Dispersed camping sites around Cove, Oregon offer varied terrain from pine forest locations to lakeside spots at elevations ranging from 2,800 to 8,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with snow affecting higher elevation sites in early and late season. Most free camping requires self-sufficient preparation with no established facilities.
What to do
Fishing options: Wolf Creek Reservoir provides accessible fishing with stocked fish. "A handful of great places to camp for the night- very clean and well taken care of so please leave no trace. Just a spot and a table, no water, restrooms ect," notes Paige P. about Wolf Creek Reservoir.
Mushroom hunting: The forest floor near McDougall offers prime mushroom foraging opportunities in spring and early summer. "McDougall is a small mountain community located in the blue mountains above Weston, Oregon... Just past the village you get into the woodland where the Morels are plentiful," explains Brandon K. about the McDougall Dispersed Camping area.
Mountain biking: Trails near Fox Hill Campground connect to extensive dirt trails suitable for various skill levels. "The views are incredible. Ohv park so lots of riders. I enjoyed the sounds of people enjoying themselves. Others may not. Pets are allowed. Lots of trails!" reports Kim J.
What campers like
Accessibility from highway: Sites just off Interstate 84 provide quick access for overnight stays. "Quickly and easy stop close to 84 if you are traveling through. Does the trick for an overnighter. Lots of dispersed pullouts. No amenities," writes Matt B. about Wallowa-Whitman NF 21.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report seeing elk, turkeys, and other wildlife while staying in dispersed areas. "This type of site is usually what we look for when traveling - dispersed, primitive camping sites spaced far apart from each other. We had a little patch of forest all to ourselves," notes Ibeya A. about North of Spring Creek on Forest Road 21.
Alpine lakes: High elevation sites offer cooler temperatures and pristine water. "Aneroid Lake is one of my favorite locations in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The dispersed camping for backpackers is on the North side of the lake, whereas the South side is private property. The lake is stocked every few years with rainbow trout, and has a good supply of brook trout," explains Nick J.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. "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 David D. about seasonal access.
Safety considerations: Some areas have active recreational shooting. "We heard gunshots from another site and saw shells at our site, so that's something to be aware of if wandering the forest," cautions Ibeya A. regarding North of Spring Creek.
Weather preparedness: Temperature variations can be extreme, particularly at higher elevations. "I stayed two nights. Elevation is ~8,000 feet. Got altitude sickness on day two," shares Michael about Ice Lake, highlighting the need to acclimate to elevation.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Areas with defined boundaries and fire rings provide safer family environments. "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. At my site, you could fit 2 vehicles comfortably, but 3 is a little crowded," advises Chris about camping at McDougall.
Insect awareness: Higher concentration of insects occurs during warmer 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," notes Chris about seasonal bug activity.
Swimming options: Wolf Creek Reservoir offers family-friendly swimming with gradual entry points. "The location is right next to the reservoir. The site we got was nicely graveled and a pull through," reports Heidi S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Small trailers and camper vans fare better than large RVs at most dispersed sites. "Do not try and tow a trailer up this road!!! I made that mistake and barely made it out. Didn't make it up to the reservoir," cautions Sean S. about Balm Creek Reservoir.
Levelness considerations: Seek out established pullouts rather than creating new sites. "Many options for private pull-offs once you drive past established NF campgrounds—likely tough to do without high clearance and/or 4WD when wet. Only 'traffic' was the occasional ATV/OHV," recommends Marasha L.
Road access timing: Spring thaw typically creates the most challenging conditions for RV access to free camping near Cove. "Camped atop the ridge, off the first road on the west side. Interstate traffic dominates the soundscape, but the scenery is expansive. There's several sites along the road, some with DIY fire pits. Given the off-road ruts, this isn't a prime wet ground camp area," advises Roy S.
