Alder Thicket Campground

Star4.27
13 reviews

Quick Facts

5,157 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Late May - October/N...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Umatilla National Forest site

Official Website
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Alder Thicket Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
This site is free of charge.
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

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What Campers Say

4.27

Satisfactory

Based on 13 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsclean

"The reviews for Alder Thicket Campground are generally positive. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty, cleanliness, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Alder Thicket Campground

46.2587, -117.5674

Nearby places
Pomeroy, Washington (39 minutes, approximately 20 miles)

Best Time to Camp at Alder Thicket Campground

From late May through October or November, Alder Thicket transforms into a camper's paradise as the mountains awaken from winter's grip. Spring arrives with crisp mornings that gradually warm to comfortable afternoons, making late May and June ideal for those seeking mild conditions. Summer brings warm days perfect for exploration, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues before the first frost signals the season's end. Throughout the camping season, temperatures dance between cool mountain mornings and moderate afternoon highs, creating perfect conditions for both relaxation and adventure.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Reviewed positively in summer for shade and natural beauty; prime season for camping.

Planning Tips

  • Operating Season: Late May - October/November (depending on weather conditions).

About Alder Thicket Campground

Tucked away in the northern gateway to the majestic Blue Mountains, Alder Thicket Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience without the price tag. This free camping haven nestles beneath a verdant canopy of dense alder groves and towering trees, creating a natural sanctuary where dappled sunlight filters through leafy branches. When summer heat bears down on the mountains, campers find respite in the cooling shade while remaining just five miles from scenic hiking trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness.
Alder Thicket Campground is a primitive site that caters to basic camping activities. The absence of fees and minimal facilities reflect its rustic nature.

Best Campsites

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Amenities available

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational opportunities at Alder Thicket Campground are primarily focused on hiking. Visitors can enjoy nearby trails within five miles of the site. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with sightings of various animals, including grouse, white-tailed deer, wildflowers, and marmots.
Hiking
Wildlife viewing
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential wildlife hazards include marmites, with user reviews specifically mentioning a marmite stealing a glove.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Alder Thicket Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

From Booking Sources
4.3
13 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Alder Thicket Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews for Alder Thicket Campground are generally positive. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty, cleanliness, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights from user reviews include 'absolutely beautiful place to camp,' gorgeous views, lots of trails, and sightings of unique wildlife like the yellow-bellied marmot. Clean restroom facilities...
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Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

No significant complaints are mentioned in the user reviews.
Based on 13 reviews
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Last updated March 8, 2026
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Campgrounds
Umatilla National Forest
Alder Thicket Campground