Transferring operation of Wallowa Falls Campground
By Paul Hall on Tuesday, May 25th, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
JOSEPH, OR – (Information provided by Oregon State Parks) Pacific Power will transfer management of the Wallowa Falls Campground to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The 10 walk-in campsites are south of Wallowa Lake State Park and adjacent to the Little Alps Day-use Area, which is also managed by OPRD. The campground will open to first-come, first-served stays June 1, 2021. The tent rate will be $10 a night for each campsite.
“Pacific Power has been proud to offer opportunities for people to enjoy the Wallowa Falls Campground and day- use area for more than 50 years,” says Lori Wyman, regional business manager for Pacific Power. “To be able to maintain and operate the park in the most efficient way, we are now turning over operation to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. Their partnership and expertise in recreational management is the best choice for the park and its users going forward.”
Pacific Power is leasing the campground area to OPRD on a long-term basis. The adjoining day-use area has been leased to and operated by the Wallowa Lake Management Unit of Oregon State Parks for several years. The park had been closed for the last two years as Pacific Power performed extensive work on the hydroelectric project above the campground. PacifiCorp retains ownership of lands between the Wallowa Falls Campground and the U.S Forest Service property and current easements for trails and other public access.
“We’re excited to offer a new camping experience for Oregon State Parks visitors,” says Mac Freeborn, Wallowa Lake Management Unit manager. “The walk-in campground is the perfect jump-off point for day hikes into the Eagle Cap Wilderness. We’re also exploring overnight options for backpackers heading out on multi-day trips.”
Water will be available from several spigots in place throughout the campground. Firewood will be available for $5 a bundle. For more information, visit the Wallowa Falls Campground web page or call Wallowa Lake State Park at (541) 432-8855.
