Gold Dredge Campground
03 reviewsGold Dredge Campground
$8.00 - $25.00 / 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$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Single site: $8/night (extra $5 fee per vehicle exceeding the two-vehicle-per-site allowance). Group site (site 6): $25/night with no extra vehicle charge.
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About this campground
Tucked away in a serene grove of towering Ponderosa pines, Gold Dredge Campground offers an intimate escape along the pristine waters of the North Fork John Day River. This tranquil retreat features seven thoughtfully spaced campsites where the gentle murmur of the river provides nature's soundtrack. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach—with vault toilets and no water or garbage services—this simplicity allows visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the wilderness. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the crystal-clear waters, capture stunning photographs of the pine-framed riverscape, or simply float in the refreshing swimming holes. As summer progresses and water levels recede, the exposed riverbanks reveal new terrain to explore. Come autumn, the surrounding forests transform into prime territory for big game hunters seeking their next adventure.
Gold Dredge Campground offers single sites, a group site, and facilities suitable for both tent and RV camping. Primitive camping is also possible during the off-season.
Historical SignificanceThe legacy of the gold rush era whispers through these woods, where prospectors once worked the riverbanks in search of fortune. Today, active mining claims throughout the area serve as reminders of this colorful past—and as important boundaries for modern visitors to respect. While the glitter of gold may catch your eye in the riverbed, remember that removing any minerals constitutes mineral trespass, a serious offense that honors the rights of current claim holders who continue the prospecting tradition.
Weather and SeasonsThanks to its strategic low-elevation position, Gold Dredge Campground emerges from winter's grip while higher mountain camps remain buried in snow, making it a coveted early-season destination for eager campers. As spring arrives, the campground awakens with wildflowers and rushing snowmelt, creating perfect conditions for those first camping trips of the year. When winter returns, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland accessible only by snowmobile, offering a completely different but equally magical experience for those willing to make the journey.
ElevationPerched at one of the lowest elevations among the region's campgrounds, Gold Dredge enjoys a unique advantage that seasoned campers appreciate. When mountain passes remain locked in snow and higher camps sit empty, this riverside haven already buzzes with life. The lower elevation brings milder temperatures, earlier wildflower blooms, and extended camping seasons—making it the perfect basecamp for those eager to kick off their outdoor adventures when spring first hints at its arrival.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting reads like a love letter to the Pacific Northwest, where majestic Ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the afternoon sun. The Wild and Scenic North Fork John Day River winds through the landscape like a liquid ribbon, its clear waters reflecting the forest canopy above. Morning mist often dances across the water's surface, while evening light filters through the pine boughs, creating a natural cathedral of green and gold. The open forest floor, carpeted with pine needles and dotted with native shrubs, provides ample space for camping while maintaining the intimate feel of a secret hideaway.
Geological RegionGold Dredge Campground rests within a remarkable geological tapestry where ancient volcanic flows meet river-carved valleys. The open Ponderosa pine forest thrives in well-drained soils created over millennia, while the Wild and Scenic North Fork John Day River continues its patient work of sculpting the landscape. This dynamic environment, where forest meets river in the shadow of the Blue Mountains, creates a diverse ecosystem that supports everything from towering conifers to delicate wildflowers, making every visit a lesson in the powerful forces that shape our natural world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site includes 1 accessible vault toilet, but further details about accessibility are not available.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 7 campsites. The size of individual sites is not detailed.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not specified.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors should choose sites closer to the river for the best views, as described in user reviews. Bringing a capable vehicle is recommended for navigating the challenging roads.
Best CampsitesSite 6 is the designated group site and is priced at $25 per night.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles are allowed per site before extra charges.
Groups
Site 6 is designated as a group site and is available at $25/night with no extra vehicle charge. Specific capacity details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but only maintained seasonally from Memorial Day to mid-November. It is inaccessible due to snow during winter and then can be accessed only by snowmobiles.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gold Dredge Campground offers a variety of activities including photography, swimming, non-motorized boating, fishing, and hunting. The nearby Oriental Trailhead, located approximately 6 miles west, provides access to OHV and wilderness trails.
Hiking
The Oriental Trailhead is about 6 miles west of the campground and provides access to both OHV and wilderness trails. Specific trail details, such as length and difficulty, are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a key attraction at this campground. User reviews mention 'plenty of flour' gold in the area, suggesting gold panning opportunities in addition to traditional fishing.Swimming
Swimming is listed as a recreational activity, though water levels in mid to late summer may impact usability.Boating
Non-motorized boating is available, though water levels become low in mid to late summer, which may impede boat use.Winter Activities
The campground remains open during winter but is not maintained. Access is limited to snowmobiles when the road becomes inaccessible due to snow.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities, such as boating, are supported. However, water levels affect usability in mid to late summer.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsActive mineral claims around the campground make it illegal to remove gold or minerals from the area. Potholes on the road leading to the campground may present travel difficulties for some vehicles.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services information is not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May through November 15, with maintenance occurring only in this time frame.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling services are not available. Visitors must pack out their garbage.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located along the North Fork John Day River, providing excellent proximity to water for activities such as swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsUsers commonly report that the road leading to the campground is in poor condition, with many potholes.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Ukiah, Oregon travel west 1 mile to the Hwy 395 junction. Turn left (south) on Hwy 395 and go about 15 miles, and then turn left (east) onto Forest Road 55. Drive 7.7 miles east along the N. Fork John Day River to Gold Dredge Campground.
The road appears unpaved and has been described as challenging. User reviews mention that cars will have a hard time of the road past Driftwood Campground. It is slow-going even for larger vehicles like a Durango due to potholes but is passable with caution.Nearby places
Ukiah, Oregon (approximately 15 miles south on Hwy 395)
Nearby supplies
Information about supplies is not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Gold Dredge Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally speak positively about the peaceful setting and clean facilities. Attractions such as gold panning and fishing are highlighted, although road conditions are noted as challenging.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the clean vault toilet, scenic location along the river, and the presence of fire rings with grates. The area is described as a 'beautiful spot in Oregon.'
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include poor road conditions with potholes that may challenge smaller vehicles. One user warned about active gold claims near the campground, advising that removing minerals without...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing gold pans for panning opportunities, being cautious of road conditions, and packing out all garbage due to the lack of trash services.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is busiest during the maintained season (Memorial Day to mid-November). Winter access is possible but limited to snowmobiles.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'An utterly beautiful spot in Oregon! Clean vault toilet, nice fire rings with grates, and on the best little turn on the North John Day River!' - Rachelle Erb. 2. 'CAUTION!!! There are active...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 6 is specifically identified as the group site at $25/night. Other sites are single sites priced at $8/night.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited to the vault toilet, which is described as accessible.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not mentioned in the provided sources.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025