Chris started his job yesterday. It’s the first time he’s been employed by someone else for our entire marriage! 14 years of self employment. We still have our small handmade jewelry business. He will continue to be very involved in its operations, as he has been for the past 5 years. This new job is in addition to what we currently do.
Knowing that this would be a big change for our family, and with the clock ticking till start date, he planned a weekend getaway for the family to Wallowa Lake, Oregon.
This started as a day trip. Wallowa Lake is about 3 hours from where we live. I suggested we go halfway the night before and get a hotel so we didn’t have such a long drive and more time to play.
Next thing I know he’s booked a campsite for two nights and managed to find a RV for us for the weekend! It was a God send for sure. Typically you need to book a campsite a 6 months to a year in advance for this little slice of heaven.
Chris and I went to Wallowa Lake years ago, just out of high school. We always talked about going back, but never did. We were so happy to finally take the kids there! If you love a good mountain lake scene, I’d put it on your list of places to see!
Since we were only there for a day and a half, we didn’t do too many things. Less was more this time around. We got in late Friday night, set up camp, and went to bed. We stayed at the Wallowa State Park. It’s worth checking availability! We made our reservations 2 days before we went. There were several tent camping sites still open while we were there. It appeared that the RV ones were the ones that filled up quickly.
On Saturday, our kids rose with the sun. Just exactly what will happen when you’ve had a late night. After an early breakfast, we headed off to hike. We did a portion of the Chief Joseph Hike. It’s a 6 mile hike and I’m guessing we hiked about 2 miles. Our kids ages range from 5-10. This beginning portion of the hike was great for them! Once you get past the bridge, there are switchbacks that go up the mountain. The trail narrows and there are areas that you need to use caution. However, as long as your kiddos understand trail safety, it’ll be a great hike!
Make sure you pack water! There is none along the way. Here are the kid’s hydration packs. I love them because they are smaller, but still hold 1.5L, and they have pockets to hold other items.
Once we completed the hike, we made our way down to the lake. On the first day, we were on the south side. There is a small beach there next to the marina. The beach is open to campers or day use. There are restrooms, a large grassy area with shade, and plenty of parking. However, the parking lot is a bit of a walk from the beach and you need to walk through a muddy marsh to get there. None of this seemed too bad or inconvenient, definitely worth it for the time at the lake.
However, we went to the north side of the lake the next day. That is the place to be! The parking is closer (although less spaces), restrooms are closer and there is even some shade right there on the beach. The beach is also much bigger and there is a larger roped off, no wake zone. It was fabulous. What we love about the lake is that it is crystal clear, and not too cold to swim in and enjoy.
Wallowa lake has a rocky beach, not a sandy one. Make sure to bring water shoes. Bring plenty of water and snacks too. I did not see any water refill stations. The parking on the north side was open to the public. I believe the south side had a day use entrance fee…but I can’t remember for sure. We had the camping pass, so it wasn’t something I checked on.
While hiking and swimming were the only activities we did, the area has so much more to offer! From gondola rides, to horse back riding up the mountain, to cute shops, there is so much to see and do. The town of Joseph is also just a 10 minute drive and is full of history and charm. A visit to this part of Oregon will not disappoint!
Terms & Prvacy policy 