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Shelton Wayside Park (Wheeler County Park)
Overview
Shelton Wayside Park offers a tranquil escape within a majestic ponderosa pine forest. Located south of Fossil, Oregon, this historic Wheeler County park provides a rustic camping experience that feels worlds away from the hustle of modern life. It serves as a lush, shaded sanctuary for travelers exploring the rugged landscapes and prehistoric wonders of the John Day River Territory. The park is well-regarded for its quiet atmosphere and the natural beauty of its towering timber canopy.
Location & Surroundings
The park is conveniently situated along Highway 19, nestled within a deep canyon that provides natural cooling during the hot summer months. The surrounding landscape transitions from the arid, colorful hills typical of Eastern Oregon into a dense timbered oasis. Visitors can enjoy the sounds of the wind through the pines and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife, such as mule deer or wild turkeys, which frequently roam through the park grounds in the early morning hours.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a primitive destination perfect for those who enjoy dry camping and a traditional outdoor experience. The park features paved loops suitable for various RV sizes, though there are no hookups available on-site. Guests have access to essential necessities, including well-maintained vault toilets, heavy-duty picnic tables, and metal fire rings for evening campfires. The heavy canopy of trees provides excellent natural shade, making it one of the coolest spots to stay in the region during peak summer heat.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
A stay here puts you in the heart of the John Day Fossil Beds region. Just a short drive away, the town of Fossil offers the unique opportunity to dig for leaf fossils behind the local high school. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Service Creek area for rafting or fishing on the John Day River. The stunning geological formations of the Sheep Rock Unit and the world-class Thomas Condon Paleontology Center are also within easy driving distance for an educational day trip.
Who This Park Is Best For
Shelton Wayside Park is ideal for self-contained RVers who value peace and natural beauty over modern resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for those seeking a cool forest retreat while exploring the geological wonders of Wheeler County. If you prefer a quiet, shaded spot to disconnect and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Oregon wilderness, this park is a perfect fit for your adventurous travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Julia Kleutsch
Primitive tent camping. Not suitable for most rvs. Few level parking spaces.
Isaac Rogers
Shelton Wayside Park is also a well maintained place to camp. It is more spread out and has a lot of wide open areas for the sunshine during the day and star gazing at night. There were fewer people here than at Bear Hallow. Nice!
marty brown
At this Park , there is a National Fallen Bikers Memorial. My Brother and I spent the day cleaning that part of the area. There is you have had a loved one past away and they road motorcycles, you can have a brick put into the park in memory of them. Cool stuff. They have a upcoming brick laying in a couple weeks. Hope to see you there. Oh, the park will be cleaned up also.
Becca Williams
Great place
Gabriel Voth
Come here almost every year for the spray rodeo and to explore the beautiful landscapes and abandoned buildings from failed towns and homesteads and than I can come back to a campfire and eat some warm food and enjoy nature