The Ochoco National Forest surrounds Mitchell, Oregon at 2,777 feet elevation, creating a central access point to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, requiring campers to prepare for temperature fluctuations even during single-day visits. The region's volcanic history creates distinctive camping terrain with minimal tree cover at many sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Crook County RV Park in nearby Prineville places you across from a family fishing pond. "Across the street is a family park with a children's fishing pond that is stocked with rainbow trout for anyone 17 and under," notes reviewer Tessa W.
Fossil hunting: Located near Mitchell, the BLM John Day River - Priest Hole provides access to geological features. A visitor reports, "The canyons show an interesting history. In the spring the wildflowers are truly a site to see!" The area requires careful preparation as "it's totally primitive so you'll need to haul out all your garbage including any 'waste'."
Wildlife viewing: Camp at Walton Lake to observe local wildlife. One camper mentions, "We saw some deer, one of those baby deer in my pictures was running and fell and slid, it was crazy. Then ran to mama to nurse LOL. Weird thing was we spotted moo cows in the park."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The Wheeler County Fairgrounds RV Park in Fossil offers clear night skies. A visitor explains, "Only downside is that there's no connectivity in town. No phone, no wifi, no cable, no nothing. Bring lots of books or have your iTunes downloads ready to go....or just enjoy the peace and quiet."
Clean facilities: Fish House Inn and RV Campground maintains exceptional bathroom facilities. "The hot showers were lovely. The camp host was super nice," shares one visitor, while another adds "And the bathrooms and showers are exceptionally clean and nice...they even include cloth hand and bath towels for you to use!"
Uncrowded camping: The Cottonwood Campground offers solitude in the national forest. "This is a hidden gem in the Ochoco National forest. It is pretty rustic with no water but does have 1 pit toilet that was clean but not stocked. I was the only person in the campground which was so nice," writes Ashley B.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to rv sites near Mitchell, Oregon often involves unpaved roads. The approach to Priest Hole requires appropriate vehicles as "You need to have an AWD vehicle, preferably a truck with spares. The road is gravel that gets rutty and difficult the further you go. We got a flat (apparently along with 20 other people) when we went."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is intermittent throughout the area. At Wheeler County Fairgrounds RV Park, there's "no connectivity in town. No phone, no wifi, no cable, no nothing." Plan accordingly with downloaded maps and entertainment.
Weather extremes: Antelope RV Park and Campsites can experience harsh weather conditions. One visitor recounts arriving "in cold, wet and punishing wind" noting that "Antelope is a much better place to camp than Shaniko which is 8 miles up on a plateau."
Limited groceries: Stock up before arriving at camping areas near Mitchell. One visitor recommends, "Fossil also has the best grocery store in the area so stock up on fresh produce."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: The John Day River provides swimming opportunities. At Priest Hole Recreation Site, "People were fishing camping and day swimming," according to one visitor, making it suitable for families seeking water activities.
Easy hiking trails: Walton Lake offers family-friendly paths. "There is a trail that runs around the lake which is a nice, easy hike. My boys loved riding their bikes around the campground (which is small enough that you can see them even if they are on the other side of the lake)."
Kids' activities: Multiple campgrounds offer playground equipment. Mitchell City Park provides "a nice covered place for picnics and a very small playground for little kids."
Budget options: For families watching expenses, consider free camping sites. Cottonwood Campground is "a first come, first serve and is free," though you'll need to bring all supplies including water.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many rv sites near Mitchell, Oregon cannot accommodate large rigs. Mitchell City Park has "very few RV sites with no sewer connections and minimal privacy as sites occupy what resembles a parking area adjacent to the grassy park."
Hookup availability: For full hookups, consider driving to Prineville. "We stayed for one night in a full hook up site for $45. All of the lots were paved and kind of level," notes a visitor to Crook County RV Park.
Level sites: Prepare for uneven terrain at several campgrounds. At Walton Lake, "the downside the site was on a obvious slope and it could only hold one tent."
Charging options: Electric vehicle owners have specific options. At Crook County RV Park, there are "Two Rivian destination chargers on site. Sites are close together with minimal shade but a great stop on the way to more remote parts of Oregon, especially strategic if towing with an EV."
