Antelope Market

Nestled in the charming and historically rich town of Antelope, Oregon, Antelope Market offers a truly distinctive and evolving camping experience that stands out in the vast landscapes of Eastern Oregon. Far from your typical bustling campground, this unique destination blends rustic charm with thoughtful amenities, making it an increasingly popular stop for adventurers exploring the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument area. What began as a simpler offering for tent and dry campers has rapidly transformed, with dedicated owners Brandie and Larry pouring their passion into creating a welcoming and comfortable haven for all types of travelers, including RVs, motorcyclists, and even those seeking a cozy cabin retreat.

Antelope Market isn't just a place to stay; it's a part of the town's quiet revival, offering a glimpse into the authentic "old-time charm of the west" that defines Antelope. Visitors praise the serene atmosphere, where the absence of city noise allows for incredible stargazing and a truly peaceful night's sleep. Whether you're pulling in a large rig, pitching a tent under the vast Oregon sky, or experiencing the unique comfort of their A-frame mini-cabins, you'll find a well-kept ground and a genuine welcome. The ongoing improvements, including soon-to-be-completed modern restrooms and showers, highlight the commitment to making Antelope Market a top-tier destination in this captivating part of Oregon.

Antelope Market is conveniently located at 45438 Shaniko-Fossil Hwy, Antelope, OR 97001, USA. This places it directly within the small, historic town of Antelope, a pivotal point on the "Journey Through Time Scenic Byway" that connects Fossil to Antelope. Its strategic position makes it an excellent base for exploring the iconic John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, particularly the Sheep Rock Unit and the renowned Painted Hills, which are within easy driving distance.

Access to Antelope Market is straightforward, as it sits directly on a major highway traversing this part of Oregon. For those traveling by car or RV, the drive offers scenic vistas of the high desert landscape. The town of Antelope itself is small and quiet, with very little traffic, especially at night, contributing to a truly peaceful atmosphere. While it feels remote, its location on a state highway ensures it remains highly accessible. For those embarking on cycling tours, such as the Oregon Outback, Antelope Market is a well-regarded and essential stop, offering a welcome respite and amenities that cater specifically to bikepackers. The ease of finding the location within the tiny town and its direct connection to key Oregon attractions make it a convenient and desirable spot for travelers seeking to explore Central and Eastern Oregon's unique geological and historical treasures.

Antelope Market is rapidly developing its offerings to provide a comprehensive and comfortable experience for its guests, catering to various camping styles and needs.

• A-frame Cabins: Unique A-frame mini-cabins are available for rent. These cozy cabins come equipped with amenities like lamps, coffee, water, and mini-fridges. They are noted for being warm and comfortable even in cold weather, with some featuring electricity and air conditioning, making them ideal for a "glamping" experience. Reviewers often highlight the comfortable beds and welcoming setup.
• RV Hookups: The campground offers RV sites with full hookups, including electrical (30-amp and 50-amp services are available at select sites), water, and sewage connections. These spots are particularly valuable for longer stays or for those desiring full amenities.
• Tent Camping: For traditional campers, spacious tent sites are available, often on well-kept grassy areas, providing a comfortable surface for pitching tents. Shade is also a noted benefit, especially when compared to other open-field camping options in the area.
• Restrooms and Showers (Developing): While full, modern bathrooms with flush toilets and showers are actively being built and are soon to be online, temporary solutions are in place. These currently include very clean porta-potties, with some reviews mentioning real sinks with soap and mirrors adjacent to them. An outdoor shower is also available and appreciated by bikepackers.
• Honor Fridge/Market (Developing): The "Antelope Market" concept is evolving. There is currently an "honor fridge" well-stocked with sodas and treats, operating on a Venmo or cash basis. As the market fully opens, it is expected to offer a wider range of items, reducing the need for extensive prior shopping.
• Lawn Furniture & Hammock: Guests can enjoy comfortable outdoor seating, including lawn furniture and hammocks, providing ideal spots for relaxation and enjoying the quiet surroundings.
• EV Charging: A notable feature for modern travelers, the campground offers NEMA 14-50 hookups which can be used for Level 2 EV charging, a significant convenience in this rural area.
• WiFi: Connectivity is available, with WiFi access often noted to be found on the honor fridge for easy access, which is helpful given potential cell service limitations in the area.
• Communal Covered Patio: Plans are in place for or a newly established communal covered patio, perfect for gathering, cooking on camp stoves, or just relaxing.
• Pet Friendly: The campground is welcoming to pets, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along for their Eastern Oregon adventure.
• On-site Food Truck: A food truck operates on-site typically Friday-Sunday, offering delicious options like burgers, a convenient amenity for campers not wanting to cook every meal.

