Camping & Cabins

Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days on the Malheur National Forest.

The season for fee campgrounds runs from May 1 through October 31. 

All camping on the Malheur National Forest is first-come, first served. (Only three features may be reserved on recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777, including: Magone Lake (Group Campsite; Lake Picnic Pavilion) and Idlewild Picnic Pavilion.)

Overnight use in campgrounds is only permitted in sites designated by a campsite post.

Maximum occupancy of 8 people per campsite. 

Only one RV per campsite.

Limit of two vehicles per campsite. The first vehicle is included in the overnight use fee. A second vehicle is an additional fee. (4 motorcycles per campsite before additional vehicle fees apply. 5 bicycles per campsite before additional vehicles fees apply.)

All developed campgrounds have the following amenities:

• Sites for tents and/or campers
• Fire rings
• Picnic tables
• Toilet facilities
• Access roads
• Reasonable visitor protection
• Some developed campgrounds may also have:
• Drinking water
• Fee collection (95% of which comes back to the forest to maintain recreation sites)

There is no trash service at recreation sites. If you “PACK IT IN”, always "PACK IT OUT". Please practice Leave No Trace ethics and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Please do not leave or burn garbage in the campfire ring.

Other Restrictions:

Seasonal fire restrictions may be in effect to prevent wildfires during extremely dry periods. These restrictions will be posted separately and violations are punishable by fines or imprisonment.

Pets must be restrained or on a leash at all times while in developed recreation areas.

The Malheur National Forest has 4 former guard stations and one lookout available for public rental.

Deer Creek Guard Station: Open May - November. Sleeps approximately 6 people.
Murderers Creek Guard Station: Open May - November. Sleeps approximately 2 people.
Short Creek Guard Station: Open June - October. Sleeps approximately 2 to 3 people.
Sunshine Guard Station: Open year round. Sleeps approximately 6 people.
Fall Mountain Lookout: Open May – October. Sleeps 2 people.

You can reserve a guard station or lookout online at Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.