McCormick Park

Campsites

Facilities

Recreation

Name: McCormick Park

McCormick Park is an Idaho Power recreational facility located on the Snake River just below Brownlee Dam. It was built in 1958 and honors the late Fred McCormick of Idaho Power Company. It is situated at the top end of Oxbow Reservoir with Wild Horse Creek dividing the boat ramp/overflow area from the main park. As with the other parks in Hells Canyon, people camp here for the fishing, water sports, and the chance to watch the abundant wildlife. On my trip into the canyon, I saw several flocks of turkey, 3 elk, 6 deer, 6 bighorn sheep, 2 bald eagles, and many other birds.

Campsites: McCormick Park has 34 RV camping sites that include water and electricity. They do not include a picnic table or fire pit. There are four picnic tables with fire pits scattered around the horseshoe shaped RV parking area. Each of the 7 tent campsites offer electricity, a picnic table, fire pit with grill, and a sand box for your tent. The picnic area is basicly three picnic tables situated along the shore, each having a standing barbecue grill beside it. These campsites offer no privacy but may make up for it with comfort. Terri and I camped here when we were expecting our first child. The campground was not as comfortable then, but I caught a couple trout and we had a great time.

Handicap Accessible: One RV camping site and the restroom are handicap accessible.

Fishing: Fishing in Oxbow Reservoir includes many species of fish. Bass, crappie, bluegill and trout are a few favorites. These same fish are available in the Snake River in front of the park.

Boating: There is a boat ramp and dock for accessing the Snake River/Oxbow Reservoir.

Phone service: Public pay phone is located at the restroom facility.

Nearby Services: If you forget something on your camping list, there are two small stores. There is one above Woodhead Park 3 miles, and the other is downstream a few miles on the Oregon side.

RV Dumping Site: An RV dump station is conveniently located for use.

Location/Driving instructions: From Cambridge, turn west on Idaho 71 for about 28 miles until you reach the Hells Canyon area. McCormick Park is only a few miles downstream from Woodhead Park. If you continue downstream, there are two or three campgrounds on the Oregon side and Hells Canyon Park on Hells Canyon Reservoir. If you don't care about a park, many campers just find a spot along the way.

Coordinates: 44.852275,-116.895473

Elevation: 1822 Feet

Reviewed Date: February 2010

Fees And Reservations: Idaho Power has an on-line reservation system, check it out.

This information is accurate as of the date of the review.