Twin Lakes Campground
03 reviewsTwin Lakes 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
Overnight camping fee is $10 per single family unit (tent or trailer site) payable via self-service pay station on site. Sites may be reservable, and reservation fees may apply.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Escape to Twin Lakes Campground, where minimalist beauty meets raw wilderness adventure. This undeveloped gem invites you to cast your line from scenic boardwalks, embark on the challenging Trail #1874, or simply breathe in the pristine mountain air. Nestled between two of Oregon's most spectacular wilderness areas—Eagle Cap and Hells Canyon—this rustic retreat opens its arms to adventurers from summer through fall, offering an authentic backcountry experience far from the crowds.
Twin Lakes Campground primarily caters to tent and trailer camping with single-family units available for overnight stays at $10 per night. The campground is minimally developed, making it a suitable destination for primitive camping enthusiasts. No mentions of RV hookups, group sites, cabins, or luxury glamping options are found in the sources.
Historical SignificanceThe landscape around Twin Lakes whispers stories of nature's resilience. As you traverse Trail #1874, you'll encounter the haunting beauty of an old burn area, where charred sentinels stand as monuments to past wildfires. These ghost forests have become part of the area's character, creating dramatic vistas and serving as powerful reminders of the natural cycles that have shaped this wilderness for generations.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here tells its own dramatic story, shifting from snow-laden winters to sun-drenched summers with characteristic unpredictability. While winter blankets the landscape in deep snow, transforming it into a frozen wonderland, the magic truly unfolds from late June through early September. During these precious months, wildflowers carpet the meadows, trails become accessible, and the twin lakes sparkle under clear mountain skies. Come prepared for crisp nights even in summer—the thin mountain air can bring freezing temperatures when the sun dips behind the peaks.
ElevationPerched high in Oregon's rugged mountain country, Twin Lakes occupies a dramatic throne where jagged peaks pierce the sky and the air grows thin with altitude. This high-elevation sanctuary challenges visitors with its steep terrain and rewards them with breathtaking vistas that stretch across two legendary wilderness areas. Every breath of crisp mountain air reminds you that you've climbed far above the ordinary world below.
Natural Features and SceneryTwin Lakes presents nature's artistry at its finest—two pristine alpine lakes mirror the sky, creating perfect reflections of surrounding peaks and passing clouds. The landscape unfolds like a living painting: weathered snags from historic burns frame distant vistas, while verdant meadows give way to rocky outcrops. Wildlife thrives in this rustic paradise—keep your eyes peeled for deer grazing at dawn, eagles soaring overhead, and the occasional glimpse of more elusive mountain residents. This is wilderness in its purest form, where serenity isn't manufactured but simply exists.
Geological RegionPositioned at the dramatic convergence of two geological wonderlands, Twin Lakes claims prime real estate where the southern reaches of Hells Canyon National Recreation Area meet the southeastern corner of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. This rugged mountain sanctuary showcases nature's extremes—from fire-sculpted forests to pristine alpine lakes, all carved into ancient peaks by eons of geological forces. The terrain here tells the story of volcanic upheavals, glacial sculpting, and the persistent power of mountain streams that continue to shape this spectacular landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not detailed in the provided sources.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is not discussed in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo recommendations provided for choosing particular sites.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers or premium locations not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay information not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Number of guests per site unspecified.
Groups
Group camping site details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSite layout details are not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen in June; potential seasonal closure during winter months due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsReservation system implied but not explicitly mentioned. No platforms listed.
Walk-in AvailabilityLikely available via self-service pay station, but exact details are unclear regarding specific sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not specified in available materials.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Twin Lakes Campground supports various recreational activities, including picnicking, fishing, and hiking. The scenic boardwalks along Twin Lakes are popular for fishing, though swimming access is reported to be challenging according to user reviews. Trail #1874 departs from the campground and passes through remnants of an old burn area, offering day hiking opportunities. Other recreational options, such as biking or boating, are not mentioned.
Hiking
Day hikes are available, particularly on Trail #1874, which begins at the campground and travels through remnants of an old burn area. No additional details on difficulty levels or trail lengths are provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along the boardwalks at Twin Lakes. User reviews highlight the lakes as gorgeous but note limited accessibility for swimming or wading.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not directly mentioned, but the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway leading to the campground is designated as an 'over the snow vehicle only route' during winter months, indicating potential snow recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire policies not explicitly stated in materials.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rugged terrain and lack of potable water. Wildlife encounters may also pose risks.
Active alertsRoad closures during winter months due to snow on Hells Canyon Scenic Byway.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Enterprise, Oregon (nearest hospital and police station); Forest Service Ranger Station in Enterprise for wilderness emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season not specified in available materials.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not detailed in the authoritative sources.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is located adjacent to Twin Lakes, with boardwalk access for fishing.
Common complaintsUser review highlights concerns about nighttime traffic: 'Nice, but people driving by at all hours of night.' (Fred Hickman).
HostCampground host information is not provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Halfway, Oregon: Head east on Record Road for 1 mile, then proceed 9 miles on Highway 86 to Wallowa Loop Road (Forest Road 39). Continue for approximately 13 miles to Forest Road 66. Turn left and drive 11 miles to the campground entrance. From Enterprise, Oregon: Travel south on State 82 to Joseph (6.5 miles), turn left onto State 350 for 8 miles to Wallowa Loop Road. Continue for about 40 miles, then turn right onto Forest Road 66, and drive 11 miles to the campground entrance. Note: Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is closed from late October to late May due to snow.
Forest Road 39 (Hells Canyon Scenic Byway) may be closed due to snow during winter months, making access challenging. Otherwise, the route is accessible via paved roads.Nearby places
Halfway, Oregon (approximately 35 miles)
Enterprise, Oregon (about 65 miles)
Joseph, Oregon (around 73 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Halfway, Oregon, and Enterprise, Oregon. Potable water can be found at Fish Lake Campground nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Twin Lakes Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the rustic and scenic qualities of Twin Lakes Campground. Positive sentiments include the 'amazing campgrounds,' 'excellent views,' and the availability of fishing. Some concerns are raised about nighttime traffic and challenges accessing the lakes for swimming.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
User reviews highlight scenic views, fishing opportunities, and clean vault toilets as positive aspects of the campground. One user described the campgrounds as 'amazing' and noted 'excellent views!'
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users expressed dissatisfaction with nighttime traffic, noting vehicles driving by at '12am, 2am,' which disrupted their experience. Others commented on the difficulty accessing Twin Lakes for...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend Fish Lake as a better alternative for swimming and suggest preparing for the lack of potable water by bringing water or stopping at Fish Lake Campground to collect some.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User reviews mostly align with summer and fall visits, consistent with the campground's seasonal operation starting in June. No significant feedback on winter experiences is available, although the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes from users include: 'Amazing campgrounds. Excellent views! Fishing!' and 'Vault toilets are actually really nice for being in the mountains.' Another noted, 'No potable water, but there...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site numbers or reviews are not available.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features and user experiences for campers with disabilities are not mentioned.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and pet-related experiences are not discussed in the provided sources.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025