Primitive tent camping near Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests & Crooked River National Grassland offers varied terrain from high desert juniper stands to alpine meadows. Most dispersed sites sit between 3,500-6,000 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F by day and dropping below 45°F at night. Volcanic rock formations create natural windbreaks at many campsites, though several areas have seasonal vehicle restrictions.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Access Steelhead Falls via a half-mile trail from the Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground. "The falls at the campground are gorgeous and the hike is short and sweet," notes Aaron. The trail continues another half-mile beyond the falls for those wanting a longer walk.
Rock climbing: Camp near world-famous climbing routes at Smith Rock State Park Campground. The park's Bivouac area costs $8 per person per night. "The sites are walk-in only, to the west of the parking lot. But there's nice showers with hot water! The hiking is fantastic and the climbing is world-renown," reports Kristin G.
Night sky viewing: Find excellent stargazing at primitive sites away from city lights. "Great views of the stars on a clear night," says Jacob D. about Dispersed Rock Quary. For optimal conditions, camp between June-September when skies remain clearer.
Winter recreation: Several sno-parks provide access to winter camping for properly equipped visitors. According to Audrey M., at Meissner Sno-Park, campers can participate in "late night hiking trips to the warming hut" during winter months.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many tent sites offer significant privacy. "We found a site that was shaded by trees with no neighbors," explains Kelsey L. about dispersed camping around Meissner Sno-Park. The juniper trees create natural separation between sites.
Accessible wilderness: Most primitive areas require minimal hiking to reach good tent sites. The walk-in tent sites at Todd Lake Campground are "located at the northwest corner of the lake, next to designated campsite markers," according to Chris H., though visitors must walk about a mile from the parking area.
Lower costs: Free or low-cost camping options abound. "We could not believe this beautiful and well kept park was completely free!" reports Sara R. about Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground, which provides maintained toilet facilities despite being free.
Water access: Several camping areas provide proximity to rivers or lakes. "You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water," notes Braden M. about the swimming holes near Steelhead Falls, making it a popular summer destination.
What you should know
Shooting activity: Be aware that certain areas double as informal shooting ranges. "This is an active shooting range, so if you're looking for peace and quiet... you've come to the wrong place," warns Justin L. about Dispersed Rock Quary. "Some people use the quarry as a shooting range in the mornings, about 8am," adds Angie.
Vehicle access changes: Seasonal or permanent access restrictions may apply. "NO ACCESS as of July 2024 - Completely blocked off to motor vehicles," reports Chelsie about Badlands Rock Camping. Always check current Forest Service road status before traveling.
Extreme temperature swings: Desert conditions mean significant day-to-night temperature differences. "We were unexpectedly snowed on in March!" shares Angie about camping near Bend. Pack for conditions 20°F colder than forecast lows.
Limited amenities: Most sites lack basic facilities. At dispersed sites, campers must bring water and waste removal systems. "No water nearby. Closest place we found was Smith Rock day use area," notes Aaron about Steelhead Falls camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established sites with existing fire rings when traveling with children. "There are fire rings at some sites. Plenty of room for a larger 5th wheel as well," notes Jordan P. about Harrington Loop Rd - Dispersed camping area, which offers more developed sites.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sounds at night. At Badlands Rock Camping, Liesje B. reports, "the coyotes woke me up sometime in the night when they were very close to my vehicle and howling."
Toilet access: Limited facilities mean additional planning. "The vault toilets are disgusting- so plan accordingly," advises Kelda C. about Steelhead Falls. Bring portable toilet solutions and privacy shelters for family camping at more remote sites.
Short hiking options: Look for campsites with brief trails suitable for younger hikers. "The sites on the West side, nearest the river are 'walk in' but if you're able-bodied it's a short distance to lug gear," explains Aaron about Steelhead Falls.
Tips from RVers
Flat parking surfaces: Find level areas to avoid stabilization issues. The FS Rd 1514 Dispersed camping area is described by Sierra T. as "flat & spacious, plenty of room for a larger group or even two smaller, separate parties."
Dust management: Prepare for extremely dusty conditions during summer months. "It can get pretty dusty though when the wind picks up," warns Jordan P. about Harrington Loop Rd camping areas. Bring air purifiers and dust covers for sensitive equipment.
Capacity limitations: Some areas have strict size restrictions. "There is a sign in the way in indicating 30ft length max," notes Mark W. about Steelhead Falls, though he adds, "They must mean trailer length since we had no issues with our 22' trailer and rig (40ft total)."
Navigation challenges: GPS coordinates sometimes lead to incorrect locations. "The provided GPS coordinate isn't correct. It send me close by but down a long awful gravel road," cautions GianLuc B. about Forest Service Road 1514 camping areas.
