Dispersed camping options spread throughout the Fremont-Winema National Forest around Chemult, Oregon. This high-elevation area sits at approximately 4,700 feet with significant temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Roads like NF-70 and Forest Road 960 offer primitive camping spots with varying levels of accessibility depending on seasonal conditions and vehicle clearance.
What to do
Fishing at Miller Lake: Accessible via gravel roads past Walt Haring Sno-Park, this location offers excellent fishing. "The trout fishing is some of the best in Oregon. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table," according to a visitor at Thielsen View Campground.
Mountain biking around Diamond Lake: Explore the extensive trail network near camping areas. "There is a 12 mile bike trail that circles the lake for an amazing ride," notes a camper who stayed at Thielsen View Campground.
Visit Crater Lake National Park: Many campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for day trips. "We stayed at this campground while visiting Crater Lake NP. Very nice and quiet! Easy to find and very nice staff," explains a visitor to Diamond Lake Campground.
Star gazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies provide excellent viewing conditions. "Good gazing, dark skies. Can hear Hwy 97," reports a camper at Walt Haring Sno-Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds feature generous site dimensions. "We just stopped for one night on our way south. We were the only ones there so super peaceful and quiet. It's not a traditional RV campground in that you don't really have individual spaces," explains a visitor to Walt Haring Sno-Park & Campground.
Free dispersed options: Several forest roads provide no-cost camping alternatives. "Made it out here for a night during an insanely busy tourist season, and there was plenty of room. Sites are well spaced and each has a picnic bench and fire ring," notes a visitor to Digit Point Campground.
Hot showers: Some established campgrounds offer shower facilities. "Well developed campground with just the right amenities. The hot shower water pressure was pretty amazing," shares a Diamond Lake Campground visitor.
Cell service in remote areas: Connectivity varies but exists in select locations. "We got 2 bars on Verizon and 30 cable stations. You do get some highway noise but its not too bad," reports a camper at Big Pines RV Park.
What you should know
Mosquitoes during summer months: Bring proper protection, especially for evening hours. "The absolutely worst part was the amount of flies at the site, maybe because of the bathrooms? We weren't sure, but you basically had huge flies on you at all times," warns a visitor to Corral Springs Campground.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights even in summer. "It was pretty cold, even though I went in late June! It was snowing at the campsite but didn't stick," shares a camper at Mount Thielsen Wilderness.
Road conditions to remote sites: Many access roads require slow driving. "The gravel road to get out here is very long and bumpy; you could probably make it in any vehicle, but it's arduous," notes a visitor to Digit Point Campground.
Limited services: Plan accordingly for supply needs. "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," explains a Mount Thielsen Wilderness camper.
Tips for camping with families
ADA-accessible options: Several locations accommodate mobility needs. "ADA friendly. Including a couple camp spots for tent ADA accessible to. Restrooms ADA," reports a visitor to Walt Haring Sno-Park.
Lake activities for children: Multiple waterfront camping options exist for families with kids. "This campground has beautiful lake views, access to bathrooms and showers, and ice cream and firewood just a walk or bike ride away!" explains a Diamond Lake Campground visitor.
Wildlife education opportunities: Abundant small wildlife provides learning moments. "Chipmunks everywhere :)" notes a visitor to Broken Arrow Campground.
Beach access at select locations: Some lakefront sites offer water entry points. "Lots of good fishing, kayaking and boating. Big campsites with some beachfronts. Highly recommend," shares a visitor at Digit Point Campground.
Tips from RVers
Dump stations availability: Plan waste management accordingly. "This has all them amenities one would need for a typical camping night," explains a visitor to Walt Haring Sno-Park.
Level sites for larger rigs: Certain areas accommodate substantial vehicles. "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," notes a visitor to NF-70 Dispersed Camping Near Crater Lake NP.
Pet-friendly dispersed options: All forest service roads allow pets without restrictions. "Really loved this spot was nice and flat and open. Close to Crater lake and hikes. Had service and didn't run into too many people," reports an NF-70 camper discussing their pet-friendly camping experience near Chemult.
WiFi connectivity considerations: Limited but present at select locations. "You can purchase more vouchers for more devices and upgrade your speed. The free WiFi was about average for this size campground," shares a Big Pines RV Park visitor.
