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Best Dispersed Camping near Cave Junction, OR

52 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Cave Junction, Oregon exists primarily along forest service roads and river access points in the surrounding Siskiyou Mountains. Several primitive sites are located around Eight Dollar Mountain, where pullout camping is permitted along Canyon Gulch. Additional dispersed options include Redwood Bar along the Chetco River and Patrick Creek areas, with most sites situated on U.S. Forest Service land. These undeveloped camping areas generally lack designated sites but allow free primitive camping in natural settings.

Access routes to many dispersed sites require careful navigation, with several campers noting rough, unpaved roads leading to Eight Dollar Mountain and Patrick Creek areas. Most vehicles can reach Beautiful Dispersed View off Fire Road, which features a paved 6.5-mile access route, though the actual camping spots are small gravel pull-offs measuring approximately 25x15 feet. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for Redwood Bar, where "driving over rocks is easier with 4-wheel drive, but not necessary," according to one visitor. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during summer months.

River access represents a significant draw at several dispersed sites. The Chetco River at Redwood Bar offers "crystal clear water" with swimming opportunities. One camper noted that "the river was fast moving, so if you have kids, make sure to bring lifejackets." Patrick Creek sites feature what visitors describe as "beautiful creek camping" with "many spots along the road" suitable for smaller vehicles. Most areas experience varying levels of traffic, with several reviewers mentioning moderate weekend activity at Redwood Bar while noting "we basically had the place to ourselves for 6 days" during weekday visits. Cell service is non-existent at most sites, particularly along the Chetco River corridor where "there is no cell service once you turn down the 8-mile road from Brookings."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cave Junction, Oregon (26)

    1. Canyon Gulch by Eight Dollar Moutain

    4 Reviews
    Kerby, OR
    5 miles

    "It’s got great views and near the river, but homeless camps sometimes set up around here."

    2. Beautiful Dispersed View off Fire Rd

    2 Reviews
    Selma, OR
    13 miles
    Website

    "You can fit a small pull behind, truck, and/or van. The 6.5 mile road (FS-25) is paved so the accessibility of the site is a plus."

    3. Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Brookings, OR
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 618-2200

    "No, there’s no spaces and no hookups and no cell service for miles. It’s just a gravel bar on the river where you pull your camper wherever feels good and unhitch and camp."

    "Me and my girlfriend tent camped here and although the ground was rocky we managed to pitch the tent just fine. The road leading to the site is long, flat, relatively slim, and windy."

    4. Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Gasquet, CA
    22 miles

    "Only thing is the people before us did not practice leave no trace and there were some paper towels in a bush and dog toys left behind."

    "It is a bit steep coming down but since we were the only ones we had plenty of room to back the camper where we wanted. The creek is absolutely clear, a bit chilly but stunning."

    5. Eight Dollar Mountain Pulloff

    Be the first to review!
    Kerby, OR
    5 miles

    6. Patrick Creek Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Gasquet, CA
    21 miles

    "Easy access, nice spots on the creek. Almost no traffic using the road. Restroom was very clean."

    7. Forest Road 25

    Be the first to review!
    Selma, OR
    13 miles

    8. South Fork Chetco

    2 Reviews
    Brookings, OR
    25 miles

    "There's one pit toilet near a circle of 3-4 sites on the rivers. This is pretty wild camping, no amenities, but quiet camping."

    "It’s a little farther up than we anticipated going BUT so worth it...maybe a mile or so past the Redwood river access."

    9. middle fork smith river

    1 Review
    Gasquet, CA
    25 miles

    "There is a trail that leads straight down to the river! Plenty of room for swimming and fishing. Would definitely stay here again."

    10. Ennis Riffle

    2 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    28 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."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cave Junction, OR

17 Photos of 26 Cave Junction Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cave Junction, OR

52 Reviews of 26 Cave Junction 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.

  • Ashley A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful

    Very peaceful and secluded. Would definitely stay again! Only thing is the people before us did not practice leave no trace and there were some paper towels in a bush and dog toys left behind.

  • 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!

