Best Dispersed Camping near Colton, OR

Want to go dispersed camping near Colton? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Colton, Oregon (28)

    Camper-submitted photo at Alder Flat near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alder Flat near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alder Flat near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alder Flat near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alder Flat near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Alder Flat near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR

    1. Alder Flat

    4 Reviews
    15 Photos
    119 Saves
    Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon

    Parking area for 4-5 vehicles overflow on the Highway 224. Alder Flat Trail #574. Link to Trail Description and Map

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Paula G.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Mirror Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mirror Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mirror Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mirror Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mirror Lake near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mirror Lake near Government Camp, OR

    2. Mirror Lake

    7 Reviews
    46 Photos
    252 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Mirror Lake offers a few sites for overnight camping. The hike to the lake is one of the most popular hikes on Mt Hood. While the vast majority of hikers only visit during the day, a few primitive sites are located just above the lake.

    When I refer to primitive sites, that is what they are. There are no facilities here. No picnic tables, and no toilets. A few fire pits have been fashioned out of rock and you may also find a makeshift bench. But for some this is an ideal camping experience. By day Mirror lake can get crowded. It is surrounded on three sides by mountains and it can get loud here. But at night it is as peaceful as you could ever want. Views of Mt Hood and Tom Dick and Harry Mountain are all outstanding.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Callie C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at White River West Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at White River West Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at White River West Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at White River West Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at White River West Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at White River West Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR

    3. White River West Sno-Park

    8 Reviews
    30 Photos
    221 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Sno Park permit required November 1 - April 30

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Anna C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR

    4. Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    14 Photos
    426 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Dispersed camping, or camping outside of designated campgrounds, can be a great way to experience the forest- as long as everyone follows some rules and guidelines to protect forest wildlife, plants, water quality, and the health of others.

    Dispersed camping is not for everyone- and that's fine as the Mt. Hood National Forest has over 70 designated campgrounds. Camping outside of campgrounds means no toilets, no drinking water, no metal fire rings, and no trash service. You are responsible for leaving the site cleaner than you found it and learning the skills of Leave No Trace camping before you head out.

    Basic Rules & Guidance Some areas are closed to dispersed camping, such as within developed recreation sites, along certain roads, and particularly sensitive areas. Contact your local Ranger District for more information. You may camp on the forest for only 14 consecutive days. Please choose an existing site rather than create a new campsite. Camp at least 100 ft. away from streams, rivers, and lakes. If you didn't bring firewood and intend to build a campfire only collect already down wood. If your campfire is too hot to touch with bare hands- it's too hot for you to leave! Bring plenty of water and a shovel to help you put out your fire. Check in advance if there are any fire restrictions in effect. Treat or filter any stream water you collect for drinking, or bring water from home. Your group must be under 75 people. If it larger you must obtain a (usually free) permit in advance from the local Ranger District. When Nature Calls Be prepared for your own sanitation! To dispose of feces, dig a hole 6” deep at least 100 feet away from any water source. When you're done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Animals might eat it, it could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it, and plus it's just gross. Leave No Trace Pack out everything you brought with you! Dispose of your garbage properly off the forest. Leave No Trace is a framework minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. They apply to virtually every recreational activity and help increase your safety and enjoyment of the forest. Learn more about the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. The Mt. Hood National Forest belongs to all Americans- including those who will come long after us. Do your part to keep the forest clean every time you visit.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Stephanie Z.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at McNeil Point Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at McNeil Point Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at McNeil Point Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at McNeil Point Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at McNeil Point Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at McNeil Point Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR

    5. McNeil Point Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    43 Photos
    231 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping near Government Camp, OR

    6. NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    174 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Dispersed camping, or camping outside of designated campgrounds, can be a great way to experience the forest- as long as everyone follows some rules and guidelines to protect forest wildlife, plants, water quality, and the health of others.

    Dispersed camping is not for everyone- and that's fine as the Mt. Hood National Forest has over 70 designated campgrounds. Camping outside of campgrounds means no toilets, no drinking water, no metal fire rings, and no trash service. You are responsible for leaving the site cleaner than you found it and learning the skills of Leave No Trace camping before you head out.

