Clyde Holliday State Park has a nice walking path along the John?Day River for either people passing through or those that stay overnight. <I>File Photo</i>

Between John Day and Mt. Vernon along Highway 26 and next to the John Day River is the Clyde Holliday State Park.

Named after a well-known Grant County rancher who donated the land for the park in the early 1960s, the park was completed in 1972.

The park is noted for its unique landscaping design, the spaciousness of its camping area and the wide variety of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers it contains.

In addition to its flora, the fauna of the park is also abundant. Beavers and otters can be observed in the river, and deer are frequently seen, as well as squirrels, raccoons and a colorful variety of birds.

Consisting of 16 acres, with about one-fourth mile of river frontage, the park contains a day-use area with fire pits, picnic tables, horseshoe pits, restroom facilities and riverside nature path.

At the west end of the park is the camping area with paved RV spaces with full hook-ups, fire pits and picnic tables. This area also has bath and shower facilities. In addition to the RV parking, there is an area for bicyclists or others who wish to pitch tents and camp.

Holliday is a first-come, first-served campground, but an overflow area provides plenty of available camping sites even during the busy summer season.

For more information on camping fees and park availability dates, call the Oregon State Parks Department for Clyde Holliday State Park at (541) 575-2800.