Southwest Shore Campground
4.4318 reviewsHudspeth Ln, Baker City, OR
Southwest Shore Campground
$10.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
The single-family campsite fee is $10-$12 per night, depending on the season. An extra vehicle at the campsite costs $4-$6, and overflow parking is available for $10. Visitors with passes such as Interagency Senior Pass, Interagency Access Pass, Golden Age Passport, or Golden Access Passport receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Discover the untamed beauty of Southwest Shore Campground, where the pristine waters of Phillips Reservoir meet the towering pines of Wallowa Whitman National Forest. This back-to-basics paradise invites adventurers to experience camping as it was meant to be—simple, peaceful, and immersed in nature. Each campsite, thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table and fire grille, becomes your personal gateway to endless outdoor adventures. Whether you're casting a line into the reservoir's crystal-clear waters, paddling across its glassy surface, or setting off on the scenic South Shoreline Trail, every moment here connects you with the raw magnificence of Oregon's high country. As a pack-in, pack-out destination with vault toilets as the primary amenity, Southwest Shore rewards those who seek authenticity over luxury with unforgettable wilderness experiences.
The Southwest Shore Campground features 16 combined tent and RV sites. It is primarily a primitive camping site with basic facilities.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the campground's boundaries lies a treasure trove of Western heritage waiting to be explored. The weathered remnants of Granite ghost town whisper tales of gold rush dreams and frontier determination, while historic Sumpter keeps the past alive with its massive gold dredge—a mechanical marvel that once devoured entire valleys in search of precious metal. For a truly unique experience, climb aboard the Sumpter Valley narrow-gauge steam railroad and journey through time as the restored locomotive chugs through the same mountain passes that once carried fortune-seekers and their hopes into the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Southwest Shore Campground awakens to welcome visitors with the kind of weather that makes memories. These golden months bring pleasantly warm days perfect for water activities and comfortably cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. The high desert climate ensures mostly dry conditions, though the reservoir's water levels dance with the seasons, creating an ever-changing shoreline to explore. Nature provides its own soundtrack here—the haunting calls of Sandhill Cranes echo across the water at dawn, while coyotes serenade the stars after dark, reminding campers they're sharing this spectacular landscape with its original inhabitants.
ElevationPerched at 4,100 feet above sea level, Southwest Shore Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer's heat. This sweet spot in the mountains delivers crisp morning air that invigorates your senses and afternoon temperatures that remain comfortable even in peak summer. The elevation gifts visitors with spectacular high-altitude vistas where the sky seems impossibly blue and the stars shine with remarkable brilliance. Here, you'll breathe easier, sleep deeper, and wake to panoramic views that stretch across the reservoir to the dramatic peaks beyond.
Natural Features and ScenerySouthwest Shore unfolds like a living postcard beneath towering Ponderosa pines that fill the air with their vanilla-scented bark. The open forest floor, carpeted with native sagebrush and bunch grasses, bursts into color when wildflowers paint the landscape in spring and early summer. This sun-drenched campground offers an intimate connection with nature—sites nestle among the trees with views that stretch across Phillips Reservoir to the majestic Elkhorn Range. Small islands dot the water, crowned with nesting platforms where ospreys and other birds raise their young. The sparse understory creates an airy, welcoming atmosphere where golden light filters through the pine boughs from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Wallowa Whitman National Forest, Southwest Shore Campground showcases the geological drama of eastern Oregon's Blue Mountains. Phillips Reservoir, a sapphire gem cradled by ancient volcanic peaks, reflects the rugged beauty of the surrounding Elkhorn Range. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making—where Ponderosa pines sink their roots into soil enriched by volcanic ash, and sagebrush meadows bloom with resilient wildflowers adapted to this unique high-desert ecosystem. This remarkable setting, where forest meets water meets mountain, creates a natural amphitheater that captures the essence of the American West in every sweeping view.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible vault toilets are present at the site, but access to the lake may be challenging for those with disabilities, as noted by a user: 'Just too difficult to get to the water if you have a disability.'
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as large and mostly flat, with some uneven spots requiring leveling blocks for trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are partially secluded with some spacing between them. Wendy Meyer described them as 'quiet restful comfort,' and Rich Durant noted that 'all of the sites are big and well separated from each other.'
