Wickiup Campground
03 reviewsWickiup Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
There is no fee for camping at Wickiup Campground.
About this campground
Nestled at the crossroads of Forest Service Roads 44 and 43, Wickiup Campground offers adventurers a hidden gem in the heart of Umatilla National Forest—and best of all, it's completely free. This secluded retreat beckons with refreshing cold water springs that bubble up from the earth, providing a natural oasis for weary travelers. Just five miles away, anglers can cast their lines into the pristine waters of Ranger Creek, while hiking enthusiasts will discover trails that wind through the surrounding wilderness, revealing the forest's untold stories with every step. The campground sits cradled between three majestic ridges—The Jones, Huckleberry, and Hogback—creating a natural amphitheater of towering trees and dramatic landscapes.
Wickiup Campground is a primitive campground located in a scenic and natural environment that supports tent camping but does not provide developed infrastructure for RVs or modern camping.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsWickiup's high-elevation location brings a refreshing coolness that defines its character throughout the year. Shoulder seasons arrive with crisp, crystalline mornings where frost paints the landscape in silver, while afternoon sun gradually warms the forest floor. Winter visitors should come prepared for the mountain's embrace—dry, freezing conditions dominate the colder months, punctuated by gentle snowfalls that transform the campground into a quiet wonderland. Moderate winds occasionally sweep through the ridge gaps, carrying the scent of pine and the promise of changing weather. This is a place where nature sets the rhythm, and campers learn to dance with the elements.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe triple crown of ridges—Jones, Huckleberry, and Hogback—stand as ancient sentinels around Wickiup Campground, their forested slopes creating a breathtaking natural cathedral. These towering formations don't just frame spectacular views; they create unique microclimates and ecosystems that support diverse wildlife and vegetation. The crown jewel of the campground remains its natural cold water springs, where crystal-clear water emerges from underground aquifers, offering campers a rare gift in the wilderness. Morning mists often drift between the ridges, while evening light paints the surrounding peaks in shades of gold and purple, creating moments of profound natural beauty that linger long in memory.
Geological RegionWickiup Campground rests within the spectacular Triple Ridge area of Umatilla National Forest, where three distinct geological formations converge to create one of the region's most dramatic landscapes. The Jones, Huckleberry, and Hogback ridges tell an ancient story written in stone and soil—each ridge bearing its own unique geological signature shaped by millions of years of tectonic forces, erosion, and volcanic activity. This convergence point creates not just stunning topography, but also the perfect conditions for the cold springs that make Wickiup special. Here, campers find themselves at the intersection of geological time and natural beauty, where the earth's history is written across every vista.
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed SeasonApril - November
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is free and by walk-up availability only.
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is well-situated for outdoor activities, including hiking, hunting, and fishing. It is surrounded by The Jones, Huckleberry, and Hogback ridges and offers great views.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"No running water there but you can find a spring nearby to pack water in" (David Wallace). Some users noted seasonal hunters have spoiled Wickiup Spring with discarded animal entrails, resulting in lots of flies. (Andrew Kinney). The campground is at a major intersection of Forest Service roads with loud traffic 24 hours a day.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific mention of trash and recycling facilities. Some user reviews mention garbage being left by visitors, but others note the area as clean.
Proximity to water featuresCold water springs are located 100 yards below the campground, and fishing is available at Ranger Creek within five miles.
Common complaintsComplaints include garbage tossed around, "door latch shot off the pit toilet," and loud traffic due to its location at a major intersection of Forest Service roads.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Pomeroy, Washington (83 minutes): Take County Road 128. Where road Ys. In about 10 miles continue straight onto Mountain Road 40. At Troy Junction (about 17 miles) follow Forest Service Road 44 for 3 miles. Wickiup Campground is at the intersection of Forest Service Roads 44 and 43. From Asotin, Washington (78 minutes): Take road leading west, through Cloverland and onto Forest Service Road 43. Wickiup Campground is at the intersection of Forest Service Roads 44 and 43.
The road access involves Forest Service roads, which may be unpaved and rugged. Seasonal road closures or maintenance issues are not explicitly mentioned in the sources.Nearby places
Pomeroy, Washington (about 83 minutes away)
Asotin, Washington (about 78 minutes away)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Wickiup Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews are mixed, with some campers praising the cleanliness, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities, while others criticize issues such as garbage left around and the impact of hunters on the nearby spring.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, fresh paint on tables, scenic views, and opportunities for hiking and fishing within five miles.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Garbage left by visitors, damage to the pit toilet door, and the nearby spring being spoiled by hunters.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own water as potable water is not available. Those seeking solitude might want to avoid this campground during hunting season due to cleanliness and noise issues.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that during hunting season, the campground experiences more activity, which can affect cleanliness and tranquility.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Super clean. No garbage laying around, bathrooms were clean, pretty area." "Otherwise, an ok free campground with picnic table, fire pit, and great views."
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025