Dispersed camping options near Eddyville, Oregon include several roads through Siuslaw National Forest, where elevations range from 200 to 4,000 feet throughout the Coast Range. Weather patterns shift quickly in this area, with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F during the day and dropping to 45-55°F at night. The dense coastal forest creates natural windbreaks at most campsites, though rain can occur even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Alsea Falls Recreation Site offers trails to multiple cascades beyond the main waterfall. "This was a pretty easy hike to this little falls. The terrain was a little slippery, but then again we went in March. The falls were full from all the rain and the forrest was just gorgeous," notes one Alsea Falls visitor.
Mountain views: Take the trails at Marys Peak Campground for panoramic vistas. "Mary's peak hiking is incredible. The peak is the highlight, unbeatable views. There's also great old growth forest trails. And if you try hard you'll find an amazing waterfall trail about a half mile down the HARLAN Rd," reports a camper.
Non-motorized boating: Hult Reservoir offers calm waters for paddling. "No motorized boats. Dispersed camping. Excellent hidden creek water. Nature trails. Canoe. Kayak. Fish," shares a visitor to this peaceful spot.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek, campers appreciate the secluded spots. "We found a spot at the end of the road that opened up a little bit more than other sites. There were others around here and not a huge amount of site options, so be weary of spaces filling up. Lots of forest and greenery surrounding the area!" reports one camper.
Simple amenities: Big Elk Campground offers basic facilities that tent campers appreciate. "No reservations. First-come, first-served. About a dozen campsites, plus a hiker-biker area. $10 for an individual campsite. $5 per hiker/biker. Two pit toilets and potable water available," explains a visitor.
Stargazing opportunities: The forest openings provide clear night sky views. "Views of the forest were sweet, and it was a really nice and spacious spot... No service on the drive up but had a couple bars at my campsite," notes a Forest Road 51 camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require careful driving. "Narrow and unpaved road. Vert narrow, My trailer could barely fit through and there was only a three-way intersection inside to make a U-turn, otherwise my trailer wouldn't be able to get out!" warns one Forest Road 51 visitor.
Limited camping spots: Most dispersed areas have few established sites. "I drove back in a few miles and camped along the road, in some old growth forest. It was dark, and I mean truly dark in there when you shut off your lights off, and silent as a tomb," reports a camper at Siuslaw National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Weather preparedness: Higher elevations experience rapid weather changes. "Can get cold at night since it is at a higher altitude and weather changes quickly," notes a Marys Peak camper.
Tips for camping with families
Best established sites: For families wanting facilities, choose established campgrounds. "Only about 10 sites here, the camp host was very nice and sold us firewood! Not a very busy campsite but it is pretty!" reports a Big Elk Campground visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Beaver Creek area offers beaver sightings. "Beaver creek area was really cool, but the main trail was flooded out when I visited. I did see about 5 beavers close to the road though, so that was sweet," shares a camper.
Accessible waterfall options: Karen's Place offers family-friendly exploration. "Very neat property! Host is very friendly and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. Loved exploring the trails. A hidden gem," notes a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Eddyville have limited space for larger vehicles. "I probably wouldn't do this if I had a trailer or an rv, but my toyota Corolla did just fine," advises a Forest Road 51 camper.
Alternative spots: The coast range has other options for RVs. "The way Google took us go thus spot was terrible. Instead of keeping us on the gravel road, it had us drive through an overgrown dirt path. Thank got we didn't get stuck! If you are going, stay on the clearly marked gravel road!" warns a Siuslaw National Forest dispersed camper.
Road navigation: Forest roads require planning. "Road is a bit overgrown in spots but if you go past the first 2 spots through the bushes last spot on the right is most private and spacious," suggests a Forest Road 51 visitor.