Mount Hood National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities around Government Camp, Oregon at elevations between 3,000-6,000 feet. Free primitive campsites can be found along various forest service roads with camping conditions ranging from paved parking areas to secluded forest sites. Weather varies significantly by season, with summer temperatures averaging 65-80°F during days and dropping to 40-50°F at night.
What to do
Hike to Boulder Lake: From Bonney Meadows, take a day hike to experience additional alpine lakes. "There was tons of mosquitos when we were there in June but a bug tent was perfect. Plenty of hiking too. I suggest hike down to boulder lake for the day and also walk up to Bonney butte," notes one visitor.
Watch for wildlife: The meadows and forests near dispersed camping areas provide wildlife viewing opportunities. At White River West Sno-Park, campers can explore nearby streams. "Big paved lot with really well managed pit toilets. Short walk takes you to the White River, which was more of a creek when we were there, and a breathtaking view of Mt. Hood," shares one camper.
Star viewing: Many dispersed sites offer excellent night sky visibility due to minimal light pollution. "At night we had a great view of the Perseid Meteor Shower. Highly recommend if you're going on a trip where you just want to spend all day hiking and have a convenient spot to sleep," reports a White River West Sno-Park visitor.
What campers like
Level camping spots: Finding flat areas can be challenging in mountain terrain. One camper at Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed noted, "Lots of trees, large spaces but lots of rain in May. But if coming through again I would stay here. You can stay up to 14 days."
Cell service availability: Several dispersed camping areas maintain connectivity despite remote locations. A visitor to Trillium Lake Airstrip mentioned, "Nice little area. Went out the day after memorial weekend. For the most part everyone around me kept the noise down. One of the cleaner dispersed sites I've seen out here."
Various site options: Depending on your preference for privacy or community, different dispersed areas offer various experiences. "There are tons of spots here. Some are tucked back in the trees and are more 'prime' spots, otherwise there's a huge middle area that tons of cars can squeeze into as long as you don't mind neighbors," explains a Trillium Lake Airstrip camper.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed sites require appropriate vehicles. Regarding Bonney Meadows, one visitor warns, "The road is GNARLY. We did it in a regular ol 4-door sedan. And I cannot recommend. We made it fine. But it was dumb. Would not repeat."
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities, though some Sno-Parks have vault toilets. A White River West Sno-Park visitor noted, "This is a large, paved parking lot with a stream nearby. Has a good view of Mt. Hood and vault toilets, so that's a positive."
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations mean significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. "Elevation is relatively high, so be sure to check weather for that elevation and plan accordingly. Husband had a summer-weight sleeping bag and was really cold," advises a Bonney Meadows camper.
Human impacts: Unfortunately, some areas show signs of misuse. A camper at Trillium Lake Airstrip shared, "People really disrespect the area. We tried to camp in a spot and someone had literally left their human feces smack-dab in the middle of the campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Consider backpacking options: For adventurous families, overnight backpacking provides unique experiences. At McNeil Point Dispersed Camping, "We left Portland at 2 pm on a summer Friday, hiked in the four miles most of the way to McNeil, pitched the tent in time for dinner and sunset, then got up early and summited McNeil far before the summer crowds from town had time to make it to the trail head."
Look for water features: Streams or lakes near camping areas provide natural entertainment for children. Near Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532, "Access to a stream down the hill if you need to filter water, and it sounds very pleasant at night. Lovely trees, plenty of room for a couple of small tents among the trees, plus a ton more out on the gravel."
Expect competition for sites: Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly during peak times. One visitor noted, "We got in at 5pm on a Friday in summer; I think four more cars came down to see if the spot was free before 9pm."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites around Government Camp sit on uneven terrain. At White River West Sno-Park, one RVer shared, "This is a large, paved parking lot with a stream nearby. The downside is that it's not level. Trailers shouldn't have a problem, but even with several blocks under our tires, our 39ft Class A was still un-level."
Extended stay options: Some areas allow longer stays. "We stayed 5 nights, had all types of weather on our stay, from lots of rain to sun and also snow. Would stay here again if in the area. Free to stay from May 1 to October 31," reports a White River West Sno-Park camper.
Seasonal weather considerations: RVers should prepare for mountain conditions. A camper at Kevin's Mt Hood OG noted, "Quiet dispersed camping with a few options along NF-2610. Had 4 cars pass by camp in 3 days. Lots of old logging trails to explore on foot."
