Tucked along the John Day River in the high desert of eastern Oregon, Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site offers a peaceful retreat far from the crowds that pack the state’s coastal and Cascade parks. The cottonwood-lined riverbank creates a shaded oasis against the surrounding sagebrush hills, making this a favorite stop for travelers along U.S. Route 26 between John Day and Mount Vernon.

The John Day River is the main draw here. Anglers come for smallmouth bass and trout, while the calm stretches near the recreation site are well-suited for wading and cooling off during eastern Oregon’s warm summers. Wildlife viewing is surprisingly rewarding — mule deer wander through the grounds regularly, and the riparian corridor attracts a variety of birds, including great blue herons and kingfishers.

The campground offers 31 electrical hookup sites nestled under mature cottonwoods, providing welcome shade in a region where summer temperatures routinely climb into the 90s. Sites are spacious and well-separated, with easy access to the river. A short interpretive trail loops through the property, highlighting the area’s natural history and the legacy of the cattle ranching that shaped this valley.

Visit between late May and early October for the best conditions. Summer is ideal for river activities, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures perfect for hiking the surrounding Blue Mountains. Winter sees the site close for the season.

Clyde Holliday works best as a base camp for exploring the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, located just minutes to the west.

Explore Nearby

• South Fork John Day River Back Country Byway — Public Land in Oregon
• South Fork John Day Wild and Scenic River — Public Land in Oregon
• Malheur National Forest — National Forest in Oregon
• Ochoco National Forest — National Forest in Oregon