Head O' Boulder Forest Camp
01 review,
Head O' Boulder Forest Camp
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
'No Fees are required for this site.'
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Malheur National Forest, Head O' Boulder Forest Camp offers adventurers a gateway to some of Eastern Oregon's most pristine wilderness trails. This rustic retreat serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring the renowned Princess Trail (#251), the challenging Sunrise Butte Trail (#255), and the scenic Blackeye Trail (#243). While temporarily closed, this beloved campground typically welcomes those seeking an authentic backcountry experience away from the crowds.
The campground offers rustic camping options with no definitive information about specific accommodations.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient forests have witnessed centuries of human passage, from indigenous peoples who first walked these ridgelines to the miners and loggers who later sought fortune in these hills. Today's trails follow routes carved by generations of adventurers drawn to this remote corner of Oregon's wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances to its own rhythm, shifting from brilliant sunshine to sudden storms with little warning. Smart campers come prepared for nature's full repertoire—from crisp morning frost to afternoon thunderheads, and yes, even unexpected snowfall that can dust the peaks well into late spring and arrive early in fall. Pack layers and expect the unexpected in this dynamic high-country environment.
ElevationPerched in the heart of the Blue Mountains' rugged terrain, the campground sits at an elevation where the air grows thin and the views expand endlessly. Here, mountain meadows give way to dense conifer forests, creating a diverse ecosystem that changes dramatically with each gain in altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the whisper of wind through towering ponderosa pines and the distant call of mountain birds. The surrounding landscape unfolds like a living tapestry—wildflower meadows burst with seasonal color, while ancient forests shelter elk, deer, and countless smaller creatures. Trail connections lead directly into the spectacular Vinegar Hill-Indian Rock Scenic Area, where panoramic vistas reward those who venture forth.
Geological RegionThe campground rests within the geological wonderland of the Malheur National Forest, where volcanic history has sculpted a landscape of dramatic ridges and hidden valleys. As part of the Vinegar Hill-Indian Rock Scenic Area, visitors find themselves surrounded by exposed rock formations that tell the story of ancient lava flows and millions of years of erosion, creating the breathtaking terrain that defines this corner of the Blue Mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed accessibility features were mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a few sites, but the exact sizes are not specified.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels of the campsites are not detailed.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific sites are recommended, but the description suggests that some spots are more desirable ('Great place to camp if you can get a good spot').
Best Campsites/
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
/
Guests Allowed Per Site
/
Groups
Information about group site capacities and features is not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layout/
Open and Closed Season/
Reservation Platforms/
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; the site is described as 'rustic,' suggesting a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation Policy/
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and scenic viewing.
Hiking
The site is a trailhead leading to trails like the Princess Trail #251, Sunrise Butte Trail #255, and Blackeye Trail #243, offering multiple hiking options.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
There are no details about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- /
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsWeather is a primary concern, especially rapid changes and the potential for freezing conditions. The lack of potable water may also be a hazard for unprepared campers.
Active alertsThe campground is temporarily closed. Visitors should check with the Malheur National Forest Headquarters for updates.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.8 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
Information not provided directly about emergency services, but the Malheur National Forest Headquarters / Blue Mountain Ranger District can be contacted at 431 Patterson Bridge Road John Day, OR 97845. Phone: (541) 575-3000.
Good to know
Peak season dates/
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to follow a pack-it-in/pack-it-out policy, ensuring all trash, including cigarette butts, cans, bottles, and food, is taken with them.
Proximity to water features/
Common complaintsNo common complaints are explicitly mentioned, though the absence of potable water and the rustic nature of the site may pose challenges for some visitors.
HostNo campground host information is provided.
Campground Map
,
Driving directionsFrom Prairie City, OR., drive east on US Highway 26 for approximately 13 miles to the junction with US Highway 7. Take US Highway 7 for one mile to the junction with County Road 20. Follow County Road 20 for approximately 14 miles to the junction with Forest Service Road 45. Follow Forest Service Road 45 approximately 8 miles to Forest Service Road 4500-537. Follow Forest Service Road 4500-537 toward Indian Rock Lookout. This road will dissect Head O'Boulder Forest Camp.
The site is accessible via a combination of highways, county roads, and forest service roads. Conditions of Forest Service Road 4500-537 are not described, so assume standard forest road conditions.Nearby places
Prairie City, OR (approximately 36 miles, travel time varies based on forest road conditions).
Nearby supplies
No direct information provided, but Prairie City, OR, is the nearest town and likely offers essential camping supplies and services.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Head O' Boulder Forest Camp has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The site has limited user reviews, with one user praising the camping experience as enjoyable if a good spot can be secured.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the rustic, scenic environment and the access to hiking trails.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints are mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a desirable spot, as noted by one reviewer.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No detailed seasonal trends are provided by users.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Stayed there a few years ago. Great place to camp if you can get a good spot." - Donald Maloy
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or features are reviewed.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility-related reviews are not available.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mention experiences or policies regarding pets.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025