Camping at Olive Lake Campground

Location and Accessibility

Olive Lake Campground is situated within the Umatilla National Forest in northeastern Oregon, approximately 45 miles east of the town of Dale. The campground is perched on the shores of the scenic Olive Lake at an elevation of around 6,400 feet. To access the campground, visitors primarily use Forest Service Road 10, which is mostly a gravel road and is suitable for most passenger vehicles under normal conditions.

Facilities and Amenities

The campground is well-equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable camping experience including:

• Campsites: Multiple individual campsites are available for tent and RV camping. Each site typically has a picnic table, a fire ring, and a tent pad.

• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available for RVs at this campground.

• Drinking Water: Potable water is usually available within the campground.

• Toilets: Vault toilets are provided for sanitation needs.

• Garbage Disposal: There are trash collection services at the campground, and visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all their garbage.

• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available for those wishing to explore Olive Lake by watercraft. However, it's important to check if any boating restrictions apply.

Activities and Recreation

Olive Lake Campground is popular for a range of outdoor activities such as:

• Fishing: Olive Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities.

• Boating: Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the lake. Motorized boats are also allowed but there may be horsepower restrictions, so checking the latest regulations is advised.

• Hiking: There are trails nearby for hikers to explore the natural beauty of the forest.

• Swimming: The lake provides a refreshing spot for swimming during warmer months, although there are no lifeguards on duty.

• Wildlife Viewing: The Umatilla National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, offering chances for wildlife observation and photography.

Camping Season and Reservations

• Seasonal Accessibility: The campground is typically open from late spring to early fall. Opening and closing dates may vary due to weather conditions.

• Reservations: Some sites at Olive Lake Campground might be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance. For the most current reservation information, campers should check with the Umatilla National Forest or a reservation system like Recreation.gov.

Additional Tips

• Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially due to the higher elevation of the campground.

• Fire restrictions may be in place during dry periods, so check current conditions and restrictions before starting a campfire.

• Cellular service may be limited, so plan accordingly and inform someone about your travel plans.

• Since the campground is located in a national forest, standard federal camping rules and regulations apply.

• Be mindful of local wildlife, practice safe food storage, and respect the natural environment.

For the most current and detailed information, it's always a good idea to contact the Umatilla National Forest district office or visit their official website before planning your trip to Olive Lake Campground.