Coalmine Hill Campground sits at the junction of the Blue Mountain Scenic Highway and Forest Road 5327, providing access to the eastern slopes of the Blue Mountains. Camping spots spread around a large gravel cul-de-sac designed for horse trailers and recreational vehicles. The Forest Service maintains this equestrian-oriented site as part of the recreational areas surrounding Heppner, with most visitors using it as a basecamp for trail rides into the surrounding Umatilla National Forest.
What to do
Trail riding access: Coalmine Hill serves as a gateway to the extensive trail system in the Blue Mountains. Horse riders can follow established routes that connect with the North Fork John Day Wilderness, offering multi-day riding opportunities through varied terrain and elevations.
Hiking to Gibson Caves: This relatively short hike from Mitchell City Park provides a family-friendly option for exploring unique geological features. "If you're in the John Day area and all the other campgrounds are booked, this is a decent place to spend a few hours and sleep," notes Corinna B. "Mitchell Oregon has some restaurants and antique stores that looked fun."
Exploring Painted Hills: The John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offers dramatic landscapes within driving distance. "Near the painted hills of Oregon! Not much to it, but there are restrooms with running water. Caught a ride from here to the hills for sunset," writes Michael about Mitchell City Park, which serves as a convenient base.
What campers like
Spacious parking area: The cul-de-sac design at Coalmine Hill accommodates large vehicles with ease. "This site has an amazing parking area that is large enough for RVs and horse trailers to be able to turn around without any issues," notes Ashton B., who appreciated the practical layout.
Horse-friendly facilities: Equestrian campers value the purpose-built amenities. Ashley B. explains, "This is definitely a campground geared for equestrians with a horse corral available." The wooden pins provide secure overnight options for horses after trail rides.
Natural surroundings: The forest setting at Cutsforth Park Campground creates a peaceful atmosphere despite proximity to access roads. Hallie describes it as having "the serenity of being away from town in the woods where all we could hear were the birds and the creek nearby."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Facilities at most equestrian camping near Fossil, Oregon remain minimal. "The only amenity is a pit toilet," notes Ashley B. about Coalmine Hill, highlighting the rustic nature of these sites.
Noise considerations: Traffic and generator noise can impact the camping experience. Ashley B. mentions, "Aside from the horse trailer/RV that ran its generator most of the night and morning, it was a great spot to camp."
Supply planning: Towns in the area have limited services. Dave B. notes about Mitchell, "Grocery store, cafe and brewery within walking distance. Nice lay over spot with easy access to the painted hills." Campers should arrive prepared with most supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Trail selection: When hiking with children, choose appropriate routes. "With two littles, we did the short one which round trip was under 3 miles," shares Ashton B. about the trails at Coalmine Hill, noting that "it looks like if we would have kept going there is definitely an uphill climb."
Terrain challenges: The ground conditions affect tent placement. "The ground isn't very level, so tent camping would be bumpy and on an incline. There's also little tree trunk scattered out throughout the whole place so it is kinda dangerous for kids to run around and play," warns Ashton B.
Alternative accommodations: For families needing more amenities, consider Cutsforth Park Campground. "This campground has full and partial hookup sites," explains Hallie. "There are bathrooms with showers near the host site. There is a hiking trail directly from camp into the forest."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Options range from primitive to full-service sites. Gil W. found that Mitchell City Park offered good value: "For only $25 with electric and water, it's a steal, especially after boon-docking for a few days."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. Hallie notes about Cutsforth Park Campground, "The roads are gravel and wind their way up a steep hill, but the sites provide decent privacy."
Parking logistics: RVs with trailers may encounter tight spaces. Dave B. cautions that sites are "close and tight getting into the spot with a trailer... but doable," while suggesting weekdays might offer better availability.
Legend
