Deerhorn Campground

Star4.50
8 reviews
Malheur National Forest Headquarters / Blue Mountain Ranger District, 431 Patterson Bridge Road John Day, OR 97845

Quick Facts

3,934 ft

Price

$4 - $8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open during late sum...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Malheur National Forest Headquarters / Blue Mountain Ranger District site

Official Website
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Deerhorn Campground
$4.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping is $8.00 per unit per night and $4.00 for additional vehicles. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on...
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Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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USFS
Provider
(541) 575-3000SM.FS.malpubinfo@usda.gov
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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 8 reviews

5 Google reviews

Most mentioned

water

"User reviews highlight the campground's small and scenic nature. It is appreciated primarily for its proximity to fishing and nature-watching opportunities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Malheur National Forest Headquarters / Blue Mountain Ranger District, 431 Patterson Bridge Road John Day, OR 97845

Deerhorn Campground

Malheur National Forest Headquarters / Blue Mountain Ranger District, 431 Patterson Bridge Road John Day, OR 97845

Driving directionsFrom Prairie City, OR., travel east on Highway 26 approximately 13 miles to the junction of Highway 26 and Highway 7. Turn onto Highway 7 for approximately 1/8th of a mile to the junction with County Road 20, turn onto County Road 20. On County Road 20 travel approximately 4 miles, the campground will be on your left. The turn for the campground is on a corner, the entrance is marked with a small green sign.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but users should note that the turn for the campground is on a corner and marked only with a small green sign, which may make it easy to miss.
Nearby places
Prairie City (13 miles, approximately 15 minutes), John Day (null distance, approximately null minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be accessed in nearby Prairie City or John Day, though exact distances are unspecified.

Best Time to Camp at Deerhorn Campground

Mother Nature keeps you on your toes in this dynamic mountain environment, where morning frost can give way to afternoon sunshine even in spring. Summer transforms the landscape into a warm, inviting playground perfect for river activities and forest exploration, while winter blankets the area in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here. Pack layers and be ready for anything – from crisp, star-filled nights that demand a warm sleeping bag to sun-drenched afternoons ideal for wading in the river. Late spring through early summer offers the sweet spot of comfortable temperatures and rushing snowmelt that brings the river to life.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and busiest in late summer; described as warm and inviting at that time.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Busy during hunting season; good access but higher visitor numbers noted.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Dynamic spring weather with frost to sunshine swings; access and comfort vary.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Winter brings freezing conditions; site is primarily used late summer/hunting season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: The campground is busiest during late summer and hunting season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open during late summer and hunting season. Specific dates are unclear.
  • Current Alerts: The campground is listed as temporarily closed in some records; visitors should confirm availability before planning a visit.

About Deerhorn Campground

Nestled within the pristine Middle Fork John Day River State Scenic Waterway, this intimate campground serves as your gateway to authentic Oregon wilderness adventures. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, tracking wildlife through ancient forests, or simply soaking in the untouched beauty of the landscape, this hidden gem offers an escape from the crowds. The campground comes alive during late summer when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are perfect for exploration, while autumn brings dedicated hunters seeking the abundant game that calls these forests home.
Deerhorn Campground caters to campers seeking a primitive camping experience. Specific details about the types of camping accommodations are minimal, but the low overnight fee hints at a focus on basic tent or RV camping.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
12:00 p.m.
Stay Limit
No stay limit is explicitly mentioned.


Activities you can enjoy

Deerhorn Campground is located within the Middle Fork John Day River State Scenic Waterway and offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, nature watching, exploring, and hunting. Activities are seasonal, with the campground being busier during late summer and hunting season.
FishingFishing opportunities are available in the nearby river or stream, though specific details about fish types or regulations are not provided.
Wildlife viewingVisitors can engage in nature watching. Specific wildlife species or best viewing areas are not described.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotable water is not available; visitors should bring their own water. Weather can change rapidly, and there may be wildlife typical of forested areas.
Active AlertsThe campground is listed as temporarily closed in some records; visitors should confirm availability before planning a visit.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Deerhorn Campground

Reviews

4.5
8 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Deerhorn Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's small and scenic nature. It is appreciated primarily for its proximity to fishing and nature-watching opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground is praised for its natural beauty and access to recreational activities in the scenic waterway.
Based on 8 reviews

Common Concerns

No substantial complaints are detailed in the user reviews.
Based on 8 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to prepare for rapid weather changes and bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water and trash bags, as no potable water or trash services are available.
Based on 8 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busier during late summer and hunting season. Winter conditions are more severe, with data indicating freezing weather in the colder months.
Based on 8 reviews

Camper Quotes

Philomena Dutcher: 'Beautiful little campground.' (Review date: 2020-01-07)
Based on 8 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers or reviews for individual sites are detailed.
Based on 8 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 8 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related reviews and policies are not mentioned.
Based on 8 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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