Green Mountain Campground

We stumbled upon this just-about-brand-new campground after an amazing afternoon exploring Oregon's "Crack in the Ground", a two mile long, 70 feet deep volcanic fissure about 8 miles north of Christmas Valley. In need of a place to camp, we drove north from the Crack in the Ground parking area (which of course is off Crack in the Ground Road). Here are the coordinates:
Latitude 43˚23'9.98"N
Longitude 120˚43'24.61"W

You'll have a shorter, less teeth-loosening journey if you come in from the north.

There were no signs indicating this campground's location, nor is it mentioned on any of our maps. So, its no surprise that we were the only ones there. The only marker is a sign at the base of the road up to Green Mountain.

It's located inside of the Four Craters Lava area in Northern Lake County, about 14 miles north of Christmas Valley on a rugged washboard dirt road. The reward is well worth it, however, as you'll be treated to panoramic views of the lava flows, cinder cones and desert landscape of the Fort Rock and Christmas Valley area. Our site overlooked the valleys to the north.

The fire lookout atop Green Mountain is manned from June through October. A short but steep path up to the fenced off concrete fire tower is located from within the campground.

Each site has a fire ring, picnic table and gravel pad. The vault toilet is well-stocked but shows little signs of use. One of the six sites is labeled for specifically for handicapped use. Sites are not suitable for rigs over 25 feet. but one is a pull-through that should work for trailers. The campground is laid out in a simple loop, with each site situated around the perimeter.

If you're up for a truly remote experience with outstanding views in a little known corner of the high Oregon desert, this place is perfect. We also explored South Ice Cave, Fort Rock, Hole in the Ground and the Hidden Forest (in the sand dune area just northeast of Christmas Valley).

We had pretty good Verizon 3G signal, despite stormy/snowy weather.

Based upon the review below, after Crack in the Ground, I headed on up the same road. Flyer on the Crack's bulletin board also mentioned it. Dirt road is fine, cars can travel it. As noted below, coming in from the West to East (if you're in that directions) is a little nicer, but has a short semi-steep hill. Watch for overhead Branches. Campground was good, clean, dust free, red lava rock. Sites were somewhat level, but had overhanging branches on a few and in the loop, so either walk it or go slowly if that's a problem. I'm in a Truck camper 12.5' tall. Campsites should use a weed whacker, but otherwise nice and quiet. Just an FYI, there appears, by sound, to be a firing range near by. Also, coming into the turn for the campsite, you want to hang a Right to the "Campground Vista" area.. I got "Confusaled" on that one and ended up taking the road to the Ranger Lookout. Campground is just East of that.

I think we’re the 1st people to stay here in 2018 - It’s in the 20’s as we turn in for the night. The views are amazing, the drive in was a challenge. Make sure ALL your loose crap is stored . The road in is bad...real bad. We had a couple of KIA’s from the upper shelves. Directions on website are SPOT ON - Set your mileage on the markers and you’ll hit the spot

If you find the gate is closed, keep driving as it loops around to the backside of the hill. You’ll eventually get there.