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring leveling blocks for trailers as some sites are uneven. Sites offer limited privacy but are large and well-separated.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are highlighted as best.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in a lazy loop configuration.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 through October 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, and availability is rarely an issue according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. It is adjacent to Phillips Lake, which supports both motorized and non-motorized boating.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the nearby Phillips Lake South Shoreline Trail #1610, which is part of the larger Phillips Lake Trail System. This trail offers scenic views of the Elkhorn Mountains and Phillips Reservoir.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with Phillips Lake supporting species such as rainbow trout, large and smallmouth bass, and perch.Biking
Mountain biking is available, with trails providing access to scenic views of the lake and surrounding areas. One user described 'a long mountain biking trail' in the area.Boating
Boating is supported with a primitive boat ramp available at the campground and a more developed ramp on the north shore at Union Creek Campground. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on Phillips Lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with sandhill cranes, eagles, and coyotes commonly observed. Kay noted, 'Lots of wildlife, including the coyotes serenading you to sleep.'Winter Activities
The area supports winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as noted in official sources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular at Phillips Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within the designated fire grilles at each site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsSafety concerns include uneven ground at some campsites, requiring leveling blocks for trailers, and fluctuating water levels at Phillips Reservoir requiring a hike to reach the lake. The campground is dry, and water must be brought in.
Active alertsNo active alerts were noted.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 in Baker City, approximately 19.8 miles away, offering access to a hospital and other facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly defined.
Trash and recyclingThere are no centralized trash or recycling facilities. Campers need to pack out their garbage, consistent with the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy of the campground.
Proximity to water featuresPhillips Reservoir is a short hike down from the campground due to fluctuating water levels. Activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching are popular.
Common complaintsSome users have mentioned difficulty accessing the lake due to low water levels and uneven ground at campsites. Additionally, lack of potable water and privacy are recurring concerns.
HostCampground hosts are praised for their helpfulness and going above and beyond for visitors, as noted in a review about emergency support provided to a family.
Campground Map
Hudspeth Ln, Baker City, OR
Driving directionsFrom Baker City, OR, take State Rt. 7 south 19.8 miles to Hudspeth Rd. Turn left onto Hudspeth Rd. and go 1.1 miles to Phillips Lake campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Forest Rt. 2220 (gravel) and go 0.4 miles to campground on left.
The campground is located 1.1 miles off Hudspeth Road and accessible via gravel road Forest Rt. 2220. This road is generally manageable for all vehicle types, and the campground is noted to be easy to find. Seasonal accessibility may depend on weather conditions.Nearby places
Baker City (19.8 miles, approximately 25-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Limited stores and cafes available in nearby Baker City (approximately 25 minutes). Additional supplies might require trips to Granite or Sumpter, both noted for historical significance but offering limited amenities.
Camper Reviews
4.4
18 reviews
Southwest Shore Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's quiet, primitive setting and proximity to Phillips Lake. Campers praise the spacious sites, well-maintained vault toilets, and abundant wildlife. However, some complain about the lack of potable water and the difficulty of lake access for those with mobility issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the quiet solitude, large and well-separated campsites, clean facilities, and abundant wildlife. Patricia Brown described it as a 'nice place to camp if you like it a little...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes the lack of potable water, issues with uneven campsites for trailers, and challenges accessing the lake due to fluctuating water levels. Michele Timmons noted, 'Just too...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water and being prepared for pack-in, pack-out camping. For RV users, bring leveling blocks as some sites are uneven. Hunting season is a particularly popular...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during hunting season, as noted by Julie Stowe, but remains relatively uncrowded even during summer holiday weekends. Dan Anderson observed, 'Does anyone know this...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Nice place to camp if you like it a little primitive.' - Patricia Brown
- 'Quiet spot other than noise from Sandhill Cranes, which we didn't mind.' - Dan Anderson
- 'It’s a dry campground but...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate that all 16 sites are large and well-separated. Trailers and RV users should prepare for uneven ground in certain spots.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited, particularly for reaching the lake. Michele Timmons commented, 'Just too difficult to get to the water if you have a disability.'
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025