  • C
    Sep. 5, 2021

    Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping

    It is what it is….

    We live in Brookings and go up the Chetco to this river bar or to Nook or Miller Bar all summer long. No, there’s no spaces and no hookups and no cell service for miles. It’s just a gravel bar on the river where you pull your camper wherever feels good and unhitch and camp. You might have some USDA Forest Service employee drop off a pay envelope at your site but , there’s no place to leave it and they may or may not come back to get it. It sometimes gets crowded during holidays and weekends and the good places, not next to rapids and close enough to good swimming holes, become rare. So you might have to settle for something less than ideal. And, the porta potties might get full. There’s no one enforcing quiet hours or leash laws and no form of law enforcement anywhere nearby. There is a Forest Service LEO assigned to the area but in 18 years, I’ve never seen him on the bar. Despite all this, incidents involving injuries or violence or crime are exceptionally rare. It’s a great kayaking and swimming place and there’s nearby rocks for jumping off. Remember! It’s a river not a lake so kids ought to have life jackets. Please note….as the summer progresses, the water level drops, the temperature rises and the algae grows. As such, we prefer June camping.

  • A
    Sep. 13, 2021

    Sand Camp - Dispersed

    No calling

    These coordinates lead us to private property, a driveway to a couple of houses. Maybe there was something a little further, but it was all blocked off. We had to turn around and camp elsewhere.

  • Kelly-Shane F.
    Aug. 11, 2021

    Sand Camp - Dispersed

    Nice quiet area

    Sand camp is essentially a dispersed camping area. There is a large gravel parking lot and a pit toilet available. There is a path down to the Smith River where you can set up tents and tent camp if you want. 

    The toilet was a basic pit toilet, but it was fairly clean as far as those go. 

    We parked our VW Bus in the gravel lot for the night, it was very quiet. Though its next to a road, there is very little traffic at night as this area is fairly remote. The sky was dark and clear, perfect for stargazing. The few other people camping there were quiet and friendly.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping

    Redwood Camping

    I’m not sure why everyone is so pressed about the maps leading them elsewhere, the signs are there! There are actually 3 river access roads that will lead you to dispersed camping. The Nook, Miller and Redwood and they all have signs displayed. We were there for 3 nights and to be honest every night from Mon-Wed. was quite but busy. Everyone was respectful of the others space however it was just too busy of a site for how we like to camp. It is good for a sleep and the river was was nice but not really my flavor. We drove up farther to another site and enjoyed that much more.

Guide to Cave Junction

Dispersed camping near Cave Junction, Oregon centers primarily on primitive sites within the Siskiyou National Forest. The region sits at elevations between 1,200-4,000 feet with dense forest cover and rocky river access points. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during July-August, with fire restrictions common during these months due to high wildfire risk.

What to do

Swimming access: Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping offers crystal-clear water perfect for cooling off during summer months. "The creek is absolutely clear, a bit chilly but stunning," reports one camper who appreciated the pristine water conditions.

Wildlife viewing: South Fork Chetco provides opportunities to spot native wildlife along the riverbanks. "We saw a beaver swim up the river. We also saw a small herd of cows that rolled through," notes a visitor who camped at this quieter section of the Chetco.

Hiking explorations: The areas around Eight Dollar Mountain feature botanical trails through unique serpentine soils. Canyon Gulch provides access points to several unmarked forest trails, though one camper warns, "I was woken up in the middle of the night to someone practicing with their shotgun in the distance for a good half hour."

What campers like

River proximity: Many dispersed sites offer immediate water access, with Patrick Creek Dispersed Campsite receiving positive reviews for its waterside locations. "Easy access, nice spots on the creek. Almost no traffic using the road," mentions one satisfied visitor.

Seclusion opportunities: During weekdays, many sites offer relative privacy. At middle fork smith river, campers appreciate the spaciousness: "Plenty of space between the other campers (up to 5 one night)... There is a trail that leads straight down to the river!"

