Join the fun near Antelope. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Antelope is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
For a rustic overnight stay deep in eastern Oregon, let your tires roll past the Painted Hills-one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders-and drive deep into John Day River Territory to the Priest Hole Recreation Site. Although primitive, camping here lands you in the middle of the Wild and Scenic John Day River, designated for scenery, recreation, fish, wildlife, and geologic values. Camping is allowed everywhere, including on the gravel bar northeast of Priest Hole, where you sleep to the gurgle of the river and stepping out of your tent or trailer lands your foot in the water. Know Before You Go: Open YEAR ROUND but the rough road can make access difficult in winter. ACCESSIBILITY is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities. NO FEES for camping or floating the one-mile section around Priest Hole. There is one toilet; NO potable water, trash cans or campsite amenities. PETS ARE ALLOWED under owner control. Watch for rattlesnakes. HUNTING/FISHING LICENSES ARE REQUIRED. Fire restrictions run June 1 – September 30 (liquid gas or propane only). Point of Interest: Priest Hole is a local favorite for fishing and swimming. Stopping here is a natural part of a visit to the Painted Hills, Sutton Mountain Back Country Byway and eastern Oregon! Priest Hole Brochure Explore Oregon Recreation: Priest Hole ADA Access: Priest Hole Recreation Site is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities.
As of10/5/2020 *** There is a Closure Order prohibiting dispersed camping outside of the Skull Hollow campground. View a map of the closure area here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd507382.pdf.
This closure is designed to help protect natural resources around the trailhead from overuse and to prevent conflict between campers and day users. Please observe the closure order and use the campground for camping in the vicinity of Skull Hollow trailhead. AMENITIES: NO DRINKING WATER 28 standard campsites No hook-ups or dumping facilities 1 wooden picnic table and 1 combination fire ring/grill per campsite 2 vault outhouses for the campground 1 informational signboard On-site campground host NEARBY ACTIVITIES: Horseback Riding Hiking Mountain Biking Rock climbing (Smith Rock State Park) Hunting
$10 - $20 / night
2021: Open with capacity limit due to COVID-19.
If you enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you. There are several thousand climbs in the park. More than a thousand are bolted routes. We also offer miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Along your trip through the canyon, you might see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otter and beaver.
Note: Some climbing areas are closed or have limited access from about Jan. 15 to Aug. 1 to protect nesting raptors. Drones are also not allowed during this period. Check the park advisories on this page for exact dates and affected areas.
Due to the uniqueness and fragile aspect of the park, park rangers enforce the animal leash law and ask all park users to stay on trails. Bivouac Camping
Camping is open early spring through late fall, as weather allows.
Walk-in bivouac area for tents (No reservations)
Showers (overnight guests only)
RV camping, sleeping in vehicles and open fires are not allowed$8 / night
Dispersed camping is allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service (USFS) lands without a permit, but it is recommended that campers obtain a map that shows current property boundaries. Please contact the BLM , (541) 573-4400 or (541) 416-6700, or the USFS, (541) 575-3000 or (541) 416-6500, for more information.
While camping is not allowed within the three units of the monument, there are many nearby campgrounds. Some have full service amenities, some are quiet and remote, some are in the forest, and some are right on the John Day River.
Welcome to Crooked River Campground at The Cove Palisades State Park! This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. The campground is open from February 16 to December 15, offering a long season to explore its beauty.
One of the standout features here is the stunning scenery. Visitors rave about the jaw-dropping views of the mountains and canyon. If you're into hiking, you'll love the trails, though keep in mind there are only a couple of main ones. The Tamalau Trail is a must-do, especially if you can catch it on a cool day. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from the top are worth every step.
For those who love water activities, this place is heaven. Lake Billy Chinook, fed by the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius rivers, is perfect for boating, jet-skiing, and fishing. You can even rent a boat from the marina to hit the best fishing spots. Just be prepared for some noise from the boats during busy times.
