The Strawberry Mountain Wilderness area surrounding Mount Vernon, Oregon sits at elevations between 4,000 and 9,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments across forest and high desert terrain. Equestrian camping options typically open between late May and October, with highest accessibility in summer months when mountain roads clear of snow. Water availability varies significantly by location and season.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: North Fork John Day Campground connects directly to wilderness trails with varied terrain. As Stephanie L. notes, "Located where desert meets the forest. This lovely area provides thrills for all. Bring your ATV'S, hiking boots, and fishing polls because this area has it all!"
Creek exploration: Slide Creek Campground offers immediate water access from campsites. Erin N. describes, "It's gorgeous and the creek is just a few feet to go get water for animals and your fire pits and to put your feet in."
Wilderness hiking: Access backcountry trails from several equestrian campgrounds. Andrew S. reports from Strawberry Campground, "Nice sites with lots of separation and easy access to a trailhead. Multiple vault toilets available as well as water taps that I don't think are potable but good enough to rinse dishes."
What campers like
Level parking areas: Many equestrian sites feature flat, practical spaces for trailers. Kelly H. experienced this at North Fork John Day, noting "Level pull through site, clean pit toilet. Enjoyed a walk down to the river. Peaceful overnight!"
Temperature relief: Higher elevation camps provide escape from summer heat. Chris B. comments about Strawberry Campground, "Dropped 20 degrees from the hot valley floor. Around 8 spots, first come, but a few other spots on the way up, for dispersed."
Water access: Direct creek access for horses appears in multiple campgrounds. Oregon C. found at Welch Creek Campground, "creek is clear and very cold. There are picnic tables."
What you should know
Road conditions matter: Access to many horse camps requires navigating forest roads of varying quality. Mary G. cautions about Strawberry Campground, "The ruts and holes in the road began to increase. When I was about 2 miles away from Strawberry Campground, I turned around. I just didn't trust my Mazda 3 to make it without bottoming out or getting a flat tire."
Seasonal weather changes: Mountain elevations bring unpredictable conditions. Andrew S. experienced this at Strawberry: "We got caught in rain, sleet, snow, and graupel all in one day but that's hardly the campground's fault."
Occupancy patterns: Weekday camping often provides more solitude. Joel M. observed, "We camped there on a Monday night and the campground was probably two thirds full."
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment: Limited structured activities means bringing your own fun. Heather B. advises, "I had my 9 year old nephew with me for this trip and was thankful I brought our bikes and games. Since the campground wasn't busy, there weren't other kiddos for him to play with."
Water safety awareness: Welch Creek Campground and others feature creek access requiring supervision. Heather B. cautions, "There's a steep drop off next to some sites that goes right into the creek. Keep an eye on kiddos or pick a site farther away from the creek if you're worried about that."
Wildlife preparation: Prepare children for animal encounters. Heather B. recommends, "Lots of wildlife in the area so make sure to keep your food and other items locked up so the critters don't get into it."
Tips from RVers
Alternative options in town: When wilderness sites fill up, consider Grant County RV Park for full hookups. Bill B. explains, "After a full day, driving, we were having trouble finding a place to stay near John Day, Oregon. All of the very few campgrounds available were already full. Even this campground, which is part of the fairgrounds, appeared to be full."
Low clearance concerns: RVers should research road conditions before attempting forest service roads. Jim M. found Grant County RV Park more accessible: "Self service kiosk, 30$ a night full hook ups. Pull throughs and back in sites. Showers and bathrooms are clean."
Size limitations: Forest service horse campgrounds typically accommodate smaller RVs and trailers. Dave B. suggests alternatives: "Shaded pull through and easy back in sites. Good value. Stream running next to the sites. Close to town."
