Best Camping near John Day, OR

Searching for the best camping near John Day, OR? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Oregon camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near John Day, OR (120)

    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site

    1. Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site

    27 Reviews
    69 Photos
    92 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $26 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground

    2. Strawberry Campground

    6 Reviews
    13 Photos
    81 Saves

    Strawberry Campground is located at the edge of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. Set amongst ponderosa pine in a beautifully wooded area, the campground is an excellent starting point for anyone wanting to hike, hunt, fish or simply relax. Strawberry Basin Trailhead is located at the campground. Strawberry Basin Trail #375 connects to other trails in the wilderness allowing for day hiking or backpacking trips.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant County RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant County RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant County RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant County RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant County RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant County RV Park

    3. Grant County RV Park

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    14 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Starr
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr

    4. Starr

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    32 Saves

    Starr Campground is located just off of US Highway 395 making it very easy to get to. The campground has an upper level that is closer to the highway, yet still set back amongst beautiful pondersa pines. The lower part of the campground is set further back in the pine trees allowing for a more secluded experience. This beautiful campground sets in a prime spot for hunters, hikers and wildlife enthusiats. Within a 7 mile drive of the campground are numerous trailheads leading into the beautiful Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. Just a few more miles down the road is beautiful Logan Valley, this area is amazing during the spring, summer and fall months affording wildflower, wildlife and scenery viewing. Starr Campground is a great base camp spot for those wanting to explore the Murderers Creek area and have the opportunity to see the wildhorses that reside there.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest

    5. Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest

    10 Reviews
    38 Photos

    Overview

    Nestled on the edge of a lake, high in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon, this popular campground is only 8 miles west of the historic Fremont Powerhouse and 12 miles west of the old mining town of Granite. The campground features 28 campsites and 7 accessible toilet facilities. Other features include a 2-mile hiking trail around the lake with nearby access to wilderness and scenic area trails, a boat ramp and 2 docks. There is no potable water or garbage service, so please pack your garbage home.____ Besides beautiful scenery, the lake offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing--particularly a nesting pair of osprey that return annually. Activities in this area include fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, hunting, and photography. Within 20 miles are several historic sites.

    Recreation

    A 2-mile hiking trail encircles the lake, providing access to more secluded spots where solitude can be enjoyed. Bicyclists can also enjoy the trail although there are a couple of spots bikes might need to be walked, depending on skill level. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, and kokanee and crawfish boils are a popular dinner option. There are 2 boat docks adjacent to the campground, as well as a boat ramp and trailer parking. Motorized boats are allowed on the lake, but wakes and jet skis are not allowed. There are opportunities for viewing wildlife such as deer, elk, bear, river otters, and osprey. Mushroom and berry picking are available in season. Other nearby trails access the North John Day Wilderness Area and Vinegar Hill Scenic Area. An interpretive sign about the beetle infestation is located in a few spots within the campground.

    Facilities

    A 2-mile hiking trail encircles the lake, providing access to more secluded spots where solitude can be enjoyed. Bicyclists can also enjoy the trail although there are a couple of spots bikes might need to be walked, depending on skill level. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, and kokanee and crawfish boils are a popular dinner option. There are 2 boat docks adjacent to the campground, as well as a boat ramp and trailer parking. Motorized boats are allowed on the lake, but wakes and jet skis are not allowed. There are opportunities for viewing wildlife such as deer, elk, bear, river otters, and osprey. Mushroom and berry picking are available in season. Other nearby trails access the North John Day Wilderness Area and Vinegar Hill Scenic Area. An interpretive sign about the beetle infestation is located in a few spots within the campground.

