Location: 5 miles off Burnt Ranch Rd heading east towards Twickenham.
Direction: Pass the Painted Hills unit and follow the gravel road (Burnt Ranch Rd.) for about 3 miles, take a right following the sign to Twickenham, take a left down hill following the sign to Priest Hole.
Open: All year around but rough road can make it difficult to access in winter season.
Rate: Free of charge, public land camping.
Spaces: Natural openings for camping, no developed sites
BLM maintained, no RV’s on beaches.
Amenities: Restrooms, Boat launch, No Garbage Collection! Haul out all Trash! Observe seasonal fire bans! Campfires must be contained in a metal firepan and ashes hauled out with trash, an annual Fire Closure is in effect from June 1 to September 30 (no fires or charcoal are permitted during this time period).
Description: Located in a beautiful valley along the John Day, the Priest Hole is one of the favorite swimming and fishing spots of the locals. It’s remoteness and powerful natural setting makes it a one of a kind camping experience for all who love a taste of wilderness. There aren’t any developed campsites but natural sites can be easily spotted and some are right at the river’s shore. There is a boat ramp that is used all summer by different outfitters for organized boating trips down the John Day. On the far end of the area a basic restroom has been installed but there is no garbage collection, so all trash needs to be hauled out. Campers should “leave no trace,” and fire pans are required. There is an annual summer fire ban from June 1 to September 30 each year. There is no hunting allowed at the main recreation site but wildlife can often be observed.
Recreation: Hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, birding, wild life observation. There is a great easy loop hike that goes along the shore and through the valley with wonderful views of the rugged landscape and the river’s bends.