Olive Lake
541-427-3231 (North Fork John Day Ranger District)
About
Olive Lake is a scenic high-elevation mountain lake in the Blue Mountains, known for clear water, forested shorelines, and easy lake access for camping, paddling, and fishing. Originally tied to historic hydroelectric systems that powered nearby mining operations, the lake today is one of the region’s most popular summer recreation spots.
ACTIVITIES
camping
Make reservations at recreation.gov.
The campground features 20 tent/RV campsites, 2 group sites, 6 tent only sites and 7 accessible toilet facilities. Other features include a 2-mile hiking trail around the lake with nearby access to wilderness and scenic area trails, a boat ramp and 2 docks, and an interpretive sign. There is no potable water. Potable water can be obtained from Fremont Powerhouse, 7 miles east of the campground from May 15-Sept 30.
Hiking
A 2-mile hiking trail encircles the lake, providing access to more secluded spots where solitude can be enjoyed. Bicyclists can also enjoy the trail although there are a couple of spots bikes might need to be walked, depending on skill level. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, and kokanee and crawfish boils are a popular dinner option. There are 2 boat docks adjacent to the campground, as well as a boat ramp and trailer parking. Motorized boats are allowed on the lake, but wakes and jet skis are not allowed. There are opportunities for viewing wildlife such as deer, elk, bear, river otters, and osprey. Mushroom and berry picking are available in season. Other nearby trails access the North John Day Wilderness Area and Vinegar Hill Scenic Area. An interpretive sign about the beetle infestation is located in a few spots within the campground.
Details
Getting There
From Granite, turn onto County Road 24/Forest Service Road (FSR) 10 and travel about 3.5 miles to the end of the pavement. At this point take the gravel road that heads up the hill to the right (FSR 10). Travel about 9 miles on FSR 10 to FSR 1000480. Take a left on FSR 1000480 and travel about ¼ into the campground.
Seasons
May through November
Cost of Admission
Overnight Use:
- Single site: $12/night (extra $5 per each vehicle exceeding the 2-vehicle-per-site limit
- Group site: Sites 13 and 27 are $25/night (no extra vehicle charge).
- Additional Vehicle Fee: $6 per vehicle per night
An $8 reservation fee will be added to sites reserved through recreation.gov. Campground fees will be charged through November 15.