Magone Lake Campground

For Oregonians seeking a truly refreshing and idyllic escape into nature, Magone Lake Campground offers an experience that perfectly blends tranquility with engaging outdoor activities. Tucked away in the picturesque Malheur National Forest, near the charming community of Mt. Vernon, this campground is a celebrated destination for its stunningly clear lake, excellent fishing, and a serene forest setting. It's a place where you can truly disconnect, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the pristine beauty of Eastern Oregon.

As one delighted visitor noted, "This lake water is clear and clean. Great for kayaks and paddle boarding." Another praised the experience, saying, "Camped a couple times here the hosts were amazing and we will be back. The campground is clean and beautifully set for picture taking hiking or just sun bathing in the water." While some campsites might be "close to each other," the overall sentiment emphasizes a welcoming environment and the natural allure of Magone Lake itself. With its inviting waters, surrounding ponderosa pine and Engelmann spruce forest, and accessible amenities, Magone Lake Campground stands out as a top choice for locals looking for an authentic and memorable Oregon outdoor adventure.

Magone Lake Campground is nestled within the scenic Malheur National Forest, with its address generally associated with Mt. Vernon, OR 97865, USA. More precisely, it's situated in the northern reaches of the Malheur National Forest, within the beautiful Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. While Mt. Vernon serves as a nearby town, the campground is often accessed from Prairie City, approximately 18 miles to the southeast, or from John Day, a larger hub in the region.

The journey to Magone Lake typically involves traveling on well-maintained state highways (like US Highway 26), which then transition to Forest Service roads as you approach the campground. These forest roads are generally gravel and passable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers, though conditions can vary based on weather and season. Visitors should always consult the Malheur National Forest office or their website for current road conditions and any alerts, especially during early spring when snowmelt can affect access, or late fall as temperatures drop. The campground is generally open from May 1 through October 31, allowing for a good window to enjoy the warmer months.

The elevation of Magone Lake is around 5,000 feet, contributing to its refreshing summer temperatures and distinct forest ecosystem, characterized by ponderosa pine and Engelmann spruce. This higher elevation provides a pleasant escape from the heat of lower elevations and offers cooler, clearer nights for stargazing. Its location makes it a central point for exploring other parts of the Malheur National Forest and the broader Eastern Oregon region.

Magone Lake Campground offers a good balance of essential services and a natural camping atmosphere, making it comfortable for a variety of campers. While it retains a rustic charm, it provides more amenities than a purely primitive site. Services and facilities commonly available include:

• Individual Campsites: The campground offers 23 campsites. Most individual family sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing spontaneity for campers. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill. Some sources indicate 3 tent sites, 17 tent/trailer sites, and 3 pull-through RV sites.
• Group Campsites: For larger gatherings, Magone Lake Campground features a reservable group picnic shelter and overnight group campsite. These sites can accommodate up to 75 people, making them ideal for family reunions or group outings.
• Potable Water: Unlike many primitive campgrounds, Magone Lake Campground generally provides drinking water, which is a significant convenience for campers.
• Vault Toilets: "Outhouse style toilets," or vault toilets, are available and regularly maintained for visitor convenience.
• Boat Ramp: An on-site boat ramp provides easy access to Magone Lake for canoes, kayaks, and small motorboats (note: Magone Lake is a "no-wake lake," meaning only motors under 10 horsepower are allowed).
• No Electrical Hookups: The campground does not offer electrical hookups for RVs or trailers. Campers should be prepared for an off-grid experience.
• Firewood: While not explicitly stated for purchase, it's common for campground hosts to have firewood available, or campers bring their own. Always check fire restrictions.
• "Pack It In, Pack It Out": Similar to many Forest Service campgrounds, there are no trash disposal services. Campers are responsible for removing all their waste and packing it out.
• Fee Station: Individual campsites are typically around $13-$15 per night, paid at a self-service fee station. Group sites have a higher fee and are reservable.

These services ensure that campers have their basic needs met while still enjoying an authentic outdoor experience in the Malheur National Forest.

