The Kimberly area offers camping options between 2,800-3,000 feet elevation with characteristic high desert climate patterns—warm days and cool nights even in summer months. The region features unique geological formations with volcanic history evident throughout the landscape. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-90°F with significant drops at night.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Bull Prairie Campground provides a small lake stocked with fish. "The lake was great out on our paddle boards (watch out for leeches!) and there was a few fishers who had a pretty successful day," notes Autumn R. about Bull Prairie Campground.
River activities: The John Day River offers seasonal recreation depending on water flow. "Fishing, wading, swimming. Perfect place in a pinch! Clean vault toilets. Picnic tables and fire pit," writes Lori P. about Spray Riverfront Park.
Hiking trails: Explore the surrounding forest on marked trails. "There is a paved trail around the lake for walks or hikes. And everyone seems to observe quiet hours," explains Susan P. The Barnhouse Campground also offers "a hiking trail out of the CG," according to Scott.
What Campers Like
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer private camping spots. "A lot of the campsites are isolated by trees so you actually have some privacy and there is a decent amount of shade," Rachel notes about Bull Prairie.
Dark skies for stargazing: Remote locations provide exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are incredibly bright at night. The surrounding cliffs are beautiful," says Thomas B. about Priest Hole Recreation Site.
Riverside locations: Several campgrounds sit directly on waterways. "We parked our small rv right next to lake. Was super," Susan P. describes. Similarly at Service Creek, Brendon C. mentions, "Your tent will not be far from either the river or the highway."
What You Should Know
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "The road to get to the campground was paved, but watch out for free roaming cows!" warns Kristina J. about Barnhouse Campground.
Limited amenities: Bring everything needed for your stay. "Definitely remember to bring all that you need including food, supplies, tables, and water," advises Brian C. At many sites, vault toilets are the only facility provided.
Wildlife awareness: Beyond bears mentioned in existing descriptions, other wildlife encounters are common. "Deer and chipmunks aplenty though!" notes Keltik S. Barnhouse Campground campers report "noisy cows each morning," according to Stephen.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation: Several locations offer family-friendly water access. "The river is slow moving here and thus technically swimmable, but a bit sludgy/swampy on the edges (no real beach)," explains Corinna B. about Service Creek Campground.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds have dedicated child facilities. Morrow County OHV Park features a "huge playground and lots of different types of camping available," according to Jacob V.
Kid-friendly activities: Natural features provide built-in entertainment. At Clyde Holliday State Park, Jessica B. shares, "My kids loved playing in the water and catching crayfish."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on vehicle size and requirements. At Fish House Inn and RV Campground, Gary G. notes it's "quiet and clean with lovely grass growing between the camp sites."
Level parking areas: Some sites require additional equipment. Barnhouse Campground "had a slight slant so we needed a couple of leveling blocks," according to Andrew S.
Hookup availability: Full service options exist but are limited. "We pulled our class B onto a lovely grassy FHU site. It was right next to the bathrooms but that was ok for us," explains Kim G. about Fish House Inn and RV Campground.
Generator policies: Check restrictions before arrival. Many primitive sites have no specific generator policies, while established campgrounds often restrict usage to certain hours or prohibit them entirely.
Guide
