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Best Dispersed Camping near Mt. Hood National Forest

101 Reviews

Throughout Mt. Hood National Forest, you'll find plenty of dispersed camping spots where you can set up away from developed campgrounds. Joe Graham Horse Camp has room for campers with horses in a quieter part of the forest. Campers also head to Frog Lake Campground when they want to be near hiking trails while staying in a more remote setting. Following Leave No Trace practices is required when wild camping in the forest. You'll need to bring everything you might need since these areas don't have bathrooms or drinking water. All campsites must be at least 200 feet from lakes and streams to protect water quality. The forest often has fire bans during dry periods, so check before planning to have a campfire. You can stay up to 14 days before needing to move to a different spot. Many of the better dispersed sites require vehicles that can handle rough roads. Taking all your garbage with you when you leave is required. Clear Creek Crossing Campground gives you another option for more remote camping. Before heading out, double-check the current rules since they can change seasonally.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Mt. Hood National Forest (46)

    1. White River West Sno-Park

    11 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 668-1700

    "Incredible access to back country hiking at Mt. Hood!"

    "Tucked our trailers up in the far corner with a commanding view of Mt. Hood!  Well, not much view the first smokey day, but it cleared up nicely after a wind shift the following day. "

    2. Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    6 miles
    Website

    "Quite a few dispersed spots, kinda close to one another- everyone was respectful. The road behind this gets a great view of Mt. Hood!!

    No amenities. Dry camping!

    PACK IT OUT"

    "Nice forest service camping area. There are plenty of spots, but it can get pretty crowded on weekends. There is a beautiful view of Mt. Hood down the road and a nice hiking path to Trillium Lake."

    3. Mirror Lake

    7 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    7 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."

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

    5 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    4 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."

    "Road can be rough in some places but 4WD not necessary. Not many pull-in camping spots so you’ll have to search around. Overall decent spot and close to Trillium Lake"

    5. Bonney Meadows

    6 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 467-2291

    $10 / night

    "Make sure you have 4WD and a high clearance rig to get here. The last four miles are an exercise in off road driving and need to be taken slow."

    "You’ll want a 4wd or high clearance vehicle to access the last 4 miles. It’s worth it in the end. The meadow is beautiful and a nice view of Mt Hood."

    6. NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 668-1700

    "Also don’t let the Trillium Lake camp hosts scare you. They told us the gravel road to access the sites was “rough as hell” and were completely wrong. Nothing more than a few potholes."

    "FS Rd 2656 across from Trillium Lake Campground. Follow 2656 up a couple miles. Turn left on porcupine Trail. There is one small campsite on your left approximately 100 yards."

    7. Trillium Sno-Park

    4 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 668-1700

    "I am beyond happy with this app it shows you areas with free camping and helps out greatly"

    "Great place to disperse camp. Lots of pulloffs and the views are stunning!"

    8. Kevin's Mt Hood OG

    3 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 352-6002

    "This is a dispersed camping spot in the Mt.Hood National Forest that is free --- from both campground payment and people."

    "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. A little buggy but more flies than ‘squitos."

    9. Timothy Lake Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    7 miles

    "Lots of open camping spots that you can drive into without even leaving asphalt. Short distance from Timothy lake. There are established fire rings and some debris from other campers."

    "Great spot on the lake with space for 2 smallish tents. Quiet, low mosquitos (early June) and a fire pit. What more could you ask for?"

    10. Clear Lake dispersed camping

    3 Reviews
    Mt. Hood National Forest, OR
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 352-6002
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Mt. Hood National Forest

62 Photos of 46 Mt. Hood National Forest Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mt. Hood National Forest

101 Reviews of 46 Mt. Hood National Forest Campgrounds

  • Thomas B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Handy Stopping Point

    We kind of stumbled into this free spot while heading to a more formal campground near Pelton Dam. As the daylight faded I spotted a pullout/turnaround area which then led to a rather private loop with a great view of the Deschutes River and Lake Simtustus. I had to confirm with the Dyrt BLM map overlay, but I was glad to find myself on public land. It’s not really a place I’d choose to spend more than one night, since it doesn’t really connect to any trails or walking areas, but it was a handy en-route overnight spot, complete with a nice view and bright sunset. It’s only a few miles off Rt. 26, following signs to Pelton Dam. There was plenty of room to turn around my 26’ skoolie. However, I didn’t really see a good place for a tent, but I didn’t look very hard. There were signs of previous users, including a fire ring (which I didn’t use). Since it was the eve of Earth Day, I did collect a bagful of empty cans and trash. Leave no trace, people!

