Blackhorse Campground
03 reviewsBlackhorse Campground, Forest Road 39, near Imnaha River, Oregon
Blackhorse Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rate for single unit campsites is $10. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on the fee for single campsites they occupy. Payment is accepted via cash or check at the self-service fee station.
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About this campground
Where the legendary Hells Canyon Scenic Byway winds through Oregon's rugged wilderness, Blackhorse Campground emerges as a hidden sanctuary along the rushing waters of the Wild and Scenic Imnaha River. Towering Ponderosa pines and ancient firs create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dappled patterns across secluded campsites. Here, the river's eternal song provides a soothing soundtrack as visitors cast fishing lines into pristine waters, spread picnic blankets in sun-drenched clearings, or venture out to discover the storied landmarks of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. When autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a basecamp for hunters pursuing big game through these ancestral forests.
Blackhorse Campground is a rustic camping destination that accommodates both tents and trailers/RVs, with a total of 16 sites, of which 15 are combined-use for tents and RVs.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the storied landscapes of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Blackhorse Campground serves as a gateway to thousands of years of human history. Ancient peoples once traversed these river corridors, leaving behind whispers of their presence that modern interpretive sites now help visitors discover. The surrounding area tells tales of geological wonder and cultural heritage, where educational trails and exhibits reveal how this dramatic landscape shaped the lives of Native Americans, early settlers, and the adventurous spirits who continue to seek solace in these wild places.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May's wildflower awakening through October's golden finale, Blackhorse Campground welcomes adventurers to experience the full spectrum of mountain seasons. Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days perfect for river activities and evening campfires, while spring and fall paint the landscape with crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons ideal for hiking and exploration. As winter approaches, snow blankets the high country, closing the campground until spring's return breathes new life into the canyon.
ElevationPerched at 4,000 feet above sea level, Blackhorse Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where summer temperatures remain pleasantly cool even when the lower valleys swelter. This elevated position creates an ideal microclimate where morning mists drift through the pines and afternoon breezes carry the scent of sun-warmed evergreens.
Natural Features and SceneryA living tapestry of towering Ponderosa pines and stately firs creates an enchanting forest setting where each campsite feels like its own private woodland retreat. Beneath the evergreen canopy, native grasses wave in the breeze while wild shrubs provide natural screens between sites, ensuring solitude for every visitor. The star of this natural theater remains the Imnaha River, its crystal-clear waters dancing over ancient stones, creating pools that mirror the sky and riffles that sing through the day and night.
Geological RegionDeep within the Wallowa Whitman National Forest, where the earth tells stories written in stone and carved by water, Blackhorse Campground occupies a spectacular position along the Wild and Scenic Imnaha River corridor. The dramatic Hells Canyon Scenic Byway reveals a landscape sculpted by eons of geological forces, where rugged canyon walls rise like ancient battlements above forests thick with conifers, native grasses, and flowering shrubs. This is a place where the raw power of nature's artistry is on full display, from the smallest wildflower to the grandest canyon vista.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but there is no specific mention of other accessibility features like ramps or accessible picnic tables.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and suitable for both tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are tucked among a dense mixture of conifers and shrubs, offering a high level of privacy. The heavy understory contributes to the secluded feel.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open access, no specific check-in time.
Check-out
Open access, no specific check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive days.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed along the Imnaha River among dense conifers with a soft, grassy understory.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 through October 31, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance; walk-up availability only.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampground access is first come, first served; occupancy patterns suggest availability during weekdays in off-peak months.
Cancellation PolicySites may not be reservable and reservation fees apply.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Blackhorse Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, suitable for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude. Fishing and picnicking are popular, and the proximity to the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway provides opportunities for exploration and photography.
Fishing
Visitors can fish in the Imnaha River, which runs alongside the campground. The river is home to Rainbow and Brook trout.Winter Activities
During the winter, the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is typically closed due to snow, limiting access to the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- General fire rules apply, but specific restrictions on campfires are not detailed.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal snow closures can make access difficult. Lack of potable water requires planning for drinking water needs. Wildlife typical of forested regions may pose safety concerns.
Active alertsSeasonal snow closures from late October through early June may impact access.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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 or major emergency services are located in the town of Enterprise, Oregon, approximately 37.5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to September considered peak camping season.
Trash and recyclingThe campground follows a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy, meaning visitors are responsible for managing their own trash and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresSituated alongside the Imnaha River, providing opportunities for fishing and the relaxing sound of flowing water.
Common complaintsNo potable water available onsite. No cell service available at the campground, but LTE service exists near Hells Canyon Overlook 8 miles away.
Campground Map
Blackhorse Campground, Forest Road 39, near Imnaha River, Oregon
Driving directionsFrom Enterprise, Oregon travel south on Oregon State 82 towards Joseph for about 6.5 miles; In Joseph turn left on Oregon State 350 and go about 8 miles to the Wallowa Loop Road; Turn right on the Wallowa Loop Road (also known as the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway) and travel on this road which eventually becomes Forest Road 39 for 30 miles; The campground is on the left near the Imnaha River.
The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is usually closed by snow from late October through late May or early June, making it impassable for vehicles during this period.Nearby places
Joseph: 29 miles, Enterprise: 37.5 miles, Halfway: approximately 23.5 miles
Nearby supplies
Drinking water is available at nearby Ollokot campground, 0.5 miles south on Forest Route 39. Additional supplies may need to be procured in Joseph or Enterprise, Oregon.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Blackhorse Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally describe the campground as quiet, well-maintained, and offering a relaxing experience with the sound of the nearby river. The lack of modern facilities and cell service is noted, but these aspects are viewed as part of the rustic charm.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
"Nice and quiet," "Large sites suitable for tenting or RVs," "Well tended." The proximity to the river and the relaxing sounds it provides are frequently praised.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
No potable water on-site, no cell phone reception, and no modern amenities such as flush toilets or showers.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own potable water and be prepared for a 'pack it in, pack it out' experience. If cell service is needed, the Hells Canyon Overlook is a good option, roughly 8 miles away.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the summer months when the weather is most favorable, but it remains quiet during weekdays. Winter access is limited due to snow.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground was well tended and it was easy to score a site." - Lisa Marie Pane. "The sites are along the river, which makes for relaxing background noise." - Lisa Marie Pane.
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific sites are identified as better or worse by users, but all sites are described as large and private due to the dense vegetation.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Only the vault toilets are noted as wheelchair accessible. No additional accessibility features are highlighted.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025