How much does camping cost at Big Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Big Creek Campground range from $8/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Big Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Big Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Campground does not require reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I see photos of campsites at Big Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Big Creek Campground has 25 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground is open Memorial Day through September 30.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Big Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Big Creek Campground: No specific fire regulations mentioned.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Big Creek Campground have?

Big Creek Campground has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Big Creek Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Big Creek Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Big Creek Campground?

Big Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Big Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Big Creek Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Big Creek Campground

3.67

15 reviews

327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Hiking Camping Oregon

Quick Facts

5,100 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Services provided Me...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,100 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Services provided Me...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Big Creek Campground

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for single campsites is $8 per night, with an additional vehicle fee of $4 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders...

Standard Site Fee$8.00

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USFS

Provider

(541) 820-3800SM.FS.malpubinfo@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869

Big Creek Campground

327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869

Nearby places

Prairie City (~25 miles), Seneca (~19 miles), John Day (~35 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are primarily available in Prairie City (~25 miles) and John Day (~35 miles).

Driving directionsFrom the town of Prairie City, OR., turn onto South Main Street. Follow South Main Street to the junction with Bridge Street. Turn left onto Bridge Street and follow out of town past the local cemetery. The road then becomes County Road 62. Follow County Road 62 approximately 19 miles to the junction with Forest Road 16. Turn West onto Forest Road 16, follow for approximately 6 miles; the campground will be on the right.

The campground is accessible by passenger vehicles during warm months but becomes accessible only via snowmobile, ski, or snowshoe during winter due to deep snow levels.

Weather at Big Creek Campground

Best Time to Camp at Big Creek Campground

Summer brings daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights in the 30s–40s. Trails clear of snow, the creek runs clear for fishing, and services are fully operational. July and August weekends see the most visitors, though weekdays remain quiet. Water facilities close mid-October. Winter access requires snowmobiles, skis, or snowshoes. Spring wildflowers appear as the snow melts, but road and trail conditions vary considerably through May.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season: trails clear, creek runs for fishing, services and water available Memorial Day–Sept 30.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day through September 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Services provided Memorial Day weekend through September 30. Water shut off from mid-October to mid-May or early June depending on temperatures.

About Big Creek Campground

Big Creek Campground sits at 5,100 feet in Logan Valley, where ponderosa pine forest meets open grassland at the edge of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. The campground offers 15 primitive tent sites for $8 per night, with potable water and vault toilets available Memorial Day weekend through September 30. Reviewers praise the quiet, secluded atmosphere and spacious sites.

Big Creek Campground caters to primitive camping, with facilities focusing on minimal amenities to provide a remote and tranquil experience.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs around 65–80°F and cool nights in the 30s–40s. Trails clear of snow, the creek runs clear for fishing, and services are fully operational. July and August weekends see the most visitors, though weekdays remain quiet. Water facilities close mid-October. Winter access requires snowmobiles, skis, or snowshoes. Spring wildflowers appear as the snow melts, but road and trail conditions vary considerably through May.

ElevationPerched at 5,100 feet above sea level, Big Creek Campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that provides natural air conditioning during summer's heat. This elevation creates the perfect environment for towering ponderosa pines while ensuring winters arrive with dramatic flair, blanketing the landscape in deep, pristine snow that transforms the campground into a winter recreation paradise.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transition zone where Big Creek carved a valley between forest and meadow. Ponderosa pines provide shade over the sites, while expansive grasslands stretch toward the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness backdrop. Wildlife viewing opportunities are common in this diverse ecosystem. However, thick vegetation along much of the creek limits direct water access. The surrounding high country of Eastern Oregon blends mountain and meadow in ways that feel distinct from the dense forests farther west.

Geological RegionNestled within the picturesque Logan Valley, Big Creek Campground occupies a prime location where mountain meets meadow. The campground sits at the doorstep of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, surrounded by a living gallery of ponderosa pine forests and expansive grasslands. This unique geological setting, carved by Big Creek over millennia, creates a diverse ecosystem where forest and meadow converge, offering visitors a front-row seat to the natural splendor of Eastern Oregon's high country.

Scenic ViewsNo specific viewpoints or vistas mentioned. However, the scenic meadow along Forest Rt. 16 is highlighted as part of the approach to the campground.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no lodge-style accommodations or other forms of lodging at Big Creek Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 p.m.

