North Fork John Day Campground (Or)
4.1312 reviews401 W. Main St., Ukiah, OR, 97880
North Fork John Day Campground (Or)
$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
Recreation use fees range from $8 per night for standard and tent-only campsites to $25 per night for group sites. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Where the Wild and Scenic North Fork John Day River winds through Oregon's rugged landscape, North Fork John Day Campground offers a genuine backcountry experience at the crossroads of two legendary scenic byways. This 20-site haven welcomes tent campers and RV adventurers alike, with thoughtfully designed facilities including a spacious group campsite, modern accessible vault toilets, and dedicated stock handling areas for equestrian explorers. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line for native trout, traverse historic trails on foot or horseback, capture stunning wilderness photography, or pursue seasonal hunting opportunities. True to its remote character, the campground operates without running water or garbage service, inviting visitors to embrace a pack-it-in, pack-it-out ethos that preserves this pristine environment.
The campground supports a variety of camping experiences, including tent and RV camping, as well as a designated group site. It caters to both individual and family campers with options for stock animals.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to Oregon's gold rush era, when prospectors flooded these mountains in the late 1800s seeking fortune in the clear mountain streams. Today, weathered log cabins stand as silent sentinels along the trails, their decaying timbers telling stories of dreams, hardship, and determination. These protected historical artifacts offer glimpses into the lives of early pioneers who carved out existence in this remote wilderness. Federal law safeguards these mining remnants, ensuring future generations can discover and appreciate this tangible connection to the American West's golden age.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground's mountain setting creates a dynamic seasonal tapestry that rewards visitors year-round. Spring arrives with warming temperatures and wildflower blooms, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues under crisp, clear skies. Both seasons offer the most comfortable camping conditions with minimal precipitation. Winter transforms the area into a snow-laden wonderland, where temperatures regularly dip below freezing and moderate snowfall blankets the forest floor, creating opportunities for those seeking solitude and winter beauty.
ElevationThe campground's mountain setting provides a refreshing retreat from lower elevations, though specific elevation details await discovery by each visitor.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering lodgepole pines create a natural cathedral above the campground, casting dappled shade across more than half the campsites and filling the air with their distinctive vanilla scent. The perennial North Fork John Day River flows alongside the campground, its crystal-clear waters providing a front-row seat to one of nature's most remarkable spectacles when salmon return each spring and fall to spawn. Wildlife thrives in this protected ecosystem: morning might bring the haunting call of coyotes, while dusk could reveal deer and elk grazing in nearby meadows. The presence of wolves, black bears, and mountain lions reminds visitors they're guests in a truly wild landscape where nature still reigns supreme.
Geological RegionPerfectly positioned where the Blue Mountains meet the Elkhorn Range, this campground serves as basecamp for exploring two of Oregon's most spectacular scenic byways. The Wild and Scenic North Fork John Day River has carved its course through these ancient mountains for millennia, creating a diverse ecosystem where lodgepole pine forests shelter spawning grounds for steelhead and Chinook salmon. This geological crossroads, shaped by volcanic activity and sculpted by water and time, tells the story of Oregon's natural heritage while bearing the scars and treasures of its gold-mining past. The resulting landscape offers an extraordinary blend of geological wonder, biological diversity, and human history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThree accessible vault toilets are available. The campground offers large trailhead parking and an unloading ramp, facilitating access for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites include standard tent/RV and tent-only sites, with some user reviews noting close proximity between certain sites (e.g., sites 5 and 6). The group site is larger and accommodates multiple parties.
Sites PrivacyOver half the campsites are in shaded areas of lodgepole pine forest, offering moderate privacy. Some sites, such as 15 and 16, are noted as being more private and suitable for families.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 10-16 are designated for stock use. Sites 5 and 6 are close together, which may be awkward for strangers but suitable for groups sharing space.
Best CampsitesSites 15 and 16 are highly rated for privacy and proximity to the trail and river. These are ideal for families.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping or occupying a single location longer than 14 consecutive calendar days is prohibited.
Groups
The group site accommodates multiple parties. Specific capacity limits are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops with designated areas for tent sites, RV sites, and stock use.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 15 to October 15. Walk-up availability begins June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis starting June 21. Early arrival is advised during peak season as availability may vary.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled for a $10 fee. Late cancellations will also forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee unless dates are extended or shortened within the original timeframe.
