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Best Dispersed Camping near Canyonville, OR

42 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping options exist around Canyonville in southern Oregon, primarily on BLM land. Burma Pond BLM offers primitive camping along a small pond approximately 20 minutes off I-5. The access road features some large potholes but remains passable for most vehicles when driven slowly. The area includes defined campsites, a vault toilet, and fire rings, though sites are notably close together. A camper wrote, "There are defined spots with a vault toilet next door. The spots are VERY close together, 10 to 20 feet apart."

Additional dispersed camping can be found at Rocky Riffle and Argo Bar along the Rogue River. These sites provide river access with minimal amenities. Skull Creek Campground, while technically free, features picnic tables, fire pits, and a pit toilet. Cell service is unreliable throughout the region, with reviews consistently noting "zero cell reception" in most areas. All locations enforce 14-day stay limits, and seasonal fire restrictions apply throughout summer months. Many sites require navigating dirt roads with occasional rough patches, so higher-clearance vehicles are recommended, particularly after rain.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Canyonville, Oregon (21)

    1. Burma Pond BLM

    10 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    16 miles
    +1 (541) 471-6500

    "This was quite a way in on a fairly smooth but steep dirt road. Along the road were random deep pot holes so be aware they sneak up on you when the road is shadowed."

    "I navigated using Google Maps due to other reviews saying Apple made it confusing. This led us right to the pond/camp sites."

    2. Elderberry Flats Campground

    4 Reviews
    Trail, OR
    21 miles
    +1 (541) 618-2200

    "FIRSTLY, do NOT take Sykes Creek Road or May Creek Road to access this campground. Google Maps will try to take you on the shortest (mileage) route."

    "Free camping with a pit toilet winner winner chicken dinner! A bit of a drive out but a very nice campsite. The actual campground has 11 sites with picnic tables and fire pits."

    3. Skull Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Glendale, OR
    18 miles

    "Without this app I do not know were i would be i got lost in oregon panicked and remembered I had this app thank you you are life saver........ TO:X̌

    FROM: Michael .C"

    4. Argo Bar

    2 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 618-2200

    "We couldn't really find a flat place to park, and so ended up parking just along the bathroom, which was rhe flattest spot here."

    "It wasn't until we left the spot and looked back on it from the higher road that we saw that the camp area extended a bit past the bathrooms into more camp friendly spots, with some shade and greenery."

    5. Rocky Riffle

    3 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 479-3735

    "This BLM area is a quick turn off the main road.  Take a right or left to start the loop and you’ll find various spots for dispersed camping."

    6. Ennis Riffle

    2 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 474-5285

    $15 / night

    "Ennis Riffle camping area is nice and large and open, with easy access to the water.  The ground is rocky dirt.  There isn't much in terms of flat level areas for an RV, nor is there much shade.  "

    "Also close to the river. It gets very busy on holiday weekends. Also beware of camping here during the rainy season. The water covers the entire campground."

    7. Thousand Springs Sno-Park

    13 Reviews
    Crater Lake, OR
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 842-3292

    "We drove to Mazama campground only to be told and they had just filled their last spot but that there was free overnight parking 18 minutes in each direction either by thousand springs snopark or Annie"

    "There are bathrooms and a warming shelter that has a wood stove. The park is close to Crater Lake National Park anout 10ish miles down hwy 62. Nice pretty spot that is easy to get to."

    8. USFS Rogue River Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Prospect, OR
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 247-3600

    "We camped near the road but nobody came through the whole night we stayed. An owl swooped right through our camp site and scared the crap out of us. Easy route in and out."

    "The campsite I chose is on a portion of the road beyond what Google Maps has, so it's really off-grid. 😜You could fit two vehicles."

    9. Prospect OHV Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Prospect, OR
    40 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 560-3400

    "During our off season stay it was fun and with all the ATV trails it was our favorite place to camp."

    "When we visited Crater Lake in April, we knew we'd have to find alternative camping because the park campgrounds would be covered in several feet of snow."

    10. Rogue River Dispersed Campsites

    3 Reviews
    Agness, OR
    39 miles
    Website

    "There is no shade and no hookups. Very nice and peaceful area. We love the Galice area and will return year after year."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Canyonville, OR

26 Photos of 21 Canyonville Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Canyonville, OR

42 Reviews of 21 Canyonville Campgrounds

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 19, 2021

    Burma Pond BLM

    Remote and Quiet

    This was quite a way in on a fairly smooth but steep dirt road. Along the road were random deep pot holes so be aware they sneak up on you when the road is shadowed. The last .3 miles was steep and though we made it in 26ft rig I would not attempt it again. I could see major problem if rain was expected. 

    The pond was peaceful and so beautiful with a couple of level options to set up. The area as a whole is very small though, so if someone else is already there when you arrive it’s going to feel very cozy and/or awkward. 

