A gravel road curving into a high mountain valley at first light, the peaks catching the sun.

Forest Service campground

Lower Camp Creek Campground

Forest Service campground in Malheur National Forest, Grant County, Oregon. In the John Day area.

Managed by
Forest Service Malheur National Forest
Sites
6 6 standard non-electric
Hookups
None listed
Reservations
Recreation.gov
County
Grant County

Overview

A pleasantly small campground tucked among ponderosa pines along a forest creek. This campground is popular with hunters. Just a short drive away from the beautiful Middle Fork of the John Day River. Less than a mile away is Arch Rock Trail #258, an ash flow tuff with a scenic arch and several small rock shelters eroded into the outcrop, allowing visitors a place to see fascinating geological features. A bit further at 13 miles away is Magone Lake Campground, a great place to swim, fish or hike.

Recreation

Visitors can enjoy easy access to the Arch Rock Trail, where eroded ash flows and rock shelters offer a chance to experience fascinating geological features up close. The Middle Fork John Day River is just a short drive away, providing scenic landscapes and additional outdoor exploration. The campground is also a popular starting point for hunters.

Facilities

Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, and parking for camp trailers. Accessible vault toilet is conveniently located in the middle of the campground.

Nearby Attractions

Middle Fork John Day River

Magone Recreation Area

Sumpter Valley Interpretative Site

Davis Creek Trail

Vinegar Hill Indian Rock Scenic Area

Austin House

Bates State Park

Dewitt Museum and Depot Park

Kam Wah Chung & Co. State Heritage Site

Grant County Ranch and Rodeo Museum

Grant County Historical Museum

The description, directions and fees are the Forest Service’s own words, from its record on Recreation.gov.

What people do here

  • camping
  • fishing
  • hiking
  • hunting
  • water access

The federal record has no coordinates for this campground, so it is listed under John Day and left off the map rather than placed by guesswork. Use the directions above.

Source: Recreation Information Database (Recreation.gov), record updated March 11, 2026. Elevation from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Seasons, fees, water and fire rules change; the managing office has the final word.