Antelope Market is quickly gaining recognition for its unique features and highlights, making it a standout camping and lodging option in Oregon.

• Unique A-frame Cabins: These mini-cabins offer a cozy, comfortable, and unique glamping experience, perfect for those who want a step up from tent camping without sacrificing the outdoor feel. Their warmth, even in cold weather, and amenities like mini-fridges and lamps, are frequently praised.
• Quiet, Dark Skies, and Stargazing: The town of Antelope is renowned for being incredibly quiet at night with minimal light pollution. This provides an exceptional opportunity for stargazing, with many visitors reporting breathtaking views of the Milky Way and abundant stars and moon. This peaceful ambiance is a major draw for those seeking a true escape.
• Developing Modern Amenities: The active development of new, clean bathrooms with flush toilets and showers signifies a commitment to providing high-quality facilities. This forward-looking approach promises an even more comfortable stay in the near future.
• Ideal for Cyclists and Motorcyclists: Antelope Market is highly regarded by bike packers on the Oregon Outback route and motorcyclists. Features like the outdoor shower, comfortable cabins, and the host's potential bike mechanic skills make it particularly welcoming for these travelers.
• Proximity to John Day Fossil Beds: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, including the spectacular Painted Hills, which are a short, scenic drive away. This allows for convenient day trips to witness geological wonders.
• Old-Time Western Charm: Antelope itself offers a distinct historical atmosphere. Staying at Antelope Market allows visitors to immerse themselves in this quaint town's unique character and enjoy a quiet, rural Oregon experience.
• Supportive and Welcoming Hosts: Reviewers consistently highlight the friendliness, helpfulness, and hard work of the owners, Brandie and Larry. Their dedication to improving the property and making guests feel welcome contributes significantly to the positive experience.
• EV Charging Capability: Providing EV charging is a significant modern amenity, catering to the growing number of electric vehicle owners and making this remote area more accessible for sustainable travel.
• On-Site Food Options: The presence of a food truck (Friday-Sunday) offering great burgers provides a convenient dining option, reducing the need to travel for meals.
• Lush Grounds and Shade: The well-kept grounds and presence of shade (a valuable asset in the high desert climate) are appreciated by campers seeking comfort and a pleasant environment.

For more information, reservations, or to inquire about the latest developments at Antelope Market, you can reach out directly to the owners.

Address: 45438 Shaniko-Fossil Hwy, Antelope, OR 97001, USA

Phone: (541) 325-2570

Mobile Phone: +1 541-325-2570

Given that some services, like cabin bookings and RV spots, may involve direct communication with the owners (often through platforms like Hipcamp or Venmo for payment, as mentioned in reviews), calling ahead or checking online listings for "Antelope Market and RV Park Camping" on sites like Hipcamp or Airbnb (for the A-frame cabins) would provide the most current information regarding availability, rates, and any specific booking procedures. Their commitment to direct interaction and the developing nature of the market suggest that personal contact can be very informative.

For Oregonians seeking a distinctive and evolving outdoor experience, Antelope Market in Antelope offers a compelling array of reasons to visit. This isn't just another campground; it's a unique blend of small-town charm, burgeoning amenities, and unparalleled access to one of Oregon's geological crown jewels. Its suitability for locals lies in several key aspects that resonate with the Oregon spirit of discovery and appreciation for unique natural landscapes.

Firstly, its strategic location near the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, particularly the iconic Painted Hills, makes it an ideal base for exploring these world-renowned formations that are right in our state. For Oregonians, having a comfortable and convenient place to stay so close to such a significant natural wonder is a huge advantage, allowing for multiple visits and deeper exploration.

Secondly, the innovative offerings, especially the cozy A-frame cabins and the inclusion of EV charging, cater to the evolving needs of modern Oregonian travelers. This demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that makes a stay at Antelope Market both comfortable and sustainable. The ongoing development of modern bathrooms and showers further promises a continually improving experience, reflecting the dedication of local owners to creating a top-notch destination.

Furthermore, the tranquil setting of Antelope itself, with its quiet nights and incredible stargazing opportunities, provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This peaceful ambiance, combined with the friendly and helpful presence of the owners, creates a welcoming and authentic rural Oregon experience. For those who enjoy motorcycle touring or bikepacking through the scenic routes of Eastern Oregon, Antelope Market is custom-made for their needs, offering specific amenities and a community feel. It's an opportunity to support a local business that is genuinely investing in its community and providing a truly memorable and evolving outdoor adventure right here in our beloved Oregon.

This video gives a good overview of the journey along the scenic byway that leads to Antelope: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZERMveXt1A)

Antelope Market

45438 Shaniko-Fossil Hwy, Antelope, OR 97001, USA