Deerhorn Forest Camp

Don't be deterred by the term "Forest Camp" when it comes to selecting a campground destination in Oregon. Forest Camp appears to be a term used by the BLM or National Forest Service to describe a rustic natural setting in the forest. I used to think it meant that it was reserved or dedicated for the use of National or State forest employees or work camps.

This is a gorgeous little campground is nestled beneath a healthy stand of tall Ponderosa pines right alongside the Middle Fork of the John Day River. Each site is private and generously spaced. Grasses have been allowed to grow tall between sites and on the banks of the river, so you'll need to walk through it if you want to access the water. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided to each site and a well-maintained and stocked vault toilet sits closest to site #1. One site is a pull-through, and but is large enough for big/long vehicles.

You'll hear a few trucks go on Hwy 20 by in the morning, but they'll be sparse. There's no cell phone service in this part of Oregon.

Cows range openly out here (don't drink the river water!) Five minutes after leaving early the next morning, we encountered 200 head of cattle moving down Highway 20, tended by a single walking cowboy with a stick and his hard-working border collie. It's so cool to experience authentic western life!