The Siuslaw National Forest and surrounding BLM lands offer numerous free camping near Florence, Oregon throughout the year. Most dispersed sites sit between 300-1,200 feet elevation with average summer temperatures around 65-75°F. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop to 30°F with frequent coastal rain, especially between October and April when monthly rainfall averages 10-12 inches.
What to do
Kayaking Hult Pond: Hult Pond offers calm waters for paddling in a serene setting. "The pond was great for kayaking and there is plenty to explore if you aren't worried about a little elevation in your hike," shares one visitor who explored during spring break.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at the BLM areas near Beaver Creek provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper at Forest Road 51 noted, "Beaver creek area was really cool... I did see about 5 beavers close to the road though, so that was sweet."
Stargazing after dark: The remote locations offer exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. At Forest Road 51, campers enjoy "lovely views of the sky at sunset" while Kentucky Falls Road sites provide perfect sunset viewing spots with one camper sharing, "if you walk a little over through a trail you'll get an amazing view of the sunset."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: BLM Kentucky Falls Road offers peaceful sites away from crowds. "Great spot! Quiet and if you walk a little over through a trail you'll get an amazing view of the sunset," reports one camper, while another notes the "birdsongs and gorgeous sunrise in the morning."
Private camping spaces: Many pull-offs provide adequate separation between campers. In the Elliott State Forest, a visitor described finding "very secluded but spacious sites" with "really beautiful spots" despite the long drive in.
Off-grid experience: Most areas have no cell service, creating a true disconnect. One camper at Hult Pond advised, "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there... I'd plan accordingly."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements matter: Many forest roads require appropriate vehicles, especially during wet weather. A camper at Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping advised, "Excellent spot up 2 steep inclines. Some of the most beautiful views. Good fire ring. Do not attempt if wet."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack basic amenities. At Hult Pond, a camper explained: "There is no water available here... There are no trash cans or dumpsters... this is a pack in, pack out area, so be prepared to take your trash with you!"
Early arrival recommended: Popular spots fill quickly during peak seasons. One visitor to Hult Pond noted, "Only a few good spots and they go fast so definitely get there early to get a good spot."
Road navigation challenges: Forest service roads can be confusing without proper maps. A visitor to Elliott State Forest advised: "Needed a last minute to car camp that was close to the coast... There was surprisingly multiple spots that I had cell service (AT&T) so I was able to navigate myself around through a satellite map."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Monitor children near logging roads. At Near Fawn Creek Campground, visitors found the area good for families but noted the importance of keeping kids entertained: "For families with kids, keeping them entertained is easy whether it's exploring the outdoors or enjoying games, a fun and creative way for kids to play and imagine."
No-service preparation: Have offline activities ready. Hult Pond campers consistently report complete lack of cell service: "We lost cell service about an hour before we even got there, and didn't have any the whole time there," making advance planning essential for family trips.
Plan for changing weather: Coastal forest conditions can shift quickly. Elliott State Forest campers warned: "It was super damp and rainy while we were there so we're unable to start a fire," suggesting families should pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecasts.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many dispersed camping access roads are unsuitable for larger rigs. At Forest Road 51, one RVer cautioned, "It's a one lane road with some turnouts. Nice and quiet, but no real level spots."
Turn-around planning: Forest roads rarely have large turnaround areas. A Hult Pond RVer warned: "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!"
Leveling challenges: Most forest pull-offs aren't graded for RVs. A camper noted about Forest Road 51, "I probably wouldn't do this if I had a trailer or an rv, but my toyota Corolla did just fine," suggesting smaller vehicles fare better on these rough roads.
