Hilgard Junction State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Hilgard Junction State Park is an elongated preserve that sits along the Grande Ronde River near the town of La Grande and the intersection of Highway 244 and Interstate 84 in eastern Oregon. Along with fishing, camping, and riverside trails, the park is known for its picturesque scenery. History buffs will enjoy learning about the park's connection to the historic Oregon Trail, which traversed the surrounding area. Head to the nearby Blue Mountain Crossing Interpretive Park to see evidence of the Oregon trail wagons that passed through in the mid-1800s.
Spring 35–58 F
Summer 54–86 F
Fall 35–65 F
Winter 30–47 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Hilgard Junction State Park
Camping is available seasonally from May through October on a first-come, first-served basis. All the park's 18 campsites are primitive, but RVs are welcome at any of them. The sites can accommodate RVs that are up to 40 feet in length, and your pets are welcome you join you when you stay overnight. There is one ADA-accessible site. Each campsite has its own picnic table and a fire ring. Restrooms with flush toilets are available though there are no showers. Drinking water is available nearby within the park. Firewood is available to purchase. Though there is no camp store, the town of La Grande is less than 9 miles away, so you can stock up on anything you need there.
What to Do at
Hilgard Junction State Park
The relatively small state park spans only about 232 acres, but it still attracts lots of visitors because it is easy to get to. By providing easy access to the Grande Ronde River, the park is the perfect spot for a variety of water-based recreation. Many people stop by just to have a picnic and enjoy the picturesque waterfront views. Take time to browse the interpretive signs to learn more about the Oregon Trail that early pioneers used to transverse the area, or just relax and listen to the peaceful sounds of the bubbling river from the comfort of your waterfront campsite. Fishing
Fishing
The river provides a habitat for a number of different species of fish, including steelhead, rainbow trout, brown trout, and bass. You can cast a line from the riverbanks or from a boat. Fly-fishing also draws many visitors to this park, as the Grande Ronde River is known to have some of the best fly-fishing in the state.
Nature Watching
For some of the best views and a glimpse of the park's diverse ecosystems, head out along the Hilgard Junction Nature Trail. The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest pathways provide the best opportunity to spot a herd of elk or some deer.
Stargazing
The park is situated in a relatively remote part of eastern Oregon, so you may want to set up a telescope or bring your binoculars when staying overnight at the park.
Flora and Fauna
Just a few of the birds that inhabit the park include ospreys, herons, hawks, eagles, the Western meadow lark, and a variety of songbirds and waterfowl. Mammals that make their home in the park include elk, mink, squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons and lots of mule deer and white-tailed deer. Beavers can often be spotted working on their dams along the river. Frogs, toads, and salamanders make their home along the banks of the Grande Ronde River, and cottonwood trees and ponderosa pine make up the forest that surrounds the river.
Hiking
There are several different hikes to choose from within the park. For scenic views of the surrounding area, head out along the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway Hiking Trail, which includes a moderate climb. The Oregon National Historic Trail Loop includes interpretive signs so that you can learn about the history of the area. For an easier and relatively flat hike, try the Hilgard Junction Nature Trail.
Swimming
The waters are usually fairly shallow and peaceful when the park is open, so you can wade into the river at several access points within the park.
Boating
Use the park's boat launch to enjoy a day relaxing or fishing on the water.
How to Get to
Hilgard Junction State Park
Coming from the town of La Grande, hop on the I-84 heading west. After about 6 miles, take exit 252 for OR-244 toward Ukiah. Then, continue onto 5 Point Creek Road, which turns into OR-244 W. The entrance to the park will be on your left after less than half a mile.
Entering Hilgard Junction State Park
If you're not staying overnight, there is ample parking available in the day-use area.
Hilgard Junction State Park Entry Fee : $0.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Hilgard Junction State Park
The park is only open seasonally from May to October.
The forest is home to lots of elk herds and deer, and along the river, there are plenty of mink and beavers. Ducks and geese flock to the river, as well as several different species of songbirds. The wetland areas along the riverbanks provide a home for plenty of salamanders, frogs, toads, and snakes. There are a few bears that live in the area too, though they tend to shy away from humans, so you'll be very unlikely to spot any during your visit.
RVs are welcome at any of the park's 18 camping spots.
No, reservations are not available at Hilgard Junction State Park. All the park's 18 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Nightly camping fees start at $10 per night. You can pay the fee at the self-pay registration station when you arrive.
Yes. Your pets are welcome to join you when you are visiting Hilgard Junction State Park. They must be leashed at all times, and you are responsible for picking up after them.