Best Campgrounds near John Day, OR

Camping near John Day, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails along the John Day River. One camper mentioned, "Enjoyed the river trail along the John Day river. Perfect to cool off in during the hot summer months," while camping at Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site.
• Fishing: The area is great for fishing, especially at Unity Lake State Recreation Area. A visitor shared, "The fishing looked great. Another camper offered us freshly caught trout."
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. One family at Strawberry Campground noted, "We even got a visit from a few deer every night around dinner time."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site said, "Super clean showers and restrooms, dog friendly."
• Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. One camper at Olive Lake Campground remarked, "Most sites are simple turnouts, more suitable for tents. No ATV use so our mobility was limited."
• Beautiful Scenery: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A visitor at Bates State Park mentioned, "The park was uncrowded and felt private nonetheless."

What you should know

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Olive Lake Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. A camper noted, "There are lakeside campsites. Some are reservable and others are first come first serve."
• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. A camper at Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site warned, "Mosquitoes definitely come out at night and we were tent camping."
• Road Conditions: Some campgrounds are accessed via rough roads. A visitor at Strawberry Campground mentioned, "The bumpy gravel road might not work for sedan always, but worth a try."

Tips for camping with families

• Bring Games: Since some campgrounds may not have many kids around, pack games to keep the little ones entertained. A camper at Strawberry Campground suggested, "We needed some fun stuff to do between hikes and outings."
• Choose Sites Wisely: Look for sites that are away from steep drop-offs, especially if you have young kids. One camper advised, "Keep an eye on kiddos or pick a site farther away from the creek if you’re worried about that."
• Pack Extra Layers: The weather can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothes. A family noted, "We didn’t realize it was still so chilly at the end of May."

Tips from RVers

• Check for Hookups: Make sure to choose campgrounds that offer the necessary hookups for your RV. A visitor at Grant County RV Park mentioned, "Spaces were all level and gravel with full hook-ups."
• Be Mindful of Space: Some RV sites can be close together, so pick your spot carefully. A camper shared, "Difficult to determine which one was ours as the sites are close together with no privacy between them."
• Quiet Evenings: Many campgrounds are peaceful at night, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. A reviewer at Tollbridge Campground said, "The campsites are spread apart and separated by many trees, so our site felt very private."

Camping near John Day, Oregon, offers a unique blend of outdoor fun and relaxation. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!