Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site Campground is located along Highway 26 near Mount Vernon at 2,875 feet elevation. The campground operates seasonally from March 1 to November 30, offering various accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, and glamping options. The John Day River flows along the western edge of the campground, providing water access for campers during summer months.
What to do
Explore the Painted Hills unit: Visit the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument about 30 minutes from Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site Campground. "We stayed at Clyde Holliday for one night on the way to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. The campground is conveniently located near the town of John Day and is adjacent to the John Day River," notes Tanya B.
Wade in the John Day River: The shallow river provides cooling relief in summer months. "There's a small creek that runs by the camp where you can wade and kids try to catch crayfish. Overall totally pleasant," shares Corinna B. about her experience at Clyde Holliday.
Geocaching adventures: Several caches are hidden within and near Middle Fork. Jeff C. from Clyde Holliday mentions, "Activities: Geocaching cache in the park, a couple within one mile. John Day Fossil Monument 30 minute drive away."
What campers like
Clean, free shower facilities: Showers at Clyde Holliday get consistently positive reviews. "Fabulous free hot showers! Nice campground. Sites have paved parking, tables and fire pits. There is also a hiker biker camp area," writes Connie C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers chances to spot local wildlife. "Saw several deer there when we arrived. It was very peaceful," reports Kelly P. about her stay at Dixie Campground.
River access and walking paths: Many campgrounds feature riverside locations with trails. "Along the access road, there has been reclamation of the John Day changing it from a dredged out mess to a meandering river with newly planted pine trees and tree trunks to enable the salmon to return," explains Judy T. about Middle Fork.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Highway noise affects some campsites. "Site #25 backed up to hwy 26; daytime passing vehicle noise could be loud. Night vehicle noise wasn't an issue," explains Jeff C. about Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site.
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings mosquitoes along the river. "We walked along the river and found the mosquitoes, thank goodness for mosquito repellent," notes one camper at Clyde Holliday.
First-come camping options: Several campgrounds don't take reservations. "This is a first-come campground so no reservations are available. Get there early during the summer months," advises Sherrie B. about Grant County RV Park.
Primitive facilities at some sites: Bathroom amenities vary widely between campgrounds. "No showers or sinks, be ready for that," cautions Chantelle M. about her experience camping in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Find riverside camping spots: Children enjoy water access during hot summer days. "The river is a little difficult to access because of shrubs and small trees, but this is actually good news because so much of the Middle Fork has been damaged by mining and cattle," notes James from Middle Fork campground.
Look for educational opportunities: The area's rich geological history provides learning experiences. "There are very interesting signs telling about the logging history of the area as well as a playground and nature trails," writes Andrew T. about Bates State Park Campground.
Consider tent camping alternatives: For families seeking glamping close to John Day, Oregon, several options exist. "Clean, well maintained, cooking supplies provided, heated house with fridge. Outhouse was clean. Recommended bring your own light, the lanterns did not provide a lot of light and your own blanket for the beds," suggests Brittney J. about Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. "Nice little park with full hookups! Very clean and Green," shares Les G. about his stay at Grant County RV Park.
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. "It had all the amenities we needed: electric hookups, water, T-mobile reception, hot showers, and a dump station," explains Tanya B. about Clyde Holliday.
Big rig considerations: Site sizes vary between campgrounds. "The sites are big enough for both rig and vehicle," notes Nancy M. about Clyde Holliday, while another RVer mentions, "Sites are spacious and pads are gravel. Perfect campground to spend the night in after taking in John Day and heading for Baker City, OR."
Solar power options: For boondockers seeking luxury glamping near John Day, Wetmore Campground provides some possibilities. "Beautiful and serene USFS campground. Lots of trees, but somewhat enough clearing for some solar," reports Laura M.