    Basic Rules & Guidance Some areas are closed to dispersed camping, such as within developed recreation sites, along certain roads, and particularly sensitive areas. Contact your local Ranger District for more information. You may camp on the forest for only 14 consecutive days. Please choose an existing site rather than create a new campsite. Camp at least 100 ft. away from streams, rivers, and lakes. If you didn't bring firewood and intend to build a campfire only collect already down wood. If your campfire is too hot to touch with bare hands- it's too hot for you to leave! Bring plenty of water and a shovel to help you put out your fire. Check in advance if there are any fire restrictions in effect. Treat or filter any stream water you collect for drinking, or bring water from home. Your group must be under 75 people. If it larger you must obtain a (usually free) permit in advance from the local Ranger District. When Nature Calls Be prepared for your own sanitation! To dispose of feces, dig a hole 6” deep at least 100 feet away from any water source. When you're done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Animals might eat it, it could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it, and plus it's just gross. Leave No Trace Pack out everything you brought with you! Dispose of your garbage properly off the forest. Leave No Trace is a framework minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. They apply to virtually every recreational activity and help increase your safety and enjoyment of the forest. Learn more about the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. The Mt. Hood National Forest belongs to all Americans- including those who will come long after us. Do your part to keep the forest clean every time you visit.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo at Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed near Government Camp, OR

    7. Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    129 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Meadows near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Meadows near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Meadows near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Meadows near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Meadows near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Bonney Meadows near Government Camp, OR

    8. Bonney Meadows

    6 Reviews
    9 Photos
    310 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    A small, quiet campground with corrals, Bonney Meadows is adjacent to beautiful meadows lined with single track used by hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Campers can wake up and go for a stroll along Bonney Meadows Trail #471. Located on a high ridge near a lush meadow.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

    $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Trillium Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Trillium Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Trillium Sno-Park near Government Camp, OR

    9. Trillium Sno-Park

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    49 Saves
    Government Camp, Oregon

    Sno Park permit required November 1 - April 30.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Mark F.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    Camper-submitted photo at Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside near Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
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Showing results 1-10 of 28 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Colton, Oregon

50 Reviews of 28 Colton Campgrounds


  • Mark F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside

    Convenient, free roadside site near trails, lakes, & meadow in Mt Hood NF

    I was running in an ultramarathon race in September in the Mt Hood National Forest and all of the local campgrounds managed by PGE around Timothy Lake were closed due to the end of the season.  I was able to use map layers in The Dyrt PRO to identify where I was within National Forest boundaries and was able to confirm with local officials that I was in a free, dispersed camping zone. So, using the map layers and the search function on The Dyrt I looked for an area near the race start at the Historic Clackamas Ranger Station to park my RV for a 2 night off-grid stay.  The location was a wide gravel area on the side of the road that allowed for enough space to park, put out my awning, set up some chairs and a propane fire pit (no live campfires - propane only) while being within a few hundred yards of the Ranger Station.  There was room to walk along the road on the shoulder and you are very close walk to the Historic Clackamas Ranger Cabin with a beautiful meadow view, the Joe Graham Horse Camp, and just a couple of mile drive from Timothy Lake.  Clackamas Lake Campground was nearby as well with many accessible miles of hikable trails, including access to the Pacific Crest Trail, for hikers of all levels. There was some smoke from local wildfires but that went away as the fall rains arrived that weekend.  If you are looking for a place to park your RV near all of these amazing views and experiences this free, dispersed camping site worked great for me and my family for a couple of nights.

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG
    Aug. 9, 2020

    Kevin's Mt Hood OG

    Dispersed Camping - Get away from it all

    This is a dispersed camping spot in the Mt.Hood National Forest that is free --- from both campground payment and people. It's an old forest road off the main gravel road that has been blockaded and closed down, giving you a wide open area that gets sun, mixed with good tree coverage from the wind. 

    The spot is flat and great for an RV, van or trailer. It's just a 100 meters off the main gravel road where the old forest road is dug out/blockaded from cars getting through. 

    We parked and camped right there. Or, if you want even more solitude, park at the blockade and walk 3/4 of a mile to the end of the forest road strip for some tent camping. Not sure if that is needed as I think we only heard/saw a few car drive by the entire time (on a beautiful August weekend). 