  • Mark F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside

    Convenient, free roadside site near trails, lakes, & meadow in Mt Hood NF

    I was running in an ultramarathon race in September in the Mt Hood National Forest and all of the local campgrounds managed by PGE around Timothy Lake were closed due to the end of the season.  I was able to use map layers in The Dyrt PRO to identify where I was within National Forest boundaries and was able to confirm with local officials that I was in a free, dispersed camping zone. So, using the map layers and the search function on The Dyrt I looked for an area near the race start at the Historic Clackamas Ranger Station to park my RV for a 2 night off-grid stay.  The location was a wide gravel area on the side of the road that allowed for enough space to park, put out my awning, set up some chairs and a propane fire pit (no live campfires - propane only) while being within a few hundred yards of the Ranger Station.  There was room to walk along the road on the shoulder and you are very close walk to the Historic Clackamas Ranger Cabin with a beautiful meadow view, the Joe Graham Horse Camp, and just a couple of mile drive from Timothy Lake.  Clackamas Lake Campground was nearby as well with many accessible miles of hikable trails, including access to the Pacific Crest Trail, for hikers of all levels. There was some smoke from local wildfires but that went away as the fall rains arrived that weekend.  If you are looking for a place to park your RV near all of these amazing views and experiences this free, dispersed camping site worked great for me and my family for a couple of nights.

  • Mark F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2022

    Whiskey Jack Dispersed Campsite

    Beautiful site at base of Cascade mountains

    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. It is just off of paved roads on a smooth gravel road that our RV easily handled - it is a pull off from Whiskey Jack road and has room for 1 RV or several tents on flat land with some soft ground cover from grass and pine needles. There are no services so this is dry camping and you’ll need to be self sufficient. There is a fire pit circle but with recent fires we wouldn’t use it and it may be prohibited. I am sure this road could be snowed in in winter months but was dry and clear in June. We picked the spot with fewer trees as we were testing out a Starlink satellite dish on our RV to see if we could get internet access deep in the woods. Lots of ponderosa pines, manzanita bushes, and chirping birds in warm weather days and cool nights. There is some traffic passing the site during the day but there is a road that a 4 wheel drive could travel if you wanted to get away from the road for some extra privacy and quiet. Overall a classic Oregon Cascades mountain meadow location that is only 10-15 minutes off highway 20 and makes you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere to rest and rejuvenate!

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2025

    Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    Win for Memorial Day weekend!

    Surprised we were able to snag a spot here on Memorial Day weekend! Drove in Sunday evening. Quite a few dispersed spots, kinda close to one another- everyone was respectful. The road behind this gets a great view of Mt. Hood!!

    No amenities. Dry camping!

    PACK IT OUT

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great/Quiet Spot

    Took a while to discover this spot, but clearly seems well used for dispersed camping. I parked nearest the access road, as my van would have hit trees to go a little further in. For smaller vehicles (e.g. roof top tents), you can get in a little further and off the access road. There was actually someone else back there, and we can't hear nor see each other.

  • Brendan R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 11, 2025

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great Area to Camp and Relax!

    There are several places along FR 2730 where you can pull off and camp. The road was very accessible, high clearance not required. We found a large pull off with several established fire pits. It's absolutely perfect for a group campsite. I imagine it will be a busier spot in the summer, but we couldn't find a single other person within miles of us in early May. To get up to the group camp site, you may need higher clearance (most SUVs should be fine) and 4wd/AWD, as there is a short rocky section that might cause some issues for FWD/RWD.

    Got a little chilly at night with winds whipping down through the area we were in, but overall very peaceful. You can see Mt Hood from the campsite through the trees, albeit it is decently far away and is subject to the visibility at the time you visit. We were able to see Mt Hood just before sunset, but couldn't see her at all the following morning.

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Aug. 9, 2020

    Kevin's Mt Hood OG

    Dispersed Camping - Get away from it all

    This is a dispersed camping spot in the Mt.Hood National Forest that is free --- from both campground payment and people. It's an old forest road off the main gravel road that has been blockaded and closed down, giving you a wide open area that gets sun, mixed with good tree coverage from the wind. 

    The spot is flat and great for an RV, van or trailer. It's just a 100 meters off the main gravel road where the old forest road is dug out/blockaded from cars getting through. 

    We parked and camped right there. Or, if you want even more solitude, park at the blockade and walk 3/4 of a mile to the end of the forest road strip for some tent camping. Not sure if that is needed as I think we only heard/saw a few car drive by the entire time (on a beautiful August weekend). 