    Nearby Attractions

    The area around Olive Lake is rich in history. The dam and gates on the north side of the lake were constructed as part of a hydroelectric system to support gold mining activities within the northern Blue Mountain Region. Historically, water from the lake flowed through a wooden pipeline to the Fremont Powerhouse, where it was used to produce electricity for mines and towns in the area. Fremont Powerhouse is located approximately 7 miles east and the historic moning town of Granite is 12 miles east of Olive Lake along Forest Road 73.__

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground

    6. Union Creek Campground

    28 Reviews
    75 Photos
    197 Saves

    Overview

    One of Eastern Oregons largest Forest Service campgrounds, Union Creek Campground is located 18 miles South of Baker City. Sitting along Phillips Reservoirs North shore, Union Creek Campground boasts many amenities including over 60 tent/trailer sites, some with full hookups. There is access to boating, mountain biking, hiking and more. This campground is part of the Union Creek Recreation Area, which includes a picnic and day-use area. Union Creek Campground is set on three loops with separate walk-in tent camping, and it has four group sites that can accommodate large groups up to 60 people. PLEASE NOTE: This Union Creek Campground is located in northeastern Oregon in the Wallowa Whitman National Forest. This is not the Union Creek Campground located in southwestern Oregon near Medford.

    Recreation

    The campground is near a boat launch and a small, rocky swim beach. Activities include swimming, fishing, boating, and water skiing. Anglers can fish for bass, trout and perch. There's an access point for the Phillips Lake Shoreline Trail, a scenic trail for hiking and mountain biking. This trail can be connected to make a 16 mile loop around the lake.

    Natural Features

    Phillips Reservoir is a popular destination within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest because it offers scenic views of the surrounding Elkhorn Mountains. The shoreline is forested with a mix of Ponderosa pine and various firs interspersed with small grasslands. Visitors enjoy several varieties of colorful wildflowers in the spring.

    Nearby Attractions

    The historic gold mining town of Sumpter is about 10 miles away, West of Hwy 7. Visitors can explore the Sumpter Dredge State Heritage Park, browse the holiday weekend flea markets or take a ride on a historic steam locomotive.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see NRRS Reservation Policy

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 - $46 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Magone Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magone Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magone Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magone Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magone Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Magone Lake Campground

    7. Magone Lake Campground

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    71 Saves

    Magone Lake Campground is situated along its namesake lake in the northern reaches of Malheur National Forest in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing, swimming and hiking. Natural Features: The campground is set in a forest of Engelmann spruce and ponderosa pine. Magone Lake covers about 50 acres and features both deep holes of up to 100 feet and shoals on the north side. Geologists believe Magone Lake was created by a landslide in the early 1800s. It is located in the southern reaches of the Malheur National Forest. Recreation: The Magone Lake area offers swimming, fishing, hiking and mountain biking opportunities. The lake contains eastern brook and rainbow trout. A boat ramp is available on-site. Visitors also enjoy viewing wildflowers and interesting geology throughout the region. Facilities: The campground offers both a picnic shelter and overnight campsite for groups to reserve. These sites can accommodate up to 75 people each. Individual family sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Picnic tables and campfire rings with grills are provided, as are vault toilets and drinking water. ACTIVITIES Biking: Mountain Biking Boating Fishing Hiking Hunting

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $13 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Murderers Creek Guard Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Murderers Creek Guard Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Murderers Creek Guard Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Murderers Creek Guard Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Murderers Creek Guard Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Murderers Creek Guard Station

    9. Murderers Creek Guard Station

    3 Reviews
    17 Photos
    9 Saves

    Overview

    Murderer's Creek Guard Station is in the heart of the Malheur National Forest, in central Oregon. It makes an excellent base camp for back country recreating, and is a cozy retreat for a couple and a fun opportunity to imagine the life of the early day forest rangers. The historic guard station is one of the oldest standing buildings in the forest. The cabin contains some modern amenities and can be accessed by vehicle. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.

    Recreation

    Viewing wildlife and birds is popular in the area, as is hunting not far from the facility. Guests can hike area trails, explore the Cedar Grove Botanical Area and fish Murderer's Creek and South Fork John Day, though area creeks run dry toward summer's end.

