Strawberry Campground
4.7126 reviews327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869
Strawberry Campground
$4.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
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
Overnight use costs $8 per single site and $4 for an additional vehicle. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive 50% off single campsites occupied by the pass holder. Payment must be made in cash or check.
About this campground
Hidden within the whispering ponderosa pines of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, Strawberry Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry escape. This secluded mountain retreat serves as your gateway to endless exploration, where ancient trails wind through pristine forests and crystal-clear streams tumble down from alpine heights. Whether you're casting a line into pristine waters, shouldering a backpack for a wilderness journey, or simply breathing in the vanilla-scented bark of towering pines, this remote sanctuary offers direct access to the Strawberry Basin Trailhead and countless adventures beyond.
Strawberry Campground is a small, first-come-first-serve site mainly catering to tent campers. There are no reservations required, and it provides a rustic camping experience with basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceWhile the written history of this remote corner of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness remains largely untold, the land itself speaks volumes. These ancient forests have stood sentinel for centuries, witnessing the passage of indigenous peoples, early explorers, and generations of outdoor enthusiasts who have found solace in these wild spaces.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum throughout the seasons at Strawberry Campground. Summer arrives with warm, golden days perfect for trail adventures, though afternoon thundershowers occasionally roll through to refresh the forest floor. As autumn paints the wilderness in amber and gold, crisp mornings hint at winter's approach, with early snowflakes sometimes dusting the peaks. Winter transforms this mountain paradise into a snow-laden wonderland, where temperatures plunge and heavy snowfall creates a pristine but challenging landscape that demands respect and preparation.
ElevationPerched high in the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, the campground sits at an elevation where the air grows thin and crisp, offering that distinctive mountain atmosphere that cleanses both lungs and spirit. Here, you'll sleep closer to the stars and wake to panoramic views that remind you why mountain camping feels like touching the sky.
Natural Features and SceneryStrawberry Creek's melodic waters provide the soundtrack to your stay, gurgling past campsites shaded by majestic ponderosa pines whose cinnamon-colored bark glows in the evening light. This living cathedral of evergreens creates intimate camping spaces while opening to reveal breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. Wildlife thrives in this protected ecosystem—from curious deer browsing at dawn to the haunting calls of owls echoing through moonlit nights. Every direction offers postcard-worthy scenery, whether it's morning mist rising from the creek or alpenglow painting distant peaks at sunset.
Geological RegionStrawberry Campground rests within the rugged embrace of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, a crown jewel of the Malheur National Forest. This dramatic landscape tells an ancient geological story through its mountainous terrain, where volcanic forces and millennia of erosion have sculpted deep valleys, soaring ridgelines, and the perfect conditions for vast ponderosa pine forests to flourish. The result is a diverse ecosystem where mountain meadows burst with wildflowers, rocky outcrops provide panoramic viewpoints, and pristine streams carve their patient paths through this untamed corner of Eastern Oregon.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious with enough room for tents and parking, though RVs may experience difficulty navigating due to narrow and rough roads.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are set under a canopy of trees offering shade and some level of privacy. However, some users mentioned that they wished the campground had larger spacing between campsites.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArriving early is recommended to secure sites, particularly Site #1 for privacy and scenic benefits.
Best CampsitesSite #1 is noted as the best site due to its privacy and proximity to a private waterfall.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Stay limit not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Number of guests per site is unspecified.
Groups
No designated group camping areas were mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features one loop with approximately 10 first-come, first-served sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen tentatively from mid-May to mid-October, depending on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNot specified, but reservations may be possible through government or ranger district communication.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served. Early arrival recommended as campground fills quickly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not detailed, but reservations may be made with associated reservation fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Strawberry Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area is also ideal for relaxation and creekside recreation.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the main attractions, with access to the Strawberry Basin Trailhead directly from the campground. The trail connects to other routes within the wilderness, such as the hike to Strawberry Lake and Strawberry Falls, both of which are well-loved by users. Martin Dichmann-Schmidt notes, 'An easy hour hike from the campground to Strawberry Lake, well worth the views.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, particularly at nearby Strawberry Lake and the creek running through the campground. However, no details about specific fish species or regulations were mentioned.Swimming
Swimming areas are not formally designated but swimming is possible at Strawberry Lake, as noted by Jeremy Frey: 'The swimming was very nice.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a noted activity, with diverse flora and fauna in the area. No specific species were highlighted.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities are not mentioned specifically, although the campground is described as very popular even in the fall season when snow might occur.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not specifically mentioned, though swimming in Strawberry Lake is a popular activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRough access road conditions, yellow jackets, and potential wildlife encounters. Seasonal hazards include snow and freezing temperatures during colder months.
Active alertsTemporary closure status mentioned, but details are unclear. Check current conditions before visiting.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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: 327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869. Phone: (541) 820-3800.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly defined.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a Pack-it-in/Pack-it-out system, meaning campers must take all their trash with them when they leave.
Proximity to water featuresStrawberry Creek runs through the campground, providing soothing sounds of flowing water. Nearby Strawberry Lake is accessible via trail.
Common complaintsRough road conditions and limited campsite availability. Yellow jackets are occasionally bothersome.
HostNo information provided about campground hosts.
Campground Map
327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869
Driving directionsFrom Prairie City, OR, turn south onto South Main Street. Follow South Main Street to Bridge Street and turn left. Drive 0.2 miles to Bridge Street again and turn right. Continue on County Road 60 for approximately 7 miles; the road becomes Forest Service Road #6001. Travel on Forest Road #6001 for about 2 miles to reach the campground.
The road leading to the campground is open but becomes narrow and steep in sections. The last mile is rough and may be challenging for passenger cars. Access requires driving on backroads. Respect private property boundaries.Nearby places
Prairie City, OR: Approximately 11 miles, about 25 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Prairie City, OR: Supplies can be found in the town, approximately 11 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
26 reviews
Strawberry Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Strawberry Campground frequently praise its serene and scenic location, proximity to hiking trails, and the well-maintained facilities. However, the rough access road and the limited number of sites are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlight the campground’s beautiful setting, spacious sites, proximity to trails, and the presence of potable water and clean restrooms. Several users also note the easy access to the...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the rough condition of the access road, the relatively small size of the campground with only about 10 sites, and the high popularity leading to filled campsites by early...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend arriving early as campsites fill quickly, especially in the afternoon. Additionally, campers should prepare for a rough road and bring all necessary supplies due to the remote...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is described as popular throughout the year, but user traffic increases in the summer and fall. Snowfall can occur even in June, and yellowjackets are notably active in warmer months....
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'An easy hour hike from the campground to Strawberry Lake, well worth the views!' (Martin Dichmann-Schmidt)
- 'The road to the campground is narrow and steep... Don't be in a hurry, be courteous,...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is frequently mentioned as the best site due to its seclusion and proximity to a private waterfall. Other sites are generally well-spaced and shaded but can feel crowded during full capacity.
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025