    Love this place. Happy to share it with others. If you are looking for some dispersed camping in the summer that's not a far drive from Portland, this spot is for you. If it's full, there are a half dozen to a dozen other dispersed camping spots along this gravel road between Frog Lake Campground and Clear Creek Crossing Campground. Enjoy.

  • Vanessa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2025

    Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

    Amazing spot!

    Absolutely loved the spot. There were about three sites. I believe from what I saw. I stayed at the first site when you first get there back there on the right hand side. It's a short hike down to the creek. It looks like there might be two walk-in campsites as well and I believe there might be one if you walk across the Creek. It's very close to trapper Creek trailhead and there is a vault toilet there. Minimal bugs didn't get any bug bites and it was in the '90s while I was there. Very little traffic. Not far from the highway just in case of emergencies. Absolutely no cell service. You must have a Northwest Forest pass or America the beautiful pass. Forest service does drive through there frequently to check

  • Johny B.
    Jun. 19, 2025

    Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

    Peaceful and Scenic Getaway

    Spent a quiet weekend at Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed and loved it. The area is peaceful with a nice mix of forest and open space—felt super remote with hardly anyone else around. We found a great shady spot not far from a small creek, and it was perfect for relaxing. Heads up: there’s absolutely no cell service, so make sure to download any maps or trail guides(we used an offline hiking APK) before you get there. It’s close to Mount St. Helens and Columbia River Gorge, so we got in a great day hike. Nights were cool, days were warm and bug-free. Forest service came by once, which was nice to see. You’ll need a Forest Pass.

Guide to Mt. Hood National Forest

Experience the beauty of nature with dispersed camping near Mt. Hood National Forest in Oregon. This area offers a variety of stunning locations for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Mt. Hood National Forest

  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Hood from the White River West Sno-Park, where you can set up camp in a spacious paved area with a nearby stream for added tranquility.
  • The McNeil Point Dispersed Camping area provides a unique opportunity to witness incredible sunsets and panoramic mountain views, making it a favorite among backpackers.
  • For those seeking solitude, NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping offers numerous secluded spots where you can immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of modern life.

Top Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The Mirror Lake area is perfect for a scenic hike, with picturesque spots around the lake ideal for camping and enjoying the serene environment.
  • Campers at Bonney Meadows can explore nearby hiking trails that lead to stunning vistas, including views of Mt. Hood and the surrounding wilderness.
  • The Historic Clackamas Ranger Station is conveniently located near trails and lakes, providing easy access to outdoor activities while enjoying a peaceful camping experience.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Alder Flat

  • The Alder Flat area features a beautiful trail leading to a large pond, offering a peaceful setting for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • This spot is known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • Although it can be busy during the day, the evenings at Alder Flat provide a quiet retreat, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping available near Timothy Lake in Mt. Hood?

Yes, dispersed camping is available near Timothy Lake, though options are limited directly adjacent to the lake itself. When the developed PGE campgrounds around Timothy Lake close for the season (typically after Labor Day), Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside provides a viable alternative nearby. For those seeking more seclusion, Whiskey Jack Dispersed Campsite is accessible via smooth gravel roads that accommodate RVs, located in the general vicinity. Remember that dispersed camping requires following Leave No Trace principles, including proper waste disposal and respecting the 14-day stay limit common in national forests.

Is there free camping available in Mt. Hood National Forest?

Yes, Mt. Hood National Forest offers abundant free dispersed camping options. Kevin's Mt Hood OG exemplifies these opportunities—it's a secluded spot on an old forest road that provides both sun exposure and good tree coverage without any fees. Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping is another free option with scenic views of the river and lake. Free dispersed camping in Mt. Hood typically follows standard national forest guidelines: stay within 150 feet of forest roads, use existing sites with established fire rings when possible, and adhere to the 14-day stay limit. Remember that dispersed sites lack facilities like toilets, trash service, and potable water, so come prepared with supplies for responsible camping.

Where are the best areas for dispersed camping in Mt. Hood National Forest?

Mt. Hood National Forest offers several excellent dispersed camping areas. Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF is highly accessible with multiple pull-offs suitable for various vehicle sizes, making it perfect for group camping. For those seeking stunning views, Pinnacle Ridge dispersed camping near Laurence Lake offers incredible vistas of Mount Hood with well-established fire rings. Other notable areas include the Trillium Lake Airstrip area, Whiskey Jack Road, and the Little Soda Springs Road area. Most sites are accessible by standard vehicles, though some areas like Bonney Meadows require high-clearance 4WD vehicles. Always check for established fire rings, pack out all trash, and verify current forest regulations before your trip.

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