    Natural Features

    The guard station is located approximately 32 miles from the town of John Day. It sits at an elevation of about 5,000 feet. The facility was built in 1913 and was originally used as a fire guard station. It was in use by Forest Service officials until the late 1990s. Murderer's Creek, a small creek that runs east and west along the southern base of Aldrich Mountain, is nearby the cabin. The guard station is surrounded by open meadows and timbered areas of ponderosa pine and mixed conifer. Abundant wildflowers dot the Cedar Grove Botanical Area, a 26-acre cedar grove on the northeast slope of Aldrich Mountain. The area is known for its wild horses, which coexist with mule deer, elk, antelope, bighorn sheep, bear, cougar, and myriad smaller forest animals.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (541) 575-3000.

    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Trash
    • Toilets

    $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast

    10. Victorian Lane Bed & Breakfast

    1 Review
    17 Photos
    1 Save

    Envision a stay in our beautiful and modern country style Bed & Breakfast in John Day, Oregon. It's been uniquely decorated by Andrea with furniture redesigned in her homey, yet eclectic style. Add to that specifically selected or custom made accessories, styled with co-ordinated fabric and paint schemes throughout. All of this comes together to create a symphony of comfort and relaxation for your enjoyment. The rooms are inspired by the works of four classic authors: Jane Austen, Lucy Montgomery, Louisa May Alcott, and JM Barrie; portraying the style and feel so well described in their books to each. We look forward to meeting you and making your stay a memorable one.

    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Cabins
    • Trash
    • WiFi
    • Showers

    $159 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 120 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near John Day

Recent Reviews In John Day

205 Reviews of 120 John Day Campgrounds


  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Starr
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Starr

    Superstarr!

    Nice area close to the road. Plenty of room for my small trailer. Though it was close to the road it wasn’t very noisy. I camped in site 9 so 1/4 mile away from the road. Only issue last role of TP.

  • Ndomupei N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Pine Campground
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Yellow Pine Campground

    Not Safe

    For years Yellow Pine was our last resort to camp on Memorial weekend, July 4-th and Labor Day when all the popular campgrounds were full. There is not much to do there, but you can relax in a hammock drinking beer and sit by the firepit when fire is allowed. On regular weekends the campground is empty, on holidays usually half full. There is always the host with a few trailers living there, seems like the same person. I am not sure does he has any duties or just allowed to stay there for free, I have never seen him doing anything like cleaning campsites or bathrooms. There is a sign at the front “NO DOGS ALLOWED OTHER THAN ON A LEASH” which everyone ignores. The host doesn’t care either obviously. On Labor weekend 2024 we spent two nights at Yellow Pine and had a bad incident. There is a nature trail connecting Yellow Pine and Wetmore campgrounds, the only hiking option for campers. The trail is located next to campsite#6 which was occupied by a company with three vehicles, a few tents, one RV, multiple kids and dogs. On Sunday morning my husband and I were walking past that campsite to the trail. My husband had our little puppy on a leash. Passing campsite 6 we were attacked by three dogs that were aiming at our puppy. My husband pushed the biggest dog away, fell, our puppy rolled over, the dogs slid under my husband’s feet, he fell on asphalt, rolled over, our puppy fell and rolled over…..it was a mess….everything happened so fast so we couldn’t reconstruct the sequence of the events later being in shock. Dog owners never apologized and refused to provide their information even seeing that my husband couldn’t get up from the ground for a few minutes. I took pictures of their license plates, that’s all I could do. I wanted the host to be our witness, but his truck was gone. The whole of next week my husband couldn’t lift his right arm and therefore couldn’t work. He went to the family doctor, had x-ray done, then was sent in for a CT scan. At this point he has appointments with the orthopedic specialist and MRI. CT scan showed torn tendon and bicep, and impact fracture. We don’t know yet but there is a chance he will have to have surgery done. We will see what amount we will end up and probably will have to hire a law firm to search the dog owners by their license plates and sue them. I wrote all this to warn people about what can happen in a campground where is no law and order and the host is not doing his job. Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when you camp at Yellow Pine campground.

