Top Free Dispersed Camping near Haines, OR

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Haines, look no further. Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Haines, OR (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Social Security Point Trailhead
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry
    Camper-submitted photo from Southern Elkhorn Mtn/Powder River Basin Area

    3. Southern Elkhorn Mtn/Powder River Basin Area

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    70 Saves

    The Southern Elkhorn Mountain/Powder River Basin recreation area is located south of the Anthony Lakes Highway (Forest Road 73) to the Monument Rock Wilderness area. It includes__all of the developed recreation sites and trails in the Blue and Elkhorn Mountains__generally west of Baker City and Unity, Oregon.Popular recreation areas include__Anthony Lakes, Phillips Lake, North Fork John Day Wilderness (Baldy Unit),__the Elkhorn Scenic Byway,__the North Fork John Day River, the North Powder Wild and Scenic River, Dooley Mountain, Monument Rock Wilderness, the North and South Forks of Burnt River, the campgrounds along Highway 26, and Camp Creek. It also includes parts of the old__Baker and Unity Ranger Districts that have been__incorporated into the Whitman Ranger District.Local communities that have__a variety of services (i.e. fuel, lodging, stores and/or restaurants) are Baker City, Sumpter, Granite, Unity, Greenhorn and Haines. These communities are within one hour of the__recreation area.

    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    4. Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    13 Photos
    94 Saves

    Dispersed camping is a popular camping method for many visitors to the Forest. Choosing to camp along a stream or adjacent to a meadow where there are no picnic tables, toilets or firerings allows campers to enjoy a more primitive experience.

    It is recommend that dispersed campers keep to traditional campsites off of established 'two-track' vehicles routes which have been used in the past. Most of these routes are less than 300 feet from a designated open road.

    There are some areas on the Forest that are closed to dispersed camping. These include administrative site, special use permit area, or sensitive areas for archeology or wildlife.

    Please remove all temporary structures before you leave such as meat poles, toilets, furniture, and ditches around your tents. To find out more about minimum impact camping please visit our outdoor ethics section. Some general rules of use and restrictions also apply to visitor using dispersed camping sites. These include regulations like forest-wide camping stay limits; use of camp fires, firearms, and fireworks; and controlling pets.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    5. Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    14 Saves

    Dispersed camping is a popular camping method for many visitors to the Forest. Choosing to camp along a stream or adjacent to a meadow where there are no picnic tables, toilets or firerings allows campers to enjoy a more primitive experience.

    It is recommend that dispersed campers keep to traditional campsites off of established 'two-track' vehicles routes which have been used in the past. Most of these routes are less than 300 feet from a designated open road.

    There are some areas on the Forest that are closed to dispersed camping. These include administrative site, special use permit area, or sensitive areas for archeology or wildlife.

    Please remove all temporary structures before you leave such as meat poles, toilets, furniture, and ditches around your tents. To find out more about minimum impact camping please visit our outdoor ethics section. Some general rules of use and restrictions also apply to visitor using dispersed camping sites. These include regulations like forest-wide camping stay limits; use of camp fires, firearms, and fireworks; and controlling pets.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
    • No image available

      7. Wolf Creek Reservoir

      Be the first to review!
      7 Photos
      • Pets
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek

      9. Lunch Creek

      1 Review
      7 Photos
      41 Saves
      • Pets
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Aneroid Lake Backcountry Dispersed Campsite
    Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Haines

    14 Reviews of 15 Haines Campgrounds


    • Nick J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Aneroid Lake Backcountry Dispersed Campsite
      Oct. 11, 2024

      Aneroid Lake Backcountry Dispersed Campsite

      Great Backcountry High Alpine Lake

      Aneroid Lake is one of my favorite locations in the Eagle Cap Wilderness. The dispersed camping for backpackers is on the North side of the lake, whereas the South side is private property (Camp Halton). The lake is stocked every few years with rainbow trout, and has a good supply of brook trout.

      The water is very cold but worth the dip if it's a hot summer day.

    • Evan W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry
      Aug. 18, 2024

      Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry

      Good spot for a few nights

      There are a few spots and spurs off NF-6510 that would make for good boondocking. Might be hard to get level, but other than that it’s pretty nice. The spot on the map has a stone fire ring. There are a few spots before and after that would be suitable to setup camp as well.

      I got to the spot marked on the map in my extended Transit, but I’m sure road conditions may change with the seasons, storms; etc. Depending on your comfort, you may only want to head this way with high-clearance vehicle.

    • mThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
      Jul. 11, 2024

      Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

      Well maintained roads

      Sites are far apart but some lack privacy. I saw Lots of elk and turkeys(?) and a rattlesnake. Outside of the lack of privacy there are some people who it appears that they live there(I a have no issues with that) my issue is the drive up and down the road multiple multiple time a day at high rates of speed leaving dust flying. When I was out walking I walked past one of their campsites on accident I didn’t get close and they started firing a gun in the air. I slept in my car that night and left the next morning. Also trash is an issue as well as people using the bathroom right on the ground and leaving used baby wipes everywhere. So watch out for human waste if you use a tent.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
      Jul. 10, 2024

      Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

      Easy Nature

      Many options for private pull-offs once you drive past established NF campgrounds—likely tough to do without high clearance and/or 4WD when wet. Only “traffic” was the occasional ATV/OHV. Tons of great hiking around.

    • Jodie E.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
      Apr. 2, 2024

      Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

      Great spot for overnight.

      We just needed a quick tent soot on a monday night on the way to moab. better than expected. bit muddy. some shells. but lots of space. drove in to about 45.35967, -118.30846

    • Hayley M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
      Mar. 9, 2024

      Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

      Good Quick Overnight Spot in the Off Season

      Stayed one night on my way to Seattle. I drove up the road some and found it pretty passable in my van, although most of the sites were too muddy and I was worried about getting stuck. Camped in the first spots behind the Spring Creek Info sign and had good phone service (verizon) and a uneventful night. But area had a ton of broken glass, nails and shotgun shells and a decent amount of litter. Don't know how rowdy it gets in the warmer months but it might be wise to skip this place or camp further up the road at the campground then, especially if you're a solo female.

    • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Lunch Creek
      Jul. 27, 2023

      Lunch Creek

      For Cars and Tiny Rigs

      Sweet little spot for smaller vehicles. We walked along the path to check it out before attempting it in our 26ft class c and I’m glad we did. The path was too narrow for us, and the road rose up a bit too high along the middle. A smaller vehicle shouldn’t have a problem. There’s a nice little clearing at the end of the path right along the little creek. Very peaceful and green when we came here in July. 

      At the main road there IS a spot large enough for our RV (that’s where we parked when we got out to walk to the creek spot) but we decided not to stay the night there. It wasn’t flat at all and a little too noisy and close to the main road. But it would definitely do in a pinch- very easy to get to- just off the main road to the right. There’s a fire pit marking the spot. 

      Zero cell reception in this entire area for verizon and ATT. No amenities here, this is a FS dispersed camping spot so please keep the area clean and pack out your waste.

    • Michael W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
      Jul. 4, 2023

      Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

      Hasty overnight

      Easy and vacant find for a last minute change to our route. Primitive dispersed campsites with rock fire rings right off the highway. Down side is it's a little too noisy for my taste. Would have driven further down into the woods if I had more time to set up as we got here late. All in all its an easy find just off the highway.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping
      Aug. 8, 2022

      Balm Creek Reservoir Dispersed Camping

      Boondocking

      Directions:  About 13 miles from Medical Springs on a gravel road (half hour or so). Take Big Creek Rd to Collins Lane.  That turns into USFS 67, then 72.  The gravel road is good, but access to the camping is pretty narrow and rougher.  Probably not a good place for a big nice camp trailer.  

      Camping is dispersed, mostly on the west side of the reservoir. The east side has a few spots but the road is really rough toward the dam. Fish are stocked. Boats with oars, paddles or electric motors are allowed. There are no improvements.  Check fire restrictions.  Campfires are prohibited almost every year for most of July, August and September.  Cattle graze here.  The water level gets pretty low by August.

    • allison W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Southern Elkhorn Mtn/Powder River Basin Area
      Jul. 17, 2022

      Southern Elkhorn Mtn/Powder River Basin Area

      Huge and diverse area

      Boondocking is easy with a camper van or tent setup in this national forest area, but it’s hard to make a generalization that covers this vast collection of campgrounds and areas. It earns a good review at the end of the day for being conveniently located and hassle free; you can always find a decent spot up around the bend and it’s the right mix of privacy and tranquility while being reasonable close to civilization if calamity strikes.

    • Michael The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Ice Lake
      Jul. 4, 2021

      Ice Lake

      Nine-Mile Hike

      The water is no-joke cold. Fantastic nine-mile hike into the forest. Stayed two nights. Elevation is ~8,000 feet. Got altitude sickness on day two.

