Wetmore Campground
03 reviewsWetmore Campground, Highway 26, Wallowa Whitman National Forest, Oregon
Wetmore Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Single site fee is $15 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount for the campsite they occupy. Payments must be made with cash or check at the fee station.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Oregon's wilderness, Wetmore Campground invites you to experience camping the way it was meant to be. With 11 thoughtfully placed sites perfect for tents and small trailers, you'll find your ideal spot whether you prefer the peaceful solitude of the lower loop, where nature's symphony plays undisturbed, or the convenient upper section near Highway 26. Each site comes complete with its own picnic table and grill, setting the stage for memorable outdoor meals under towering evergreens.
Wetmore Campground accommodates tent camping and small trailers. Primitive camping is supported with basic facilities, but there are no options for RV pull-throughs, group sites, cabins, or glamping.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Wetmore places you directly on Oregon's legendary Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, a remarkable route that tells the story of millions of years through stunning geological formations and historical landmarks. This isn't just a campground—it's your gateway to exploring Oregon's rich natural and cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain weather at Wetmore, where crisp, frosty mornings in spring and fall give way to gloriously warm summer days. While winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow during the off-season, summer visitors enjoy predominantly dry conditions perfect for outdoor adventures. The low rainfall during camping season means more time under clear, star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at 4,300 feet above sea level, Wetmore Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This elevation brings delightfully cool temperatures even during summer's peak, though wise campers pack an extra layer for those enchanting but chilly shoulder-season evenings when frost might kiss the morning landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of Douglas fir, Ponderosa pine, and White fir trees that create a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into gentle, dappled patterns across your campsite. The nearby South Fork Burnt River adds its melodic voice to the forest chorus, creating an ecosystem that's both vibrant and peaceful—a true haven for those seeking connection with nature.
Geological RegionDiscover the wonders of the Wallowa Whitman National Forest from your basecamp at Wetmore. Here, along the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway, ancient geological stories unfold among forests of Douglas fir, Ponderosa pine, and White fir. The nearby South Fork Burnt River has carved its path through this landscape for millennia, creating a diverse ecosystem that showcases the raw beauty of Oregon's backcountry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThree campsites are accessible, and there is a barrier-free trail to Yellow Pine Campground.
Sites SizeSites are suited for tents and small trailers with paved and grass parking aprons.
Sites PrivacyLower loop offers tranquil and undiscovered feel; upper section experiences more traffic noise due to proximity to Highway 26.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the lower loop for quiet and shade. Avoid sites in the upper section if traffic noise is a concern.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight the lower loop as the best option for tranquility and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to typical single campsite capacity.
Groups
Group camping sites are not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into an upper section parallel to Highway 26 and a lower loop with a more secluded feel.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 through October 15.
Reservation PlatformsNo online or phone reservation platforms available.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations allowed; first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wetmore Campground provides limited recreational activities focused on hiking and picnicking. The accessible trail connects to Yellow Pine Campground, and picnicking on large tables near the upper spring is mentioned. Fishing is possible in nearby South Fork Burnt River, which contains rainbow trout.
Hiking
A wheelchair-friendly nature trail spans 0.5 miles and connects to Yellow Pine Campground.Fishing
Fishing for rainbow trout is available at South Fork Burnt River near the campground.Winter Activities
No winter activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings and grills.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include traffic noise in the upper section and the lack of potable water.
Active alertsNo current alerts or advisories.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.9 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 Unity, Oregon, approximately 9 miles away. This includes basic emergency response services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak camping season runs from May 15 to September.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. No information on dedicated trash or recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresClose to South Fork Burnt River, but not directly adjacent.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and occasional noise due to proximity to Highway 26.
HostNo campground host mentioned.
Campground Map
Wetmore Campground, Highway 26, Wallowa Whitman National Forest, Oregon
Driving directionsFrom Unity, Oregon head west on Highway 26 for 9 miles towards Prairie City and John Day, Oregon; The campground entrance is on the right side of the highway.
The campground is directly accessible from Highway 26 and features paved parking aprons. However, traffic noise can be heard in the upper section near the highway.Nearby places
Unity (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Prairie City (approximately 35 miles), John Day (approximately 50 miles).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, groceries, and fuel can be found in Unity, Oregon, approximately 9 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Wetmore Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the secluded forest setting, clean facilities, and tranquility of Wetmore Campground despite occasional road noise from Highway 26.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
"Accessible trail with nice privacy camping." "Spotless, clean, shaded, quiet campground." "Very little road noise as Hwy 26 is not traveled a lot."
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Users mention the lack of potable water as a drawback. "No water at campsite currently."
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing sufficient water supplies due to the lack of potable water on-site.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews praise the shaded and quiet atmosphere, but mention occasional early morning traffic noise. Winter conditions are not reviewed.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Awesome spot secluded in the forest just off the highway." "Accessible trail with nice privacy camping."
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews consistently favor the lower loop for its tranquil and undiscovered feel, while the upper section near Highway 26 experiences more traffic noise.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Visitors appreciate the accessible trail and barrier-free features. "Accessible trail with nice privacy camping."
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025