Jones Crossing Forest Camp

For Oregonians seeking a true escape into the wild heart of their state, Jones Crossing Forest Camp presents an idyllic and inviting opportunity. Tucked away within the magnificent Fremont-Winema National Forest, near the charming town of Paisley, this rustic forest camp offers a serene and authentic outdoor experience. It’s a place where the sounds of the free-flowing Chewaucan River become your soundtrack and the vastness of the Oregon Outback embraces you, providing a perfect setting to unwind, reconnect with nature, and explore the diverse landscapes that make our state so unique.

Jones Crossing is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a gateway to genuine wilderness adventure. This is a developed campground that retains a wonderfully primitive feel, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty of Oregon without excessive commercialization. With its tranquil riverside setting amidst juniper and ponderosa pines, it promises a peaceful retreat from the everyday. The fact that this is a free campground makes it an even more appealing choice for local residents looking for quality outdoor experiences that are accessible and budget-friendly. It embodies the spirit of Oregon's commitment to preserving natural spaces for everyone to enjoy.

The camp's allure lies in its simplicity and its rich natural surroundings. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to catch rainbow or brook trout, a keen hiker ready to explore the Fremont National Recreation Trail, or simply someone who yearns for quiet contemplation by the river, Jones Crossing provides the perfect backdrop. Visitors consistently appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to observe local wildlife, from woodpeckers to songbirds. For Oregon locals who value solitude, outdoor recreation, and the beauty of untouched landscapes, Jones Crossing Forest Camp is a truly remarkable find, offering an authentic taste of the state's natural heritage.

Jones Crossing Forest Camp is conveniently located at NF-330, Paisley, OR 97636, USA. More specifically, it is situated approximately 25 minutes south of Paisley, Oregon, making it a relatively accessible remote destination for residents across central and southern Oregon. Its placement along the free-flowing Chewaucan River within the Fremont-Winema National Forest adds significantly to its appeal and natural beauty.

Accessing Jones Crossing is straightforward, though it involves navigating Forest Service roads. From Paisley, Oregon, visitors can take Mill Street west, which then becomes Forest Service Road #33. The campground is located approximately 8 miles down FS Road #33, between milepost #8 and #9. While FS Road #33 from Paisley is paved initially, sections leading to the campground may be gravel or unpaved, requiring cautious driving. It's always a good idea to check current road conditions, especially after adverse weather, as some areas might be rough.

Despite its rustic and secluded feel, the campground's proximity to Paisley means that essential supplies and services are not too far away, providing a practical balance between wilderness immersion and convenience. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through picturesque forests of juniper and ponderosa pines. This accessible remoteness allows Oregonians to easily transition from their daily lives to a peaceful natural setting, fostering a deeper connection with the diverse landscapes that characterize our state's interior.

Jones Crossing Forest Camp provides essential services to ensure a comfortable yet rustic camping experience, staying true to its forest camp designation. It's designed for those who appreciate basic amenities that enhance their enjoyment of nature without over-developing the area.

• P Eight Spacious Campsites: The campground features eight individual campsites, offering ample space for campers to set up their tents or park smaller RVs/trailers.
• P Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and other camp activities.
• P Fire Grates / Fire Rings: All campsites include a fire grate or fire ring, allowing campers to safely build campfires for cooking, warmth, and ambiance, provided fire restrictions are not in effect.
• P Vault Toilet: The campground has one vault toilet, offering basic and necessary restroom facilities for visitors, contributing to hygiene and environmental protection.
• P No Potable Water: It is important to note that Jones Crossing Forest Camp does not provide potable water. Campers must bring their own supply of drinking water for their entire stay.
• P No Fee Camping: A significant advantage, there is no charge for using this campground, making it an excellent and accessible option for budget-conscious campers.
• P First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are required, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• P Open Season: The campground is typically open from May 15th to October 15th, with reduced services outside this period, providing a clear window for planning visits during favorable weather.