      No fires allowed. No amenities. Back-country hikers only. No cell service. Perfect getaway.

    • Arielle W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake Dispersed Camping
      Oct. 4, 2020

      Echo Lake Dispersed Camping

      Gorgeous and remote. Be prepared to CLIMB!

      This is not an official campground. There is a lot of space for campers, though, and it is not heavily trafficked. The trek to Echo Lake is about 8 miles (one-way) from the start of the Hurricane Creek Trail. When you arrive at Echo Lake, beauty awaits you! This location is a remote and peaceful retreat. The lake is so clear and serene. The views of the mountainside are breathtaking. This is a great site for groups and there is enough space to spread out. The stars are vivid and you can see the movement of the stars and moon along the mountains.  The trek to the lake is SO WORTH IT! This is probably one of the most beautiful places that I have ever been to. It gave me the wilderness escape that I needed. It is a hidden gem! Whenever you visit, leave your stressors behind you and enjoy the preserved beauty. The lake is very cold, but I definitely enjoyed the shock after the hike in! 

      The hike into Echo Lake is an intense incline! We tracked about 3,500 feet of elevation gain in about 5 hours during our hike in. The way back only took us about 3.5 hours and is mostly downhill. I would not recommend this hike for a beginner hiker/backpacker. I carried 60 lbs on my back up and down this trek and it was A LOT for me as a relatively new backpacker (with endurance conditioning). It is a hike that one should work towards, for sure! This trek is would be great crosstraining for an endurance athlete (like me!). At times, the incline felt like a 10-15% grade, but I do not know this for sure. It is pretty steep and challenging if you are carrying a lot of weight. I recommend going as minimalist as possible to avoid extra weight, if possible. I brought my bull mastiff dog along with me and she had a blast! I would recommend conditioning your dog for a trek like this. It can be pretty gnarly and steep at times! My dog wouldn't have made it if she had not done treks like this before. There are creeks along the route to the lake and I would bring extra water to hydrate your dog in between water sources. As always, leave no trace and keep this spot pristine and clean :)



    Guide to Haines

    Camping near Haines, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

    What to do:

    • Hot Springs Relaxation: Enjoy the natural hot springs at Grande Hot Springs RV Resort. One visitor said, "The pools that are fed by the springs are great, especially after a long day on the road."
    • Nature Walks: Take a stroll through the scenic trails at Union Creek Campground. A camper mentioned, "The setting is pretty incredible with views all around of lovely Eastern Oregon mountains and valley."
    • Fishing and Wildlife Watching: At Pilcher Creek Reservoir, you can enjoy fishing and spotting wildlife. One reviewer noted, "Spent the night here... Saw a ton of wildlife too (bring your bear spray)."

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like A-Frame RV Park. A visitor shared, "Nice clean bathrooms, reasonable price... a little loud from the highway."
    • Friendly Staff: Many have praised the helpfulness of staff at Mtn View RV Park. One camper said, "The store is adorable... I spoke with the nicest lady."
    • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Bird Track Springs. A reviewer mentioned, "Plenty of sites were very spacious and easy to back into."

    What you should know:

    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Olive Lake Campground, have basic facilities. One camper noted, "Most sites are simple turnouts, more suitable for tents."
    • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially at Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed. A visitor warned, "I saw lots of elk and turkeys... my issue is the drive up and down the road multiple times a day at high rates of speed."
    • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways, which can be noisy. A camper at Hilgard Junction State Park Campground mentioned, "The traffic from the freeway can be a little loud."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with play areas. At Union Creek Campground, a camper noted, "Their group sites are next to each other and allow big groups to stay together."
    • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A visitor at Pilcher Creek Reservoir advised, "If you are passing through, this would be a great place to stop off for the night."
    • Pack Snacks: Bring plenty of food and drinks, as some campgrounds like Bird Track Springs don’t have markets nearby.

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Hookups: Make sure to verify the availability of electric hookups. A reviewer at A-Frame RV Park mentioned, "Full hookups... easy check-in."
    • Level Sites: Look for level sites to avoid hassle. A visitor at Mtn View RV Park said, "The pad was plenty long enough for our 40’ 5th wheel."
    • Plan for Wi-Fi: Some campgrounds may have spotty Wi-Fi. A camper at Hilgard Junction State Park Campground noted, "WIFI was so-so/normal for this type of campground."

    Camping near Haines, Oregon, has something for everyone, from families to solo travelers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Haines, OR?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Haines, OR is Social Security Point Trailhead with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

      TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Haines, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.