How much does camping cost at Mud Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Mud Lake Campground are $16 - $50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mud Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mud Lake Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mud Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Mud Lake Campground has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mud Lake Campground?

Mud Lake Campground is open June 01 to September 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mud Lake Campground?

Mud Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Mud Lake Campground have?

Mud Lake Campground has 7 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mud Lake Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mud Lake Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mud Lake Campground?

Mud Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mud Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Mud Lake Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mud Lake Campground

4.03

53 reviews

47500 ANTHONY LAKES HWY, NORTH POWDER, OR 97867, USA

C+Report Card

Summer Destination

Featured in:Group Camping Oregon

Quick Facts

7,100 ft

Price

$16 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

7 campsites

Season

Open between June 1 ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,100 ft

Price

$16 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

7 campsites

Season

Open between June 1 ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Mud Lake Campground

$16.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $50.00; Standard Electric: $32.00; Standard Nonelectric: $16.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8...

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Hookup Site Fee$32.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

541-894-2332campgrounds@anthonylakes.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

47500 ANTHONY LAKES HWY, NORTH POWDER, OR 97867, USA

Mud Lake Campground

47500 ANTHONY LAKES HWY, NORTH POWDER, OR 97867, USA

Nearby places

Baker City (~35 miles), La Grande (~41 miles), North Powder (~5 miles)

Driving directionsFrom Baker City, Oregon, head north on Highway 30 toward Haines for approximately 10 miles. In Haines, turn left and follow the Anthony Lake Highway signs (this turns into Forest Road 73 and Elkhorn Scenic Byway) for 25 miles to the Anthony Lake Recreation Area. Turn right into the campground across from the ski area. From La Grande, head south on Interstate 84 for 25 miles to exit 285 in North Powder, Oregon. In North Powder, follow the ski area signs on Highway 237 for 4 miles to Ellis Road. Turn left on Ellis Road and go about a mile to the Anthony Lake Highway. Turn right and follow the Anthony Lake Highway (becomes Forest Road 73) for 16 miles to the campground entrance on the right, across from the ski area.

Weather at Mud Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Mud Lake Campground

Best season: fall. Fall brings the clearest skies, crisp daytime hiking weather and the best overall solitude at 7,100 ft — expect daytime highs in the 40s–60s°F and nights often dipping below freezing (20s–30s°F). Wildflowers are gone but the contrast of golden subalpine foliage, mirror-like reflections on Mud Lake and active trout feeding make it ideal for photography, fishing and quiet paddling. Crowds thin dramatically after Labor Day, so you get peak scenery with fewer people and lower wildfire smoke risk. Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Best season: clear skies, crisp hiking weather and greatest solitude at high elevation.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 01 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open between June 1 and September 30 (peak season).

About Mud Lake Campground

Mud Lake Campground sits at 7,100 feet in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest near North Powder, Oregon, offering high-elevation alpine access to fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The small campground provides electric hookups and vault toilets for tent and RV campers, with group sites available. Operated by the Forest Service, it serves as a quiet base for exploring nearby Anthony Lake and surrounding trails.

Mud Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, offering sites suitable for tent and RV camping, as well as a group camping option that reserves the entire campground.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall brings the clearest skies, crisp daytime hiking weather and the best overall solitude at 7,100 ft — expect daytime highs in the 40s–60s°F and nights often dipping below freezing (20s–30s°F). Wildflowers are gone but the contrast of golden subalpine foliage, mirror-like reflections on Mud Lake and active trout feeding make it ideal for photography, fishing and quiet paddling. Crowds thin dramatically after Labor Day, so you get peak scenery with fewer people and lower wildfire smoke risk. Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation7100 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits among pines and firs with views of Gunsight Peak, whose profile was carved by ancient glaciers. Mud Lake reflects the surrounding peaks and provides habitat for trout. The area's geology shows the effects of volcanic activity and glacial sculpting. Elk graze in nearby meadows, and bald eagles pass overhead. The Elkhorn Mountains form the backdrop.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging options are not available at Mud Lake Campground, but Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort across the road provides opportunities for additional facilities.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are indicated.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 consecutive nights per reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Not specified

Groups

The group site encompasses the entire campground and is reserved as one unit via Recreation.gov. ANCA P notes, 'Finally, contrary to some reviews, this is not a group site with a few FF sites. The whole campground is the group site.'

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets. The nearby Anthony Lake area has an accessible boat ramp.

Site SizeSites tend to be on the smaller side, with some reviews noting difficulty accommodating larger setups, especially tents or RVs. For example, Thomas F mentioned, 'Site 6 listed as tent site, but it was poorly planned and not a flat area.

PrivacyPrivacy at the campsites varies. Some users, like Ron M, found that the sites were too close together during peak times, while others like Mindy M noted, 'The negatives were that we were very close to our neighbors so privacy came only in our trailer.

