Union Creek Campground
00 reviewUnion Creek Campground
$15.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$44.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $15-$44 per night depending on the type of site (tent-only, partial hook-ups, or full hook-ups). Additional fees include $6 per day for extra vehicles, overflow parking, and day use, $10 for RV dump station use.
About this campground
Nestled among towering ponderosa pines on the northern shore of Phillips Lake, Union Creek Campground stands as eastern Oregon's premier outdoor basecamp. With more than 60 thoughtfully placed campsites accommodating everything from intimate tent spots to spacious RV pull-throughs, this Forest Service gem invites adventurers to immerse themselves in a pristine mountain landscape. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line into the crystal-clear waters, explore winding forest trails, dive into refreshing swimming holes, or carve across the lake on waterskis as the sun paints the water golden.
The campground supports a wide variety of camping styles, including sites with full and partial hookups, tent camping, and designated group camping areas. Loops A, B, and C offer different levels of hookups, catering to both RV and tent campers, while the walk-in tent area provides a quieter experience. Group camping is also available, accommodating larger parties.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with fascinating day trips to the surrounding historical treasures. The haunting remnants of Granite ghost town whisper tales of Oregon's gold rush era, while the restored town of Sumpter showcases the massive Sumpter Dredge – a mechanical marvel that once churned through valley floors in search of gold. Complete your journey through history aboard the authentic Sumpter Valley Railroad, where vintage locomotives carry you through the same mountain passes that once echoed with the dreams of fortune seekers.
Weather and SeasonsFour distinct seasons paint Union Creek in dramatically different palettes throughout the year. Winter arrives with a hushed blanket of snow and crisp, freezing days that hover around 33°F, transforming the campground into a serene wonderland. As spring melts into summer, the mercury climbs to a perfect 85°F, creating ideal conditions for lake adventures and starlit evenings around the campfire. While winter snowfall adds magic to the pines, summer brings occasional afternoon thunderstorms that refresh the forest and fill the air with the scent of rain on warm earth.
ElevationPerched at 4,100 feet above sea level, Union Creek offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even on summer days, yet remains accessible and comfortable for camping enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient ponderosa pines tower overhead, their vanilla-scented bark and cathedral-like canopy creating a natural sanctuary that feels worlds away from everyday life. The campground's setting seamlessly blends forest and water, with lush riparian zones giving way to a distinctive rocky beach perfect for afternoon swims. Phillips Reservoir stretches before you – 2,450 acres of sapphire water that mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, originally created for irrigation but now serving as a spectacular recreational playground.
Geological RegionUnion Creek occupies a privileged position along Phillips Lake's northern shoreline, where ancient geological forces created the perfect basin for this expansive reservoir. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and forest – mature ponderosa pine forests that have thrived here for centuries create a living testament to the region's ecological richness. This 2,450-acre aquatic jewel, while serving vital irrigation needs for the valley below, has evolved into a recreational paradise where forest meets water in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and the campground is generally accessible. Campground areas are paved, making mobility easier.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size and can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Parking aprons are paved and gravel and can fit any size RV.
Sites PrivacyLoops A, B, and C have little privacy due to the grass understory and lack of midstory vegetation. The walk-in tent area offers more seclusion and privacy as it is tucked along a stream in a riparian environment.
Total Campsites74 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking privacy may prefer tent sites in the walk-in area with riparian surroundings. Sites in Loop A are recommended for RVs needing full hook-ups.
Best CampsitesThe tent area offers secluded sites with riparian surroundings close to the reservoir.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive days is allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group sites are available at $100 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into three loops (A, B, C) and a separate walk-in tent area near a small stream. Sites are arranged around a paved and gravel apron.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground offers first-come, first-served availability for sites, especially for overflow parking and day-use areas, subject to availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through the Recreation Site Concessionaire rules and platforms.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Union Creek Campground offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy water activities such as swimming, motorized and non-motorized boating, and water skiing at Phillips Reservoir. Fishing is popular with species like rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and perch available. On land, activities include hiking on trails like the Shoreline Trail, which loops around the lake and is suitable for mountain biking. Scenic viewing opportunities are abundant due to the surrounding ponderosa pine forest.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, with the Shoreline Trail being a key feature. It loops around Phillips Reservoir and supports both foot travel and mountain biking.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with species like rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and perch being common catches.Swimming
A small swim area is available at Phillips Reservoir. However, the beach is rocky and features reeds at the shoreline.Biking
The Shoreline Trail accommodates mountain biking and offers scenic views around Phillips Reservoir.Boating
Boating is permitted, with both motorized and non-motorized options available. A boat ramp facilitates easy water access.Wildlife viewing
Scenic opportunities around the ponderosa pine forest may include observing local wildlife.Beach activities
Beach activities are limited due to the rocky nature of the swim area and reeds at the shoreline.Water Sports
Water skiing and other sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are supported at Phillips Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire policies are in place, subject to seasonal restrictions. Campfires may be prohibited during high fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include a rocky swim beach with reeds, limited privacy within loops, and seasonal drops in water levels at Phillips Reservoir.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.4 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 emergency services are located in Baker City, Oregon, approximately 18 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesThe campground operates during its peak season from May to September.
Trash and recyclingWaste disposal options, including an RV dump station, are available, but no recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the northern shore of Phillips Reservoir. The tent camping sites are nearest to the reservoir.
Common complaintsSome reviews highlighted limited privacy within loops due to grass understory and absence of middlestory vegetation.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Baker City, Oregon travel south on Highway 7 towards John Day, Oregon for about 18 miles; The campground and day-use entrance is signed 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 via paved roads suitable for passenger vehicles and RVs. However, the gate to the campground is locked when not operated by the concessionaire.Nearby places
Baker City, Oregon - 18 miles
Granite ghost town and Sumpter town are suggested for day trips.
Nearby supplies
Limited selection of stores and cafes are available in Granite and Sumpter towns
Baker City is the nearest place for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, 18 miles away.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Union Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's excellent access to water activities and its scenic location surrounded by mature ponderosa pines. However, the lack of potable water and limited site privacy in Loops A, B, and C have been noted as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the scenic beauty, accessible trails, and ample opportunities for fishing and boating. The presence of full and partial hookups is also seen as a positive feature, especially for...
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Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water, limited privacy in the RV loops, and the rocky nature of the swim area. Some users have also mentioned that certain amenities are not always...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing your own drinking water due to the absence of potable water on-site. Choosing the walk-in tent area may provide a more private and serene camping experience.
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular due to the availability of water-based activities and generally pleasant weather. However, the reservoir's water level drops as the season progresses, which may impact some...
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Camper Quotes
"The hiking trails are fantastic, especially the Shoreline Trail around the reservoir." "Fishing here is great; we caught rainbow trout!" "Privacy is an issue in the RV loops, but the tent area by...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Loops A, B, and C are noted for having limited privacy due to the lack of a midstory. The walk-in tent area is praised for its secluded, riparian environment. Sites adjacent to the stream are highly...
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Accessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and paved areas are appreciated, although no specific feedback from users with disabilities was found.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback regarding pets was provided.
Last updated August 10, 2025