Best Dispersed Camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland in Oregon

Looking for the best Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland dispersed camping? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Oregon excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, OR (37)

    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed

    1. Painted Hills Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    88 Photos
    724 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Dispersed camping is allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service (USFS) lands without a permit, but it is recommended that campers obtain a map that shows current property boundaries. Please contact the BLM , (541) 573-4400 or (541) 416-6700, or the USFS, (541) 575-3000 or (541) 416-6500, for more information. While camping is not allowed within the three units of the monument, there are many nearby campgrounds. Some have full service amenities, some are quiet and remote, some are in the forest, and some are right on the John Day River.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    2. Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    50 Photos
    414 Saves
    Bend, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    4. Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    15 Photos
    20 Saves
    Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, Oregon

    This trailhead is the northern access point for Green Mountain OHV Trail (#831) , which happens to be the only OHV trail in the Ochoco National Forest at this time.  The parking area is small and cannot accommodate many or large vehicles, so please plan accordingly when you come. 

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping

    5. Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    21 Photos
    78 Saves
    Culver, Oregon

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/recreation/camping-cabins/?cid=stelprdb5291492

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, no picnic tables, no trash cans, no treated water, and no fire grates. If you are dispersed camping in the winter, recognize that the Forest Service does not plow or maintain Forest Roads in the winter, so plan your trip accordingly. Typically, dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas such as campgrounds, boat ramps, picnic areas or trailheads. There are extra responsibilities and skills that are necessary for dispersed camping. It's your responsibility to know these before you try this new experience.

    Picking a Campsite If you are going to an area where others have camped before, pick a site that's been used before. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites, so using existing ones will minimize your impact on the forest. If there is no existing campsite, then follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:

    Camp on bare soil if possible, to avoid damaging or killing plants and grass. Do NOT camp within 200 feet of any water source, plants near water are especially fragile. Don't camp in the middle of a clearing or meadow. Make your campsite less visible so that other visitors will see a "wild" setting. Don't try to level or dig trenches in the ground at your campsite. Select a campsite with good natural drainage. Visit the Leave No Trace website for more information.

    Campfires Many wildfires are caused by human activity, typically escaped campfires from dispersed campers. Campfires are allowed when you are dispersed camping UNLESS there are fire restrictions in effect due to high fire danger conditions. It is YOUR responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp

    7. Cyrus Horse Camp

    3 Reviews
    15 Photos
    23 Saves
    Culver, Oregon

    In 1992 this high desert horse camp was constructed with the help of volunteers amidst the remnants of an old homestead and orchard just a short distance from Haystack Reservoir.The facility is available for horse camping, standard camping, and RV camping opportunities. View a vicinity map here.Learn about Leave No Trace principles for horse camping__AMENITIES:Stock water is dependent on cattle permittee operations/infrastructure and has been removed for the season. Please plan ahead and bring your own water.5 standard campsites8 corrals2 hitching racks1 water trough1 manure pit1 wooden picnic table and 1 combination fire ring/grill per campsite1 vault outhouse for the campground1 informational signboard.Please call the Crooked River National Grasslands Office (541) 416-6640 or Ochoco National Forest Office (541) 416-6500 for more information.Nearby recreation opportunities include:Horseback Riding TrailsHiking TrailsMountain Biking TrailsHunting

    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Priest Hole Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Crooked River
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Crooked River
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Crooked River
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Crooked River
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Crooked River
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Crooked River

    9. Lower Crooked River

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    17 Saves
    Prineville, Oregon

    Along the Chimney Rock segment of Central Oregon's Crooked Wild and Scenic River, Chimney Rock campground offers a relaxing woodland setting amongst Western Juniper trees and beneath massive Columbia River rock formations. Fly-fishing and hiking on the nearby Chimney Rock trail offer day-long recreational fun. Enjoy plenty of easy river access along the adjacent Crooked River Back Country Byway, State Highway 27.

    Know Before You Go:

    Chimney Rock Campground is open year-round and is equipped with 16 campsites and vault toilets. No reservations are accepted; site is first-come, first-served only. Water is available in the campground and an accessible fishing platform is located near the campground entrance. When recreating on public lands, practice Leave-No-Trace Principles. Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination.

