Dispersed camping near Antelope, Oregon provides access to scenic desert terrain along the John Day River and nearby mountain views. The area sits at approximately 2,600 feet elevation in Oregon's high desert region, with dramatic temperature variations between hot summer days and cool nights. Seasonal camping conditions vary significantly throughout the year, with spring offering wildflowers and moderate temperatures while summer brings intense heat with limited shade opportunities.
What to do
Stargazing at high elevations: Smith Rock State Park Campground offers exceptional dark sky viewing conditions. "The place gives off a nice outdoorsy kind of communal vibe but it's still private, depends on where you pitch your tent," notes Makena B. The campground's elevation and distance from major cities creates optimal star viewing conditions.
River swimming spots: Many campsites along the John Day River provide swimming access during hot summer days. At Priest Hole Recreation Area, campers mention "the river is gorgeous and perfect for swimming." Ron C. adds that "Quiet, serene and peaceful. Each campsite had recently been upgraded with heavy duty Pilot Rock fire pits, fresh gravel, restrooms were clean."
Hiking nearby trails: The area offers short day hikes with scenic views. Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground provides "Half mile easy hike to the waterfall but the trail keeps going another Half-ish mile for a slightly longer walk," according to Anna P. Morning hiking is recommended during summer months to avoid afternoon heat.
What campers like
Canyon views and wildlife: The rugged landscape showcases desert ecology and geological formations. At Macks Canyon Recreation Site, "The view of the river was amazing and we watched lots of fishing boats and rafting boats go by. There is also a railroad track across the river and it was fun to watch the trains go by," reports Sarah S.
Natural swimming holes: The John Day River creates natural swimming spots near many camping areas. A camper at Burnt Ranch Road/Bridge Creek mentions, "It's a collection of open sites along a creek. Gets more use on weekends." This location provides convenient tent camping near Antelope, Oregon with creek access.
Limited crowding: Many dispersed sites remain relatively uncrowded, particularly midweek. "We stayed in site 12 which also had absolutely no shade and tons of bees, which didn't help our situation. All that aside, we are so happy we did spend the night here!" notes Isabelle K. about their experience at Priest Hole Recreation Area despite initial challenges.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F during days but drop significantly at night. "Hot and dry during the day but cooled off at night and had great view of the night sky," writes Anna P. about Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to campsites vary considerably in quality. About Macks Canyon, James W. reports, "I have never experienced a washboard road as bad as this was for 6-7 miles. I thought the doors were going to blow off the truck. Not an exaggeration."
Wind patterns: Strong afternoon and evening winds affect many camping areas. At Macks Canyon, "the wind kicks up (strong) around 7:30p to 8:30p," according to James W. Setting up tents securely with proper staking is essential in this region.
Water availability: Most sites have no potable water sources. According to Michael F., when visiting Priest Hole Recreation Area: "Getting to camp you drive into a 'canyon', switch backs most of the way down. The road is bumpy but does not require 4WD or high clearance."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access swimming spots: Several locations provide child-friendly water access. Chase notes about Burnt Ranch Road/Bridge Creek: "Lots of space and very easily accessible but make sure to fuel up before you go it's a bit of a drive... you can walk down and get water to filter from the creek if you need."
Educational opportunities: The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument sits nearby for day trips. Service Creek Campground offers "Beautiful hills to look at and the fossil beds and painted hills are an easy drive from here," writes Brendon C.
Best seasons: Spring and fall provide more moderate temperatures for family tent camping near Antelope. Regarding Priest Hole, Callie S. suggests "There's an area in the beginning with new paved out camping spots on the river and a vault toilet. If you bypass that area and keep going along the gravel/dirt road you'll find more pull out spots that are more secluded."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds limit vehicle size. At Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, Mark W. notes "There is a sign in the way in indicating 30ft length max, but there is no mention on the BLM site. They must mean trailer length since we had no issues with our 22' trailer and rig (40ft total)."
Limited designated spots: Many areas have few proper RV sites. "There are only 2-3 spots for vans/small RVs. The other spots are clearly for tent camping," mentions Kelda C. about Steelhead Falls.
Road clearance considerations: Approach roads may require higher clearance vehicles. "The road to the river sites is NARROW, and we had trouble backing in with a 22' trailer while not hitting the guard rail," reports Mark W. about the recently improved Priest Hole Recreation Area.
