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The best camping near Bates State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Bates adventure.

This Historic Valley in the Blue Mountains is THE Place to Beat the Crowds  

Popular ways to camp

Top-rated campgrounds near Bates State Park

100%
(3)

Northside Base Camp

2 sites ¡ Lodging40 acres ¡ Prairie City, OR
Just minutes from Prairie City, 40 acres of off grid living provides for the best valley views with the Strawberry Mountain Range as a picturesque back drop. If you are just passing through eastern Oregon, or making it a destination, the view will not disappoint. Wildlife and critters abound day and night. Turkeys and coyotes often heard at dusk, taking you into nights dark skies for some of the best stargazing around. There is an outhouse just a short walk from the cabins for toilet. No running water or showers on site. Endless miles of public lands begin within 2 miles. Magone Lake is nearby for fishing, swimming, paddle boarding and biking trails. Located within the Northside hunting unit. Excellent hiking opportunities within the Strawberry Wilderness. Visit the BLM office in Prairie City for all your maps and forestry information.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$95
 / night
96%
(23)

Towering Tamaracks

4 sites ¡ Tents20 acres ¡ Baker City, OR
This area used to have train tracks nearby, thus the road name Old Trestle Lane. Legend has it that "there is gold in them there hills". Heavily forested mountain property is way off the grid and it neighbors National Forest; from June through November you can enjoy hiking, climbing, hammocking, watching wild animals, star gazing at night (breath-taking), but sorry, no sounds of the city. December through May camping is ONLY for the hard core winter camper who can find their way down eight miles of unplowed forest service access road to Towering Tamaracks. All water services at TT are winterized until the first week in June. Campers have also enjoyed kayaking, as well as stand up paddleboarding, hiking, mountain biking at Phillips Lake, which is a little over eight miles from TT. For trails, visit Trailforks.com and search Phillips Lake. Trails range from Easy to Black Diamond. Visit nearby gold mining town, Sumpter (about 45 minute drive), while you're here. There is an authentic gold dredge you can walk through or schedule a steam powered train ride. http://www.sumptervalleyrailroad.org/index.html If you don't mind the hour drive, explore the history of Baker City and check out the Oregon Trail Museum just outside of town.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$27
 / night

Three R's Ranch

1 site ¡ RV, Tent10 acres ¡ Baker City, OR
The Three R's Ranch sits on 9.7 acres while looking at the Elk horn mountains, we have four seasons here in Eastern Oregon. There is a wide variety of towns, parks, lakes, hot springs, hiking, fishing, hunting, scenic byway boating also a downtown bar seen activities and surroundings to keep you entertained.
Pets
Trash
from 
$40
 / night

The best camping near Bates State Park guide

Overview

About

Set on a modest 131 acres, this lumber mill turned wilderness getaway is never crowded. Seriously. Never. Sure, it may not have all the frills of some of the more popular Oregon state parks. But if you crave solitude, this park on the John Day River is your new best friend.

The 3+ miles of hiking trails wind through pine trees and shrubs. There's also a path around the old mill pond, where you can cast a line if you're feeling lucky.

The lumber town itself was torn down in the 70s. Today, you find a campground with 28 rustic sites and nearby vault toilets. Shade is scarce in the wide-open sites, but a canopy tent does the trick.

There's also a cozy hiker/biker camp with six sites, electric hook-ups, and a day use area with a picnic shelter. Keep in mind all sites are first-come, first-served—get there early if you're planning a summer trip. The park opens daily May through October.

Notable campgrounds

  • Primitive Tent Sites: Connect with nature at one of the 28 primitive sites suitable for tents or self-contained RVs.
  • Hiker/Biker Camp: Offers six sites with electric plug-ins, perfect for those on a cycling or backpacking journey.
  • Accessible Sites: Three campsites are specifically designed to be accessible to campers with disabilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Arrive early in the season: Camping is first-come, first-served, so plan to get there early, especially during peak times.
  • Check the park's website: Stay updated on campsite availability and park notices before your visit.
  • Prepare for the basics: With primitive camping, bring all necessary supplies as amenities are limited.
  • Explore nearby camping options: Consider nearby Prairie City and John Day for additional camping opportunities.

When to go

The best time to visit Bates State Park is between May 1 and November 1, when the park is open for day use and camping. The summer months offer warm weather perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing, while the fall brings a stunning display of autumn colors.

Know before you go

  • Check weather conditions: The park's high elevation can lead to sudden weather changes, so come prepared.
  • Day-use parking permits required: Ensure you have the necessary permits for vehicle parking within the park.
  • Fishing regulations: Consult the Oregon Department Fish & Wildlife website for up-to-date fishing rules.
  • Accessibility: The park offers universal access with certain campsites designed for campers with disabilities.
  • Seasonal operation: Remember that the park and its campgrounds are only open from May 1 to November 1.

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