Creek access and dense tree cover define Oriental Campground in the Umatilla National Forest. The US Forest Service manages this drive-in campground from Memorial Day through November, providing basic amenities including toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Campers can bring pets and alcohol.
One reviewer noted the heavy shade from surrounding trees, with only two sites receiving substantial sunlight. The forested setting creates a darkened atmosphere that some visitors find unsettling. Site conditions vary, with some areas experiencing overgrowth of grass and weeds. The campground serves campers who need creek proximity and don't mind limited sun exposure in a heavily wooded environment.
Description
This fairly secluded campground is near the end of Forest Road 5506 along the Wild and Scenic North Fork John Day River. It features 8 campsites and 2 accessible toilets. There is no potable water or garbage service, so please pack your garbage home. Large vehicles, trailers, and low clearance vehicles are not recommended due to poor access road and limited turnaround capability. This campground offers fishing, swimming, non-motorized boating, hiking, OHV riding, horseback riding, sight-seeing, and photography. Water levels are low in mid to late summer, which can impede use of boats. The campground also provides good access for big game hunting. Near Oriental Creek is the start of the River Trail #3043 , an OHV trail accessing the southern end of 100 miles of trail. Three miles down the closed portion of Road 5506 is entry to the North Fork John Day Wilderness with access to the North Fork John Day River Trail #3022 , Big Creek Trail #3151 and Corral Creek Trail #3009.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsOriental is located in Oregon near Ukiah
Directions
From Ukiah, OR, travel west 1 mile to the Hwy 395 junction. Turn left (south) on Hwy 395, travel south about 15 miles and turn left (east) onto Forest Service Road 55. Drive 13 miles east along the N. Fork John Day River to Oriental Campground. The last few miles are very rough and may not be appropriate for trailers.
Coordinates
44.97400009 N
118.72700082 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 37 min from Walla Walla, WA
- 2 hrs 43 min from Kennewick, WA
- 4 hrs 23 min from Bend, OR
- 4 hrs 26 min from Lewiston, ID