Total Campsites7 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 6 is noted for electricity and cleanliness but is swampy. Sites 3 and 7 are recommended for their peacefulness and proximity to amenities.

Best CampsitesSites 6 and 7 get positive mentions for scenery and cleanliness. Site 3 offers close trail access to Anthony Lakes. Site 6 is listed as a tent site but has uneven terrain that makes setup difficult.

Need help booking Mud Lake Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Mud Lake Campground offers a variety of amenities including 6 reservable electrical sites and 1 non-electrical site. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and grill. Vault toilets are available on-site, and potable water can be accessed at the nearby Anthony Lake Campground and Day Use Area. Located at 7,100 feet, the campground provides cool and comfortable summer camping conditions. The proximity to recreational activities like Anthony Lake, Elkhorn Crest Trail, and Anthony Lakes Ski Area provides campers with ample outdoor opportunities.

Electricity hookups

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Mud Lake Campground

Mud Lake Campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities centered around the nearby Anthony Lake area. Campers can enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing. The Elkhorn Crest Trail offers extensive hiking opportunities, while the Anthony Lake Ski Area provides mountain biking trails. The area also offers picturesque scenery and a chance to spot wildlife such as elk and bald eagles.

Hiking4.0/5

Access to Elkhorn Crest Trail (22.6 mi) and Black Lake Trail; abundant nearby hiking options.

Fishing4.0/5

Biking4.0/5Top 9% in Oregon

Nearby over 8 miles of single-track and downhill flow trails for mountain biking.

Boating4.0/5

Boating, canoeing and kayaking available at Anthony Lake with an accessible boat ramp.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayaking available at Anthony Lake; boat ramp and calm lake access noted.

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation and noted clear fall skies make for good stargazing opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Mud Lake Campground

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From Booking Sources

4.0

53 reviews

Satisfactory

Mud Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Mud Lake Campground receives mixed reviews, with an emphasis on its scenic location and proximity to Anthony Lake. While many appreciate the clean and peaceful environment, issues such as mosquito infestations, lack of privacy, and occasional reservation system inefficiencies have been noted. The addition of electrical hookups has been widely appreciated.

Review Summaries

Based on 53 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praise the campground's cleanliness, scenic beauty, and proximity to recreational activities at Anthony Lake. The quiet atmosphere during off-peak times and the well-maintained facilities are...

Based on 53 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include heavy mosquito presence, proximity of campsites leading to lack of privacy, and issues with the reservation system, such as signs not accurately reflecting reservations. The...

Based on 53 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 006 is mentioned multiple times, with one review noting it was 'poorly planned and not a flat area' for tent camping (Thomas F). In contrast, Peter R found sites 2 and 3 to be 'probably the...

Based on 53 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring mosquito repellent, especially during summer months, and prepare for cold mornings. Reviews suggest double-checking reservation details upon arrival and being flexible with site assignments.

Based on 53 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees high mosquito activity but also offers warm days and cool nights. Winter activities are available across the street at Anthony Lake. Off-peak seasons offer a quieter experience but may...

Based on 53 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Though I rate the campsite ‘fair’, its proximity to Anthony Lake and gorgeous hiking make it a nice spot, if you’re lucky enough to reserve a site.' - Thomas F. 2. 'The mosquitoes were out in...

Based on 53 reviews

Accessibility Features

The accessible vault toilets are well-maintained. The campground's proximity to Anthony Lake's accessible boat ramp adds to its appeal for those with mobility needs.

Based on 53 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Mixed reviews about pets. While the campground requires dogs to be leashed, Mindy M observed that several campers ignored this rule, making it inconvenient for those who complied.

Based on 53 reviews

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Mud Lake Campground

$16.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $50.00; Standard Electric: $32.00; Standard Nonelectric: $16.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8...

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Hookup Site Fee$32.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

541-894-2332campgrounds@anthonylakes.com

Go if

You want high-elevation lake access with electric hookups and don't mind a small campground with close neighbors.

Skip if

You need privacy between sites or want guaranteed site availability during peak season.

Nearby Campgrounds

47500 Anthony Lakes Hwy

Anthony Lake sits in Oregon's Elkhorn Mountains near North Powder, a high-elevation alpine campground managed by Anthony Lakes Campground Management. The setting offers access to mountain hiking, trout fishing, and boating on a glacial lake surrounded by wildflower meadows and granite peaks. Campers use the site as a base for exploring trails, paddling calm waters, and spotting wildlife in a subalpine forest environment.

Mud Lake Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Mud Lake Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Mud Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Mud Lake Campground

Planning Tips

About Mud Lake Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mud Lake Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Mud Lake Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

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Ask Camp Sage about Mud Lake Campground

Best Time to Camp at Mud Lake Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mud Lake Campground?

Amenities available

Things to do at Mud Lake Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews