Camping at Anthony Lake Campground

Overview of Anthony Lake Campground

Anthony Lake Campground is situated in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, a lush and diverse landscape in northeastern Oregon. The campground surrounds the beautiful Anthony Lake and is nestled at an elevation of approximately 7,100 feet, providing visitors with stunning views and access to a plethora of outdoor activities.

Recreational Activities

• Hiking: The area offers numerous hiking trails, including the Elkhorn Crest Trail, which provides panoramic views of the Elkhorn Mountains.
• Fishing: Anthony Lake is known for excellent trout fishing; anglers can expect to catch brook and rainbow trout.
• Boating: While motorized boats are not allowed, paddling and rowing are favored here, keeping the lake serene.
• Swimming: The clear mountain waters can be quite cold, but they're refreshing on hot summer days.
• Wildlife Watching: The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of bird species.
• Winter Sports: In colder months, the area is popular for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Campground Amenities

• Sites: The campground includes several tent-only sites, as well as sites that can accommodate RVs, although there are no electrical hookups.
• Picnic Areas: Each campsite typically has a picnic table and fire ring.
• Potable Water: Available during the typical operating season.
• Restrooms: Facilities with flush toilets are on-site, offering some comfort amenities.
• Boat Launch: There's a small boat ramp suitable for launching canoes and other small, non-motorized boats.
• Accessibility: Some facilities and campsites are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservations: Some campsites can be reserved in advance, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Fees: There is a nightly fee for campsite usage. The prices may vary, and there might be additional fees for extra vehicles.
• Season: The campground typically operates from July through September, depending on the weather and snow levels.

Considerations and Regulations

• Wildlife: Due to the presence of bears and other wildlife, proper food storage is crucial.
• Dogs: Pets must be on a leash at all times within the campground.
• Firewood: To prevent the spread of invasive insects, it's recommended to buy firewood locally.
• Leave No Trace: As with any wilderness area, visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their environmental impact.
• Altitude: Given the high elevation, visitors should be aware of the potential for altitude sickness and come prepared to handle its symptoms.

Getting There

The campsite is located off Oregon State Highway 73, close to the community of Haines. A turn off the highway onto Forest Road 73 leads to Anthony Lake and the campground. The access road is well-signed and usually well-maintained, but conditions can vary, so it's advisable to check the latest road status and weather forecasts before embarking on your trip.

Remember to visit the official Wallowa-Whitman National Forest or Recreation.gov websites for the most current information and updates regarding Anthony Lake Campground prior to your visit.