Big Bend Recreation Site

As the name implies, Big Bend Recreation Site's four campsites dominate the northern bank in a big bend of the John Day River just a few miles northeast of Kimberly, Oregon. The Bureau of Land Management charges a modest $5 per night to camp at these relatively primitive and very spacious campsites. Although the campground provides little refuge from the area's intense summer sun, the river's waters slow to create an ideal swimming hole.

Should Big Bend's four first-come, first-served campsites be full, try Lone Pine Recreation Site just a mile and a half further west on Highway 402.

Note: Due to the arid landscape, campfires are often banned during the summer months. See the recreation site's bulletin board for postings.