North Fork Catherine Creek Campground

About

The North Fork Catherine Creek Campground is a unique dispersed camping area in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, with campsites spread out for over a mile along a forest road from Buck Creek to the North Fork Catherine Creek Trailhead. Each site is tucked back into cool spruce and fir forest, offering solitude and the sounds of the nearby stream. This primitive campground has no fees and operates on a first-come first-served basis. Campers should come prepared as there is no potable water, no restrooms, and trash must be packed out. Picnic tables are provided at each campsite. The setting provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and a base for exploring the adjacent Eagle Cap Wilderness on foot or horseback. The nearby North Fork Catherine Creek Group Campground is available separately for larger parties through Recreation.gov. The area is accessed via a one-lane gravel road with turnouts, limiting suitability for large RVs.

Directions

From Union, Oregon: Travel southeast on Highway 203 (Medical Springs Highway) for 11 miles to Catherine Creek Road, which becomes Forest Road 7785. Turn left and continue 4.2 miles to the North Fork Catherine Creek Recreation Area sign. Campsites begin on the left side of the road after the sign. From Baker City: Take I-84 north 5 miles to exit 282, turn right on Highway 203 and go 27 miles to Catherine Creek Road/FR 7785, then turn right for 4.2 miles.