  • Evan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry

    Good spot for a few nights

    There are a few spots and spurs off NF-6510 that would make for good boondocking. Might be hard to get level, but other than that it’s pretty nice. The spot on the map has a stone fire ring. There are a few spots before and after that would be suitable to setup camp as well.

    I got to the spot marked on the map in my extended Transit, but I’m sure road conditions may change with the seasons, storms; etc. Depending on your comfort, you may only want to head this way with high-clearance vehicle.

  • Evan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Social Security Point Trailhead
    Aug. 17, 2024

    Social Security Point Trailhead

    Amazing spot with treed in sites or lake-front

    Great little dispersed spot with a clean outhouse.

    There looks to be 4 sites in the trees, but if you keep driving down it’ll take you towards the lake, which is where I camped. Wide open, great sunset views! The lake is dammed, so I assume the water levels vary, but when I was there, there was room for a few more vehicles down by the water. Careful going too far, as some tire tracks looked to have maybe gotten stuck in mud by venturing too far out. 😂

    Great spot, would definitely return!

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site

    An Oasis on Highway 26

    This is always such a great place to stop when traveling between Idaho and western Oregon. It has lots of shade, lawn, and hedges that offer privacy between the large camp sites. Super clean showers and restrooms, dog friendly, and a nice trail to walk along next to the river. Yes, the sites closer to the road are noisier due to traffic, while the ones closer to the river are the buggiest in the summer, but if you want hook ups, easy access, and an RV dump and don't mind paying for all these amenities, this is the place. We stayed in site 9, which has a super long paved and level driveway giving you lots of peace and quiet.

  • Joseph B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ukiah-Dale State Park
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Ukiah-Dale State Park

    Beautiful campground

    I camped here during the summer season of 2023. When I pulled into the campground it was just me and the camp hosts. They gave me the pick of what site I wanted. I swooped on one next to the river. The campground was beautiful and sites were good distances from each other. There are bathrooms and areas to top off your water. I choose this campground due to driving the 395 as my choice of route to explore. I would 100% recommend this campsite again.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Campground
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Middle Fork Campground

    Hidden gem in plain sight

    Nice little campground right on the Middle Fork John Day River. Fairly close to the highway, so there's some road noise, but this highway doesn't have much traffic. Clean vault toilets.

  • Ann W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site

    Quiet State Park

    We were surprised how quiet this state park was during our visit. Very clean and beautiful green grass through campground. Enjoyed the river trail along the John Day river. Perfect to cool off in during the hot summer months. Mosquitoes definitely come out at night and we were tent camping. A little highway noise at night but not bad.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Southwest Shore Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Southwest Shore Campground

    Peaceful and spectacular views

    Dry camping with a put toilet, very clean. The camping sites were pretty level. Site 11 we feel was the best. Baker city was just about 20 minutes away along with the old gold mining town of Sumpter about 10 minutes away

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Millers Lane
    Apr. 11, 2024

    Millers Lane

    Nice spot on Lake Miller

    Just arrived today. I’ll update after our full stay. Come here to explore Sumpter and the mines. Dispersed but tables and fire rings. Some pull throughs. No hookups or trash service. Beautiful setting. 3 bars AT&T.

    Sites are not level. Large rigs will be fine, ours is 30’ TT

    After stay review. Had a great time. Cranes were hanging at the lake, two Bald Eagles were close by. Great location with a lot to explore.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Oct. 29, 2023

    Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest

    Beautiful Olive Lake

    Beautiful and peaceful stay. We were able to snag a first come first serve campsite just before the 4th. Cons: Most sites are simple turnouts, more suitable for tents. No ATV use so our mobility was limited. There are a few sites to back a camper off the road. Pro: nice boat dock and access for swimming.

