Camping options near Antelope, Oregon range from free dispersed sites to established campgrounds with full amenities. The region sits at approximately 2,600 feet elevation in Oregon's high desert, where temperature swings of 40+ degrees can occur between day and night even in summer months. Access to many sites requires travel on gravel or dirt roads that become challenging after rainfall.
What to do
River activities: 11 miles from shore. At BLM John Day River - Priest Hole, the water offers swimming and boating opportunities. "The river is gorgeous and perfect for swimming. The views through the canyon are incredible at sunset and the temp dropped significantly for comfortable sleeping," notes Isabelle K.
Wildlife observation: dawn and dusk preferred. The areas around the John Day River provide excellent viewing opportunities. Thomas B. shares that at Priest Hole: "We watched a huge bald eagle perching on a rock eating an animal it had just caught."
Stargazing: peak hours 10pm-2am. The minimal light pollution makes for exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are incredibly bright at night. The surrounding cliffs are beautiful," reports Thomas B. from his Priest Hole camping experience.
Geology exploration: allow 2-3 hours. The Painted Hills Dispersed camping area provides access to unique formations. "I appreciated the beauty of the painted hills around us, had a nice campfire. I liked all the signs on the painted cove trail explaining the geological history of the area," shares Hayley G.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: varies by season. Many campers appreciate the remote locations. At Painted Hills Dispersed, Shelby S. comments, "I arrived midday, so I spent the hottest part of the day in my shade tent reading and then in the evening watched the fire under the stars in my hammock. Very peaceful, only saw one car drive by the whole time."
Mountain views: clearest on cold mornings. From certain campsites, multiple Cascade peaks are visible. At Crooked River Campground, Jill R. notes, "Lots of trees and shade (this place gets super hot) and the best sites for views are on the West outside of the campground where you get stunning views of Mt. Hood."
Natural water features: best in spring. Rivers and creeks enhance many camping locations. Amanda K. found at Painted Hills Dispersed: "There was a beautiful little creek next to the spot. There was some noise from the road but there was minimal traffic."
Clean facilities: regularly maintained. Several campers mention the well-maintained facilities at established campgrounds. At Skull Hollow Campground, Katey S. reports, "Great little campground, cleanest pit toilets I've ever used, friendly hosts and beautiful scenery."
What you should know
Road conditions: variable by season. Many campsites require travel on unpaved roads. At Priest Hole, K.K. warns, "You need to have an AWD vehicle, preferably a truck with spares. The road is gravel that gets rutty and difficult the further you go. We got a flat (apparently along with 20 other people) when we went."
Weather extremes: prepare for 40°F swings. The high desert climate brings dramatic temperature changes. Katie S. shares about Priest Hole: "My husband and I had the worst sleep at this campsite. The wind was insane, we came in March. Sounded like someone was pounding on our tent all night."
Limited amenities: pack accordingly. Most sites have minimal facilities. Brian C. advises about Priest Hole: "Definitely remember to bring all that you need including food, supplies, tables, and water. But still mere feet from the actual river, quiet, and great star gazing."
Cell service: spotty coverage. Most remote sites have limited connectivity. Amanda K. notes about Painted Hills Dispersed: "There was little to no service on the way there so make sure to save the coordinates/map."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: choose based on facilities. Maupin City Park offers more amenities for families. Kristina G. explains, "We enjoyed the proximity to the Imperial River Company restaurant, and quick short drive to a convenience store to restock supplies before our last day on the river."
Water safety: supervise constantly. Rivers in this region can have strong currents. About Crooked River Campground, Damian C. mentions it "has a shallow swimming area surrounded by wood docks to protect swimmers from the wake."
Noise considerations: check nearby features. Train tracks near some campgrounds may disturb light sleepers. A reviewer notes about Maupin City Park: "Tracks are very close and trains pass every couple hours throughout the night."
Wildlife awareness: educate children. The area has diverse wildlife including potentially dangerous species. Ellisa F. warns at Crooked River Campground to "Watch out for rattle snakes."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: check before arrival. Some sites have restrictions that affect larger vehicles. At Trout Creek Campground Boat Ramp, Lisa K. cautions about "the 14' clearance tunnel you need to pass through that limits some RVs," and "the rutted washboard gravel road that pleads for you to drive 20mph."
Site dimensions: research space requirements. Some campgrounds have tight spacing. Russ H. shares about Maupin City Park: "The sites are a little tight for ginormous 36 foot trailers with multiple slideouts."
Heat management: prepare for intense sun. The high desert environment can be challenging for RVs. At Antelope RV Park and Campsites, Leland notes: "If weather is a factor (we arrived in cold, wet and punishing wind) Antelope is a much better place to camp than Shaniko which is 8 miles up on a plateau."
Hookup availability: varies by location. Ashley M. reports about Crooked River Campground: "We stayed in a rv hookup site in a 40' coach with our tow vehicle," suggesting adequate space for larger rigs at this location.
