Parish Cabin Campground

For Oregonians seeking a true escape into the embrace of nature, Parish Cabin Campground, located near John Day, offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest outdoor experience. Tucked away in the expansive Malheur National Forest, this campground provides a serene and somewhat secluded setting, making it an ideal destination for those who prioritize peace, quiet, and direct access to the vast natural wonders of Eastern Oregon. It’s a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the gentle murmur of Bear Creek and the rustle of leaves in the ponderosa pines.

Parish Cabin Campground isn't about elaborate amenities or bustling crowds; it's about connecting with the wilderness on a deeper level. It’s perfect for the seasoned camper who appreciates simplicity and the raw beauty of the forest. Reviews from fellow campers consistently highlight its cleanliness and the spaciousness of its sites, allowing for a comfortable and private experience even during busier periods. Whether you're an avid angler, a dedicated hiker, or simply looking for a quiet spot to unwind under the stars, Parish Cabin Campground invites you to experience the authentic tranquility of Oregon's high desert country. It embodies the spirit of discovery and relaxation that so many locals cherish in their outdoor adventures.

Despite its "middle of nowhere" charm, Parish Cabin Campground is a well-maintained site managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This ensures a consistent standard of care and preservation of the natural environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the area responsibly. The campground’s setting along Bear Creek adds to its allure, providing both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. It’s a place that truly feels like a hidden gem, offering a genuine escape from the everyday and a chance to immerse yourself in the unadulterated beauty that Oregon is so famous for.

Parish Cabin Campground is situated within the Malheur National Forest, near the town of John Day, Oregon, with the official address listed as John Day, OR 97845, USA. This places it in Grant County, a region renowned for its rugged beauty, vast forests, and excellent outdoor recreational opportunities. The campground is nestled along Bear Creek, providing a picturesque setting and easy access to the water.

While it feels "out in the middle of nowhere," as one review notes, accessibility to Parish Cabin Campground is manageable for those willing to venture a bit off the beaten path. From the town of John Day, travelers typically head south on US Highway 395 for approximately 12 miles until reaching the junction with County Road 65. From there, you'll travel on County Road 65 for about 8 miles, at which point the road transitions into Forest Road 15. Continue on Forest Road 15 for approximately 4 miles to the junction with Forest Road 16. Turn west onto Forest Road 16 and drive for about 1 mile; the campground will be on your right. The journey itself is part of the adventure, guiding you deeper into the heart of the Malheur National Forest and away from the clamor of urban life. It’s worth noting that this remote location contributes significantly to the quiet and peaceful atmosphere that campers cherish. The terrain features forested areas interspersed with open spaces, offering a diverse and captivating landscape to explore.

• Individual campsites for tents and RVs (accommodates vehicles up to 30 feet in length).
• Picnic tables at each campsite.
• Fire rings with grills at each campsite.
• Clean vault toilets (restroom facilities).
• Potable water available via hand pumps at designated spigots.
• Designated dumpster for waste disposal is typically not provided; a "pack it in, pack it out" policy is often encouraged for trash.
• Seasonal operation, generally open from May 1 through October 31, weather dependent.
• Camp host usually available during summer months for assistance and information.
• Non-reservable sites (first-come, first-served basis), especially on weekends when it can be busy.

• Very quiet and peaceful atmosphere, especially during weekdays, providing a genuine escape from noise pollution.
• Large, well-kept, and often level campsites, offering ample space and privacy for campers.
• Located alongside Bear Creek, providing opportunities for cooling down in the water and fishing (popular with anglers).
• Proximity to Logan Valley, known for exceptional wildflower viewing in spring and early summer.
• Within a short driving distance to trailheads leading into the beautiful Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, offering fantastic hiking opportunities.
• Popular with hunters during relevant seasons.
• The surrounding area provides a unique opportunity to observe the effects and benefits of wildfires, having experienced burns in 2012 and 2015.
• Offers a rustic camping experience with basic, essential amenities, focusing on natural immersion rather than luxury.
• Clean vault restrooms are regularly maintained, contributing to a comfortable stay despite the remote setting.
• Mosquitoes can be present at dawn and dusk, a common feature of natural, forested environments.

For general inquiries or information regarding Parish Cabin Campground, you can contact the Malheur National Forest Headquarters / Blue Mountain Ranger District:

Address: 431 Patterson Bridge Road, John Day, OR 97845, USA

Phone: (541) 575-3000

Mobile Phone: +1 541-575-3000 (This is the same as the main phone, indicating a general contact number for the forest service office managing the campground).

For Oregonians, Parish Cabin Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s an embodiment of the state’s wild beauty and a perfect destination for those truly seeking to unplug and reconnect with nature. Its "out in the middle of nowhere" charm is precisely what many locals crave after a busy week, offering an authentic wilderness experience without being entirely off-grid in terms of basic facilities. The consistent feedback praising its quietness and cleanliness speaks volumes about its suitability for Oregonians who value well-maintained public lands and a respectful camping environment.

The location along Bear Creek provides an immediate draw for anyone looking to cool off on a warm summer day, enjoy some casual stream fishing, or simply relax by the water. For the more adventurous, the close proximity to the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness means that world-class hiking and backpacking opportunities are just a short drive away, allowing locals to explore some of Oregon’s most breathtaking and rugged landscapes. Hunters will find it an ideal base camp during the seasons, given its popularity for big game.

Moreover, the affordability of the sites makes it an accessible option for many families and individuals, ensuring that a memorable outdoor experience doesn't have to break the bank. While amenities are basic (vault toilets, no showers), this aligns with the expectations of many seasoned Oregon campers who prefer a more rustic and authentic experience over a resort-like setting. The spacious, shaded sites offer comfort and privacy, which is a significant advantage, especially during peak seasons when other campgrounds might feel crowded. In essence, Parish Cabin Campground is a quintessential Oregon camping experience, offering peace, natural beauty, and direct access to outdoor pursuits that are deeply ingrained in the local culture. It’s a perfect spot for locals to rediscover the tranquility and adventure that define the Oregon wilderness.

Parish Cabin Campground

John Day, OR 97845, USA