Williamson Campground
4.759 reviewsWilliamson 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 campsite fees are $10 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation passes provide a 50% discount for single campsites occupied by the pass holder. Payments must be made with CASH or CHECK at a self-service fee station.
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About this campground
Nestled deep within Lostine River Canyon, Williamson Campground stands as one of the region's premier outdoor destinations, offering 13 thoughtfully arranged campsites that blend seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. Eight sites accommodate both tents and trailers, while five intimate tent-only spots provide a more secluded experience beneath towering pine and fir canopies. The melodic rush of the Wild and Scenic Lostine River serves as nature's soundtrack, drawing summer adventurers and autumn leaf-peepers alike to this gateway to the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Here, the forest feels alive with possibility, where each morning brings the promise of new trails to explore and evenings fade into star-filled skies.
Williamson Campground provides a mix of tent/trailer sites and tent-only sites. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no advanced reservations.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsFrom June's wildflower awakening through autumn's golden finale, Williamson Campground welcomes visitors to experience the canyon's seasonal transformations. Summer arrives with crisp mountain mornings that warm into pleasant afternoons, while evening temperatures invite cozy campfire gatherings. As fall approaches, the days grow shorter and cooler, painting the canyon in brilliant hues of amber and gold. The dry climate typical of Eastern Oregon's high country ensures plenty of sunshine for outdoor adventures, though wise campers always pack layers for the mountain's mercurial moods.
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Natural Features and SceneryWilliamson Campground sits cradled in nature's embrace, where ancient pines and firs create a living cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The star attraction remains the Lostine River, whose crystal-clear waters tumble over smooth stones, creating peaceful pools and gentle rapids that mesmerize visitors for hours. Morning mist often rises from the water, revealing glimpses of deer stepping delicately to the river's edge for a drink. The surrounding canyon walls frame views of rugged peaks, while the dense forest provides habitat for an abundance of wildlife – from chattering squirrels to majestic elk that occasionally wander through camp at dusk.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within the dramatic Lostine River Canyon, where millions of years of geological forces have carved a spectacular corridor through the Wallowa Mountains. This Wild and Scenic River designation protects not just the pristine waters but the entire ecosystem that thrives along its banks. Towering conifers – primarily ponderosa pine and Douglas fir – create a shaded sanctuary that stays refreshingly cool even on summer's warmest days. As the gateway to the Eagle Cap Wilderness, this canyon represents the transition zone between accessible recreation and true backcountry adventure, where the landscape tells the ancient story of volcanic activity, glacial carving, and the persistent power of flowing water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is provided in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a mix of 8 tent/trailer sites and 5 tent-only sites, with some sites described as having plenty of space so campers are not crowding their neighbors. Site #5, in particular, is mentioned as being a double campsite with two fire pits and separate tent spots.
Sites PrivacySites have been described as shaded and separated by trees, providing a level of privacy. "Campsites are well set up, clean and with plenty of trees in between them," noted one reviewer.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early (Wednesday or Thursday) to secure a site, as the campground fills up by Friday evening during peak times. Campers looking for privacy may want to avoid sites near the road or trailheads, which can experience heavy traffic.
Best CampsitesSites next to the river are particularly popular, especially on weekends and holidays.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group sites or their capacities are mentioned in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe facility includes 8 tent/trailer sites and 5 tent-only sites located below the main campground road. Some sites are more private, while others are closer to amenities like restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonJune through fall
Reservation PlatformsSelf-service fee station available on-site
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first come, first serve. User reviews indicate that arriving early is advisable, especially on weekends, as sites fill quickly.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Williamson Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing in the Lostine River and hiking in the nearby Eagle Cap Wilderness. The setting along the Wild and Scenic Lostine River makes it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
The campground's proximity to the Eagle Cap Wilderness provides access to hiking opportunities. A reviewer commented on "good hiking trails" nearby, accessible from the campground.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the Lostine River, which runs adjacent to the campground. Although no specific details about the types of fish or fishing conditions are provided, the river is described as calm and scenic.Swimming
Swimming is possible in certain areas of the river. One reviewer noted a "great swimming area with a rocky shore and even a rock to jump from (about 6 feet up)."Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with deer frequently spotted. One reviewer commented on the "lush vegetation and lots of deer" in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly addressed in the source materials. However, the campground operates only in summer and fall, suggesting limited use during winter.Water Sports
Other non-motorized water activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, are not mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available, so campers must bring their own. Roads near trailheads can be busy, posing a risk for families with children and pets. Wildlife, including deer, is present in the area.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6 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
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no information provided about trash or recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Lostine River. Some campsites are located directly next to the river.
Common complaints"You have to bring your own water, but they do have fairly modern and clean pit toilets." (User review: John Galban). The lack of potable water is a recurring concern. Campers also mention that the proximity of some campsites to the road can lead to disturbances, especially near busy trailheads.
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Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Enterprise, Oregon travel west on Highway 82 for 10 miles to Lostine, Oregon. In Lostine, turn left at Lostine River Road and go 7 miles. The Lostine River Road turns into Forest Road 8210 at the Forest Boundary. Continue 4 miles on Forest Road 8210. Campground entrance is on the right side of the road.
"Well-maintained roads and is a beautiful drive with lush vegetation and lots of deer." (User review: Celina Fox). The campground is accessible via Forest Road 8210, which may experience heavy traffic near trailheads. Some dispersed campsites are closer to the road, and reviewers advise caution for families with small children and pets due to the busy road.Nearby places
Enterprise (10 miles), Lostine (7 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.8
9 reviews
Williamson Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Williamson Campground are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its serene atmosphere, proximity to the river, ample shade, and clean facilities. Visitors appreciated falling asleep to the sound of the river and the well-maintained nature of the campground. Some small criticisms include the lack of running water and the busy road leading to the trailhead.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Commonly praised features include the campground's scenic beauty, quiet ambiance, and clean facilities. 'Plenty of trees in between [sites],' noted one reviewer, while another said, 'falling asleep...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of potable water on-site is the most frequently mentioned drawback. Additionally, some campers noted that the campground could become crowded during weekends and holidays, with visitors...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early, particularly on weekends or holidays, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and spots fill up quickly. Bring your own potable water, as none is provided...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular in summer and fall. Visitors during the Memorial Day weekend and the height of summer found it surprisingly quiet, although this may vary. Late arrivals on Fridays may...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms are clean and falling asleep to the sound of the Lostine River is something that's hard to beat.' 2. 'This place only has 8 spots and are first come. By Fri eve all were about taken.'...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #5 is noted for being unique, with two fire pits and tent spots separated by a significant distance. Campers found it confusing but appreciated the extra space.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features, suggesting this is not a notable aspect of the campground.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The source materials do not provide specific information or user feedback related to pets.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025