Jones Crossing Forest Camp boasts several features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Oregonians seeking a specific type of outdoor adventure. These elements contribute to its unique character and appeal.

• P Riverside Location on Chewaucan River: A primary highlight is its serene setting directly on the free-flowing Chewaucan River, offering beautiful views, the soothing sounds of the water, and easy access for water-based activities.
• P Excellent Trout Fishing: The Chewaucan River is renowned for its fishing, particularly for rainbow and brook trout, making Jones Crossing a favorite spot for local anglers.
• P Immersive Forest Setting: Surrounded by a mix of juniper and ponderosa pines, the campground provides ample shade and a genuine forest atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers.
• P Access to Fremont National Recreation Trail: The camp is located en route to Chewaucan Crossing, which offers direct access to the Fremont National Recreation Trail. This trail provides opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
• P Primitive yet Developed Feel: While offering essential amenities like picnic tables and vault toilets, the campground maintains a rustic, uncrowded ambiance, perfect for those seeking solitude and a less commercialized experience.
• P Wildlife and Birdwatching: The diverse forest and riparian environment attracts a variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
• P Free Camping: The absence of camping fees is a major draw, allowing for extended stays and frequent visits, and making outdoor recreation more accessible to everyone.
• P Ideal for Fall Hunting: In the autumn, the campground serves as a popular base camp for hunters, benefiting from its strategic location within the national forest.
• P Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Reviewed by visitors for its tranquility, Jones Crossing provides an ideal environment for relaxation, reflection, and disconnecting from urban noise.

For inquiries and current information regarding Jones Crossing Forest Camp, visitors should contact the Paisley Ranger District, which oversees this area within the Fremont-Winema National Forest.

Address: 303 Highway 31, Paisley, OR 97636, USA

Phone: (541) 943-3114

Mobile Phone: +1 541-943-3114

It is highly recommended to contact the Paisley Ranger District before planning your trip to Jones Crossing. They can provide the most up-to-date information on road conditions (especially important for gravel roads leading to the site), fire restrictions, water availability (as there is no potable water at the camp), and any other alerts or regulations that might affect your stay. Given its first-come, first-served policy, while calling won't secure a spot, it can offer insight into typical usage and help you prepare thoroughly for your rustic Oregon adventure.

Jones Crossing Forest Camp is an exceptionally suitable destination for Oregon locals, offering a quintessential outdoor experience that resonates deeply with the state’s adventurous spirit and appreciation for natural beauty. The most compelling aspect for residents is undoubtedly the "free camping" policy. In an era where outdoor recreation can become costly, Jones Crossing provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals and families to immerse themselves in nature without financial burden. This accessibility encourages more frequent visits and longer stays, fostering a strong connection with Oregon's public lands.

The camp's prime location on the banks of the free-flowing Chewaucan River, nestled within the vast Fremont-Winema National Forest, offers a genuinely authentic wilderness experience. For Oregonians passionate about fishing, the abundant trout in the Chewaucan River provide a significant draw. Beyond fishing, the direct access to the Fremont National Recreation Trail opens up a world of possibilities for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, catering to diverse outdoor interests. This means that locals have a fantastic resource for a wide range of recreational activities right in their backyard.

Furthermore, Jones Crossing caters to those seeking solitude and a break from crowded, over-developed tourist spots. Its eight spacious, first-come, first-served campsites ensure a more intimate and peaceful environment, allowing visitors to truly unwind and reconnect with nature on their own terms. The rustic amenities, including picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet, provide necessary comforts while maintaining the camp's natural charm. While visitors need to bring their own water, this adds to the self-reliance aspect that many outdoor enthusiasts appreciate. For any Oregonian looking for a peaceful, activity-rich, and cost-effective escape into the heart of their beautiful state's remote forest lands, Jones Crossing Forest Camp stands as an ideal and cherished local gem.

Jones Crossing Forest Camp

NF-330, Paisley, OR 97636, USA