Union Creek Campground
4.47212 reviews17564 Sumpter Stage Hwy
Union Creek Campground
$12.00 - $120.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$46.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$12.00
Group Site Fee$120.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for sites vary widely based on amenities and site type: standard electric sites range from $34 to $46 nightly; group sites are $120 per night. Discounts may apply for holders of Interagency Senior and Access Passes, reducing some fees by half.
About this campground
Discover one of Eastern Oregon's premier outdoor destinations at Union Creek Campground, where over 60 thoughtfully designed sites await along the pristine north shore of Phillips Reservoir. This expansive Forest Service campground seamlessly blends modern amenities—including full hookup sites and spacious group areas—with the untamed beauty of the Union Creek Recreation Area, creating the perfect basecamp for your wilderness adventure.
Union Creek Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent, RV, and group camping. Sites range from primitive tent setups to full RV hookups with water, electric, and sewer options.
Historical SignificanceStep back into Oregon's golden past with easy access to the legendary mining town of Sumpter, where fortune seekers once flocked in search of riches. Today, the massive Sumpter Dredge stands frozen in time at the State Heritage Park, while vintage steam locomotives chug through the valley, echoing the sounds of a bygone era. Hidden among the trees, an ancient Chinese rock wall ditch whispers stories of immigrant miners who carved their dreams into this rugged landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect rhythm of mountain seasons at Union Creek, where summer days warm to a comfortable 80°F before cooling to crisp 50°F evenings ideal for campfire stories. Spring transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, painting the meadows in brilliant hues. As late summer approaches, the receding waters of Phillips Reservoir reveal hidden coves and expanded beaches, offering new territories to explore.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable mountain elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to breathtaking vistas where Phillips Reservoir mirrors the majestic Elkhorn Mountains in its crystal waters. Towering Ponderosa pines and fragrant firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering golden sunlight onto the forest floor. Between the timber stands, intimate meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers, creating perfect spots for quiet reflection or wildlife watching.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the dramatic landscape of northeastern Oregon's Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, where Union Creek Campground claims its spectacular position along Phillips Reservoir. The iconic Elkhorn Mountains rise as sentinels on the horizon, their peaks standing guard over a diverse ecosystem where ancient Ponderosa pine forests give way to sun-drenched grasslands. This unique convergence of mountain, forest, and water creates an outdoor playground unlike anywhere else in the Pacific Northwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap-accessible facilities include paved paths to restrooms and ADA-accessible sites with full hookups.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious, especially tent sites closer to Phillips Reservoir. RV sites are also large but may be closer together in full-hookup areas.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews consistently note good privacy with many sites spaced apart, although some are closer together in certain sections.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in Loop C are near the lake and quieter, ideal for tent camping. Group sites are better suited for large gatherings.
Best CampsitesGroup Site D is noted for privacy, while tent sites near the lake offer scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 nights within a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests allowed per site.
Groups
Group sites are designed for tent camping only, with a capacity of up to 60 people per site. Trailers park in adjacent lots. Flush toilets are available nearby, but no showers or direct hookups are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is set in three loops: Loops A, B, and C. Walk-in tent sites and four group sites are located separately.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 to September 30. Reservations for individual sites start June 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and other affiliated platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but availability may be limited during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees, including forfeiting the first night’s recreation use fee. Reservations canceled after the check-in date cannot be refunded without facility discretion.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Union Creek Campground provides opportunities for various recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and mountain biking. The Phillips Lake Shoreline Trail offers a scenic 16-mile loop for biking and hiking. Birdwatching, photography, and water sports like paddle boating and kayaking are popular among visitors.
Hiking
The Phillips Lake Shoreline Trail is a highlight, connecting to create a 16-mile loop around the reservoir. It is suitable for hiking and mountain biking, offering scenic views of the surrounding Elkhorn Mountains.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, with bass, trout, and perch commonly caught. Seasonal reservoir levels may affect access and quality of fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available at a small, rocky beach near the boat launch, although low reservoir levels may limit access.Biking
Mountain biking is popular, with the Phillips Lake Shoreline Trail offering a challenging and scenic ride. The trail covers approximately 16 miles around the reservoir.Boating
Boating activities are supported, including water skiing. Boat ramps are available but may be inaccessible during low water levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as chipmunks and birds including eagles, osprey, and pelicans are commonly observed. Spring wildflowers add to the natural appeal.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the campground does not operate outside peak seasons.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddle boating, and canoeing are supported but depend on reservoir levels.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits. Firewood can be purchased onsite for $6 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include low reservoir water levels, which may limit boating and swimming activities. Wildlife such as mosquitoes are abundant; bug spray is recommended.
Active alertsLow water levels at Phillips Reservoir may affect access to the boat launch and swimming areas.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: St. Alphonsus Medical Center in Baker City, approximately 18 miles away. Police services: Baker City Police Department. Ranger station: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Ranger District, Baker City.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling pickup services are available, praised for efficiency by user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Phillips Reservoir, the campground offers access to fishing, boating, and water skiing, although water levels may vary seasonally.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from nearby campers, barking dogs, and discrepancies in the site layout map. Some users noted rude camp hosting services.
HostHosts are generally friendly and helpful but have received mixed reviews regarding their enforcement of rules.
Campground Map
17564 Sumpter Stage Hwy
Driving directionsFrom Baker City, Oregon, travel south on Highway 7 for about 18 miles. The campground and day-use entrance is on the left side of the road. Follow the signs in the Union Creek Recreation Area down to the various campground loops and areas.
The campground is accessible by Highway 7. The roads leading to the site are paved and well-maintained. Road access is suitable for all types of vehicles, including RVs. The parking spurs at the campground are paved and gravel, accommodating large RVs.Nearby places
Baker City: 18 miles (approximately 20 minutes driving)
Sumpter: 10 miles (approximately 15 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Baker City, approximately 18 miles away, which includes grocery stores, fuel, camping supplies, and other essentials. The historic town of Sumpter also offers limited provisions, including a flea market during holiday weekends.
Camper Reviews
4.5
212 reviews
Union Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Union Creek Campground is well-regarded for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. Common themes include praise for the well-maintained facilities and scenic location, but complaints center around fluctuating reservoir levels and the absence of showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 212 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the clean restrooms, spacious and private sites, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and scenic trails. Many appreciate the quiet atmosphere and opportunities for hiking and...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include low reservoir levels affecting boating and swimming, lack of shower facilities, occasional noisy neighbors, and inflexible reservation policies. Dog barking and management issues...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent, confirm water levels before planning fishing or boating, and arrive early for better site selection. Late spring and early summer are recommended for better reservoir levels.
Based on 212 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and early summer are favored for higher reservoir levels and abundant wildflowers. Late summer and fall may see reduced water activities due to drought conditions.
Based on 212 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Sites are spacious and private,' 'Camp hosts were very friendly,' 'Bathrooms were clean and well-maintained,' 'Beautiful setting but no showers,' 'Low reservoir levels were...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop B sites are noted for full hookups, while Loop C offers proximity to the lake. Tent sites closer to the water are more scenic but may lack hookups.
Based on 212 reviewsAccessibility Features
ADA-accessible sites with paved paths to restrooms are positively noted. Hosts are reported to be accommodating.
Based on 212 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews regarding pets. Some users complained about barking dogs and lack of enforcement of pet policies, but others enjoyed the space for exercising their dogs.
Based on 212 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025