    There was a handicap accessible bathroom with pit toilets that someone shot up the lock (boooo) so at the moment is open despite the "closed for covid" sign. There was a pile of garbage near the garbage cans. Bullet casings littered the ground as well.

     The fish were jumping and the water clear. Overall nice, just wish people would respect public lands more and not trash these areas so much. The road is narrow with very few turn arounds. The way down I was in 1-2 gear riding the break on some of the hills. Good place to let the dogs run and swim. If we had a smaller rig we would come here again. Very weak / unusable Verizon service, no service with TMobile or ATT.

  • Cass G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Burma Pond BLM

    Off the grid just enough

    We needed a place to set up for a quick sleep on our way down to Yosemite from Washington. I navigated using Google Maps due to other reviews saying Apple made it confusing. This led us right to the pond/camp sites. The road is a little rough with potholes but it’s not terrible if you just drive slow over the holes. There is a few split offs/2-way roads along this dirt road, the last one being a tree with a smiley face and an arrow leading you where to go. Didn’t get lost at all and it was already dark when we got there. No one was there, it was peaceful, clean and quiet. There is a pit toilet/bathroom with toilet paper. No trash cans so you’ll have to pack out your trash. I recommend this spot for anyone willing to drive 10-15 minutes off the freeway for some dispersed camping.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2021

    Rocky Riffle

    Hot, Dusty and Nice (and Free!)

    This BLM area is a quick turn off the main road.  Take a right or left to start the loop and you’ll find various spots for dispersed camping. The road is mostly ok with some areas of high rocks but we made it in our 26ft Class C with only one ding on the steps. Larger vehicles might have problems along the lower half of the loop, but the upper half was doable.  There are some spots close to the river and others up above it more with nice views as well as shade.

    There are a few “long term residents" here.  One was right on the water with a big mirror and a homemade sign warning of “thieves among us." The sheriff and ranger came by the next day and left citation on his camp. Nothing scary nor anything that made us feel unsafe at all. 

    This is a dry camp with no amenities. Tent/car campers welcome but must have port-a-potties. You must pack out your waste and trash. We found several trash piles which we cleaned up. There are NO fires allowed at this time. Also be aware that there is a lot of poison oak around. 

    Also there were unleashed dogs, one in particular that wandered into our camp site every morning. A lot of rafters and kayakers, especially on weekends, but they stay mostly on the water but can become quite loud at times. River access in this area is available in a only few spots that you have to walk to. There is no real shoreline to hang out in unless someone is not camped right in those areas. 

    Zero cell reception from ATT, verizon and TMobile in this whole area.

  • Amanda K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Thousand Springs Sno-Park

    Great reliable lot

    We drove to Mazama campground only to be told and they had just filled their last spot but that there was free overnight parking 18 minutes in each direction either by thousand springs snopark or Annie’s. We chose thousand springs. It is the perfect spot for free overnight parking as it is a large and reliable lot that I assume is rarely filled. It is only 30 minutes from watchman peak trailhead which is where we were headed. There were only a couple other vans when we stayed a weekday in July. There is a pit toilet as well. Note that free overnight parking without a sno-park parking permit is only permitted between May 1 and November 14. Next to the road so there is a bit of noise, but there are not too many cars that drive by at night. Be aware that there is a lot of wildlife in the area. There is no cell service.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2022

    Argo Bar

    Good and Free

    I'll add another review since we did go back there this summer and stay there for a night. But I'd check on the effects of the Rum Fire if you're planning to go to this area. Not sure what the river area looks like now. :(

    We couldn't really find a flat place to park, and so ended up parking just along the bathroom, which was rhe flattest spot here. It was a nice and peaceful stay, quiet, watching boaters and rafting companies coming and going all day. Nobody else was there at night.

    The area is beautiful but there's not much to do unless you have a boat or a car. No nearby hikes within walking distance.

    Still zero cell service. 14 day stay limit. Garbage bins and recycling and bathrooms on site. Free!

  • Brittney G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2018

    Thousand Springs Sno-Park

    Spacious quiet spot

    This snowpark has a big parking area with plenty of room for trailers/vehicles. There are bathrooms and a warming shelter that has a wood stove. The park is close to Crater Lake National Park anout 10ish miles down hwy 62. Nice pretty spot that is easy to get to. No hookups and no water available do be sure to bring it.

  • Patricia N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Prospect OHV Dispersed Camping

    Perfect place for OHV riding

    We absolutely loved camping here. During our off season stay it was fun and with all the ATV trails it was our favorite place to camp.

