Best Dispersed Camping near Diamond Lake, OR

Diamond Lake is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Diamond Lake, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Diamond Lake, OR. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Diamond Lake, Oregon (37)

    1. Mount Thielsen Wilderness

    22 Reviews
    Diamond Lake, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 383-5300

    "When I visited the Crater Lake area, I was well aware that finding last minute accommodations was difficult to impossible."

    "Stayed here for 3 nights while visiting Crater Lake NP and it was the perfect basecamp.

    Easy access to the Forest Road off 138 with lots of open camp spots."

    2. NF-70 Dispersed Camping Near Crater Lake NP

    13 Reviews
    Diamond Lake, OR
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 947-2151

    "Plenty of different types of camping spots: trailer and RV to serious offroad spots. I found a very secluded place with my 4by4 down rough road but plenty of other options."

    "It was a nice area; it was pretty easy to access, and there was lots of open space. I couldn't really hear the highway, but several trucks did drive down the dirt road."

    3. Forest Road 960 Campsite

    5 Reviews
    Diamond Lake, OR
    7 miles

    "right off the highway. there’s plenty of spots open in the surrounding area. only downside is road noise"

    "there are small (4-7) dispersed sites along this forest road near Crater Lake. the size and types of sites are varied. some are great for large RVs and are pull through and others you might only get a"

    4. Millsite Forest Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Diamond Lake, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 957-3200

    "Campsites have picnic tables and fire pits and there is a pit toilet. Many trees which provide shade. Some mosquitos but not too bad. Very easy to find with the directions and it was also on GAIA GPS."

    "If you love boondocking and wilderness trails. This is a must stay place. 20 minutes from hot springs and waterfalls. Tons of fishing spots near bye. Hundreds of miles of OHV trails."

    5. Forest Road 960 by Pacific Crest Trail PCT

    3 Reviews
    Diamond Lake, OR
    6 miles

    "There is ample room to turn around, in spite of a step climb.

    Was able to pull 15' trailer up with 4wd.

    Wide open sky for solar and starlink."

    "Lots of little camp fires scattered around the area ."

    6. NF 2612 Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Diamond Lake, OR
    9 miles
    Website

    "Beautiful location near several Lakes and large fields with plenty of level camping and fire pits although fires are not currently allowed."

    "We picked this dispersed camping near Lemolo Lake since it was an open area that we could run our Starlink. There was also some cell service."

    7. Thousand Springs Sno-Park

    12 Reviews
    Crater Lake, OR
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (505) 842-3292

    "We drove to Mazama campground only to be told and they had just filled their last spot but that there was free overnight parking 18 minutes in each direction either by thousand springs snopark or Annie"

    "There are bathrooms and a warming shelter that has a wood stove. The park is close to Crater Lake National Park anout 10ish miles down hwy 62. Nice pretty spot that is easy to get to."

    9. Lemolo Forebay

    3 Reviews
    Clearwater, OR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 957-3200

    "Pavement turns to dirt road to get to the sites. Each site has a fire ring and a table. The vault toilet has a trash can and was stocked with TP when we were there but we bring our own."

    "There are only about 6 little sites here and a boat ramp for the little lake. There is one long-drop toilet (no TP) and many sites had picnic tables. I'm not sure if all did, but ours did."

    10. Lightning Springs Backcountry Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Crater Lake, OR
    17 miles
    +1 (541) 594-3000

    "After parking right off the trail head and hiking down about 0.8 miles, you have three “established” spots to chose from."

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Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Diamond Lake, OR

108 Reviews of 37 Diamond Lake Campgrounds



Guide to Diamond Lake

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Diamond Lake, Oregon, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, each offers unique experiences and access to stunning landscapes.

Dispersed campers should check out Mount Thielsen Wilderness

  • This area provides a fantastic opportunity for those seeking a peaceful retreat, with multiple spots available for tents and small campers. The Mount Thielsen Wilderness is known for its breathtaking views and accessibility.
  • Be cautious of the road conditions; some visitors have reported issues like nails on the road, which can lead to flat tires. However, the overall experience is often described as amazing.
  • The site allows campfires, making it perfect for cozy evenings under the stars, although it's wise to bring bug spray due to the presence of mosquitoes.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Diamond Lake, Oregon

  • The Thousand Springs Sno-Park is a great option for larger rigs, offering ample parking and vault toilets, though it’s important to note that fires are not permitted here.
  • This location is conveniently situated about 15 minutes from the south entrance of Crater Lake, making it an ideal base for exploring the park while enjoying the benefits of dispersed camping.
  • Visitors have appreciated the nearby recreational area for meals and games, but be prepared for mosquitoes and consider bringing bug spray for comfort.

Crater Lake National Park access for dispersed campers

  • The NF-70 Dispersed Camping Near Crater Lake NP offers a variety of camping spots, from trailer-friendly areas to more secluded off-road options, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • Many campers have enjoyed the quiet atmosphere, especially during weekdays, making it a great choice for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • The proximity to Crater Lake allows for stunning sunrise views, and the area is well-suited for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the park's trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping allowed around Diamond Lake in Oregon?

Dispersed camping is allowed in several areas surrounding Diamond Lake. The Mount Thielsen Wilderness offers numerous dispersed camping spots along forest roads with easy access off Highway 138. These sites serve as an excellent basecamp for exploring Crater Lake National Park. Another option is Lemolo Forebay, which features dirt road access to dispersed sites near Diamond Lake. Each site comes with a fire ring and table. Generally, dispersed camping is permitted on National Forest land surrounding Diamond Lake, typically at least 100 feet from water sources and 200 feet from developed recreation areas. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check current fire restrictions before camping.

What amenities are available for dispersed campers at Diamond Lake?

Dispersed camping around Diamond Lake offers minimal amenities compared to developed campgrounds. At Prospect OHV Dispersed Camping, you'll find primitive sites with ATV trail access but no services. Some areas like Thousand Springs provide a large asphalt parking area with vault toilets. Most dispersed sites offer natural features like fire rings (when fire restrictions allow) and occasionally picnic tables, but no running water, electricity, or trash service. For supplies and facilities, the nearby Kla-Mo-Ya Casino and Travel Center offers a convenience store, restaurant, gas, and propane. Bring everything you need including water, food, toilet paper, and waste disposal bags, and plan to pack out all trash.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping at Diamond Lake?

No formal permit is required for most dispersed camping around Diamond Lake, but regulations do apply. Areas like Thousand Springs Sno-Park offer free overnight parking about 18 minutes from Diamond Lake and serve as overflow options when developed campgrounds are full. The USFS Rogue River Dispersed area follows similar rules in the region. While permits aren't typically needed, you should display a Northwest Forest Pass when parking at trailheads. During fire season (typically June-October), you may need a free campfire permit, and fire bans are often implemented during dry periods. Always check with the Umpqua National Forest office for current regulations before your trip.