Free and open year-round, Elk Creek Campground sits on BLM land outside Prairie City, Oregon, managed by the Bureau of Land Management with no reservation system. Sites are first-come, first-served. Getting here can be tricky: at least one visitor reports that navigation apps routed them through private property and onto a closed road, so confirming current road access before heading out is worth the effort.
All sites are walk-in or hike-in, which means packing gear to your spot rather than pulling a vehicle alongside it. Site 14, noted in one review, sits directly alongside Elk Creek, which is a draw for campers who want water nearby. Proximity to a highway is audible from some sites, and the campground can fill up enough that privacy between sites becomes limited. A ranger passes through daily. The campground provides drinking water, picnic tables, pit toilets, and trash service, which is a solid amenity set for a free site.
"On the plus side, our site was adjoining Elk Creek," notes Erico, capturing the main appeal for many visitors. Pets are allowed, and campfires are permitted. Nearby options for comparison include Crane Crossing to the west and North Fork Malheur to the northwest, both within the campgrounds near BLM Land — Vale Malheur Field Office. This campground works best for self-sufficient campers with backpacking gear who want a no-cost base near moving water in eastern Oregon.
Description
Near the North Fork Malheur Wild and Scenic River, the campground provides opportunities for hunting and stream fishing. This small rustic campground is popular durning hunting seasons. A great area to camp that is easy to reach during the summer months allowing for a great get away for those looking for a more secluded space. 5 sites available.
Fee Info
No fee.
Reservation Info
All campgrounds on the Malheur National Forest are first come first serve.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Air Quality at this campground may currently be unhealthy. Please check with the campground before making a reservation.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsElk Creek Campground is located in Oregon near Unity
Directions
From the town of Prairie City, OR., turn onto South Main Street to the junction with Bridge Street, turn left onto Bridge Street. Follow Bridge Street past the cemetary, the road becomes County Road 62, continue on County Road 62 for approximately 8 miles to the junction with Forest Road 13 the turn will be on the left. Follow Forest Road 13 for approximately 22 miles the campground will be on the right.
Coordinates
44.14795086 N
118.23904097 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Elk Creek Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 3 min from Boise, ID
- 4 hrs 14 min from Bend, OR
- 4 hrs 24 min from Walla Walla, WA
- 4 hrs 39 min from Kennewick, WA