    Our neighbor campers decided they could ride the trails without helmets and found out the hard way that is is a no no. They were brought back to the camp without their bikes and in the back of a National Forest Service Enforcement vehicle. After being spoken to about the importance of following the rules of the trails, they were left at camp and had to find their own way back to their motorcycles.

    Fortunately we did not have the same experience. It can get very dusty so just be prepared for that. The trails are absolutely great and access to the Rogue River is just icing on the cake.

    It was so nice to have areas provided for unloading bikes and ATV's so folks could safely load and unload their toys.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2021

    USFS Rogue River Dispersed

    Beautiful But Be Aware

    Take the River Bridge turn off from Highway 62 and follow the road which turns to gravel, potholed and some washboarded road. Stay on the main road until you pass the actual campground and go over the bridge. 

    We did drive through the River Bridge campground which was $15/night but opted for the free version across the river. There are multiple spots to camp for free just past the River Bridge Campground across the one lane bridge. You can take a right or left after the bridge to find a spot. We took a right and found multiple sites to pull into right off the main forest service road. Accessibility is dependent on your rig but we found several spots easily accessed by our 26ft class c.  The road itself is gravel with pot holes but otherwise doable in most rigs. There appears to be some long term somewhat sketchy residents here so be aware. We stayed twice in 2 different spots but did not feel unsafe at all. The sites are fairly level with mix of sun and shade and stone fire pits and a short walk to the river. Its a nice place to let the dogs run free but there can be quite a lot of cars driving up and down the 62 road and and an occasional dirt bike. Very quiet at night and lots of roads to hike on or if you’re into fishing the Rogue River is very close.

     No amenities, pack in and pack out, no bathrooms; and for the love of god please bury your TP waste! 

    There is zero cell reception from ATT, T-Mobile or Verizon in this entire area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 26, 2023

    Thousand Springs Sno-Park

    Close to the crater

    Plenty of parking with bathrooms . We were the only ones there in our camper van got in late driving from the redwoods on the way to crater . Lots of stars . No cell service

Guide to Canyonville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Canyonville, Oregon, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers several spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Burma Pond BLM is a picturesque location with a beautiful pond surrounded by nature, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Elderberry Flats Campground features small swimming holes and a clean creek, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • If you prefer a minimalist setting, Skull Creek Campground offers a few sites with picnic tables and fire pits, providing a simple yet enjoyable camping experience.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Canyonville

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the access to the Rogue River at Ennis Riffle, where you can cast a line and enjoy the tranquil waters.
  • For those who love off-road adventures, the Prospect OHV Dispersed Camping area is perfect for ATV riding, with numerous trails to explore.
  • Hiking opportunities abound near the USFS Rogue River Dispersed, where you can discover scenic trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Canyonville, Oregon

  • When visiting Rocky Riffle, be prepared for a dry camping experience with no amenities, so pack in all necessary supplies and be ready to pack out your trash.
  • If you plan to stay at Argo Bar, remember that there are no nearby hikes, so bring activities to enjoy while you relax by the river.
  • For a more secluded experience, consider the Rogue River Dispersed Campsites, where you can find quiet spots along the river, but be aware of the lack of cell service in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Canyonville, Oregon?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Canyonville. Burma Pond BLM offers sites around a pond, accessible via a steep dirt road with some potholes, though the final 0.3 miles can be challenging for larger rigs. Rocky Riffle provides a convenient loop with various dispersed spots just off the main road, though some areas have high rocks that might challenge larger vehicles. Other options include Skull Creek Campground with picnic tables and fire pits, and Elderberry Flats with multiple established sites. Most dispersed areas are on BLM land, offering basic amenities like fire rings with varying road conditions.

What are the rules for dispersed camping in Canyonville?

Dispersed camping around Canyonville typically follows standard BLM regulations. At Skull Creek Campground, camping is free with a limit of 14 consecutive days. The area provides basic amenities including picnic tables, fire pits, pit toilets, and bear-proof trash cans, but no running water. At Elderberry Flats Campground, similar rules apply with 11 designated sites featuring picnic tables and fire pits. Pack out all trash, maintain a clean campsite, and follow fire safety protocols, especially during dry seasons. Most dispersed areas require self-contained waste management as facilities are limited or non-existent.

Is there year-round dispersed camping available in Canyonville?

Year-round dispersed camping availability near Canyonville varies by location and elevation. Lower-elevation sites like Argo Bar along the river may remain accessible throughout winter, though seasonal conditions can affect access. Higher-elevation areas transition to winter recreation uses - Thousand Springs Sno-Park becomes a snowpark during winter months with parking for snow recreation vehicles, bathrooms, and a warming shelter with a wood stove. Road conditions to most dispersed sites deteriorate in wet weather, with potholes becoming more problematic and steep access roads potentially becoming impassable. Check with local BLM offices for current seasonal closures before planning winter trips.

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