The campground itself is well-equipped. You'll find full hookups for RVs, clean bathrooms, and hot showers. There's also a fenced dog park, which is a hit with pet owners. If you need supplies, Madras is just a 15-minute drive away.
Families will appreciate the playground and the communal vibe. It’s not the place for seclusion, but if you enjoy a friendly, neighborhood feel, you’ll fit right in. Plus, the park rangers are super helpful and always around to offer tips and ensure everything runs smoothly.
So, whether you're here for the hiking, the water sports, or just to relax and take in the views, Crooked River Campground has something for everyone. Enjoy your stay!
Welcome to Deschutes River Campground at The Cove Palisades State Park! Nestled in the heart of the Deschutes National Forest, this spot is a gem for anyone looking to soak in some stunning natural beauty. The campground is open from mid-May to mid-September, offering a perfect escape during the warmer months.
One of the standout features here is the breathtaking scenery. The drive into the park alone is worth the trip, with jaw-dropping views that will make you want to pull over and snap a few photos. Once you're settled in, you'll find plenty of hiking opportunities right from the campground. The Tam-A-Lau trail is a favorite, offering incredible views and a great way to start your day with a sunrise hike.
The campground itself is well-maintained and clean, with friendly rangers who are always ready to lend a hand. While there are no electric or water hookups, you will find drinking water and toilets available. Fires are allowed, so you can enjoy a cozy evening around the campfire. Just remember, no alcohol or pets are permitted, so plan accordingly.
For those with RVs, the sites vary in size, and some can accommodate larger rigs. However, you might want to drive through the loop first to find a spot that fits your vehicle. If you're into water activities, the nearby Lake Billy Chinook is a major draw, perfect for jet skiing, boating, and fishing.
In summary, Deschutes River Campground offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, hiking, and water activities, all within a well-kept and friendly environment. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or looking for a bit of glamping, this campground has something to offer. Enjoy your stay!
Welcome to Lone Tree Campground in Cottonwood Canyon State Park, nestled near the charming town of Wasco, Oregon. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to escape into nature without sacrificing comfort. The campground is beautifully maintained and offers a range of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the windbreaks provided at each campsite, which are a lifesaver given the canyon's notorious winds. The park has thoughtfully included covered picnic tables and dedicated fire pits, making it a cozy spot for evening gatherings. Just remember, during fire season, open flames might be restricted, so plan accordingly.
The John Day River runs right through the park, offering fantastic opportunities for fishing. The river is teeming with fish and crayfish, making it a hit for anglers. If you're into hiking or biking, the trails here are top-notch. They range from easy green runs to more challenging routes, all with breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.
For those who love stargazing, you're in for a treat. The night skies here are spectacular, free from the light pollution that plagues more urban areas. It's a perfect spot to lay back and take in the cosmos.
The campground also boasts clean facilities, including bathrooms and showers, which visitors have praised for their cleanliness. And if you're looking to truly unplug, you'll be pleased to know there's no cell service here. It's a great way to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to enjoy all that Lone Tree Campground has to offer. Whether you're here for the fishing, the trails, or just some peace and quiet, this place has got you covered.
$10 / night
The Ochoco Divide Group Site is a convenient place to camp while traveling across scenic State Highway 26 by bicycle or car. Resting at the top of the Ochoco Divide at an elevation of 4,700 ft., the group site is set on a hill away from the road as an extension of the general campground. Summertime in the Ochoco National Forest brings pleasant temperatures; the campground is closed during winter.
The group site of the Ochoco Divide Campground is mainly used by touring cyclists. It is also a good place to take a relaxing stroll through the woods. There are opportunities for hunting, mountain biking and hiking in the national forest surrounding the facility. Several trailheads begin at the Bandit Springs rest stop about one mile from the campground on Highway 26.
The group site of the Ochoco Divide Campground is mainly used by touring cyclists. It is also a good place to take a relaxing stroll through the woods. There are opportunities for hunting, mountain biking and hiking in the national forest surrounding the facility. Several trailheads begin at the Bandit Springs rest stop about one mile from the campground on Highway 26.