Check-out

12:00 p.m.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 days is allowed.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No specific information available about the number of guests allowed per site.

Groups

Group camping sites are not specifically mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSites stretch between Big Creek and a large meadow, with ponderosa pines providing shade. The vegetation between sites and the generally spacious layout create a secluded feel even when the campground fills on summer weekends.

Reservation PlatformsSites may be reservable, but no platform details are provided.

Walk-in AvailabilityCampground does not require reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy information is provided.

AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available.

Site SizeCampground offers large and spacious sites, as described in user reviews.

PrivacySites are described as secluded and quiet. "Nice quiet isolated campground," says Jerry Glasow.

Total Campsites15 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsite 5 is ideal for access to Big Creek.

Best CampsitesSite 5 offers better creek access than most. Reviewers note that sites throughout the campground are large and well-spaced, contributing to the overall sense of privacy and quiet.

Amenities available

Water Potable water is not available at this site.

Potable water

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Big Creek Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, stream fishing, hunting, bird watching, and wildlife observation. The area is especially known for its opportunities to explore the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness and for exceptional wildflower viewing in spring and early summer.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include deep snow during winter, rapidly changing weather conditions, and thick brush making fishing difficult.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at Big Creek Campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyNo specific fire regulations mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

Emergency ServicesPrairie City Ranger District, 327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869. Phone: (541) 820-3800. Hospital services available in John Day, (~35 miles away).

Trash & RecyclingThe campground follows a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. Visitors are required to take home all trash, including cigarette butts, cans, bottles, and food.

Water FeaturesThe campground is near Big Creek, though no sites are directly adjacent to the water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

15 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Big Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the tranquility, cleanliness of vault toilets, and the large spacious campsites. The campground is appreciated for its quiet and secluded atmosphere and accessibility for mountain biking.

Review Summaries

Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes clean facilities, spacious and well-maintained campsites, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.

Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include limited access to Big Creek and challenges related to fishing in the campground due to thick brush and trees.

Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 5 offers the only access point to the creek, according to a user review.

Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend using mountain bikes for trail exploration and emphasize the cleanliness of vault toilets and the spaciousness of campsites.

Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early summer are favored for wildflower viewing. Winter months limit accessibility to snowmobiles, skis, or snowshoes.

Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

"If you prefer a quiet campground that is usually only 1/3 full then this is your place." - Aaron Dennis. "Nice quiet isolated campground." - Jerry Glasow. "Mountain bike the roads around here,...

Based on 15 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available.

Based on 15 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There are no specific reviews related to pets.

Based on 15 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Mountain bikers and hikers who want direct trail access from camp, with routes from 6 to 17 miles, will get the most out of this place. Wildlife watchers also do well here, with pronghorn, deer, and occasional elk in the meadow.

Skip if

Anglers expecting easy creek fishing will be frustrated: thick brush blocks most of the bank, and Site 5 is the only real access point. RVs aren't supported, and supplies are a 25-mile drive to Prairie City.

Nearby Campgrounds

327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869

Murray Campground sits on the northern rim of Logan Valley in Malheur National Forest, a single-site spot at 5,282 feet that draws visitors seeking quiet and fishing access. The campground costs $8 per night and has no potable water, so plan accordingly. Reviews consistently mention the tranquility and brook trout fishing.

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Crescent Campground, County Road 62, Prairie City, OR

Crescent Campground sits along Crescent Creek at 5,180 feet in Malheur National Forest, near Prairie City. This small, primitive campground offers no amenities and operates on pack-in/pack-out principles. The quiet, secluded setting attracts visitors seeking a rustic basecamp for exploring the adjacent Strawberry Mountain Wilderness.

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Trout Farm Campground

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Trout Farm Campground is a small, quiet spot in Malheur National Forest with 6 sites, a stocked fishing pond, and a barrier-free pier. Sites cost $4-8 per night. The covered picnic shelter and accessible pier make it popular with families, especially on summer weekends when it can fill up.

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Strawberry Campground

327 SW Front Street Prairie City, OR 97869

Strawberry Campground sits at 5,860 feet in the Malheur National Forest, serving as the trailhead gateway to the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. The 10 first-come, first-served sites fill quickly. Often by afternoon in summer. And cost $4-8 per night. Ponderosa pines shade the sites along Strawberry Creek, and the rough access road keeps crowds manageable but demands high clearance.

