Dispersed camping near John Day, Oregon offers forest sites across multiple elevations from 3,500 to 5,000 feet. The Malheur National Forest surrounding this area contains approximately 1.7 million acres of public land available for primitive camping. Most sites require visitors to travel unpaved roads that can become challenging after rainfall or during winter months.
What to do
Explore creek areas: At Lunch Creek, campers can find peaceful settings beside running water. "Sweet little spot for smaller vehicles. We walked along the path to check it out before attempting it in our 26ft class c and I'm glad we did," notes Laura M., who found the narrower paths unsuitable for larger vehicles.
Enjoy lakeside views: Social Security Point Trailhead provides access to waterfront camping. As Evan W. explains, "If you keep driving down it'll take you towards the lake, which is where I camped. Wide open, great sunset views! The lake is dammed, so I assume the water levels vary."
Navigate forest roads: Many campsites require navigation through National Forest roads with variable conditions. Evan W. advises about Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry, "I got to the spot marked on the map in my extended Transit, but I'm sure road conditions may change with the seasons, storms; etc. Depending on your comfort, you may only want to head this way with high-clearance vehicle."
What campers like
Weather variation: Temperature swings in this region can be significant. Thomas B. from Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping notes, "It got very cold at night. We were fine in our bus, but our traveling partner had his water bottle freeze in his tent."
Clean facilities: Despite being dispersed sites, some areas maintain basic amenities. Tony D. comments on Social Security Point Trailhead: "Very well maintained area. Bring your own firewood, the forest floor is extremely clean. There's 4 sites on this road and a restroom at the end."
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts various wildlife including cattle that sometimes wander through campsites. Christopher from Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping shares, "Lots of cows... funniest thing ever! One woke me up when it was sniffing at the tents rain cover!"
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Road conditions determine which vehicles can safely reach campsites. "The path was too narrow for us, and the road rose up a bit too high along the middle. A smaller vehicle shouldn't have a problem," explains Laura M. about Lunch Creek.
Service limitations: Cell coverage is sparse or nonexistent throughout the region. Laura M. adds, "Zero cell reception in this entire area for Verizon and ATT. No amenities here, this is a FS dispersed camping spot so please keep the area clean and pack out your waste."
Site confusion: Some locations may have changed status over time. One camper at Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping reported, "This place is on private property and has gates all around the area. Maybe it was once a campground but surely not anymore."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet access: Southern Elkhorn Mtn/Powder River Basin Area provides toilet facilities, which can be important for families with young children. Allison W. describes it as "conveniently located and hassle free; you can always find a decent spot up around the bend."
Fire safety: Fire restrictions vary seasonally. Tony D. notes about Social Security Point Trailhead: "Bring your own firewood, the forest floor is extremely clean." Always check current fire regulations before planning to build campfires.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate gear. The region can experience freezing temperatures even in spring and fall, with Thomas B. reporting that water bottles froze overnight at Fawn Spring Dispersed Camping in April.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Finding flat spots suitable for RVs requires advance planning. Julia R. explains about Social Security Point Trailhead, "I wanted to park down by the water, but we are pulling a small camper and the road looked way too rough to go all the way down. There was a car down there, so definitely passable, but not with our camper."
Size restrictions: Most sites accommodate smaller rigs only. Tony D. notes about Social Security Point Trailhead: "We were car camping but most sites have smaller trailer access." Laura M. adds that at Lunch Creek, "At the main road there IS a spot large enough for our RV but we decided not to stay the night there. It wasn't flat at all and a little too noisy and close to the main road."
Ground conditions: Soft terrain near water can create hazards. Evan W. cautions about lakeside camping at Social Security Point Trailhead: "Careful going too far, as some tire tracks looked to have maybe gotten stuck in mud by venturing too far out."