    Love this place. Happy to share it with others. If you are looking for some dispersed camping in the summer that's not a far drive from Portland, this spot is for you. If it's full, there are a half dozen to a dozen other dispersed camping spots along this gravel road between Frog Lake Campground and Clear Creek Crossing Campground. Enjoy.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Zigzag River Camp
    Feb. 14, 2024

    Zigzag River Camp

    Side of the road camping?

    These coordinates get you the Kiwanis camp, other than that I wouldn't say a great dispersant camping spot, area is nice though.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake dispersed camping
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Clear Lake dispersed camping

    Beautiful area ruined by humans.

    I stopped for the night while traveling and found a huge dispersed camping area right off the road. Unfortunately, some disgusting, disrespectful, immature family left a ton of garbage and feces all over the site. There were three sites with piles of feces and toilet paper right on the camp site. Not 100 feet away, not buried. It was disgusting. This makes me lose faith in humans.

  • Salem R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Jul. 22, 2022

    Alder Flat

    Sadly Burned Down

    This gorgeous trail and dispersed camp is so unrecognizable from the 2021 fires that there is no turn off. May we remember it’s memories!

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great/Quiet Spot

    Took a while to discover this spot, but clearly seems well used for dispersed camping. I parked nearest the access road, as my van would have hit trees to go a little further in. For smaller vehicles (e.g. roof top tents), you can get in a little further and off the access road. There was actually someone else back there, and we can't hear nor see each other.

  • Hahns R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Quartzville Recreation Corridor
    Nov. 18, 2020

    Quartzville Recreation Corridor

    This is one of my favorite places

    I have camped here numerous times over the years. I love the dispersed camping. The sites are open, so good for solar, but do get windy.

    I have camped at the quarry a few times with my friends that have a camp trailer. I have also camped in the pull outs.

    My friends have found chanterelles in the woods, and fishing (last time I was there) has been great. It is great for fly fishing and for plunk and wait fishing.

    It is dispersed so only a few areas have bathrooms, and not being a regular campground some neighbors can get rather rowdy. But, overall it is a definite favorite.

  • Ariel & John  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping
    Nov. 15, 2020

    Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping

    Tons of dispersed in the shadow of Mt Hood

    There are many park campgrounds in the Mt Hood NF but also tons of dispersed camping in the forest.

    We camped off FS 2656 just south of Trillium Lake in August 2020. There are many other locations. Many are separate drives off a forest road but some side of the road spots too. Lake Trillium gets super crowded.

    Download the forest map from Avenza for accurate locations of all the forest roads and trails.

    The Mt Hood NF is amazing, with tons of lakes, creeks, waterfalls and hiking trails as well as great views of Mt Hood.

    No amenities for dispersed locations but you can use nearby campgrounds for water, trash and dump stations.

    There was decent Verizon service when we camped there.

    Would definitely camp here again.

  • Stephanie Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from McNeil Point Dispersed Camping
    Dec. 1, 2021

    McNeil Point Dispersed Camping

    Backcountry in your Backyard

    Dispersed camping at McNeil point is a backpackers dream — you get to hike far into the clouds, far away from the people, yet this location is nearly as convenient as car camping. 

    While McNeil point is a popular hike, most people visiting are day hikers, or backpackers taking a few days for circumnavigating the Timberline trail. Since we only had one day, we left Portland at 2 pm on a summer Friday, hiked in the four miles most of the way to McNeil, pitched the tent in time for dinner and sunset, then got up early and summited McNeil far before the summer crowds from town had time to make it to the trail head. 

    There are quite a few dispersed, designated spots to camp. The most obvious ones are those along the Timberline trail—and they are also likely the busiest. There are also obvious sites well up near the McNeil summit. These aren't as busy, but you'll have to haul your packs up the whole way.  We chose a site that we found in a clearing that had a good view of the mountain. Note - You cannot camp in most of the meadows around the lakes. There are signs that designate this.

    When we hiked up to the McNeil summit in the morning, we only took our day packs, and left our big packs in our tents. After summiting we hiked back down, cooked lunch at the campsite, and then packed out.  It's definitely a recommended trip if you have a short time, but still want to feel like you got far, far away.

