Tollbridge Campground
05 reviewsTollbridge Campground
$8.00 - $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
Single site fee is $8 per night, with an additional $5 fee per vehicle exceeding the two-vehicle-per-site limit. Fees are charged through November 15.
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About this campground
Tucked away where Desolation Creek meets the North Fork John Day River, Tollbridge Campground offers an intimate escape into Oregon's pristine wilderness. This hidden gem features just five peaceful campsites, perfect for those seeking solitude beneath towering pines. The campground's accessible facilities and interpretive geology sign welcome all visitors to explore this riverside sanctuary. Here, days unfold with the gentle rhythm of flowing water—cast a line for native trout, take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear pools, or paddle quietly through mirror-like waters. Wildlife photographers will treasure early morning encounters, while hunters find prime territory in the surrounding forest. Note that this rustic retreat embraces simplicity: bring your own drinking water and pack out all trash to preserve this untouched paradise.
Tollbridge Campground is geared towards tent and small RV camping, with a small number of sites for intimate and nature-focused camping.
Historical SignificanceThe story of this land stretches back millions of years, written in stone and revealed through the campground's interpretive geology display. This educational feature invites visitors to read the ancient narrative carved into the surrounding canyon walls and riverbed formations. Each rock layer tells a tale of volcanic eruptions, ancient seas, and the patient work of water sculpting the landscape over countless millennia.
Weather and SeasonsTollbridge transforms dramatically with each passing season, offering year-round adventures for the intrepid explorer. Winter blankets the campground in pristine snow, creating a wonderland accessible only by snowmobile as temperatures plunge and the landscape hibernates under a crystalline coat. Come summer, the mercury can soar into the 90s, turning the confluence of creek and river into nature's perfect swimming hole. Seasoned campers know to pack layers and plan river dips during peak summer heat, when the cool mountain waters provide blessed relief from the afternoon sun.
ElevationNestled within the varied topography of the Umatilla National Forest, Tollbridge occupies a sweet spot where mountain meets river valley. While specific elevation data awaits documentation, visitors will experience the characteristic mountain environment of Eastern Oregon's Blue Mountain region.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry takes center stage at Tollbridge, where the marriage of Desolation Creek and the North Fork John Day River creates a photographer's dream. Dense coniferous forests frame each campsite, offering natural privacy screens and dappled shade throughout the day. The dual waterways provide a constant soundtrack of rushing water, while the surrounding Umatilla National Forest extends an invitation to explore miles of untamed wilderness. Morning mist rises from the river confluence, afternoon light filters through the canopy, and evening brings a symphony of forest sounds to this secluded retreat.
Geological RegionPositioned at the dramatic confluence of two waterways within the greater Umatilla National Forest, Tollbridge Campground sits atop a fascinating geological crossroads. The campground's interpretive sign unlocks the secrets of this unique landscape, where ancient geological forces created the dramatic canyons and river valleys visible today. This location offers a front-row seat to observe how water continues to shape the land, carving ever deeper into the bedrock and revealing new chapters in Earth's ongoing story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has an accessible vault toilet. There is no further information about additional accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground includes six sites, with the last two being the longest. One site at the end is directly on the river.
Sites PrivacySites are described as small and relatively secluded, located in a forested area close to a stream.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid vehicles over 28 feet due to tight curves and tree limb obstructions. The longest campsite at the end of the loop offers the best proximity to the river and ample space.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight the longest site at the end of the loop as the most desirable, located directly by the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in procedures are not defined.
Check-out
Check-out procedures are not defined.
Stay Limit
No defined maximum stay limit has been mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two vehicles per site
- additional vehicles incur a fee.
Groups
The campground does not have designated group camping areas.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a loop layout with six sites, the last two being the longest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from Memorial Day until mid-November. Campground is available year-round but not maintained outside the open season, with winter access limited to snowmobiles.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms mentioned; appears to be walk-up only.
Walk-in AvailabilityAppears to be only first-come, first-served availability. No specific mentions of reserved sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies have not been defined.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tollbridge Campground is an excellent location for outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for hunting, fishing, swimming, non-motorized boating, and photography. The location near the North Fork John Day River offers direct access to water-based activities.
Fishing
Fishing is a featured activity at the campground, supported by its proximity to the North Fork John Day River.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the North Fork John Day River. No designated areas or safety measures are mentioned.Boating
The campground supports non-motorized boating activities. Specific details about facilities or restrictions are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is encouraged as the campground is located in a forested and relatively undisturbed area.Winter Activities
The campground is open in the winter, but access is limited to snowmobiles when the road is snow-covered.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing or kayaking are possible in the nearby river.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Not defined.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rough access roads, tight curves, and tree limbs obstructing paths. Lack of potable water requires filtration from the stream or carrying water. Emergency services are not nearby.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.4 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
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
Closest emergency services are available through the North Fork John Day Ranger District. Contact details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate May through mid-November.
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service at the campground. Campers must pack out all trash and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresLocated at the confluence of Desolation Creek and the North Fork John Day River, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention rough road conditions, limited amenities (only a pit toilet), and lack of potable water.
HostThere is no mention of campground hosts.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Ukiah, OR, 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 Service Road 55. Drive just less than 1 mile, then turn right (south) onto Forest Service Road 10. Travel just across the bridge (about 300 feet) to Tollbridge Campground on the right.
The road leading to the campground includes a 3/4 mile section that is very washboarded and requires slow travel. Additionally, the curve into the campground can be tight due to tree limbs, creating difficulties for vehicles over 28 feet. Seasonal snow can restrict access to snowmobiles only. User reviews confirm rough patches but note that even smaller vehicles like a Prius can navigate.Nearby places
Ukiah, Oregon (approximately 15 miles, 20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
There is no detailed mention of nearby supply locations. Campers are advised to pack their garbage home and bring their own potable water.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Tollbridge Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's serene location near the river and minimal amenities. Many reviewers appreciate the natural setting but note the lack of potable water, cell service, and the rough access road.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground's seclusion, proximity to the river, and peaceful atmosphere. "Small secluded campground tucked into a forested corner by the stream," says Roman P. Others note the river...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, rough road conditions leading into the campground, and limited amenities. Tad Isaacs comments, "The 3/4 mile road leading to the campground was...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own water and being prepared to pack out trash. "No potable water, but you can filter from the stream," advises Roman P. Tad Isaacs suggests caution for larger...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer visitors highlight the warm weather and swimming opportunities in the river but caution about high temperatures, with one reviewer using the river to cool off during a heat wave. In winter,...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Small secluded campground tucked into a forested corner by the stream. Easy access to everything," - Roman P. "The 3/4 mile road leading to the campground was very washboard, had to crawl along," -...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The last two sites are described as the longest, with the one at the end being directly on the river. Roman P. mentions, "The one at the end was right on the river."
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes an accessible vault toilet, but no further reviews on accessibility features are noted.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific user feedback on pet policies or facilities is provided.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025