The scenery surrounding the campground alternates between thick Ponderosa pine forests and grassy meadows, though shortly beyond the campground the road descends into lower-elevation, arid canyon lands. One of the most unique geologic features of the Ochoco National Forest is the 'thunder egg,' Oregon's official state rock. Thunder eggs are small, colorful, round volcanic rocks similar to geodes that have been exposed over time. The U.S. Forest Service has designated specific sites for rock hounding.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is less than an hour away. Hike amongst the Painted Hills and famed fossils, take a journey through time at the museum at Sheep Rock or picnic beneath the beautiful mountain scenery. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
$50 / night
Welcome to the Redmond - Central Oregon KOA, nestled near Culver, OR. This spot is a solid choice if you're looking for a convenient and comfortable camping experience. Open all year, it offers a variety of accommodations including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, glamping options, and even yurts.
One of the standout features here is the friendly and helpful staff. Visitors often mention how clean the bathrooms and showers are, which is always a plus when you're out in the wild. The campground also has a nice outdoor pool and a well-stocked office/store, making it easy to grab any essentials you might have forgotten.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be pleased to know that this KOA is pet-friendly and has good options for your furry friends. There are plenty of pull-through spots, which makes it easy for those with larger rigs. Plus, the sites are mostly level, so setting up camp is a breeze.
The campground is surrounded by mountains and farm fields, offering a picturesque setting. It's a bit of a drive from Redmond, but the peaceful environment more than makes up for it. If you're into social activities, keep an eye out for events like ice cream socials and food trucks that pop up from time to time.
Whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay, the Redmond - Central Oregon KOA provides a comfortable and scenic spot to rest and recharge.
For a rustic overnight stay deep in eastern Oregon, let your tires roll past the Painted Hills-one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders-and drive deep into John Day River Territory to the Priest Hole Recreation Site. Although primitive, camping here lands you in the middle of the Wild and Scenic John Day River, designated for scenery, recreation, fish, wildlife, and geologic values. Camping is allowed everywhere, including on the gravel bar northeast of Priest Hole, where you sleep to the gurgle of the river and stepping out of your tent or trailer lands your foot in the water. Know Before You Go: Open YEAR ROUND but the rough road can make access difficult in winter. ACCESSIBILITY is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities. NO FEES for camping or floating the one-mile section around Priest Hole. There is one toilet; NO potable water, trash cans or campsite amenities. PETS ARE ALLOWED under owner control. Watch for rattlesnakes. HUNTING/FISHING LICENSES ARE REQUIRED. Fire restrictions run June 1 – September 30 (liquid gas or propane only). Point of Interest: Priest Hole is a local favorite for fishing and swimming. Stopping here is a natural part of a visit to the Painted Hills, Sutton Mountain Back Country Byway and eastern Oregon! Priest Hole Brochure Explore Oregon Recreation: Priest Hole ADA Access: Priest Hole Recreation Site is primitive and not easily accessible for people with disabilities.
As of10/5/2020 *** There is a Closure Order prohibiting dispersed camping outside of the Skull Hollow campground. View a map of the closure area here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd507382.pdf.
This closure is designed to help protect natural resources around the trailhead from overuse and to prevent conflict between campers and day users. Please observe the closure order and use the campground for camping in the vicinity of Skull Hollow trailhead. AMENITIES: NO DRINKING WATER 28 standard campsites No hook-ups or dumping facilities 1 wooden picnic table and 1 combination fire ring/grill per campsite 2 vault outhouses for the campground 1 informational signboard On-site campground host NEARBY ACTIVITIES: Horseback Riding Hiking Mountain Biking Rock climbing (Smith Rock State Park) Hunting
$10 - $20 / night
2021: Open with capacity limit due to COVID-19.
If you enjoy scenic views of deep river canyons or rock climbing, Smith Rock State Park is the place for you. There are several thousand climbs in the park. More than a thousand are bolted routes. We also offer miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Along your trip through the canyon, you might see golden eagles, prairie falcons, mule deer, river otter and beaver.
