Ponderosa pines and an open meadow define the layout at Idlewild Campground, a first-come, first-served Forest Service site situated along Highway 395 in the Malheur National Forest, roughly 30 minutes north of Burns. The campground runs a loop with sites spaced generously apart, a setup that keeps things from feeling crowded even during busier stretches of summer. Site 1, near the original entrance, is the only paved pull-through and one of the few spots that can accommodate small RVs without much maneuvering.
Facilities are basic but functional. Two vault toilets serve the loop, and drinking water is available when the season is in full swing, though it gets shut off by late October. Firewood is abundant on the ground, and fire rings and picnic tables come standard. An interpretive trail runs from the back of the campground near site 1, and an OHV staging area sits close by for those with off-road vehicles. Highway 395 generates minimal noise, though log trucks from nearby timber operations can be audible during working hours.
Betty B. sums up the site character well: "Large semi secluded sites in pine forest." The campground runs from May 20 through November 1, with a current nightly fee of $50. One reviewer noted hearing gunshots in the night, worth keeping in mind for those camping solo or with kids. Campers wanting a different setup nearby can look at Joaquin Miller Horse Camp, about two miles northeast.
Description
Overview
Idlewild Campground is the perfect place for large gatherings in any weather. In sun, rain or snow, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors while spending time with friends and family. The campground is situated along Highway 395 north of Burns, Oregon. In the summer, it is popular with hikers and mountain bikers. In the winter, visitors can snowmobile and cross-country ski.
Recreation
Idlewild offers opportunities for camping, picnicking, hiking and mountain biking. Devine Summit Trail begins within the campground. Snowmobiling and cross-country skiing bring visitors to the area in the winter.
Facilities
Idlewild contains one accessible, group day-use picnic shelter available for reservations for up to 75 people. It is equipped with picnic tables, a campfire ring and grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. Individual sites for overnight camping are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Natural Features
The campground is situated at an elevation of 5,000 feet in a large stand of Ponderosa pines. The group shelter sits near a meadow within Idlewild Campground. The Malheur National Forest encompasses 1.46 million acres in the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. The forest's dramatic landscapes include the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, with 9,038' Strawberry Mountain, which extends east to west through the heart of the forest, and the Monument Rock Wilderness along the eastern boundary.
Nearby Attractions
The campground is located a short drive from Burns, Oregon. There are horse trails and equestrian camping within 10 miles of Idlewild.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsIdlewild Campground is located in Oregon near Burns
Directions
From Burns, OR: Travel northeast toward Vale 2.8 miles on US Highway 20 to the junction with US Highway 395, turn left onto US Highway 395 and head north. Follow US Highway 395 for approximately 14.6 miles to the junction with Forest Road 2820. Turn right and continue on Forest Road 2820 for 0.8 miles to the junction with Idlewild Campground Road. Turn right after the Sno-Park and follow Idlewild Road for approximately 1 mile to the campground.
Address
265 HIGHWAY 20 SOUTH
Hines, OR 97738
Coordinates
43.799206 N
118.991367 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/4/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/4/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 7/4/26
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 7/4/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 18 min from Bend, OR
- 2 hrs 59 min from Boise, ID
- 4 hrs 4 min from Walla Walla, WA
- 4 hrs 10 min from Kennewick, WA


















