha Campground offers a chance to witness nature's incredible ability to heal and regenerate, all while enjoying a peaceful, no-frills outdoor adventure perfect for unplugging.

Pataha Campground is situated near

To reach Pataha Campground from Pomeroy, directions generally involve heading east on Main St, turning right onto S 15th St, continuing onto Peola Rd, turning left onto Pataha Creek Rd, turning left again onto Peola Rd, then right onto Pataha Creek Rd, and finally continuing onto NF-4016. The total distance from Pomeroy is around 15.5 miles, with an estimated drive time of about 28 minutes, though this can vary depending on road conditions and vehicle type. Given its remote nature, it’s highly advisable to download maps or use a physical map, as cell service is unreliable, if not entirely absent. While the roads are manageable, they are generally not suitable for large RVs or trailers. This journey into the forest is part of the experience, leading you to a truly isolated and tranquil setting.

Pataha Campground offers a very basic, primitive set of services, focusing on providing essential necessities while maintaining a natural, undeveloped feel. This is a testament to its status as a free, Forest Service-managed site.

• Campsites: There are three unnumbered campsites available. These sites are designed for tent camping, though small vans or truck campers might fit. It's important to note that this campground is not typically recommended for larger RVs or trailers due to the access road conditions. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, as is common for primitive campgrounds.
• Free Camping: A significant advantage of Pataha Campground is that it is a free campsite. This makes it an incredibly budget-friendly option for those looking to experience the outdoors without the expense of paid campgrounds.
• Restrooms: A vault toilet is provided for visitor use. While basic, these facilities are crucial in remote areas and are maintained by the Forest Service. Campers should always bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer when using vault toilets.
• Picnic Tables: Each of the three campsites is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Pits: Every campsite includes a fire pit, allowing for campfires (contingent on current fire restrictions, which must always be checked before lighting a fire).
• No Potable Water: It is essential for visitors to understand that there is no drinking water available at Pataha Campground. Campers must bring all of their own potable water, or have a reliable method for filtering/treating water from Pataha Creek.
• No Cell Service: As highlighted by reviewers, there is "no cell service fyi." This means campers should be prepared to be fully disconnected and plan for emergencies accordingly.

The unique appeal of Pataha Campground lies in its specific natural characteristics and the authentic wilderness experience it offers.

• Extreme Seclusion and Quiet: This is the campground's most defining feature. As noted in reviews, it's "nice and secluded!" and "a nice quiet place." The chances of encountering other people are low, especially on weekdays, making it ideal for those seeking true peace and solitude.
• Pataha Creek Access: Two of the three campsites offer "a little access to Pataha Creek." This provides opportunities for wading, nature observation, and fishing. The creek is reportedly stocked with fish each spring, making it a potential spot for anglers. Always check current Washington State fishing regulations.
• Mixed Forest Landscape (Fire Recovery): The campground is set within an area that has experienced past wildfires. This results in a "mixed" landscape where some areas are still recovering ("growing back"), while others remain untouched. This offers a unique opportunity to observe forest regeneration firsthand.
• Slightly Cooler Temperatures: Despite not being at high altitude, one reviewer noted that it was "95° out at the campsite" when it was "108° in Dayton Washington." This suggests that the campground might offer a slight reprieve from extreme summer heat.
• Wildlife Potential: While not explicitly mentioned in reviews beyond the general forest setting, a remote area like this within the Umatilla National Forest would undoubtedly be home to various wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species.
• Basic but Functional Amenities: The presence of picnic tables, fire pits, and a vault toilet ensures that basic camping needs are met, allowing campers to enjoy the natural surroundings comfortably.
• Light Usage: Forest Service data typically indicates "Light" usage for Pataha Campground, further reinforcing its quiet and uncrowded nature, especially outside of peak weekends.

As Pataha Campground is managed by the Umatilla National Forest, specific inquiries or the need for up-to-date conditions (like fire restrictions or road closures) should be directed to the relevant Forest Service office.

Address:

Phone: There isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself. For information, it's best to contact the Umatilla National Forest Supervisor's Office at (541) 278-3716, or more specifically, the Pomeroy Ranger District (part of the Pomeroy and Walla Walla Ranger District) as they manage the immediate area. Their number can usually be found on the Umatilla National Forest website under "Contact Us" or "Offices."

For those of us who call Washington home, Pataha Campground is a quintessential example of the hidden gems our state's vast public lands offer. We understand the allure of escaping the crowds and finding a slice of wilderness that feels truly untouched. The very factors that might deter some – the long, unpaved road, the lack of cell service, and the basic amenities – are precisely what make it so appealing to us.

The fact that it's a "free campsite" makes it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious families and adventurers. We're accustomed to bringing our own water and being self-sufficient in the outdoors, making the absence of potable water a minor detail rather than a hindrance. The peace and quiet are invaluable, offering a profound respite from the demands of daily life. The opportunity to fish in Pataha Creek, or simply relax by its banks, adds to the charm. Even the evidence of past wildfires is viewed with a local's perspective – a reminder of nature's power and its incredible capacity for renewal.

Pataha Campground is ideal for Washingtonians who seek genuine seclusion, a no-cost camping option, and a chance to truly connect with the natural world without distractions. It's a place to pitch a tent under a canopy of stars, listen to the sounds of the forest, and embrace the simple joys of outdoor living in our beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest.

Pataha Campground

Pomeroy, WA 99347, USA