    Point of Interest:

    Check out the campground's namesake butte located prominently above highway 27 opposite the campground. Access to the trailhead is across the highway at the Chimney Rock Trailhead. For a different view, visitors can ride the 18-mile Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway from Prineville to Big Bend Campground. Designated in 2018, this moderate route takes riders from picturesque farms to towering cliffs.ADA Access: Fishing platform and vault toilets are accessible.

      Camper-submitted photo from Gable Creek Road Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Gable Creek Road Dispersed Camping
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    Showing results 1-10 of 37 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews in Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

    136 Reviews of 37 Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Campgrounds


    • N
      Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
      Nov. 25, 2024

      Oregon Badlands Dispersed

      This was a great place to be nude

      I was nude here for a week in July last year.  Great place to stay and not far from town.  Wasn't too crowded and my neighbors didn't seem to mind.  I had a great time hiking nude on some of the trails as they weren't too crowded.  I'll definitely be back again.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sisters, Oregon - Dispersed Camping
      Oct. 16, 2024

      Sisters, Oregon - Dispersed Camping

      Easy, beautiful, free

      Maybe 15min outside bend, a little hard to see the turn off in the dark, but once we did it was easy to find a spot and set up camp! We only stayed one night and were car camping so it was perfect!

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping
      Oct. 1, 2024

      Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

      Not ideal spot for car parking

      Its a big lot area with a view of the river close to the dam. Theres a day use area and resort campground down the road which I asked the hosts there about the dispersed camping and they gave me an attitude saying that because its a state site that the sheriff may come check to ask me to leave. I told that that made no sense as its on usa owned land but they insisted not to park there. I believe they were just jealous because almost noone was at their campground. The day use area is small and watch for the tire strips. The parking area up the hill (at these coordinates) is a bit trashy but its a good spot for walk or bike.

    • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
      Sep. 29, 2024

      Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping

      Solitude and wide open space

      Love this dispersed campsite! So much wife open space. We were the only campers here last night. So quiet that you can hear a pin drop. Oh, the 360 views are fantastic! A little bumpy ride for regular cars as it is in a dirt road; an AWD preferred.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Mayfield Pond Recreation Area
      Sep. 18, 2024

      Mayfield Pond Recreation Area

      Parking spot for a night for me

      Coordinates get to entrance with signs, lots of rocks on this sandy rd. Kinda a wastelandish area for offroading and target practice. A good spot for app like Regrid, as half the pond on NW side is state property. Theres some creepy private property sign but that prob means no boating. Prob better to get here from other side from Bend Rd like at 44.085493,-121.126358 if you have a bike or want to hike in. Some cool rock features to climb. Mainly seems like a place for partying.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
      Sep. 18, 2024

      Badlands Rock Camping

      Cool sandy area with many spots

      A good open area with lots of nice smelling juniper. Theres parking at the few trailheads or off the road. The best spot, with some nice features such as lava rocks, is the 3rd right from the main road. Some folks may be particular about their "spot". No toilet, trash nor water but good trails. About 20 mins into town. Didnt see any snakes but was checking just in case. Prob best for RV or car camping. High desert gets to 40s at night this time of year.

    • Zoe G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from BEND FS 4610 Dispersed
      Sep. 17, 2024

      BEND FS 4610 Dispersed

      Super easy

      This spot was close enough to town that we could call an Uber to Hayden Homes after we set up, then Uber back when the concert finished. The main red dirt road is gorgeous with various pull offs spaced decently far apart. I saw one or two neighbors to the left and right of our spot but it was far enough that our spot felt private. Really quiet and felt remote while still accessible to town and had cell service.

    • Tia A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Terrebonne West Camp Dispersed
      Aug. 21, 2024

      Terrebonne West Camp Dispersed

      Nice and Peaceful

      EDIT: We had a park ranger stop by and inform us that this location is closed to passenger vehicles. No passenger vehicles are allowed past the boulders. We are currently parked at the one and only camp slot that passenger vehicles are allowed, so this is a 99% dispersed camping location that you have to walk to your camp site location. The Park Ranger also reminded me that all BLM land is a 14-day stay for recreational camping only, and if you are living out of your RV, you are liable to be harassed more often then others.

