Best Dispersed Camping near Gates, OR

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Gates. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Gates, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Gates, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Gates, Oregon (25)

    1. Quartzville Recreation Corridor

    5 Reviews
    Cascadia, OR
    15 miles
    Website

    "Such as August most times there are NO Camp Fires! Be prepare for fire danger, have axe, shovel and 5-gal of water, you will be the first to stop it and report it."

    "I love the dispersed camping. The sites are open, so good for solar, but do get windy.

    I have camped at the quarry a few times with my friends that have a camp trailer."

    4. Alder Flat

    4 Reviews
    Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 630-8700

    "This gorgeous trail and dispersed camp is so unrecognizable from the 2021 fires that there is no turn off. May we remember it’s memories!"

    "Dispersal camping all year."

    6. Blue River Reservoir Roadside Camping

    11 Reviews
    Blue River, OR
    41 miles

    "The coordinates take you to right by the reservoir with one or two spots but if you keep going down the road into the National Forest/Recreation area, (not in towards the reservoir— that road is rough,"

    "The marker on the map is where the information kiosk is. If you follow the road to the right of the reservoir there are some developed campsites/boat launches with a fee (and composting toilets)."

    8. Whiskey Jack Dispersed Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Camp Sherman, OR
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 549-7700

    "We were looking for a dispersed camping site on Forest Service land outside of cell range so we used The Dyrt PRO maps to help us find this spot."

    "Nice little spot just off the road, there appears to be a very narrow double track road that goes a little deeper in, but driving back there would have come at the cost of the landscape and the paint on"

    9. Mirror Lake

    7 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 622-5622

    "There are several backpacking campsites that are on the water, there is nothing more beautiful than watching the sunrise over the lake with Mt.Hood in the background."

    "It's best to come up with a couple backup plans as this is a popular spot! The hike in off the road isn't difficult, and the tent sites are all situated relatively close to the trail."

    10. Mount Hood National Forest - NF 2656 -Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 352-6002

    "There are many park campgrounds in the Mt Hood NF but also tons of dispersed camping in the forest.

    We camped off FS 2656 just south of Trillium Lake in August 2020. There are many other locations."

    "This area is at the Trillium Lake turn off of highway 26. Very easy to get to and the road is paved until you near the area that you can begin camping."

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Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gates, OR

51 Reviews of 25 Gates Campgrounds



Guide to Gates

Dispersed camping near Gates, Oregon, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations to choose from, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while experiencing the freedom of camping in less developed areas.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Gates, Oregon

  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep the natural environment pristine, especially at places like Quartzville Recreation Corridor, where some visitors have noted issues with litter.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; many dispersed sites, such as Britenbush River Dispersed, do not offer drinking water or restrooms, so plan accordingly.
  • Check local fire regulations before your trip, as fire restrictions can vary by season and location, particularly in areas like Alder Flat.

Top activities while free camping near Gates

Dispersed campers should check out Alder Flat

  • Alder Flat. offers a serene environment for those looking to escape the crowds, with its lush greenery and quiet surroundings, making it a well-reviewed spot for relaxation.
  • The area is known for its beautiful trails, perfect for hiking and exploring, providing access to stunning views and wildlife.
  • Visitors have noted the importance of being mindful of foot traffic, as the area can attract hikers, so finding a secluded spot is key to enjoying your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gates, OR?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gates, OR is Quartzville Recreation Corridor with a 3.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Gates, OR?

TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Gates, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.