Olive Lake Campground (Or)
4.0323 reviewsP.O. Box 158, Ukiah, OR 97880, USA
Olive Lake Campground (Or)
$12.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees include $12 for standard non-electric and tent-only sites, and $25 for group standard sites during the peak season from May 15 to October 15.
About this campground
Discover your perfect mountain escape at Olive Lake Campground, where crystal-clear waters meet the rugged beauty of Eastern Oregon's Blue Mountains. This tranquil retreat offers 28 thoughtfully positioned campsites along the lake's pristine shoreline, accommodating everyone from tent campers seeking solitude to RV adventurers and groups gathering under starlit skies. Cast a line for native trout at dawn, launch your kayak into mirror-smooth waters, or explore winding forest trails where wild berries ripen in summer sun. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting osprey diving for fish, while deer graze peacefully in nearby meadows. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening storytelling, and access to well-maintained vault toilets. Note that visitors should bring their own water supply, as the campground embraces a more rustic, back-to-nature experience.
Olive Lake Campground accommodates a mix of tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. There are no cabin or glamping options available.
Historical SignificanceStep into Oregon's golden past at Olive Lake, where echoes of prospectors' dreams still linger in the surrounding hills. This serene mountain lake once played a vital role in the region's industrial heritage, its waters diverted through ingenious engineering to power the historic Fremont Powerhouse seven miles downstream. Gold seekers once panned these streams and carved tunnels through nearby ridges, leaving behind a landscape rich with stories of frontier ambition and the relentless pursuit of fortune in the American West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Blue Mountains at Olive Lake. Spring arrives with crisp, dry air perfect for hiking without summer crowds, though evenings call for warm layers around the campfire. As summer unfolds, the lake becomes an irresistible swimming hole where families splash away warm afternoons and anglers find their best catches in cool morning hours. Pack your insect repellent for peak season – the same pristine wilderness that attracts visitors also supports a healthy mosquito population, particularly near the water's edge at dusk.
ElevationPerched high in the embrace of the Blue Mountains, Olive Lake Campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere where the air feels cleaner, the stars shine brighter, and morning mist dances across the water. This elevated sanctuary provides natural air conditioning during summer months and spectacular views year-round, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape of resilient beauty at Olive Lake, where nature tells its own compelling story. While bark beetle impacts have opened the forest canopy in places, this natural transformation has created stunning vistas across the sapphire lake and distant peaks. The evolving forest ecosystem supports abundant wildlife – watch for osprey circling overhead before their spectacular fishing dives, catch glimpses of playful river otters at dawn, or observe deer picking their way through the understory. The interplay of water, recovering forest, and mountain meadows creates an ever-changing canvas of colors and textures throughout the seasons.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon, a geological wonderland where ancient volcanic activity and millions of years of erosion have sculpted a landscape of dramatic ridges, hidden valleys, and jewel-like alpine lakes. This mountainous terrain bears the scars and treasures of its mining heritage, with quartz veins and mineral deposits that once drew fortune seekers from across the nation. Today, these same rugged peaks and forested slopes offer outdoor enthusiasts a playground of endless exploration, where each trail reveals new perspectives on this magnificent corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Campsite details
Accessibility7 accessible vault toilet facilities are available, along with accessible campsites. However, accessibility for other features is not detailed.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as accommodating both tents and RVs. Group sites are larger and can host multiple campers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are closely positioned, leading to reduced privacy, while others offer more seclusion.
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring portable shade and insect repellents. Campsites near the lake offer better views.
Best CampsitesMany visitors recommended sites near the lake, such as sites 6, 17, and 26.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping or occupying a location longer than 14 consecutive calendar days is prohibited.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per campsite.
Groups
Two group sites are available, but specific details about the capacity or vehicle allowance are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes tent/RV sites, tent-only sites, and group sites, with loops affected by bark beetle tree losses.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 15 and ends October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites within the beetle-impacted area may have reduced availability.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for individual campsites (after midnight one calendar day before check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made on the check-in day.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing, and photography. Mushroom and berry picking are also popular in season.
