Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site is an oasis along the sparkling John Day River and a base camp for exploring the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness and the region's many historical sites.
The park features a year-round picnic area and a small seasonal campground with two tepees available for rent. The park's tall, willowy cottonwood trees provide shade and serenity. Surrounded on all sides by some of Oregon's most pristine wilderness areas, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the majestic Rocky Mountain elk and mule deer. Fall visitors can experience the thrill of seeing steelhead rush upriver to spawn. A nature trail begins near the tepee parking area and follows the tree-shaded riverbank, leading to a small pond perfect for wildlife viewing.
Camping is open March 1–Nov. 30. Sites feel secluded, thanks to trees and vegetation. Note: Mosquitoes are especially active during May–July.
Campsites and teepees are reservable up to six months in advance for the 2023 season. Find reservation link at the top of the page.
Clyde Holliday is the only campground with reservable tepees. The two tepees have a wooden bench, space heater and vinyl covered sleeping pads for 8 people.
Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site preserves the site of a gold rush-era Chinese community center, trading post and herbal apothecary. Rangers give free guided tours of the original building and artifacts inside from May – October; sign up early at the visitor center on site.
The land was purchased in 1971 from Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Holliday and by a transfer from the Department of Transportation in 1976.