Primitive camping near Chemult, Oregon exists on several forest roads surrounding the town, at elevations ranging from 4,600-5,200 feet. The area features ponderosa pine forests transitioning to mixed conifer at higher elevations. Temperatures can drop below freezing as early as September, with summer days reaching 80°F and nighttime lows often below 50°F even in July and August.
What to do
Hike to Mount Thielsen: The Pacific Crest Trail crossing provides access to challenging hikes with elevation gains of 3,000+ feet. "When I visited the Crater Lake area, I was well aware that finding last minute accommodations was difficult to impossible... I found a small forest road, FR960 and took my chances driving down a few hundred yards before realizing that there were a few established campaigns for dispersed camping," notes a Mount Thielsen Wilderness visitor.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars and trees were stunning and the site was super accessible. When the temperature rose, there were some mosquitoes, but not many," reports a Mount Thielsen Wilderness camper.
Winter activities: Once snow falls, the area transforms into a snowmobile and cross-country ski destination. "Note that free overnight parking without a sno-park parking permit is only permitted between May 1 and November 14," explains one visitor at Thousand Springs Sno-Park.
What campers like
Natural springs access: The Wood River headwaters provide crystal-clear water for paddling. "Pristine water! It is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. I love how primitive and small the campground is," shares a visitor at Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site.
Privacy options: Deeper forest roads offer more secluded camping. "We went here and found a decent spot but then hiked up the road more to the top and found a super cool spot. It was a little rougher road, but totally worth it," notes a camper at NF-70 Dispersed Camping.
Established fire rings: Many primitive sites include existing fire rings. "Great spots with easy access to Crater Lake! We had a blast at this spot. It had ample space for the kids to play. It was pretty quiet, even with lots of other campers in the area," explains a visitor at Forest Road 960 Campsite.
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential, especially near water sources. "If you love boondocking and wilderness trails. This is a must stay place. 20 minutes from hot springs and waterfalls. Tons of fishing spots near bye. Hundreds of miles of OHV trails," writes a camper at Millsite Forest Dispersed Camping.
Road conditions vary: Some areas require higher clearance vehicles. "Took us about an hour to get here from Crater Lake. Lots of spots open! Around the intersection of FR 960 and 961, there are lots of big flat sites great for RVs. We went a bit off the road and found our own quiet spot in the trees."
Weather fluctuations: Plan for dramatic temperature changes. "I went in late October and it got down to 14 degrees at night. It was not snowing. But, do pack snow gear for that weather and have hot coffee for the morning."
Water availability: No potable water at dispersed sites. "There are no frills with this campground other than the location itself. No restrooms, no running water, nothing!! You as a camper have to plan if you are visiting this location and be able to be off grid safely and responsibly."
Tips for camping with families
Space considerations: Look for level areas with room for multiple tents. "We found a sweet spot in the rubble. Quiet, great view and amazing sun. Beautiful cotton candy sunset waking to a beautiful bright sunrise."
Bathroom planning: Bring portable toilets as most areas lack facilities. "The bathrooms are nice, but it was recommended by the parks employees to keep the doors open for circulation. Every spot had room for a fire and a table."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in some areas. "Clean and simple campground. Twelve sites (three pull into spots and 9 where you park seperate and then walk around a fence to the tent site). 2 semi clean vault toilets, nothing to write home about but also fairly clean by comparison to others."
Organized activities: Pack games and exploration tools. "This campsite was great! All the spots were very spread out and offered a lot of space. One thing… TONS of mosquitos. Absolutely swarmed. Bring bug spray like crazy. Otherwise it was a perfect place to stay!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks and leveling equipment. "Open area with room for about six rigs. Quiet location but lots of mosquitoes. Several shaded spots," notes a visitor at NF 2612 Dispersed Camping.
Big rig accessibility: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles. "Perfect stop along the way! About a mile in, there's plenty of open space for big rigs! Several areas had small fire pits. We saw 2 vehicles in the afternoon and could hear other campers in the morning but couldn't see them."
Solar considerations: Look for clearings if using solar power. "Wide open sky for solar and starlink. Mid 60s f during day in early October. 40 f at night."
Generator restrictions: Check local rules about generator use. "We are full-timers and have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and had scouted the area before arriving with the RV. NF-70 is gravel and in pretty good shape, i.e., no potholes, but is heavily washboarded."