  • Kennedy F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from McNeil Point Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 15, 2024

    McNeil Point Dispersed Camping

    Can’t beat the views at McNeil point

    Ended up backpacking up here on a whim right before I headed back to Utah. I started at the Top Spur trailhead and hiked the clockwise route up to McNeil (a little longer but saved be the scramble through rocks). On my way I ended up going to Muddy Fork which added about 4 miles to my overall trek up. I ended up camping at the point rather than further down, which was a challenge to carry my pack up, but so worth it in my opinion. It’s dispersed camping so solitude is easily reachable considering not too many people stay the night. This was easily one of the top 5 most amazing sunsets I’ve ever seen. The mountain range is unbeatable and waking up to Mt. Hood as your veiw is incredible. It’s a challenge with the best reward.

  • Bjorn S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Oct. 25, 2018

    Alder Flat

    Hush Now

    Dispersal camping all year. You are immediately ensconced in quiet and shade, an impossibly green and detailed large pond right off the bat, with a huge walkable log going right to the middle, and lots of interesting critters and a popurrí of different foliage up and down the trail. Ends at the popular Clackamas River after a too-short 1.4 miles. Lots of little side routes to find your perfect spot.

  • Caroline E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 19, 2022

    Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping

    Good Dispersed Camping

    I camped on another spur road off of FS 2656. Definitely download the mvum from Avenza beforehand to make things easier. Peaceful, quiet, and I had cell signal. Road can be rough in some places but 4WD not necessary. Not many pull-in camping spots so you’ll have to search around. Overall decent spot and close to Trillium Lake

  • Raphaela H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Snag Creek Trailhead Dispersed
    Jul. 27, 2016

    Snag Creek Trailhead Dispersed

    Beginner Backpacking close to Portland

    We wanted a beginner backpacking trip (10 to 12 miles round trip) close to town - this one is a pretty hike with views at the end (theoretically, we saw fog). We passed up the best camping spots because they were too early in the trail (at the creek) and ended up setting up camp in wider part of the trail (about 3 miles in, after night had fallen). The other hikers were friendly, though, and didn't seem to mind us making camp pretty much anywhere. In our situation the camping was definitely not the main event! We came for the hike and slept along the way. The camp spots at the creek would have been quite nice for camping itself though.

  • Jeremy P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Fanastic sunset views of Mount Hood

    There's a handful of dispersed campsites throughout NF44 and various side roads. I had several options to choose from and never saw another person. This was on a Thursday afternoon.

  • Sara R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
    Nov. 13, 2020

    White River West Sno-Park

    Best free camping on Hood!

    One of our favorite free spots ever!! Incredible access to back country hiking at Mt. Hood! Know before you go: this is not a camp site - in the summer, parking lots near mount hood are free for car camping (in the winter they’re full with people driving in for skiing). This is a huge parking lot with 2 vault toilets. Anyone can park overnight for free (summer only). There were just a few other cars there. At night we had a great view of the Perseid Meteor Shower 💫 Highly recommend if you’re going on a trip where you just want to spend all day hiking and have a convenient spot to sleep.

  • Todd J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532

    Sweet spot not far from White River East

    This spot is pretty nice, feels very secluded despite White River being close enough to use the restroom if you want. Access to a stream down the hill if you need to filter water, and it sounds very pleasant at night. Lovely trees, plenty of room for a couple of small tents among the trees, plus a ton more out on the gravel. Established fire pit, for the 2-3 days a year that's legal to use. 

    We got in at 5pm on a Friday in summer; I think four more cars came down to see if the spot was free before 9pm.

  • Danny H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
    Sep. 9, 2021

    White River West Sno-Park

    Nice quiet spot on Mt. Hood

    The snow park itself is a somewhat steep lot, but still very useable with a few blocks. However, just west of it on highway 35 there is a smaller “alcove” that is much more level and secluded. Most people who visit this location never notice this separate, paved spot.

  • Eva W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Sep. 1, 2015

    Alder Flat

    Dispersed camping is the best camping.

    Free, quiet, and new. Show up whenever you feel like - it belongs to everyone. Just make sure you clean up after yourself!

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 17, 2023

    NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

    Tent camping sites

    FS Rd 2656 across from Trillium Lake Campground. Follow 2656 up a couple miles. Turn left on porcupine Trail. There is one small campsite on your left approximately 100 yards. Then a larger one at the end of porcupine Trail. This one is much larger and will accommodate four people. 

  • Kenny L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 23, 2024

    NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

    Great Spot!