  • Andrew T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Bates State Park
    Oct. 24, 2023

    Bates State Park

    Convenient, Quiet, and Exceptionally Clean

    We were looking for a campground to stay at on our way from eastern Oregon to the John Day wilderness area. Bates State Park was a perfect overnight spot, just far enough off Hwy 26 to be quiet and exceptionally clean and well maintained. There are no hookups, and it will be a few years before vegetation matures to offer more privacy between spaces, but the park was uncrowded and felt private nonetheless. There are very interesting signs telling about the logging history of the area as well as a playground and nature trails.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Strawberry Campground

    Quiet and secluded

    Nice sites with lots of separation and easy access to a trailhead. Multiple vault toilets available as well as water taps that I don’t think are potable but good enough to rinse dishes. We got caught in rain, sleet, snow, and graupel all in one day but that’s hardly the campground’s fault. If you can get up the sketchy and rough road, it’s a beautiful site.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Barnhouse Campground
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Barnhouse Campground

    Quiet and secluded

    Stayed for one night, most of the sites are far enough away that it didn’t feel crowded with three other parties there, but a couple of the sites are close enough to be good for a group. Our site had a slight slant so we needed a couple of leveling blocks. Clean toilet when we were there.

  • Peggy/Mark C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest
    Sep. 20, 2023

    Olive Lake Campground (Or) — Umatilla National Forest

    Beautiful and peaceful.

    Olive Lake is a beautiful and quiet place to camp. There is a boat ramp and dock that are in good repair there. There are lakeside campsites. Some are reservable and others are first come first serve. There has been some thinning of the trees in the campground and the cleanup process has not been completed, yet it is still a great place to stay. There is a trail that goes around the lake that they say is only 2 miles long. It was a wonderful hike but according to our sports watches and GPS was almost 3 miles. So be prepared.

  • P
    Camper-submitted photo from Mccully Forks
    Aug. 24, 2023

    Mccully Forks

    Peaceful and beautiful

    This quite little gem of a camp ground is our favorite spot to get away for a weekend or longer. Beautiful old growth trees, with a stream running through it. Close to Sumpter if you forgot something, or there is always some street activity or flea market happening.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Lunch Creek

    For Cars and Tiny Rigs

    Sweet little spot for smaller vehicles. We walked along the path to check it out before attempting it in our 26ft class c and I’m glad we did. The path was too narrow for us, and the road rose up a bit too high along the middle. A smaller vehicle shouldn’t have a problem. There’s a nice little clearing at the end of the path right along the little creek. Very peaceful and green when we came here in July. 

    At the main road there IS a spot large enough for our RV (that’s where we parked when we got out to walk to the creek spot) but we decided not to stay the night there. It wasn’t flat at all and a little too noisy and close to the main road. But it would definitely do in a pinch- very easy to get to- just off the main road to the right. There’s a fire pit marking the spot. 

    Zero cell reception in this entire area for verizon and ATT. No amenities here, this is a FS dispersed camping spot so please keep the area clean and pack out your waste.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Mtn Sno Park
    Jul. 27, 2023

    Blue Mtn Sno Park

    Good sno park camping

    Free camping in sno park parking lot in Malheur National Forest between May and October. Huge parking lot, accessible for any giant RV. Lot is flat enough, not totally flat but good enough for the night. 

    There’s an accessible pit toilet here but it was locked when we stayed here in July. 

    We had the whole lot to ourselves for the night. Very peaceful and quiet, very minimal traffic and road noise. Nice forest roads to walk along. Lots of green grass and trees when we came in July. 

    No amenities here at all, please pack out your waste and keep it clean. Zero cell reception here in this entire area with Verizon or ATT but the lot is in a big clearing with no trees around so I’m guessing starlink would work well here.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Strawberry Campground
    Jul. 23, 2023

    Strawberry Campground

    Hidden Gem

    Off the beaten path, but we'll worth it! Dropped 20 degrees from the hot valley floor. Around 8 spots, first come, but a few other spots on the way up, for dispersed. Right along strawberry creek, beautiful, quiet. Trails to explore, wildlife to see.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork
    Jul. 22, 2023

    Middle Fork

    Beautiful riverside campground

    This is a very nice Forest Service campground along the Middle Fork of the John Day River. The sites are nicely laid out and are a fair distance from each other. Although the campground is adjacent to a paved road, there was little traffic during our two night stay.