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
The North Fork John Day Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, making it a versatile destination. Key activities include hiking, fishing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and seasonal berry and mushroom picking. The North Fork John Day River Trail #3022 provides a 25-mile hiking route through the wilderness. The area is known for its rich history, with remnants of the gold rush visible along the trail.
Hiking
The campground serves as the trailhead for the North Fork John Day River Trail #3022, a 25-mile hike offering views of rimrock canyons, forests, and historic mining relics. The trail connects to a broader network of 133 miles of trails, including three National Recreation Trails: Elkhorn Crest, Winom Creek, and North Fork John Day.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the North Fork John Day River, with opportunities to catch chinook salmon and steelhead. Special state fishing regulations apply. Spawning salmon can be observed in spring and fall.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as an activity in the area, though no specific trails are highlighted for biking.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including coyotes, deer, elk, wolves, bears, cougars, and small animal species. Seasonal salmon spawning is a highlight in spring and fall.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can pick up the Ukiah-Granite Roadside Geology auto tour brochure to explore regional geological features. The area also features remnants of gold mining history protected by law.Winter Activities
The campground description does not focus on winter activities, but it is implied that the area is less accessible during colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, subject to local regulations. Visitors are encouraged to burn firewood obtained nearby to prevent invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with wildlife such as bears and cougars, as well as challenging terrain and remote access. Lack of potable water requires preparation.
Active alertsNo active alerts specifically mentioned.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest ranger station is located at 401 W. Main St., Ukiah, OR, 97880. Emergency services for hospitals and police are likely in nearby Ukiah, but more specific details are unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash service is not available. Visitors must pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the North Fork John Day River, offering fishing opportunities and scenic views. Olive Lake, a nearby attraction, allows motorized boating, swimming, and crawfishing.
Common complaintsMultiple user reviews highlight a lack of maintenance in facilities including dirty bathrooms, rotting picnic tables, and downed trees obstructing campsites. Navigation issues due to insufficient mapping also reported.
HostCamp hosts are available during peak season, offering maps and information about local geology.
Campground Map
401 W. Main St., Ukiah, OR, 97880
Driving directionsFrom Ukiah, OR head southeast on Forest Service Road 52 for approximately 40 miles to the North Fork John Day Campground and trailhead. Parking for the trailhead is in the north end of the campground. The site is adjacent to the Wild & Scenic North Fork John Day River and the Blue Mountain National Scenic Byway.
The campground is accessible via Forest Service Road 52 which is unpaved. Seasonal closures or challenging navigation are possible due to its remoteness. Some user reviews highlight difficulty in locating the site due to insufficient mapping resources.Nearby places
Granite (9 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes), Sumpter (22 miles, approximately 35-45 minutes), Olive Lake (21 miles, approximately 30-40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, fuel, and groceries are available in Ukiah, approximately 40 miles away. Additional amenities may be found in Granite or Sumpter.
Camper Reviews
4.1
12 reviews
North Fork John Day Campground (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty of the location, its historical significance, and the variety of recreational opportunities. However, maintenance issues, lack of potable water, and site proximity are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the beautiful location, the well-maintained trails, and the opportunity to engage in activities like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Sites like 15 and 16 are...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the lack of potable water and garbage service, poor maintenance of picnic tables and vault toilets, and unclear or inadequate directions to the campground. One user...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should bring their own water and be prepared to pack out trash. Sites 15 and 16 are recommended for families seeking privacy. ATVs are not allowed despite no explicit mention in the rules.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are mixed, with positive comments about the river and trails offset by complaints about maintenance and overcrowding. Fall is noted as a prime season for observing spawning salmon and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Nice campsites too.' 'The North Fork John Day Wilderness...is prime backpacking country.' 'The out houses have needed to be pumped for 2 years now.'
Based on 12 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 5 and 6 are noted for being very close to each other. Site 14 has received mixed reviews about its occupants. Sites 15 and 16 are recommended for families. 'We stayed in the two tent sites (15...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are available, but no further user reviews elaborate on accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be on a leash at all times. No specific issues or highlights regarding pet policies are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025