Umapine Campground

For Oregonians seeking an authentic outdoor experience that combines the tranquility of nature with thrilling recreational opportunities, Umapine Campground in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest is a destination worth exploring. This isn't a bustling commercial park, but rather a rustic, no-frills campground designed for those who appreciate simplicity, natural beauty, and direct access to expansive outdoor trails. It's a place where the fresh scent of ponderosa pines fills the air and the quiet hum of the wilderness offers a true escape from everyday life.

Umapine Campground holds a special appeal for many local adventurers, particularly those who enjoy off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding. Serving as a central staging area for over 140 miles of challenging OHV trails, it’s a hub for riders looking to explore the rugged terrain of Eastern Oregon. Yet, even if you’re not an OHV enthusiast, the campground's serene setting, surrounded by a beautiful ponderosa pine forest and nestled between Cuuyem and Umapine Creeks, offers a peaceful environment for tent campers and RVers alike. Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of its facilities, especially the vault toilets, which is a significant plus for a rustic, no-charge camping area. It’s truly a testament to the dedicated management by the Forest Service that such a natural gem remains accessible and enjoyable for the Oregon community.

Umapine Campground is located within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest in Eastern Oregon, generally identifiable by its placement in "Oregon, USA." More specifically, it is situated west of Vey Meadows, between Cuuyem and Umapine Creeks. It's approximately 39 miles from La Grande, Oregon, and about 31 miles from Ukiah, Oregon. This puts it in a relatively remote but accessible part of the state, deep within the scenic ponderosa pine forest.

Access to Umapine Campground typically involves navigating Forest Road 5160. From La Grande, you would travel north on Interstate 84 to Exit 252 for Ukiah/Hilgard on Highway 244, then proceed west on Highway 244 for about 23 miles to Forest Road 5160. A left turn onto Forest Road 5160 leads you approximately 8 miles to the campground and OHV trailhead entrance. If coming from Ukiah, you'd travel east on Highway 244 before turning right onto Forest Road 5160 and continuing for 8 miles. While the campground is in a beautiful, remote setting, it is generally accessible for both tents and RVs, with some sites accommodating larger rigs up to 45 feet. However, being a forest road, it's always wise for Oregonians to be prepared for unpaved sections and check current road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather, to ensure a smooth journey to this tranquil spot.

Umapine Campground provides a straightforward, rustic camping experience, focusing on essential amenities to support outdoor activities rather than extensive modern conveniences. It's a fee-based campground with a self-service pay station on site.

• Campsites: The campground offers a total of 8 sites, including 3 group sites (one of which is a pull-through site) and 5 single sites. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a metal fire ring with a grate. Some sites are better suited for smaller vehicles, while others can accommodate larger RVs up to 45 feet.

• Vault Toilets: Umapine Campground features clean and well-maintained vault toilets. Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness and lack of odor in these facilities, a significant convenience in a rustic setting.

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that there is no potable drinking water available at the campground. Campers must bring all the water they need for their stay, including water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

• Large Parking Lot: Adjacent to the campground is a large parking lot, providing an easy loading and unloading area, which is particularly beneficial for OHV users or those with trailers.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All campsites at Umapine Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. This requires flexibility, especially during peak seasons.

• Overnight Fee: There is an overnight fee of $10 per night for single family units (tent or trailer sites), payable at a self-service pay station.

• OHV Trail Access: Umapine Campground serves as a central staging area for the Winom-Frazier OHV trail area, providing off-road riders with access to over 140 miles of challenging trails. This is a major draw for motorcycling, ATV, and dirt bike enthusiasts, making it an ideal basecamp for adventurous Oregonians.

• Ponderosa Pine Forest Setting: The campground is nestled within a beautiful ponderosa pine forest, offering ample shade, a refreshing environment, and a classic Pacific Northwest camping feel. This natural setting enhances the sense of escape and tranquility.

• Clean Vault Toilets: A standout feature, as noted by visitors, is the exceptional cleanliness and lack of odor in the vault toilets. This attention to maintenance greatly improves the comfort of a rustic camping experience.

• Quiet and Remote Atmosphere: Despite its popularity with OHV riders, the campground is often described as a "great camping area" that offers a peaceful retreat. Its relatively remote location ensures a quieter environment compared to more developed parks.

• Affordable Camping: With a nominal fee of $10 per night for single family units, Umapine Campground offers a budget-friendly option for extended stays, making outdoor adventures more accessible for Oregonians.

• Proximity to Creeks: Being situated between Squaw and Umapine Creeks offers potential for stream-side relaxation and enjoyment, though specific activities like fishing should always adhere to local regulations.

• Seasonal Accessibility: The campground typically opens in May and remains accessible through the prime outdoor season, allowing for enjoyment throughout much of the year.

Address: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (specific address within Oregon, USA)

Please note that Umapine Campground itself does not have a direct public phone number for individual site contact. For general inquiries, road conditions, fire restrictions, or information regarding the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, you can contact the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Headquarters and Whitman Ranger District at (541) 523-6391, or the La Grande Ranger District at (541) 962-8500.

Umapine Campground perfectly embodies the spirit of Oregon's diverse outdoor landscape, making it an ideal destination for many local adventurers. For Oregonians who own OHVs or simply love the thrill of off-road exploration, this campground serves as an invaluable staging ground, offering direct access to over 140 miles of challenging and scenic trails. It’s a dedicated space where enthusiasts can pursue their passion amidst stunning natural beauty, connecting with a vibrant community of fellow riders.

Beyond the motorized recreation, Umapine's rustic charm and serene setting also appeal to those seeking a quieter, more traditional camping experience. Nestled in a beautiful ponderosa pine forest and boasting exceptionally clean vault toilets, it provides essential comforts in a natural environment. The affordability, at just $10 per night, makes it an accessible option for frequent weekend getaways or longer trips, aligning with Oregon's emphasis on making outdoor recreation available to everyone.

The fact that it operates on a first-come, first-served basis means spontaneity is rewarded, though it also encourages a sense of respectful sharing among campers. For locals, Umapine Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an opportunity to embrace the rugged beauty of Eastern Oregon, to unplug from daily life, and to create lasting memories, whether through exhilarating trail rides or peaceful evenings under the stars. It represents the best of Oregon’s accessible yet wild outdoors, a perfect spot to discover or rediscover the joys of camping in our incredible state.

Umapine Campground

Oregon, USA