Note: Some climbing areas are closed or have limited access from about Jan. 15 to Aug. 1 to protect nesting raptors. Drones are also not allowed during this period. Check the park advisories on this page for exact dates and affected areas.
Due to the uniqueness and fragile aspect of the park, park rangers enforce the animal leash law and ask all park users to stay on trails. Bivouac Camping
Camping is open early spring through late fall, as weather allows.
Walk-in bivouac area for tents (No reservations)
Showers (overnight guests only)
RV camping, sleeping in vehicles and open fires are not allowed$8 / night
Dispersed camping is allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service (USFS) lands without a permit, but it is recommended that campers obtain a map that shows current property boundaries. Please contact the BLM , (541) 573-4400 or (541) 416-6700, or the USFS, (541) 575-3000 or (541) 416-6500, for more information.
While camping is not allowed within the three units of the monument, there are many nearby campgrounds. Some have full service amenities, some are quiet and remote, some are in the forest, and some are right on the John Day River.
Welcome to Crooked River Campground at The Cove Palisades State Park! This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. The campground is open from February 16 to December 15, offering a long season to explore its beauty.
One of the standout features here is the stunning scenery. Visitors rave about the jaw-dropping views of the mountains and canyon. If you're into hiking, you'll love the trails, though keep in mind there are only a couple of main ones. The Tamalau Trail is a must-do, especially if you can catch it on a cool day. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views from the top are worth every step.
For those who love water activities, this place is heaven. Lake Billy Chinook, fed by the Deschutes, Crooked, and Metolius rivers, is perfect for boating, jet-skiing, and fishing. You can even rent a boat from the marina to hit the best fishing spots. Just be prepared for some noise from the boats during busy times.
The campground itself is well-equipped. You'll find full hookups for RVs, clean bathrooms, and hot showers. There's also a fenced dog park, which is a hit with pet owners. If you need supplies, Madras is just a 15-minute drive away.
Families will appreciate the playground and the communal vibe. It’s not the place for seclusion, but if you enjoy a friendly, neighborhood feel, you’ll fit right in. Plus, the park rangers are super helpful and always around to offer tips and ensure everything runs smoothly.
So, whether you're here for the hiking, the water sports, or just to relax and take in the views, Crooked River Campground has something for everyone. Enjoy your stay!
Welcome to Lone Tree Campground in Cottonwood Canyon State Park, nestled near the charming town of Wasco, Oregon. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to escape into nature without sacrificing comfort. The campground is beautifully maintained and offers a range of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, cabins, and even glamping options.
One of the standout features here is the windbreaks provided at each campsite, which are a lifesaver given the canyon's notorious winds. The park has thoughtfully included covered picnic tables and dedicated fire pits, making it a cozy spot for evening gatherings. Just remember, during fire season, open flames might be restricted, so plan accordingly.
The John Day River runs right through the park, offering fantastic opportunities for fishing. The river is teeming with fish and crayfish, making it a hit for anglers. If you're into hiking or biking, the trails here are top-notch. They range from easy green runs to more challenging routes, all with breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.
For those who love stargazing, you're in for a treat. The night skies here are spectacular, free from the light pollution that plagues more urban areas. It's a perfect spot to lay back and take in the cosmos.
The campground also boasts clean facilities, including bathrooms and showers, which visitors have praised for their cleanliness. And if you're looking to truly unplug, you'll be pleased to know there's no cell service here. It's a great way to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to enjoy all that Lone Tree Campground has to offer. Whether you're here for the fishing, the trails, or just some peace and quiet, this place has got you covered.
$10 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Antelope, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, Antelope, OR offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Antelope, OR and 20 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Antelope, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Antelope, OR is BLM John Day River - Priest Hole with a 4.2-star rating from 20 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Antelope, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 20 free dispersed camping spots near Antelope, OR.
What parks are near Antelope, OR?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 parks near Antelope, OR that allow camping, notably Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland and Central Oregon.