Cottonwood Canyon State Park

About

Cottonwood Canyon State Park encompasses over 16,000 acres of rugged high desert canyon along the lower John Day River in north-central Oregon. The landscape features towering basalt cliffs, native bunchgrass prairies, and riparian corridors that support diverse wildlife including California bighorn sheep, mule deer, golden eagles, and steelhead. The park earned certification as Oregon's first International Dark Sky Park due to its remote location far from urban light sources. The Lone Tree Campground sits near the river and offers a primitive camping experience with 21 reservable sites and 14 first-come first-served walk-in tent sites. Potable water is available year-round at a central location, and vault toilets serve the campground. ADA-accessible flush restrooms and showers are located near the four rustic cabins. Each primitive site includes a fire ring and picnic table, though fire restrictions typically run from early summer through fall. Self-contained RVs up to 75 feet can be accommodated, but there are no hookups or dump stations on site. The park features miles of hiking and biking trails along the river canyon, with opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. Be aware that there is no cell phone coverage anywhere in the park.

Directions

Cottonwood Canyon State Park is located on Highway 206 between Condon and Wasco, Oregon. From Condon, head west on Highway 206 for approximately 15 miles; from Wasco, head east on Highway 206 for about 25 miles. The park entrance is well-marked along the highway.