    The river is a little difficult to access because of shrubs and small trees, but this is actually good news because so much of the Middle Fork has been damaged by mining and cattle. Continuing west on the road brings you to several very interesting locations with information boards that describe the reclamation efforts of the Warm Spring Tribe on 2,000 acres of land through which the river runs.

  • I
    Camper-submitted photo from Unity Lake Dump Station
    Jul. 17, 2023

    Unity Lake Dump Station

    Quiet place with small trees

    Hosts were very friendly and the location was peaceful. Sunsets were beautiful but we stayed during a very hot week and the lack of shade made it very difficult to stay cool. Trees were very small and didn’t provide much shade. In about 5 years it may be a better place to camp.
    Lake water was extremely filthy. Kids swam and had a good time in the cool water but the water was gross.

  • I
    Camper-submitted photo from Union Creek Campground
    Jul. 10, 2023

    Union Creek Campground

    Big group camp sites

    We’ve been here a couple of times with trailers and about 10 other families. Their groups sites are next to each other and allow big groups to stay together.



Guide to John Day

Camping near John Day, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails along the John Day River. One camper mentioned, "Enjoyed the river trail along the John Day river. Perfect to cool off in during the hot summer months," while camping at Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site.
  • Fishing: The area is great for fishing, especially at Unity Lake State Recreation Area. A visitor shared, "The fishing looked great. Another camper offered us freshly caught trout."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One family at Strawberry Campground noted, "We even got a visit from a few deer every night around dinner time."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site said, "Super clean showers and restrooms, dog friendly."
  • Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. One camper at Olive Lake Campground remarked, "Most sites are simple turnouts, more suitable for tents. No ATV use so our mobility was limited."
  • Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A visitor at Bates State Park mentioned, "The park was uncrowded and felt private nonetheless."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Olive Lake Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "There are lakeside campsites. Some are reservable and others are first come first serve."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. A camper at Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site warned, "Mosquitoes definitely come out at night and we were tent camping."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds are accessed via rough roads. A visitor at Strawberry Campground mentioned, "The bumpy gravel road might not work for sedan always, but worth a try."

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Games: Since some campgrounds may not have many kids around, pack games to keep the little ones entertained. A camper at Strawberry Campground suggested, "We needed some fun stuff to do between hikes and outings."
  • Choose Sites Wisely: Look for sites that are away from steep drop-offs, especially if you have young kids. One camper advised, "Keep an eye on kiddos or pick a site farther away from the creek if you’re worried about that."
  • Pack Extra Layers: The weather can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothes. A family noted, "We didn’t realize it was still so chilly at the end of May."

Tips from RVers

  • Check for Hookups: Make sure to choose campgrounds that offer the necessary hookups for your RV. A visitor at Grant County RV Park mentioned, "Spaces were all level and gravel with full hook-ups."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some RV sites can be close together, so pick your spot carefully. A camper shared, "Difficult to determine which one was ours as the sites are close together with no privacy between them."
  • Quiet Evenings: Many campgrounds are peaceful at night, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. A reviewer at Tollbridge Campground said, "The campsites are spread apart and separated by many trees, so our site felt very private."

Camping near John Day, Oregon, offers a unique blend of outdoor fun and relaxation. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near John Day, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, John Day, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 120 campgrounds and RV parks near John Day, OR and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near John Day, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near John Day, OR is Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site with a 4.3-star rating from 27 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near John Day, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near John Day, OR.

  • What parks are near John Day, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near John Day, OR that allow camping, notably Malheur National Forest and Central Oregon.