Mitchell City Park

Nestled in the heart of the quaint town of Mitchell, Oregon, Mitchell City Park offers a unique and convenient camping experience for locals and travelers alike. Far from the bustling crowds, this park provides a tranquil oasis along the banks of Bridge Creek, making it an ideal base for exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of Eastern Oregon, particularly the iconic Painted Hills unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. This isn't just a patch of ground for pitching a tent; it's a thoughtfully designed municipal park that caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from traditional tent campers to those traveling in RVs, and even a growing number of electric vehicle owners.

Mitchell City Park perfectly blends the charm of a small Oregon town with the rugged beauty of the high desert landscape. The presence of green, soft grass lawns for tent camping and dedicated RV spots demonstrates a commitment to providing comfortable and accessible options. Whether you're seeking a serene night under the stars after a day of hiking or a convenient stop with essential hookups on a longer road trip, Mitchell City Park delivers. The park's commitment to community is also evident, with local art adorning the restrooms and a generally friendly, welcoming atmosphere reported by visitors. It’s a place where the sounds of the creek and the quiet of the small town replace the noise of the everyday, inviting you to slow down and savor the moments.

Mitchell City Park is centrally located in Mitchell, Oregon, at Mitchell, OR 97750, USA. Its prime position in downtown Mitchell makes it incredibly accessible and convenient for visitors. The park is situated just off Highway 26, the main thoroughfare through the area, making it easy to find for those traveling by car or RV. For those specifically aiming to visit the world-renowned Painted Hills, Mitchell City Park is an exceptionally strategic choice, as the Painted Hills Unit of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is approximately 15 minutes away, or about 10 miles northwest. This proximity allows for early morning explorations or late afternoon visits to capture the best light on the colorful hills.

The park's location within the town itself means that essential services and local businesses are within easy walking distance. This includes a grocery store, local eateries, and even a brewery, adding a layer of convenience often not found in more remote campgrounds. While the park is in town, it still maintains a sense of calm, with Bridge Creek flowing alongside and offering a natural backdrop. For larger RVs, some reviews suggest backing in from the street for easier maneuvering into the designated spots. The ease of access from major routes and its closeness to a significant natural attraction like the Painted Hills makes Mitchell City Park an excellent stopover or a multi-day base for exploring Central Oregon's unique geological formations and high desert beauty.

Mitchell City Park offers a selection of practical services designed to enhance your camping experience, whether you're in a tent or an RV. These amenities, combined with the park's convenient location, contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

• RV Hookups: The park features a limited number of RV spaces (reportedly around 4-5) equipped with both water and 50-amp electrical hookups (some also have 30-amp and 120v NEMA 5-15 outlets). This is a significant convenience for RVers, especially after days of dry camping.
• Tent Camping: For traditional campers, there are spacious tent camping options available on a soft, grassy lawn. This provides a comfortable surface for pitching tents.
• Potable Water: Clean drinking water is available from a spigot in the park, sourced from the town's natural spring, which is a welcome amenity for all campers.
• Restrooms: Well-maintained and clean restroom facilities are available. These are noted for featuring artwork by local artists, adding a unique touch to the park's amenities. Some reports indicate the restrooms are located across the street from the main camping area.
• Picnic Tables: Each camping area, whether for RVs or tents, is equipped with picnic tables for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Playground: The park includes a playground area for children, making it a family-friendly camping destination.
• EV Charging: A notable and increasingly important service, Mitchell City Park offers NEMA 14-50 hookups which can be used for mobile EV charging at a flat rate (often included in the RV camping fee or a separate charge for EV-only use). This is a significant draw for electric vehicle owners exploring Oregon.
• BBQ Pits/Pavilion: The park also features BBQ pits and a covered pavilion, ideal for group gatherings or enjoying meals outdoors, even in varying weather conditions.
• No Dump Station: It's important for RVers to note that the park does not have a dump station. The nearest dump stations are reportedly in Prineville (47 miles west) or John Day (69 miles east).
• No Showers: While restrooms are available, there are no showers directly within the park. Some local businesses may offer shower facilities for an additional fee.
• No Verizon Service: Based on some reviews, Verizon cell service may be limited or unavailable in this area, which could be a consideration for those relying on connectivity.

Mitchell City Park boasts several distinctive features that set it apart and make it a highly attractive destination for campers in Oregon.