Natural settings: Rustic camping near Cave Junction often means forgoing amenities for natural beauty. "This spot is a gravel pull off that is about 25ftx15ft. You can fit a small pull behind, truck, and/or van. The 6.5 mile road (FS-25) is paved so the accessibility of the site is a plus," notes a camper at Beautiful Dispersed View off Fire Road.

What you should know

Seasonal conditions: Fire restrictions vary significantly by season, with complete bans common in late summer. "We're visiting early September so no fires are allowed at this time and the yellow jackets are still definitely out, so try and make sure you have a trap for them…they can get aggressive!" warns a South Fork Chetco visitor.

Site limitations: Many pullouts have minimal space. At Canyon Gulch by Eight Dollar Moutain, one camper observed, "I only saw two sites with fire rings on the side of the road and the road was busy with cars going by all hours for the night."

Weekend crowding: The most accessible sites fill quickly Friday-Sunday. "This little spot is such a gem. The reviews are correct in the fact that it can be a tight fit," notes a Patrick Creek camper who recommends arriving early to secure a spot.

Tips for camping with families

Water safety: Rivers in the area often have strong currents, requiring extra precautions. "The river was fast moving so if you have kids, make sure to bring lifejackets," advises an experienced camper at Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping.

Noise considerations: Some dispersed areas experience occasional disruptions. At Canyon Gulch, a visitor reported, "It seemed to be heavily trafficked. Lots of cars and vans drove by," making it potentially challenging for light-sleeping children.

Access planning: When camping with children, prioritize sites with easier access roads. At Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted, "It is a bit steep coming down but since we were the only ones we had plenty of room to back the camper where we wanted," highlighting the importance of arrival timing.

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Most rustic camping spots near Cave Junction have limited space for larger rigs. "This spot is a gravel pull off that is about 25ftx15ft. You can fit a small pull behind, truck, and/or van," explains a camper at Beautiful Dispersed View off Fire Road.

Road conditions: Many forest roads require careful navigation. At Ennis Riffle, visitors noted, "There isn't much in terms of flat level areas for an RV, nor is there much shade," indicating the need for proper leveling equipment.

Seasonal flooding: Low-lying river sites can flood during rainy periods. "Beware of camping here during the rainy season. The water covers the entire campground," warns an Ennis Riffle camper about riverside locations, particularly important for RVers with fixed setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest near Cave Junction?

Dispersed camping in Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest typically follows standard Forest Service regulations. At Rocky Riffle, a BLM area with dispersed camping options, you'll find a loop with various spots for camping. Elderberry Flats Campground provides free camping with a pit toilet. General regulations include: camping limited to 14 days in a 30-day period; camp at least 100 feet from water sources; use existing fire rings when available; pack out all trash; and store food securely to prevent wildlife encounters. Campfire restrictions often apply during summer and fall fire seasons. Check with the local ranger district office in Cave Junction before your trip for current regulations and potential closures due to fire danger or other factors.

Is 4WD required for accessing dispersed camping sites around Cave Junction?

Four-wheel drive is helpful but not always required for dispersed camping sites around Cave Junction, though road conditions vary significantly by location and season. Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping is accessible and peaceful, though the access road may have some rough spots. At Argo Bar, the terrain can be challenging to find flat parking. Many sites are accessible with 2WD vehicles with decent clearance - one camper reported accessing Skull Creek with a 2x4 SUV despite some large potholes. However, weather can dramatically impact road conditions - rain can make steep dirt roads treacherous, especially for larger rigs. Consider a vehicle with higher clearance even if you don't have 4WD, and be prepared to turn around if conditions exceed your vehicle's capabilities.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cave Junction, Oregon?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Cave Junction. Burma Pond BLM offers free sites around a small pond, accessible via a dirt road with some potholes. For riverside camping, Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping provides free spots along the Chetco River where you can pull your camper onto the gravel bar. Other options include Skull Creek Campground, which features picnic tables, fire pits, and a pit toilet, and Dispersed camping off $8 mountain Rd, though the latter has a rough access road. Most sites follow pack-in, pack-out principles, so bring what you need and leave no trace.

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