Dispersed camping near Dorena Lake offers access to Cascade foothills at elevations ranging from 800 to 3,000 feet. The area typically receives 40-60 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest conditions throughout spring and summer. Most primitive sites remain accessible from May through October, with several roads becoming impassable during winter months due to snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Saddle Camp area provides access to small streams and creeks for anglers seeking cutthroat trout. As one visitor noted, "It's best if you have four wheel drive or all wheel drive. Wouldn't recommend going in the winter months or rainy season. It is a very fun drive though taxing and it is slow going."
Hiking trails: Several primitive trails branch out from BLM Kentucky Falls Road camping areas. According to a recent camper, "Birdsongs and gorgeous sunrise in the morning! Didn't feel completely content solo due to some of the characters I drove by on the way up, but all good." The trail network connects to viewpoints overlooking valleys to the west.
Kayaking options: Lemolo Forebay offers calm waters ideal for beginners and intermediate paddlers. A recent visitor explained, "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."
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The primitive campsites at Doolittle Butte provide excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution and elevated position. One camper mentioned, "Nice big lot. Beautiful views of stars on a clear night. Very remote. Climb an easy dirt road back a few miles. A few deep potholes but nothing too technical."
Wildlife viewing: Morning hours at Hult Pond offer opportunities to spot local birds, deer, and small mammals. A camper observed, "I went during my spring break and I was lucky that it was too cold for most people to camp there. It was beautiful and quiet (other than the 9pm daily goose choir)."
Solitude: Many dispersed sites around Dorena Lake become available midweek, even during summer months. As noted by a Hult Pond visitor, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there. There are some really cool spots that were taken. We ended up finding a decent spot."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to most dispersed camping requires navigating unpaved forest roads. At Forest Road 5875, "The coordinates listed will get you right to the road. There are sites immediately after turning onto the road. The first few had short proximity to the water but also the road."
Cell coverage: Most dispersed camping locations have no cellular service. A Hult Pond camper warned, "NO CELL SERVICE AT ALL. Popular spot for locals" and another added, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there."
Water sources: Pack in all water needed for your stay. No reliable water sources exist at most primitive sites. At Lemolo Forebay, campers note, "The vault toilet has a trash can and was stocked with TP when we were there but we bring our own."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: When camping at Blue River Reservoir, keep children away from steep shorelines. A visitor warned, "There is a dangerous low-head dam at the beginning of the lake near the campground, so please keep track of your kids/pets!"
Wildlife education: Hult Pond offers opportunities for kids to observe small wildlife safely. One camper shared, "The pond was great for kayaking and there is plenty to explore if you aren't worried about a little elevation in your hike."
Bug protection: Bring insect repellent for all family members during summer months. A Lemolo Forebay camper advised, "Lots of skeeters! Bring your bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RV camping near Dorena Lake, arrive early to secure suitable spots. A Hult Pond RVer noted, "We have a 38 foot rv. We got stuck in a ditch. Rv almost tipped over trying to u turn… if you go down the main lower path you will find a area big enough to u turn! Dont do it until then!"
Waste management: No dump stations exist at primitive sites. A Blue River camper observed, "Only downside is a lot of the sites had toilet paper everywhere so you know those areas weren't the cleanliness. Idk why people can't clean up after themselves especially with a dumpster at the entrance of the road."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling for larger rigs. Bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilizers when camping at primitive locations.