• Proximity to Painted Hills: This is arguably the biggest draw. Being just 15 minutes from the world-famous Painted Hills allows campers unparalleled access to one of Oregon's most stunning geological wonders, enabling multiple visits throughout the day to witness the changing colors.
• EV Charging Capability: A rare and highly valued feature, the park's 14-50 hookups offer electric vehicle owners a crucial charging stop in a relatively remote area. This "multi-use concept" caters to modern travelers and distinguishes the park from many others.
• Urban Camping Convenience: Unlike many campgrounds that are deep in the wilderness, Mitchell City Park offers the unique experience of "camping in town." This means easy walking access to local amenities like a general store, cafes, and the Tiger Town Brewing Co., making resupply and local experiences effortless.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a nice playground for kids and soft grassy areas, the park is well-suited for families traveling with children, providing space for them to play and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
• Scenic Creek-side Setting: Despite its in-town location, the park is situated along Bridge Creek, offering soothing natural sounds and a pleasant, serene ambiance, enhancing the overall camping experience.
• Affordable Rates: With reported rates of $25/night for RVs with hookups and $12/night for tents, Mitchell City Park offers a very economical option for camping, especially considering the included electricity and water for RVs.
• Self-Pay / First-Come, First-Served Simplicity: While some RV sites can be reserved via email during specific hours, tent camping is generally on a first-come, first-served basis, often with a self-pay envelope system. This offers flexibility for spontaneous trips, though it's wise to arrive early during peak season, as RV spots are limited to 4-5.
• Quaint Small-Town Charm: Mitchell itself is a charming, historic town that feels like a step back in time. Camping at the city park allows visitors to immerse themselves in this unique local culture.
• Accessibility for Diverse Vehicles: The park can accommodate a range of vehicles, from large RVs (though some maneuvering might be required for the largest ones) to smaller vans and tent setups.

For those planning a visit to Mitchell City Park, particularly for RV camping, it's advisable to be aware of the reservation procedures and general contact information for the City of Mitchell.

Address: Mitchell, OR 97750, USA

For general inquiries or to inquire about RV space availability and the specific reservation process (especially given that RV reservations are handled via email during limited office hours), you should contact the City of Mitchell directly.

City of Mitchell Phone: (541) 462-3121

City of Mitchell Email: cityofmitchell@gmail.com (for RV reservations, ensure you follow their specific instructions, including putting "RESERVATIONS" in the subject line, providing your full name, check-in/check-out dates, and RV/vehicle license plate number. Note that reservations are typically only confirmed Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM Pacific Time).

Website: mitchelloregon.us/visit/page/mitchell-city-park (Check this official source for the most current information on rates, rules, and any specific closures, such as during the Labor Day weekend for the Painted Hills Festival).

Remember that tent camping is often first-come, first-served, and a self-pay system with cash or check in an envelope is common for these spots. It’s always a good idea to check the city’s website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information, particularly regarding fire restrictions or any unexpected closures.

For Oregonians, Mitchell City Park offers an exceptional and highly suitable camping option, providing a unique blend of convenience, affordability, and access to one of the state's most iconic natural attractions. Its location in Mitchell positions it perfectly as a central hub for exploring the Painted Hills and the broader John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, which are treasured geological wonders right in our backyard.

The park’s amenities cater directly to the needs of local adventurers. The availability of RV hookups with electricity and water is a significant draw, especially for those who appreciate some creature comforts after a day of exploring the rugged high desert. For tent campers, the soft grassy lawns provide a welcoming and comfortable alternative to rocky or uneven ground. The self-pay, first-come, first-served system for tent sites also appeals to the spontaneous nature of many Oregonians who enjoy last-minute getaways without the hassle of advance bookings.

What truly makes Mitchell City Park stand out for locals is its innovative approach to camping, particularly its embrace of EV charging. As more Oregonians adopt electric vehicles, having a reliable and affordable charging point integrated into a camping experience in a more remote region is invaluable, enabling longer, more sustainable road trips through the state's diverse landscapes.

Beyond the practicalities, the park's setting in a small, friendly town means that essential supplies, a refreshing local brew at Tiger Town Brewing, or a bite to eat are all just a short walk away. This blend of accessible wilderness and charming small-town hospitality creates a stress-free environment perfect for unwinding. It’s a convenient and cost-effective base that allows Oregonians to easily immerse themselves in the unique beauty of the high desert, whether for a quick weekend trip or a longer adventure. Mitchell City Park isn't just a place to stay; it's a strategic and welcoming gateway for Oregonians to discover and appreciate the stunning geological and cultural richness of their own state.

Mitchell City Park

Mitchell, OR 97750, USA