Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
00 reviewPO BOX 10, MOUNT VERNON, Oregon, 97865, United States
Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site
$26.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
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
Standard campsite fees are $26 per night, increasing to $34 for out-of-state visitors in September. Extra vehicles incur an additional $7 per night. Firewood is available for $6 per bundle and ice for $3 per bag.
About this campground
Discover your perfect escape at this intimate, meticulously maintained campground where emerald grass stretches beneath a canopy of mature shade trees. Just steps from the meandering John Day River, this versatile retreat welcomes everyone from RV adventurers to tent campers, and even offers unique tepee rentals for those seeking a taste of frontier living under the stars.
Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site caters to a variety of camping preferences, offering standard RV and tent sites as well as unique tepee accommodations.
Historical SignificanceWhile specific historical details await discovery, this campground sits within the storied landscape of Eastern Oregon, where generations of travelers have found respite along the John Day River corridor.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Eastern Oregon through the seasons. Spring arrives in a spectacular burst of blossoms as flowering trees paint the landscape in delicate hues. Summer brings warm days perfect for river adventures, though evening mosquito nets are recommended. As autumn settles in, crisp air and diminishing insects create ideal conditions for cozy campfire gatherings and peaceful riverside contemplation.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into what visitors lovingly call an 'oasis in the desert' – a verdant sanctuary where towering mature trees cast cooling shadows over carpets of soft grass. The John Day River flows nearby, its gentle currents offering both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. This lush microclimate stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding high desert, creating a refreshing haven that feels worlds away from the arid landscape beyond.
Geological RegionEastern Oregon Region
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite 018 is designated as ADA-compliant (ADA STANDARD), offering greater accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are reported to be 'huge compared to most RV parks,' with ample space for even larger setups. For instance, one reviewer noted, 'Our RV is 36ft and towing. Plenty of room in almost every spot.' Specific max equipment lengths range from 20 feet at tepee sites to 90 feet at RV sites like Site 031.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight varying degrees of privacy provided by bushes and hedges between sites. For example, one reviewer mentioned, 'Sites have varying degrees of privacy bushes/hedges on one or both sides of each site.'
Total Campsites31 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the river for quieter experiences and scenic views; avoid highway-adjacent sites if sensitive to noise.
Best CampsitesSite 15 is mentioned as a particularly spacious and desirable site in user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
First-come, first-serve park, open until November 30th.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates up to 8 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutMain loop includes standard sites; tepee loop contains two tepees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but busiest in summer and early fall.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Oregon State Parks website.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability is a primary system employed; no information on specific site numbers for this.
Cancellation PolicyDetails on changing or canceling reservations are available on the park's official website.
Accomodation available
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including a nature trail, picnic area, horseshoe pits, and proximity to the John Day River, which allows for additional activities like fishing and wildlife viewing. Reviews highlight these features extensively. For example, one user stated, 'Nice little walk along John Day River. Good birding!'
Hiking
The campground features a well-maintained nature trail along the John Day River. Reviewers have described it as 'a nice nature walk' and 'a beautiful walking path along the river.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities at the park include catching bluegill and stocked trout in a nearby pond. A reviewer noted, 'Fun blue gill fishing in the pond. They do stock it with trout but didn't see any.'Swimming
Reviews mention opportunities for swimming in the John Day River. One camper stated, 'There are places you can swim in the river.' However, no specific swimming facilities or safety measures are detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with reviews mentioning ospreys nesting nearby and a variety of wild birds. A reviewer noted, 'Lots of wild birds to watch.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of interpretive programs during the summer, although specific topics or schedules were not detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted; firewood can be purchased for $6 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a recurring issue, particularly in summer. 'Bloodthirsty mosquitoes' were specifically noted by users.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 60%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.2 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
Mount Vernon likely has basic emergency services; detailed information is unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer and September are peak times as noted by higher occupancy rates.
Trash and recyclingThere is no explicit mention of trash or recycling facilities in the available information.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the John Day River with swimming spots and a small rocky bank for wading.
Common complaintsRoad noise from Highway 395 and mosquito prevalence are frequent complaints.
HostUsers frequently praise the helpfulness and friendliness of park hosts.
Campground Map
PO BOX 10, MOUNT VERNON, Oregon, 97865, United States
Driving directionsClyde Holliday State Park is located one (1) mile east of Mount Vernon and seven (7) miles west of John Day on US Highway 26.
The park is directly accessible via US Highway 26. Visitors have noted easy access, though some reviews mentioned road noise due to proximity to the highway.Nearby places
Mount Vernon (1 mile), John Day (7 miles)
Nearby supplies
The town of John Day (7 miles away) is mentioned in multiple user reviews as having grocery stores, drug stores, and cafes.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site for its excellent maintenance, cleanliness, and amenities. While some users highlight the site's natural beauty and peaceful setting, others mention drawbacks such as mosquito prevalence and highway noise.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Highlights include 'beautifully maintained grounds,' 'clean restrooms and showers,' 'friendly staff,' and spacious campsites.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include 'highway noise,' 'mosquitoes,' and occasional maintenance issues like uncleaned shower walls.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a campsite, bring mosquito repellent, and explore the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument nearby.
Seasonal Insights
Mosquito prevalence is particularly high during the summer months (June and July), while spring offers a more pleasant experience with blooming trees and fewer insects.
Camper Quotes
1. 'This campground is an oasis in the desert!' 2. 'Clean restrooms and showers, and the ranger was super friendly.' 3. 'Mosquitoes were the worst, but the site was clean.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is frequently mentioned as one of the best, described as 'huge' and well-maintained.
Accessibility Features
Site 018 is highlighted as ADA-compliant, but no detailed reviews from users with disabilities are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews mention the site is 'perfect for our pet' and has a place for dogs to roam.
Last updated August 10, 2025