Hiking
A 2-mile hiking trail around Olive Lake provides both scenic views and access to secluded spots. Additional trails connect to the North John Day Wilderness and Vinegar Hill Scenic Area.Fishing
The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, and kokanee. Crawfish boils are a popular activity. However, some user reviews note that fishing success can be low.Swimming
Swimming is allowed, and reviewers describe the lake as warm and enjoyable for swimming.Biking
The 2-mile trail around the lake is suitable for biking, though some areas may require walking bikes due to terrain challenges.Boating
The lake includes two boat docks, a boat ramp, and trailer parking. Motorized boats are allowed, but wakes and jet skis are prohibited.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, elk, bear, river otters, and osprey. A nesting pair of osprey returns annually.Winter Activities
No details provided about winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddle boating are popular, as motorized boats are restricted to no-wake usage.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings unless fire restrictions are in effect.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent insect activity including mosquitos, biting flies, and beetles. Limited shade due to tree removals. Wildlife precautions include food storage guidelines for bear safety.
Active alertsBark beetle infestations have led to significant tree loss, affecting shade and overall aesthetics.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.9 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
Nearest emergency services are found in Granite, OR, approximately 12 miles east.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 15
Trash and recyclingTrash service is not available. Campers must pack out all garbage.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Olive Lake; features include a boat ramp and two docks.
Common complaintsLack of potable water onsite, tree loss leading to limited shade, and insect activity.
HostCamp hosts are seasonally available and provide helpful guidance to campers.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 158, Ukiah, OR 97880, USA
Driving directionsFrom Ukiah, OR travel south to County Road 1475 (turns into Forest Service Road 52 after 5 miles). Go about 48.5 miles to the town of Granite. Instead of entering the town, turn right onto County Road 24/Forest Service Road (FSR) 10 and travel about 3.5 miles to the end of the pavement. Follow the gravel road up to the right (FSR 10). Travel about 9 miles on FSR 10. Turn right on FSR 1000480 and travel about 1/4 mile into the campground.
Roads are partially paved with gravel stretches. Seasonal access may be affected by snow and gravel road conditions.Nearby places
Granite, 12 miles east
Ukiah, approximately 50 miles.
Nearby supplies
Granite, OR, offers limited supplies approximately 12 miles east. Potable water is available at Fremont Powerhouse, 7 miles east of the campground, seasonally from May 15-Sept 30.
Camper Reviews
4.0
23 reviews
Olive Lake Campground (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Olive Lake Campground indicate a mixed experience. Many campers appreciate the scenic beauty of the lake and the variety of activities available, but others raise concerns about the lack of shade due to tree removal, the absence of potable water, and occasional issues with campsite management. Wildlife sightings and the friendly camp hosts are often positively highlighted.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the scenic lake views, warm water for swimming, clean vault toilets, and the wide range of recreational activities. Camp hosts are described as friendly and helpful. The...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of shade due to bark beetle-related tree removal, the absence of potable water and trash services, and insect issues (flies and yellowjackets). Some users report...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing ample water, insect repellent, and trash bags. Visitors are advised to check gas levels before arriving due to the campground's remoteness. Bringing portable shade...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During summer, the campground is described as sunny and warm, making it ideal for swimming and boating. However, insect activity (flies and yellowjackets) is a common nuisance in the warmer months....
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Gorgeous lake. What a view! The camp hosts are friendly and helpful.' - Rhonda Chamberlain
2. 'The bugs are just a bit too much here. You can put on spray for the mosquitos, but it does nothing...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 17 is noted for being next to another site but offers the potential for privacy when the adjacent site is unoccupied. Site 7 is surrounded on three sides by stacked firewood. Site 11 lacks shade...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews from people with disabilities were found. However, seven accessible vault toilets are available at the site.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. The campground's layout and trails are reportedly pet-friendly.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025