Spool Cart Campground
Open for the season. The campground operates from early May through Bull Elk season (late October/early November). No potable water available. First-come, first-served at $10/night via self-service fee station.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order. Some examples of these include hay bales, hay…
About
Spool Cart Campground is a developed Forest Service campground nestled in the forest along the scenic Grande Ronde River in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. The campground features paved roads and accessible vault toilets, making it a comfortable option for riverside camping in northeastern Oregon's Blue Mountains region. The campground's name comes from its railroad logging history. Trains once stopped here to leave spools of cable that loggers would transport to work sites using carts. Today, the area offers opportunities for fishing in the Grande Ronde River, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground sees light usage, providing a quieter camping experience. Campers should note that no potable water is available on site, so bring an adequate supply. The campground operates seasonally, closing after Bull Elk hunting season (typically late October/early November) and reopening in early May. Sites are $10 per night, payable at the self-service fee station.
Directions
From La Grande, Oregon travel north for 8.5 miles on Interstate 84 West to exit 252 (Highway 244 towards Ukiah). Turn off the Interstate onto Highway 244 and travel west for 12 miles to Forest Road 51. Turn left on Forest Road 51 and go south for about 5 miles. The campground is on your right along the river.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Spool Cart Campground |
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