Dispersed camping near Fern Ridge Lake offers outdoor experiences in Oregon's Coast Range. This region receives approximately 45-60 inches of annual rainfall, creating a lush environment with thick undergrowth and diverse wildlife. Several primitive camping areas are accessible via unpaved forest roads that become increasingly difficult to navigate during the rainy season from November through April.
What to do
Wildlife watching: The Beaver Creek area near Forest Road 51 provides excellent opportunities to observe beavers in their natural habitat. A camper noted, "I saw about 5 beavers close to the road though, so that was sweet," making this a worthwhile destination for nature photographers.
Kayaking on Hult Pond: Non-motorized watercraft are ideal for exploring this man-made log pond at Hult Pond Recreation Area. A visitor mentioned, "The pond was great for kayaking and there is plenty to explore if you aren't worried about a little elevation in your hike." Fishing from shore can be challenging due to submerged obstacles.
Stargazing at higher elevations: Clear nights at Doolittle Butte offer exceptional night sky viewing. Located about 5 miles from Shoestring Road, one camper described, "Beautiful views of stars on a clear night. Very remote. Climb an easy dirt road back a few miles." The elevated location provides minimal light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas feature naturally spaced camping spots. At Forest Road 51, campers appreciate that "When you get to the top of the road it Ts with another forest road, where there was a pull off that would fit one or two cars/vans." Another visitor noted, "Last spot on the right is most private and spacious."
Getting away from technology: The lack of connectivity is a feature for many visitors to BLM Kentucky Falls Road. One camper highlighted, "Birdsongs and gorgeous sunrise in the morning!" The digital disconnect allows campers to experience natural soundscapes without interruption.
Free camping options: These primitive sites typically have no fees. A camper at Hult Pond explained, "If you don't mind not having service this place is great to just get away from it all. Only a few good spots and they go fast so definitely get there early to get a good spot."
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Many access roads require careful navigation. For Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping, a visitor warned, "Need AWD or 4x4. Excellent spot up 2 steep inclines. Some of the most beautiful views. Good fire ring. Do not attempt if wet." Another camper advised staying "on the clearly marked gravel road" to avoid getting stuck.
Site selection tips: Arriving early is essential for securing preferred spots. A camper at Hult Pond shared, "I went during my spring break and I was lucky that it was too cold for most people to camp there." Many waterfront and prime locations fill quickly, especially during summer weekends.
Forest activity awareness: Some areas have active logging operations. A visitor to Hult Pond described the access road as "a still functioning rock quarry road that hosts a never ending parade of old rattling dump trucks and loaders." Be prepared for industrial traffic on weekdays on many forest roads.
Tips for camping with families
Emergency planning: The complete absence of cell service requires advance preparation. At Hult Pond, a camper emphasized, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there." Pack a first-aid kit and inform someone of your plans before heading to remote locations.
Pack all necessary supplies: There are no stores or facilities at most locations. A visitor to Forest Road 55 Pulloff shared, "I arrived at 9pm and there were two pull offs in this area. It was awesome to car camp here." Bring drinking water, food, and all essential gear.
Consider bathroom facilities: Most sites lack toilet facilities. One camper at Hult Pond noted, "There are bathrooms available, but we didn't need to utilize them." Teach children proper wilderness bathroom etiquette and pack supplies accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Larger vehicles face significant challenges. A Hult Pond visitor cautioned, "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!"
Scout before committing: One RVer at Forest Road 51 warned, "Narrow and unpaved road. Very 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!" Consider unhitching and scouting roads before proceeding in larger vehicles.
Leveling challenges: Many forest sites are not level. An RVer camping at Forest Road 51 observed, "Nice and quiet, but no real level spots." Bring leveling blocks and be prepared to spend time finding suitable parking for larger vehicles.
