Wrangle Campground
4.177 reviewsWrangle 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
Camping is free at Wrangle Campground according to authoritative sources and user reviews.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the wilderness, Wrangle Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience with just 5 intimate tent-only sites. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The crown jewel of the campground is a beautifully preserved rustic shelter, hand-built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936, standing as a testament to America's conservation legacy. A historic 1930s cabin constructed by the Soil Conservation Service and a community kitchen provide unique gathering spaces for campers. With a vault toilet on-site and a true leave-no-trace philosophy (pack out what you pack in), this is camping as it was meant to be. Note that you'll need to bring your own water supply, as potable water isn't available at this pristine mountain retreat.
Wrangle Campground is a small, primitive campground catering to tent campers.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Wrangle Campground, where the spirit of 1930s America lives on through remarkable historic structures. The centerpiece rustic shelter, meticulously crafted by young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936, stands as a monument to President Roosevelt's vision of conservation through public works. Nearby, a cabin built by the Soil Conservation Service during the same era tells the story of early efforts to protect and preserve our natural resources. These Depression-era buildings aren't just functional facilities – they're tangible connections to a pivotal moment in American conservation history, when the nation came together to build a legacy that outdoor enthusiasts still enjoy today.
Weather and SeasonsWrangle Campground transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Winter blankets the camp in snow and frost, creating a hushed wonderland for the hardy adventurer willing to brave freezing temperatures and crisp, humid air. As spring awakens the forest, temperatures moderate and occasional rain showers mix with sunshine, painting the landscape in fresh greens. The true magic happens in summer and early fall, when crystal-clear skies frame warm, comfortable days perfect for hiking and cool evenings ideal for campfire stories. These golden months showcase the campground at its most inviting, with nature putting on its finest display.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, where Wrangle Campground serves as your gateway to one of Oregon's most spectacular wilderness areas. Towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, while the rugged mountainous terrain promises adventure in every direction. Wildlife roams freely through this pristine habitat – keep your eyes peeled for deer at dawn and listen for the haunting calls of owls at dusk. The legendary Pacific Crest Trail passes nearby, offering ambitious hikers the chance to connect with one of America's most iconic long-distance paths. This is nature unfiltered: raw, beautiful, and endlessly captivating.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic landscape of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Wrangle Campground sits amid some of the Pacific Northwest's most compelling geological features. The rugged mountainous terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient volcanic activity and tectonic forces sculpted peaks and valleys that challenge and inspire modern adventurers. The nearby Pacific Crest Trail winds through this geological wonderland, following ridgelines that offer glimpses into the powerful forces that shaped this corner of Oregon. Here, every rock formation and mountain vista serves as a reminder of Earth's dynamic history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no specific accessibility features mentioned for this campground.
Sites SizeThe campground has small, primitive tent sites.
Sites PrivacyNo details about site privacy are provided.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest bringing sufficient water, firewood, and supplies due to the remote location and lack of facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay: 14 days
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 5 tent-only sites with picnic tables and fire pits.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, 24 hours/day.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are free and first-come-first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wrangle Campground offers limited recreational opportunities, primarily appealing to hikers due to its proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail.
Hiking
Day hiking is available nearby, with the Pacific Crest Trail located in close proximity to the campground.Wildlife viewing
Users mention abundant wildlife sightings, making this a potential activity for nature lovers.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only within developed fire pits. Fireworks are prohibited.
- Quiet hours between 10 PM - 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention the rough access roads as a potential hazard, especially for low-clearance vehicles. Wildlife is noted as abundant in the region.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not specifically detailed in the authoritative or user reviews.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available; campers must pack out all their trash.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features are explicitly mentioned near the campground.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include damaged fireplaces and sites requiring maintenance. Absence of drinking water and garbage disposal services are also commonly noted.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Jacksonville, OR, travel south 6.5 miles on Highway 238 to Ruch, OR, and turn left on to Upper Applegate Road (County Road 859). Continue approximately 8.5 miles and turn left on Forest Road 20. Continue 18 miles to Wrangle Gap and turn left onto Forest Road 2030. Continue along Forest Road 2030 less than 1 mile to the campground.
The roads leading to Wrangle Campground are described as rough, and user reviews note that low-clearance vehicles are highly not recommended. Forest Road 20 and Forest Road 2030 may present challenges for navigation.Nearby places
Jacksonville, OR (~6.5 miles), Ruch, OR (~8.5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Jacksonville, OR (~6.5 miles) or Ruch, OR (~8.5 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.2
7 reviews
Wrangle Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users appreciate the historic charm and remote, peaceful setting of Wrangle Campground. The proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail and the community kitchen are standout features. However, issues like lack of water, occasional site disrepair, and the rough access road were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the historic structures, clean vault toilet, and proximity to the Pacific Crest Trail as major positives. Many described the campground as a 'gem' and appreciated the peaceful setting...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Users raised concerns about the rough road leading to the campground, damaged or unusable sites, the lack of potable water, and absence of firewood for purchase. Maintenance issues such as damaged...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing adequate water and firewood due to the lack of availability on-site. Packing out trash is essential. A vehicle with high clearance is advisable due to the rough access...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular in summer and early fall when weather conditions are favorable for hiking and camping. The road may become less accessible during winter months due to snow.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Another beautiful old shelter built by the CCC's back in the 1930s.' - Peaty Malt
- 'The road is rough. Low clearance vehicles highly not recommended.' - RouteBound Experience
- 'Free camping.' -...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers were mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Although pets are allowed, no specific reviews about pet-related experiences were provided.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025