North Fork Malheur Campground
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North Fork Malheur Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for this site.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Oregon's wilderness, North Fork Malheur Campground offers an intimate escape with just six peaceful campsites nestled alongside the pristine Wild and Scenic North Fork Malheur River. The gentle rush of water provides a natural soundtrack as anglers cast their lines for the abundant Rainbow Trout that call these waters home. Whether you're seeking the perfect fishing spot, planning your next hiking adventure, or preparing for hunting season, this hidden gem serves as an ideal basecamp. For those simply craving solitude and the healing embrace of nature, you'll find few places as perfectly suited for disconnecting from the world and reconnecting with yourself.
North Fork Malheur Campground primarily supports primitive camping. It serves as a base camp for hunters, hikers, and visitors seeking a quiet getaway.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps visitors on their toes at North Fork Malheur, where mountain weather can shift from sunshine to showers in the blink of an eye. Summer brings warm, dry days perfect for riverside relaxation and evening campfires under star-filled skies. As autumn arrives, crisp air and changing leaves create a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland, with temperatures that demand warm sleeping bags and hot coffee by the fire. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing snowmelt, making each season a unique adventure waiting to unfold.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe North Fork Malheur River winds through this enchanting campground like a silver ribbon, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering pines and firs that stand guard along its banks. This pristine riparian corridor creates a haven for wildlife, where early risers might spot deer coming to drink at dawn or catch glimpses of eagles soaring overhead. The surrounding Malheur National Forest wraps visitors in a living tapestry of green, punctuated by wildflower meadows and moss-covered rocks. Every turn of the trail reveals new wonders, from delicate forest flowers to ancient trees that have witnessed centuries pass in peaceful silence.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Malheur National Forest, this campground sits at the convergence of ancient geological forces and modern natural beauty. The Wild and Scenic North Fork Malheur River has carved its path through this landscape over millennia, creating a unique ecosystem where forest meets water. This special riparian zone supports an incredible diversity of life, from towering conifers to delicate streamside plants, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers. The surrounding forested mountains and river valleys tell the story of Oregon's volcanic past while providing endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned in the provided sources.
Sites SizeNo information is available on the size of campsites.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of campsites is not mentioned in the content.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Details on group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSmall six-site campground located near the river.
Open and Closed SeasonCurrently open; subject to temporary closures.
Reservation PlatformsWalk-up only; no reservation platforms available.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a walk-up basis; first-come, first-served availability.
Cancellation Policynull
Activities you can enjoy
Various recreational activities are available at North Fork Malheur Campground. Popular options include fishing for Rainbow Trout in the adjacent North Fork Malheur River, hiking with access to the nearby trailhead, and wildlife viewing in the surrounding wilderness. Hunting opportunities are also highlighted, making the area suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
"Within 1/2 of a mile of the campsite is the North Fork Malheur Trailhead," which offers day hikes and opportunities to explore the scenic surroundings.Fishing
Fishing for Rainbow Trout in the Wild and Scenic North Fork Malheur River is a popular activity for campers.Wildlife viewing
The area provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, although specific species or locations are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described in the provided sources.Water Sports
Details on non-motorized water sports are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are officially from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsThe road accessing the campground can become very muddy during rain. User reviews also note environmental impacts like trash in fire pits and alterations to the river (rock dam built across its width).
Active alertsNone currently reported.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Prairie City Ranger District. Address: 327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869. Phone: (541) 820-3800. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingCampers are encouraged to follow a pack-it-in/pack-it-out policy, taking all trash with them when leaving the campground.
Proximity to water featuresCampground located adjacent to the North Fork Malheur River, a popular spot for fishing Rainbow Trout.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight poor treatment of the campground by previous visitors, including 'trash in the fire pits and a rock dam that has been built across the width of the river.'
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom the town of Prairie City, OR., turn onto South Main Street. Follow South Main Street to the junction with Bridge Street. Turn left onto Bridge street and continue past the cemetery, the road then becomes County Road 62. Follow County Road 62 approximately 20 miles to the junction with Forest Road 16, turn east onto Forest Road 16. Follow Forest Road 16 for approximately 12 miles to the junction with Forest Road 1675, the turn will be on the right. Follow Forest Road 1675 for approximately 2 miles to the campground.
The road into the area is quite rough and becomes very muddy after periods of rain.Nearby places
Prairie City, OR - approximately 34 miles.
Nearby supplies
Prairie City, OR, offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel approximately 34 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
North Fork Malheur Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for North Fork Malheur Campground generally highlight its natural beauty and proximity to the river, but also point out issues related to campground maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the quiet surroundings and the proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities. Cheryl Hill writes that it is a "pleasant six-site campground right next to the river."
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Reviews mention neglect by campers, including trash left in fire pits and a rock dam built across the width of the river.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should bring their own water supplies as potable water is not available. Packing out all trash is crucial to help maintain the site's natural beauty.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Weather conditions can vary rapidly, and muddy roads can make access challenging after rain. Winter weather data suggests freezing temperatures and significant snowfall, while summer appears more...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Cheryl Hill: "It is sad to see how poorly campers have treated the place, including trash in the fire pits and a rock dam that has been built across the width of the river."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Cheryl Hill notes there are six campsites at the campground, but specific site numbers are not detailed.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews or information related to accessibility features are included.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences at the campground.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025