How do I get to Big Sheep Camp?

Access begins at Salt Creek Summit SnoPark off Highway 82, followed by a 3-mile hike over Wing Ridge Trail.

Is the camp suitable for kids or beginners?

The trail is moderate and best for those with some hiking experience; children can join but should be prepared for uphill trekking.

Can I book the entire camp for a private group?

Yes, there is an exclusive use option available for groups up to 12 people.

Are meals provided at the camp?

No, meals are self-catered; the camp provides a kitchen yurt for cooking and communal dining.

Is there cell phone coverage at the camp?

Cell service is generally unreliable to non-existent, enhancing the wilderness experience.

What time of year is best to visit?

Late spring through early fall offers the best weather and trail conditions, though summer is most popular.

Experience Big Sheep Camp: Remote Backcountry Retreat in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains | Hiking

Perched behind Wing Ridge in the Wallowa Mountains of northeastern Oregon, Big Sheep Camp offers an immersive backcountry experience at 6,400 feet elevation. This remote camp is accessible via a scenic 3-mile trek crossing the 7,500-foot saddle on the Wing Ridge Trail #1828, starting from Salt Creek Summit SnoPark at 6,200 feet. This moderate hike spares visitors the typical arduous approach, balancing a rewarding day hike with the promise of well-deserved comfort upon arrival.

Big Sheep Camp stands out in the Wallowas for its rare combination of rustic wilderness and cozy accommodations. After trekking the trail through open alpine meadows and stands of mountain hemlock, guests arrive to find two spacious sleep cabins designed to host small groups—each accommodating up to five people. Alongside these cabins sits a sizeable 20-foot kitchen yurt where everyone can gather and share meals, equipped with essentials to prepare backcountry feasts. Adding an uncommon luxury for remote camps, a sauna offers a soothing retreat after a day of hiking or exploring the surrounding terrain.

The camp is perched above the town of Joseph, Oregon, a charming gateway town known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene. Joseph serves as the last convenient stop for stocking up on supplies or spending the night before your adventure into the mountains.

Adventure seekers can complete the circuit by taking the Wagon Road Trail, a relatively flat 4-mile route that encircles Wing Ridge, providing stunning vantage points of the Wallowa peaks, expansive valleys, and native wildflowers. The landscape here is marked by rugged volcanic formations and meadows dotted with beargrass and lupine, supporting wildlife such as mountain goats and Clark’s nutcrackers.

Big Sheep Camp’s blend of accessibility, comfort, and natural beauty makes it a standout destination for backcountry travelers who want to experience the high-altitude wilderness without heavy packing. For an additional fee, a porter service is available to carry your gear via an alternate route, reducing the load and enhancing the multi-day trek experience.

The camp also offers an exclusive booking option for groups up to 12, perfect for families or friends wanting private use of the facilities.

Sustainability is respected here, with efforts to minimize impact on the fragile alpine ecosystem. The camp’s small scale and carefully managed visitor numbers help preserve this pristine corner of Oregon’s mountain wilderness.

Big Sheep Camp beckons outdoor enthusiasts looking for an intimate wilderness experience paired with thoughtful comforts, all set amidst some of Oregon’s most dramatic mountain scenery.