Best Camping in and near John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

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Top-rated campgrounds near John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

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Justesen Ranches

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Tygh Valley, OR

Justesen Ranches is family owned working cattle, wheat and recreation ranch. Our properties are located in the Columbia River Plateau in North Central Oregon. Enjoy wide open spaces, reservoirs for wildlife watching and clear night skies for star gazing. This is a leave no trace, pack it in, pack it out camping area. The property is located in Tygh Valley and is only a few minutes from the general store and the stunning White River Falls State Park. The Deschutes River whitewater rafting hub of Maupin is just a 10 minute drive away. The lodge two hours from Portland and 30 min from The Dalles.

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Antelope Market and RV Park Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Antelope, OR

We are located in the heart of Antelope, a rural (near) Ghost town that is rich in history and culture. This particular property is currently being cleaned up and revitalized. We would like to open it up to dry camping only at this time as we are already seeing a huge influx of cyclists and motorcycles in the area and they have no place to camp. This is dry camping only until the facilities are improved. There is porta potty onsite next to the old Rajneesh bath house (Red and white building). In the image any spot that you can find in the near 2 acres of grass highlighted in orange is the designated areas.

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Rimrock Springs Farms

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents300 acres · Ritter, OR

Nestled at 3400 feet, midway between the Middle and North Fork of the John Day River, awaits our idyllic retreat known as Rimrock Springs Farm. Here, you'll discover secluded campsites offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Just 7 miles away, indulge in award-winning trout and bass fishing, while the summer invites endless opportunities for swimming, rafting, and inner tubing. After a day of adventure, rejuvenate your muscles at the world-famous Ritter Hot Springs, a soothing oasis amid our rugged landscape. Whether you seek a brief unplugged getaway or an extended stay, Rimrock Springs Farm promises a memorable experience amidst our abundance of wildlife and natural wonders.

The best camping near John Day Fossil Beds National Monument guide

Overview

About

Fossil lovers will get their thrill at this national monument. If you're driving through the beauty of the Painted Hills, this is a must-stop. The hike through the fossil beds is well marked, with tons of fossils to look at. Forty million years of mammal fossils (no dinosaurs, sorry) are waiting for you here. Some consider it the most important fossil find anywhere on Earth. It's quite rare to be able to see fossils in the ground like this, as most similar (smaller) sites keep everything covered to prevent looting.

Stop at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center and Fossil Museum to view the exhibits. The Rangers lead tours and answer questions. This is more than just a museum—paleontologists are hard at work here, and you can watch them in action at their lab.

Hikes range from less than half a mile to about 4 miles. Summertime can get quite warm, so pack water for your hike. Try to get out in the early morning or late afternoon (the colors of the Painted Hills are best then, anyway). Cabins, glamping, tent cabins, and tipis are all available through Hipcamp if you'd like to stay a spell.