Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
For Oregonians seeking a truly distinctive and peaceful getaway that combines the tranquility of camping with a fascinating twist of aviation history, Lands Inn Cabins and Camping in Kimberly is an absolute must-visit. This isn't your average campground; it's a unique property that offers a blend of rustic charm, comfortable accommodations, and an unexpectedly cool collection of vintage airplanes housed in an antique hangar. Nestled in the stunning John Day Basin, Lands Inn provides an "off the beaten track" experience that promises quiet serenity and a memorable stay.
Whether you're a seasoned tent camper, prefer the comforts of a cozy cabin, or are just passing through the picturesque landscape of Eastern Oregon, Lands Inn caters to a variety of preferences. It's a place where warm hospitality, thoughtful touches, and the sounds of nature create a relaxing atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This overview will guide you through the unique offerings of Lands Inn Cabins and Camping, highlighting why it stands out as an exceptional destination for locals looking to explore the hidden gems of their own state.
Lands Inn Cabins and Camping is located at Dick Creek Rd, Kimberly, OR 97848, USA. Its position is wonderfully secluded, about "9.5 miles down a single lane dirt road off Hwy 19." While this might sound like a trek, visitors consistently describe it as a "decent road" that doesn't take long to get used to. This "out of the way" location is precisely what contributes to the campground's quiet and peaceful atmosphere, ensuring a true escape from noise and light pollution.
Despite its secluded feel, Lands Inn boasts a highly convenient location for exploring one of Oregon's most iconic natural and historical treasures: the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. All three units of the monument – Sheep Rock, Painted Hills, and Clarno – are within easy driving distance. This makes Lands Inn an excellent basecamp for geological exploration, fossil viewing, and photography. The surrounding countryside is also dotted with "cute small towns," providing opportunities for local charm and amenities. While planning your visit, it’s always a good idea to account for the gravel road access, especially if driving a larger RV or during inclement weather, though reviews suggest it’s generally well-maintained for this type of rural access.
Lands Inn Cabins and Camping goes beyond typical campground offerings, providing a thoughtful array of services that cater to various comfort levels, from rustic tent sites to cozy cabin accommodations. The focus here is on a unique and personalized experience, managed by attentive hosts like Carol, who are noted for their hospitality.
Lands Inn Cabins and Camping offers a truly unique set of features and highlights that set it apart from typical campgrounds, creating a memorable experience for its visitors:
For reservations, inquiries about cabin availability, or details regarding your stay at Lands Inn Cabins and Camping, please use the following contact information. Remember that reservations are required, and they accept cash or checks only.
Address: Dick Creek Rd, Kimberly, OR 97848, USA
Phone: (541) 934-2333
Mobile Phone: +1 541-934-2333
Given the unique nature of this establishment and its remote location, calling ahead is highly recommended to confirm availability, understand seasonal operations (open spring through fall, weather permitting), and discuss any specific needs for your visit. The personal touch from the hosts suggests they are readily available to assist with planning your perfect off-grid escape.
For Oregonians, Lands Inn Cabins and Camping is an exceptional find, perfectly blending the desire for a serene natural escape with a uniquely charming and comfortable experience. It's an ideal choice for locals who appreciate "off the beaten track" destinations and seek more than just a standard campground. The relative ease of access from various parts of Oregon, despite the gravel road, makes it a viable option for a weekend trip or a longer vacation.
What truly makes Lands Inn suitable for locals is its ability to offer a genuine "pull the plug" experience, free from the constant distractions of cell service and television. This allows for genuine relaxation and a deeper connection with the stunning Eastern Oregon landscape. The proximity to the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a huge draw, offering Oregonians a fantastic base to explore one of their state's most significant geological and paleontological treasures.
Furthermore, the warmth and attentiveness of the hosts, like Carol, create a welcoming atmosphere that feels less like a commercial enterprise and more like a visit to a friendly, unique home. Whether it's the comfort of a cabin in an antique hangar, the simplicity of a tent on a smooth lawn, or the convenience of hot showers in a silo, every aspect of Lands Inn is designed to be "artsy and neat." It's a place where you can genuinely unwind, enjoy "amazing views," and marvel at a collection of vintage planes, all while experiencing the quiet peace of rural Oregon. For Oregonians looking for a truly unique, peaceful, and locally-flavored outdoor adventure, Lands Inn Cabins and Camping offers an unforgettable retreat.
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Public shower
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Good for kids
On-site parking
Truly enjoyed staying with Carol at Lands Inn, we were tent camping with an RTT and were able to pull up easily right next to a picnic table. We were there the last weekend in April into May 2nd and it was COLD... we expected some rain but neglected to consider the elevation of about 3500' there. After two nights of rain/sleet/hail/snow in the tent we upgraded to a room and stayed in the very large room they have in the antique hanger. The hanger is COOL and they have a fair collection of older planes inside. The hanger itself was brought down from Spokane and it took 8 years to put together on site. Everything these folks have done is just artsy and neat, so worth getting out there to see. The room we stayed in has two double/queen beds with privacy screens, a large living room area with TV where you can watch DVDs (large library outside in the hanger), a diner table/bench for eating and a full (shower only) bath. Just very comfy... and the views out the windows are amazing. They do love planes out there and the room had many model airplanes and signed, framed prints with accompanying stories should you ask. It was so nice that Carol would stop by and check on us. Allowed us to use the kitchen in the hanger to cook when it was so nasty outside, truly saved us. Their property is about 9.5 miles down a single lane dirt road off Hwy 19, but it is a decent road and didn't take us long to get used to coming/going. The location is very convenient for seeing the 3 units at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument as well as the surrounding countryside / cute small towns.
Loved our stay here, we camped in a tent and it was on a nice smooth lawn next to the hangar. The silo restrooms with hot showers and conventional toilets were nice. It is so quiet and peaceful up here. We like the places that are off the beaten track, and this place is. I enjoy planes and it was cool to watch several small planes land on the grass airstrip. The proximity to Blue Basin and the John Day Fossil Beds area was great for our visit. We will keep this place in mind if we visit the area again, and we would definitely recommend it.
Quite, out of the way , the hosts are awesome beautiful green grass , we pulled in with a trailer and parked by the hangar, Tom is a pilot and super cool guy. The silo showers were top notch. Will definitely stay there again
What a cool place to stay! The drive in through the John Day area canyon was spectacular. The little A-frames are super cute, planes are pretty cool, night sky is gorgeous, owners are very accommodating and friendly. Showers were hot, and the kitchen area is perfect for making food and coffee in the morning (lots of places to hang out outside or in the hangar). Beds could be a bit more comfy and it would have been nice to have a fan when it's hot, but otherwise- we had a great time. It's one of the more interesting places we've stayed for sure!
We tent camped here with young kids and had such a wonderful time exploring the airstrip, playing frisbee, cooking at the fire pit, and watching sunset over the hill. The lawn area is well maintained and great for pitching a tent. Carol and Tom were great hosts, the bathrooms and hot showers were quirky, clean, and lovely! The 5 mile road to the Inn was rough but driveable and close to great hikes in Sheep Rock.