Dispersed camping sites in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest near Cayuse, Oregon offer backcountry accommodations at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet. Seasonal access varies dramatically with some forest roads completely impassable from November through April due to deep snow accumulation. Most dispersed sites in this region of the Blue Mountains feature established clearings with simple rock fire rings.
What to do
Wildlife observation: North of Spring Creek on Forest Road 21 provides secluded forest settings where campers report seeing elk, turkeys and occasionally rattlesnakes. "We had a little patch of forest all to ourselves. There's a bit of highway noise in the distance, low cell signal (both AT&T and T-Mobile)," notes a visitor at North of Spring Creek on Forest Road 21.
Mushroom hunting: Certain forest areas become prime morel mushroom hunting grounds in spring months. The woodland areas beyond the small mountain community at McDougall are particularly noted for mushroom abundance. According to one experienced forager at McDougall, "Just past the village you get into the woodland where the Morels are plentiful. This is an ideal location to go mushrooming."
OHV riding: Fox Hill Campground connects to the MERA Motocross Track and surrounding trail system. "The views are incredible. OHV park so lots of riders. I enjoyed the sounds of people enjoying themselves. Others may not. Lots of trails!" reports a camper at Fox Hill Campground.
What campers like
Secluded forest patches: Many dispersed sites offer substantial distance between camping parties. "Many options for private pull-offs once you drive past established NF campgrounds. Only 'traffic' was the occasional ATV/OHV. Tons of great hiking around," writes a reviewer at Wallowa-Whitman NF 21.
Quick overnight access: Sites near highways provide convenient stopping points for travelers. "Quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts. No amenities," notes a camper at Wallowa-Whitman NF 21.
Meadow views: Higher elevation sites reveal expansive meadow vistas. One McDougall camper describes: "Continuing up the forest road you'll reach a large meadow the rolls for miles downhill into the valley. The views here are breathtaking - this is an amazing location to bring your family."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access requires appropriate vehicles, especially during or after wet weather. "Great free place to camp 4x4 is advised and not really car accessible. Down side no water near by, not even a creek," reports a visitor to North Elgin Dispersed Camp.
Winter closures: Snow blocks most access from November through April. "The road to the site was not plowed. Several feet of snow. Not many alternatives in the area so plan accordingly if you hope to stay here," warns a McDougall visitor.
Campsite conditions: Site quality varies substantially, with some areas reporting litter problems. A North Elgin camper notes: "We just needed a quick tent spot on a Monday night on the way to Moab. Better than expected. Bit muddy. Some shells. But lots of space."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Some locations feature safer, more family-friendly settings than others. "McDougall is a small mountain community located in the blue mountains above Weston, Oregon. Tall pines and firs shade the eastern Oregon forest floor provided a nice region to explore," explains a visitor to McDougall Dispersed Camping.
Packing requirements: No services mean bringing all necessities. "Primitive location, nothing there, but maybe a fire ring and a spot to park your vehicle. Go about 2 miles on the dirt road and watch out for the dirt pot holes," advises a McDougall camper.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate insect protection during summer months. "Flying insects during the day. There are many so take appropriate action. Mostly flies and a couple different types of bees. By sunset, the insects went to sleep," reports a McDougall visitor.
Tips from RVers
Level parking: Look for sites with relatively flat terrain. "Good level ground and easy to get back on the road in the morning. Would recommend," notes an RVer about Ice Harbor Dam, one of the few areas suitable for larger vehicles.
Highway noise concerns: Sites near Interstate 84 experience continuous traffic sounds. "Interstate traffic dominates the soundscape, but the scenery is expansive," reports a visitor to Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 who camped "atop the ridge, off the first road on the west side."
Alternative options: When dispersed sites prove unsuitable, established campgrounds provide backup. "Drove to the location based on GPS. It was over grown and not well cleared. I decide to go to the NP campground. Glad I did," shares one camper who attempted McDougall but found conditions challenging.
