Dispersed camping spots near Fossil, Oregon provide access to the high desert terrain of Wheeler County, with elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year, with winter lows often below freezing and summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F. Many campers report limited to non-existent cell service throughout the area, particularly at river access points along the John Day.
What to do
Swim in the John Day River: At Priest Hole Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy river access during summer months. "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!" reports Isabelle K.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around camping spots near Fossil offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. Thomas B. notes at BLM John Day River - Priest Hole: "We watched a huge bald eagle perching on a rock eating an animal it had just caught. The surrounding cliffs are beautiful."
Stargazing: The remote location of camping areas provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are incredibly bright at night," according to Thomas B., while another camper at Priest Hole Recreation Site mentions, "No light pollution, so I was able to see the Milky Way galaxy."
What campers like
River access: Many camping spots near Fossil provide direct access to the John Day River. At Painted Hills Dispersed, one camper mentioned, "You hear the creek and lots of birds. You're near the road so you do hear cars but it wasn't bothersome."
Solitude: The remote nature of dispersed camping in the area offers privacy. Stephanie F. noted about Priest Hole: "Each spot has a dirt lot and a gravel part around a picnic table and a fire pit. The spots closer to the river are closer together but the vegetation provides privacy."
Recently upgraded facilities: Some BLM sites have seen improvements. Ron C. observed at Priest Hole Recreation Area: "Each campsite had recently been upgraded with heavy duty Pilot Rock fire pits, fresh gravel, restrooms were clean. These upgrades were done over the past several years according to BLM Prineville staff."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campsites require navigating rough roads. Alysa W. warns about Priest Hole: "You will need a vehicle with enough ground clearance - definitely more than a Nissan Altima. I read some reviews saying that you didn't need that much ground clearance, but I'm pretty sure that I almost tore the bottom of my car out."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed camping spots near Fossil offer minimal facilities. At Service Creek Campground, Brian C. noted the "Spartan vault-toilet facilities. Fire pits had quite a bit of trash."
Weather considerations: Temperatures and conditions can vary dramatically. Katie S. shares her experience: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: With limited amenities, families should pack activities. One reviewer at Service Creek Campground mentioned: "We had three dads and three 10 year old boys and the river provided plenty of entertainment. A few trees gave hammock options and our metal detector allowed the boys to find a lot of old junk just under the surface dirt."
Water safety: If camping near the John Day River, be aware of changing water conditions. A camper at Muleshoe Campground noted it's "a short walk down to the river," making supervision easier, but cautions about swift currents in certain seasons.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. Andrea R. advises: "Watch for snakes and cats! Make sure you bring everything you need, there isn't anything near by."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research site conditions carefully. Ansgar D. notes about Bear Hollow County Park: "The sites are sometimes uneven and therefore better for fifth wheels or motorhomes rather than for tents, but we had no issue finding a flat site for us with no neighbors."
Self-sufficiency: Plan to be fully self-contained when RV camping in this area. "Make sure you bring everything you need, there isn't anything near by. Road in is gravel, take it slow," advises Andrea R.
Temperature management: RVers should prepare for temperature extremes. Ansgar D. mentions about Bear Hollow: "At other campgrounds in the area the temperature was in the high 80s. At Bear Hollow, it was a wonderful 72°. The toilets were immaculate with hand disinfectant and air fresheners provided and plenty of toilet paper."
