Unity Lake State Recreation Site

Park Overview

Unity Lake State Recreation Site is an oasis of green in Oregon's high desert that offers boating and angling. The small campground is the perfect jumping-off point for visiting nearby historical sites and wilderness areas.

The day-use area has picnic tables on a large expanse of lawn with ample shade. This area includes a boat ramp, boat trailer parking, restrooms and water. Open year-round, it attracts anglers for ice fishing in the winter.

Spring and fall are the best seasons for fishing. Come October, many visitors use the campground as a base for hunting big game and upland birds on nearby public land in the Umatilla, Malhuer, and Wallowa-Whitman national forests. No hunting is allowed within the park boundary.

Seasonal Camping

Reservations for cabins and campsites available up to 6 months in advance.

• 35 electrical sites with water
• Two reservable cabins (One pet-friendly; see our Pets in Parks FAQ for more info)
• Hot showers and flush toilets
• Hiker/biker camp
• ADA-accessible RV dump station
• Firewood and ice for sale
• Universal Access: Two sites are accessible to campers with disabilities.

Nearby Attractions

Hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities abound in the three wilderness areas that lie within 30 miles of the park: Monument Rock, Strawberry Mountain, and North Fork John Day.

For a glimpse into the past, visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center at Flagstaff Hill.

The nearby mining town of Sumpter and Sumpter Valley Dredge State Heritage Area also offer a unique daytrip opportunity. The centerpiece is the five-story, 125-foot floating dredge that excavated $4.5 million in gold between 1935 and 1954. The dredge is open seasonally for tours, and a nature trail leads through the dredged area and past a maze of ponds. During the summer, the Sumpter Valley Railroad offers tours of the area.