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Little Crane Campground

Malheur National Forest

Little Crane Campground sits deep in Malheur National Forest, managed by the Prairie City Ranger District. This primitive, four-site campground offers exceptional privacy and quiet along a creek corridor, with fire rings and picnic tables at each site. The remote location on Forest Service Road 16 means a long, winding drive from Prairie City, but campers come for stream fishing, stargazing, and solitude in mid-elevation forest.

Slide Creek Campground

Slide Creek Campground, Malheur National Forest

Slide Creek Campground sits at the edge of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness in Malheur National Forest, offering three primitive sites under ponderosa pines at 4,967 feet. The campground has transitioned to primarily serve as a horse camp, though it remains free to use and provides direct access to the Slide Connector Trail #386. No potable water is available on-site.

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North Fork Malheur Campground

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North Fork Malheur Campground sits at 4,734 feet along the Wild and Scenic North Fork Malheur River in Malheur National Forest. Six primitive sites make this a quiet, intimate spot for tent camping, fishing, and riverside hiking. Previous visitors have left trash in fire pits and built a rock dam across the river, so pack out everything you bring in.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

431 Patterson Bridge Road John Day, OR 97845

Wickiup Campground sits along Canyon Creek in Malheur National Forest, accessed via Forest Road 15 at 4,311 feet elevation. This single-site primitive campground runs $6 per night and offers vault toilet access but no potable water. The 2015 Canyon Creek Complex fire reshaped the surrounding landscape, creating open vistas alongside recovering forest.

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Short Creek Guard Station

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Rock Springs Campground

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Rock Springs Campground sits at 5,200 feet in Malheur National Forest, offering 12 primitive sites beneath mature ponderosa pines near Poison Creek Reservoir. The campground costs $6-8 per night and operates on a pack-it-in, pack-it-out system. Sites are secluded with gravel parking aprons, vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables.

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Starr Campground, US Highway 395, John Day, OR

Starr Campground sits in Malheur National Forest at 5,177 feet, offering basic camping near Highway 395 for $6 per night. The campground splits into two areas: upper sites closer to the highway and lower sites tucked further into the ponderosa pines with better privacy. It's a no-frills basecamp for accessing Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, with vault toilets and fire rings but no water or trash service.

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Big Creek Meadows Campground

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Big Creek Meadows Campground sits along the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway in Umatilla National Forest at 5,059 feet, offering three primitive sites in a riparian corridor. There's no potable water or garbage service. You'll bring your own water and pack out trash. The campground provides vault toilets and picnic tables, with parking sized for trucks and stock trailers.

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Campgrounds

Malheur National Forest

Big Creek Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Big Creek Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Big Creek Campground sits at the edge of beautiful Logan Valley along Big Creek and is a great starting point for multiple recreation opportunities, including mountain biking, hiking, stream fishing, hunting and bird watching and exploring the <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/malheur/recarea/?recid=39906">Strawberry Mountain Wilderness</a>. In the spring and early summer the area is exceptional for wildflower viewing.</p><p> </p>

About the campground

The elevation is 5,100 ft. The campground, pack it in, pack it out, stretches between Big Creek on one side and a huge grass meadow on the other side. Ponderosa pine provide some shade and a fragrant aroma to the afternoons. None of the sites are on the creek but all are within an easy walk to the water. The drive along Forest Rt. 16 to the campground is through a huge, scenic meadow. Convenient to mountain bike trails (formerly logging roads), the campground is popular with the pedal pushing crowd but its tranquil atmosphere attracts folks looking for quiet.

Seasons & access

Services provided Memorial Day weekend through September 30

Facilities

The water spigot is a handpump.

RV information

The parking aprons are gravel. Malheur National Forest 163

Directions

In Seneca, OR, take Logan Valley Ln, which becomes Forest Rt. 16, east 19 miles to campground sign. Turn left onto Forest Rt. 815 (gravel) and go 0.3 miles to campground.

National Forest: Malheur National Forest
Ranger District: Prairie City
Elevation: 5100
Rate: $8 per day
Maximum Stay: 14