Dispersed camping near Crescent, Oregon offers National Forest sites at elevations between 4,300-5,800 feet across Deschutes National Forest land. Temperatures can vary significantly with summer days reaching 90°F while nights drop into the 40s. Winter access becomes limited as many forest roads close with snowfall, typically from November through April when sno-parks become the primary camping options.
What to do
Explore Lemolo Falls: Access this waterfall via forest roads near NF 2612 Dispersed Camping, where campers have reported good hiking opportunities. "In the area we visited Lemolo Falls and Warm Spring Falls. We weren't disappointed," notes one camper who appreciated the multiple waterfall options nearby.
Mountain biking opportunities: The forest roads around Crescent provide excellent routes for cyclists. One visitor at Dispersed Camping NF-100 mentioned, "somebody had built a little bike track around the perimeter of the campsite, great for kids."
Stargazing sessions: The limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Mount Thielsen Wilderness noted, "The stars and trees were stunning and the site was super accessible. When the temperature rose, there were some mosquitoes, but not many."
Creek exploration: Several dispersed sites offer access to small streams. At Dispersed Wikiup Camping, a visitor shared, "I went back and stayed in my tent by the stream. Parked 20 ft from tent on road. Easy slope to flat river side camp."
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Many dispersed areas provide separation from other campers. At Mount Thielsen Wilderness, a visitor commented, "This spot had the best view and most privacy our whole vacation."
Level parking spots: Finding flat ground for camping is relatively easy throughout the area. At NF-70 Dispersed Camping, one reviewer found "a nice large and level site just off of NF-70 and there were a few other dispersed sites near there as well."
Cell service in select areas: Coverage varies significantly by location. At NF-70, a camper reported, "Nice site, no bugs in August. Close by to all the crater lake hikes. Even got 3 bar TMobile 5g at the site a mile or so up the road on the left."
Established fire rings: Many sites feature existing fire rings, though fire restrictions apply seasonally. A camper at Rock Creek Dispersed Camping noted, "A couple of them have rock fire rings, although I believe there were restrictions for the summer months."
What you should know
Mosquito presence: Insects can be prevalent, especially near water. At Salt Creek Hideout, a visitor warned to "beware of heavy mosquitos in the summer, once we made a fire they went away."
Road conditions vary: Access roads range from good gravel to challenging paths. One NF-70 camper advised, "NF-70 is gravel and in pretty good shape, i.e., no potholes, but is heavily washboarded. This wasn't an issue for the Cherokee, but with a stiffer suspension, I had to limit the RV speed to less than 7 mph."
Winter access limited: Many sites become inaccessible during winter months. A visitor attempting to use NF-70 in December reported simply: "Road to site not plowed in winter (Dec 30). Not available."
Environmental concerns: Previous campers may leave trash. At Dispersed Wikiup Camping, one visitor noted, "The upper camp was empty and I cleaned gun shells, burned aerosol cans and lots of melted and broken glass from the area."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with natural play features: Children enjoy spots with built-in activities. At Dispersed Wikiup Camping, a parent observed, "Big enough space for multiple families, very easy to find. Small trail down to a creek, somebody had built a little bike track around the perimeter of the campsite, great for kids."
Prepare for cold nights: Even summer camping requires warm clothing. At Six Mile Sno-Park, which offers free camping outside winter months, a visitor noted it's "a quiet spot to dry camp/boondock with hiking/snow mobile trail right from the parking lot."
Pack insect repellent: Mosquitoes can impact children's comfort. At NF 2612 Dispersed Camping, a visitor warned, "The area does have mosquitoes to contend with."
Scout multiple options: Having backup sites helps with family needs. At NF-70, a camper advised, "This specific spot and others nearby were occupied. Kept driving and in less than a mile found a spot all to ourselves. Huge site, perfectly level, in the woods."
Tips from RVers
Length considerations: Some roads accommodate larger rigs better than others. At NF 2612 Dispersed Camping, a visitor found "perfect for self-contained campers and trailers. Beautiful location near several Lakes and large fields with plenty of level camping."
Satellite connectivity: Tree coverage affects technology access. A visitor at Dispersed Wikiup Camping noted, "Tall trees so no good vantage point for starlink or solar."
Limited turnarounds: Forest roads may not have adequate space for larger vehicles to change direction. At Salt Creek Backwoods, an RVer shared, "We actually pulled in this part of the forest wanting to park at the 'hideaway' spot but someone was already posted up there. Kind of no turn around options and driving forward was all our only choice at that point."
Dust conditions: Fine dirt can affect RV systems. A camper at Dispersed Wikiup Camping warned, "Super fine dust, everything will be dirty."
