About Middle Fork Campground
Overview This small campground along the Scenic Middle Fork of the John Day River set back amongst beautiful ponderosa pine trees is a great spot for fishing and viewing spawning steelhead in the fall. The campground is a good starting point for hunters, hikers and those wishing to see beautiful scenery, wildlife and wildflowers. The campground sets just off of the county road allowing for easy access to all variety of vehicles and bicycles. Recreation This campground offers excellent fishing access along the Middle Fork John Day River, along with a unique chance to view spawning steelhead during the fall months. Visitors can enjoy nearby hikes and wildlife and wildflower viewing. It also provides a great base camp for hunters. Facilities Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring and parking for camp trailers. Accessible vault toilets are conveniently located in the middle of the campground. Natural Features Middle Fork John Day River Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (541) 575-3000. Nearby Attractions Davis Creek TrailVinegar Hill Indian Rock Scenic AreaTempest Mine TrailSunrise Butte TrailPrincess TrailBates State ParkAustin House
How to Get There
From the town of Prairie City, OR, travel east on US Highway 26 approximately 11 miles to the junction of US Highway 7, follow US Highway 7 for approximately 1 mile to the junction with County Road 20, junction will be on the left. Follow County Road 20 for approximately 5 miles, the campground will be on the left.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Middle Fork Campground
Heading to Middle Fork Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Middle Fork Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Middle Fork Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10372562) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Middle Fork Campground?
From the town of Prairie City, OR, travel east on US Highway 26 approximately 11 miles to the junction of US Highway 7, follow US Highway 7 for approximately 1 mile to the junction with County Road 20, junction will be on the left. Follow County Road 20 for approximately 5 miles, the campground will be on the left.
How do I contact Middle Fork Campground?
You can reach the park at email: SM.FS.malpubinfo@usda.gov.
References & Official Resources
