Bates State Park, located near John Day, Oregon, was once a bustling lumber mill and company town that thrived in the Blue Mountains. After the mill closed in the 1970s, the land remained vacant for over 35 years until it was transformed into a state park through the dedicated efforts of the local community. Today, visitors can explore the park's three miles of hiking trails, which offer stunning viewpoints of the park, old mill pond, and valley, while also learning about the history of Bates and the ongoing restoration of the land and waterways. With its 131 acres situated along the Middle Fork John Day River, Bridge Creek, and Clear Creek, Bates State Park provides a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers seasonal camping with primitive sites for tents or self-contained RVs, as well as a hiker-biker camp with electric plug-ins. Three campsites are accessible to campers with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Bates State Park has to offer.Generated from the website