Magone Lake Campground's true appeal lies in its stunning natural features and the recreational opportunities they provide. Its highlights make it a standout destination for Oregon locals:

• Crystal-Clear Lake Water: The reviews consistently praise the "clear and clean" lake water, making it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Its inviting clarity is a major draw during warm summer days. The lake covers about 50 acres and features both deep holes (up to 100 feet) and shoals.
• Excellent Fishing: Magone Lake is well-known for "good fishing for Medium Size rainbows," as one reviewer noted. It contains both Eastern Brook and Rainbow Trout, making it a popular spot for anglers.
• Scenic Hiking and Biking Trails: A notable feature is the hiking and biking trail that leads "all the way around" the lake (Magone Lake Trail #352). There's also the Magone Slide Trail #353, which follows the path of the original landslide that geologists believe created the lake in the early 1800s. These trails offer beautiful views and opportunities for leisurely strolls or more energetic rides.
• Unique Forest Environment: The campground is set amidst a beautiful forest of Engelmann spruce and ponderosa pine. Reviewers mention "lots of 200 year old log/trees in the water," adding to the picturesque and natural feel of the lake.
• Wildlife Viewing: The serene setting and diverse forest ecosystem provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. Osprey hunting in the evenings and resident beavers have been noted, adding to the natural spectacle. Deer and other forest animals are also common.
• Friendly Campground Hosts: Several reviews highlight that "the hosts were amazing," contributing significantly to a positive and welcoming camping experience. Their attentiveness often helps keep the campground "clean and beautifully set."
• Stargazing Opportunities: Away from significant light pollution, the night skies over Magone Lake offer fantastic opportunities for stargazing, revealing a brilliant display of stars.
• Relaxation and Photography: The beautiful setting is perfect for "sun bathing in the water," "picture taking," or simply relaxing by the lake, taking in the serene surroundings.

These features combine to create a compelling and enjoyable outdoor destination, offering something for every type of nature enthusiast.

Magone Lake Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Malheur National Forest. While there isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself, inquiries and reservations (for group sites) are handled through the broader Forest Service system.

Address:
Magone Lake Campground
Mt Vernon, OR 97865, USA
(Often listed as Forest Road 3618, Prairie City, OR, 97869 for GPS)

For General Inquiries and Information:
It is best to contact the Malheur National Forest Supervisor's Office or the relevant Ranger District (likely the Blue Mountain Ranger District) for the most current information on conditions, fire restrictions, and any operational updates.

• Malheur National Forest Supervisor's Office:
  431 Patterson Bridge Road
  PO Box 909
  John Day, OR 97845
  Phone: (541) 575-3000

For Group Site Reservations:
Group campsites and the picnic pavilion can be reserved through the National Recreation Reservation System, Recreation.gov.

• Recreation.gov Website: www.recreation.gov (search for "Magone Lake Group Campsite")
• Recreation.gov Phone: 1-877-444-6777

Always check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Malheur National Forest (fs.usda.gov/malheur) for the most up-to-date alerts and detailed information before planning your visit.

Magone Lake Campground, nestled near Mt. Vernon in the heart of the Malheur National Forest, offers Oregon locals a truly exceptional opportunity to experience the pristine beauty of Eastern Oregon. With its "clear and clean" lake water, abundant fishing for "Medium Size rainbows," and a welcoming forest setting, it's a prime destination for a wide range of outdoor activities, from serene paddleboarding to invigorating hikes around the lake.

For Oregonians, Magone Lake Campground provides the ideal blend of accessibility and escape. Its amenities, including drinking water and vault toilets, offer convenience, while its first-come, first-served individual sites allow for spontaneous trips. The positive reviews highlighting amazing hosts and a clean, beautifully set environment speak volumes about the quality of the experience. Whether you're a family looking for a fun lake adventure, an angler seeking a peaceful fishing spot, or simply someone yearning for quiet nights under a canopy of stars amidst ancient trees, Magone Lake Campground is perfectly suitable. It embodies the essence of an authentic Oregon outdoor retreat, promising refreshing moments and lasting memories in one of the state's most picturesque natural settings.