    Such an awesome find! The first campsite is small and perfect for a couple tents. The second site could easily fit 3 or 4 tents and has plenty of additional space for parking, kitchen set-up, etc… both sites also have really nice fire pits. Also don’t let the Trillium Lake camp hosts scare you. They told us the gravel road to access the sites was “rough as hell” and were completely wrong. Nothing more than a few potholes. Any vehicle could make the trek.

  • Cindy U.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Quartzville Recreation Corridor
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Quartzville Recreation Corridor

    National Wild and Scenic River

    Bring it in Pack it out, be kind to others and take your trash. Nobody should pick up after messy campers who can camp FREE. Only thing you get is a Fire Ring and that shows where you can camp. But always follow the guide for the area about campfires. Such as August most times there are NO Camp Fires! Be prepare for fire danger, have axe, shovel and 5-gal of water, you will be the first to stop it and report it. No phone cell service about mile marker 12 can get a little signal. If you like to ruff it this is perfect area. Lots of forest roads to explore, and great hunting area too. A little bit of luck head to the stream and find some gold. BLM.gov Quartzville Recreation Corridor for more literature. Location is along the Quartzille Rd, pass mile marker 17.2 , for the next 12 miles feel free to camp along the stream.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
    May. 25, 2024

    White River West Sno-Park

    Great spot to stay.

    We did not know what to expect when we reached this site. It is just a large parking area, we found a pretty level place for our travel trailer. Only 2 other trailers and 1 tent camper during the day. A lot of van and car campers the latter the day got. Good spot to stay when checking out the area. The view out our door was amazing, when the sun was out. We stayed 5 nights, had all types of weather on our stay, from lots of rain to sun and also snow. Would stay here again if in the area. Free to stay from May 1 to October 31.

  • Alison S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Alder Flat
    Aug. 9, 2020

    Alder Flat

    Cool spot but lots of foot traffic

    We stopped here for the first time for a hike and to check out the camping situation. The hike is just under a mile long, one way. Keep right at the fork early on to go the right way. Really pretty and shaded. You cross a few foot bridges and it opens up to a fairly good sized camping area with some scattered fire rings. It was surprisingly sparse camping wise for a saturday. Great view of the water just across a dry creek bed and over the hill. Good number of people enjoying the river and a few kids swimming but it was freezing so i dont know how they did it!

    Parking lot was fairly full, there might be room to park on the road but im not sure.

    I wouldn’t want to camp here because of the foot traffic and how close you have to camp to other people. Might work out good for others though!

    Also just a reminder to please pick up your trash and toilet paper. I saw it all over the place at the sites along 224 and its just gross.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 20, 2022

    Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping

    Very Quiet!

    This area is at the Trillium Lake turn off of highway 26. Very easy to get to and the road is paved until you near the area that you can begin camping. I would say smaller/lower vehicles will have to drive slowly and carefully, but most compact SUVs and larger can make it just fine. You can’t hear any traffic out here—just nature. Keep in mind that this area will be closed to vehicle traffic when the Trillium Lake gates close for the snowy season.

    There’s a large gravel area that’s higher up and it’s nice to watch the sunset there. If you don’t plan to camp, the drive back to 26 isn’t creepy at all in the night. It’s dark, but not scary, and the road isn’t lighted but there are scattered reflectors on the trees.

    I have T-Mobile and I had full 5G service out there. (I don’t know how to submit that info anywhere else, haha)


Guide to Colton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Colton, Oregon, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of scenic spots, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Colton, Oregon

  • Make sure to bring your own water, as locations like Alder Flat do not provide drinking water or sanitation facilities.
  • Be prepared for a hike-in experience; places like Mirror Lake require a short trek to access the camping spots, ensuring a peaceful retreat away from crowds.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these beautiful areas pristine, especially in popular spots like Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Colton

  • Enjoy hiking along the scenic trails leading to stunning views, such as those found at McNeil Point, where the breathtaking sunsets are a highlight.
  • Experience the thrill of swimming and cliff jumping at the Britenbush River, a great spot for families looking to cool off during summer.
  • Explore the diverse flora and fauna while walking the trails near Collawash River Dispersed Campsite, where you can immerse yourself in nature.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Colton, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Colton, OR is Alder Flat with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Colton, OR?

    TheDyrt.com has all 28 dispersed camping locations near Colton, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.