Best Dispersed Camping near Grants Pass, OR

Dispersed camping around Grants Pass can be found by heading into the surrounding national forests, where campers need to be completely self-sufficient. The rough forest roads leading to these primitive sites often require vehicles with good clearance, especially after rain. Most spots sit on public land where the standard 14-day stay limit applies, giving you enough time to explore without overstaying. You'll need to set up at least 200 feet from water sources and maintain distance from main roads according to regulations. During summer and fall, fire restrictions frequently come into effect, so always check current rules before planning to have a campfire. There's no garbage service at these sites, so you'll need to haul out everything you bring in. The nearest supplies are in Grants Pass itself, about 20-30 minutes from most dispersed areas. Cell service gets spotty quickly once you leave town, so download maps beforehand. Water isn't available at these locations, so bring plenty or have a good filtration system for nearby streams. The reward for the extra preparation is quiet camping without neighbors or fees.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Grants Pass, Oregon (24)

    1. Burma Pond BLM

    10 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    19 miles
    +1 (541) 471-6500

    "This was quite a way in on a fairly smooth but steep dirt road. Along the road were random deep pot holes so be aware they sneak up on you when the road is shadowed."

    "I navigated using Google Maps due to other reviews saying Apple made it confusing. This led us right to the pond/camp sites."

    2. Ennis Riffle

    2 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 474-5285

    $15 / night

    "Ennis Riffle camping area is nice and large and open, with easy access to the water.  The ground is rocky dirt.  There isn't much in terms of flat level areas for an RV, nor is there much shade.  "

    "Also close to the river. It gets very busy on holiday weekends. Also beware of camping here during the rainy season. The water covers the entire campground."

    3. Rocky Riffle

    3 Reviews
    Merlin, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 479-3735

    "This BLM area is a quick turn off the main road.  Take a right or left to start the loop and you’ll find various spots for dispersed camping."

    4. Beautiful Dispersed View off Fire Rd

    2 Reviews
    Selma, OR
    16 miles
    Website

    "You can fit a small pull behind, truck, and/or van. The 6.5 mile road (FS-25) is paved so the accessibility of the site is a plus."

    5. Elderberry Flats Campground

    4 Reviews
    Trail, OR
    20 miles
    +1 (541) 618-2200

    "FIRSTLY, do NOT take Sykes Creek Road or May Creek Road to access this campground. Google Maps will try to take you on the shortest (mileage) route."

    "Free camping with a pit toilet winner winner chicken dinner! A bit of a drive out but a very nice campsite. The actual campground has 11 sites with picnic tables and fire pits."

    6. Argo Bar

    2 Reviews
    Wolf Creek, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 618-2200

    ". :(

    We couldn't really find a flat place to park, and so ended up parking just along the bathroom, which was rhe flattest spot here."

    "It wasn't until we left the spot and looked back on it from the higher road that we saw that the camp area extended a bit past the bathrooms into more camp friendly spots, with some shade and greenery."

    7. Canyon Gulch by Eight Dollar Moutain

    4 Reviews
    Kerby, OR
    23 miles

    "It’s got great views and near the river, but homeless camps sometimes set up around here."

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Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Grants Pass, OR

14 Photos of 24 Grants Pass Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Grants Pass, OR

45 Reviews of 24 Grants Pass Campgrounds



Guide to Grants Pass

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Grants Pass, Oregon, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of spots to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors while escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking landscapes at Beautiful Dispersed View off Fire Rd, where you can find small pull-off spots along a paved fire road, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • The Burma Pond BLM offers a picturesque pond surrounded by nature, ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife.
  • For a more adventurous setting, check out Canyon Gulch by Eight Dollar Mountain, where you can camp near the river and soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Grants Pass

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Elderberry Flats Campground, where small swimming holes and crayfish can be found along Evans Creek.
  • If you're into off-roading, Forest Road 25 provides access to trails that are perfect for dirt bikes and quads, making it a great spot for thrill-seekers.
  • Enjoy stargazing at Argo Bar, where the clear skies and peaceful surroundings create an ideal environment for a night under the stars.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Grants Pass, Oregon

  • When heading to Rocky Riffle, be prepared for a dry camp with no amenities, and remember to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
  • For a quiet and clean experience, consider Ennis Riffle, which offers a spacious area with easy access to the water, but be aware that it can get busy during holiday weekends.
  • If you’re looking for a peaceful stopover, Eight Dollar Mountain Pulloff is a great option, but keep in mind that it’s best suited for smaller vehicles due to its limited space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping near Grants Pass, Oregon?

Several free camping options exist near Grants Pass. Skull Creek Campground offers free sites with picnic tables and fire pits, plus an onsite pit toilet and bear-proof trash can, though it lacks running water and offers minimal shade. Elderberry Flats Campground provides 11 free sites with picnic tables and fire pits, plus a pit toilet. When accessing Elderberry Flats, avoid Sykes Creek and May Creek Roads; instead, use Evans Creek Road for better access. Other free options include dispersed camping along Eight Dollar Mountain Road, though these sites lack amenities and require careful navigation on rough roads.

Is BLM land available for camping near Grants Pass?

Yes, several BLM lands around Grants Pass offer camping opportunities. Argo Bar provides riverside dispersed camping on BLM land, though finding flat parking spots can be challenging. Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping offers peaceful, secluded BLM sites. Other options include Rocky Riffle BLM area, which features a loop with various dispersed spots, and the Burma Pond BLM site located down a steep dirt road with some potholes. Most BLM sites follow standard dispersed camping regulations: typically 14-day stay limits, pack-in/pack-out requirements, and fire restrictions during dry seasons. Always check current BLM regulations and fire restrictions before heading out.

Can I bring my RV for dispersed camping around Grants Pass?

RV accessibility varies significantly at dispersed sites around Grants Pass. Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping allows RVs to pull in wherever feels suitable on the gravel bar, though without designated spaces or hookups. Hyatt Reservoir BLM Dispersed can accommodate some RVs, but watch for muddy conditions near the lake. Many access roads have challenging conditions—steep grades, potholes, and high-clearance sections limit larger rigs. The dispersed camping off Eight Dollar Mountain Road is explicitly not recommended for RVs due to the rough dirt road. Always research specific road conditions before attempting RV access, and consider smaller rigs (under 26 feet) for better maneuverability.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Grants Pass?

Amenities at dispersed camping sites around Grants Pass are typically minimal. Burma Pond BLM offers a scenic pond but no developed facilities. Rocky Riffle provides dispersed camping spots in a loop formation but no formal amenities. Most dispersed sites in the area follow a pack-in, pack-out policy with no garbage service, running water, or electric hookups. Some locations like Skull Creek do have basic pit toilets and fire rings. Cell service is often limited or non-existent, particularly in river areas and remote forest roads. Always bring your own water, waste disposal bags, and prepare for self-sufficient camping.