      Original Review: We parked in a space close to the main road. Minus the sounds from it, the place is very peaceful. There's lots of sage bushes, and trees are plenty but not clustered. There is a lot of wildlife in the area if the animal bones are anything to judge by. There are a lot of ant colonies and other burrowing creatures in the area as well. If you choose to walk off designated paths, watch your step, or you might end up in a shallow hole like I did. Some spots are more solar friendly than others, but none of the trees are overbearingly tall to completely block out the ability for it. Flies aren't too bad compared to other places, and honestly, I'm not sure if the ones we are dealing with are from here or left over from our 1 night stay at another location. The river is only a shortish walk away, and field mice do live in some of the boulders in the area.

    • NThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes Forest NFD 4600-120 Dispersed Camping
      Jul. 27, 2024

      Deschutes Forest NFD 4600-120 Dispersed Camping

      Solid spot!

      I went and stayed there two nights back to back and got a great spot both times. There is two different types of areas you can stay depending on what you want,

      1: parking lot - quick and simple for an easy in easy out access.

      2: trails - I stayed here for more of the trees and quiet areas which felt more like camping.

      There are a lot of options and you can bet on this place never being completely full.

    • Tia A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping
      Jul. 23, 2024

      Sisters Rodeo Dispersed Camping

      Peacful

      Easy access and larger camp spots. We were there during a few events hosted by the Sisters Rodeo and got to listen to the events.

      A lot of horse trailers come into the dispersed camping area to park and ride their horses, and I've seen a lot of larger bog rig horse trailers parked at the camp sites near the front. Every single one that came in was respectful and kind. A couple of the trainers even allowed my oldest onto their horses with permission after she asked.

      There were a couple of long-time stay campers that kept to themselves. We didn't have any issues with leaving our campsite unattended, even with our cook stove, propane, and ground solar equipment out in the open.

      Great for solar. Just if you don't have it set on top, you will have to move it throughout the day.

      Verizon cell service is completely fine. No wifi, of course, but if you use a mobile hotspot like we do, you shouldn't have any issues.

      We camped at 3 different spots. The first one was right as you pulled in, directly behind the rodeo gates. Large spot, 2 fire pits. Perfect for a group. The second was farther back. Only spent 1 night there cause there was a fire ant colony and we have kids. That just seemed like a bad idea for us. Spot itself was great, though. Another perfect spot for a group, minus the fire ants. The third spit was closer to the entrance, about half way in-between the other 2 we stayed at. This one had some broken glass that was buried as well as what looked like a diabetic syringe, also buried in the dirt. This was the only camp site that had any type of garbage at it. Every other one was cleaned from what we glanced at.

      Rangers come through every few days to make sure everything is safe and taken care of. When it became "no fires allowed" a ranger went to every camp site with people and asked if he could leave the information papers about what would be allowed vs not allowed during the "no burn" time. He was very respectful and kept his distance. I was by myself with my 3 young kids when he stopped by, and he stayed at least 5 feet away from all of us unless I gave the okay to come closer. The Rangers also placed "no fire" flags at each of the empty campsites in the firepits in case someone came in afterward.

      Overall, it was very peaceful and a great place to stay if you plan on going to the rodeo or an event held at Sisters Rodeo but are strapped on funds.

      And of course, like all dispersed campsites, it's a "pack in pack out". No water, power, sewage, bathrooms, showers, or anything else available. You bring it in, and you take it out.

    • Kelda C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cyrus Horse Camp
      Jul. 17, 2024

      Cyrus Horse Camp

      Nice but Rough Road

      Great secluded dispersed camping. It was obviously meant for folks with horses, but I was the only one there, so there were no horses in sight. The road getting there entailed about 5 miles of bumpy, windy dirt roads. Not totally worth it for a one night stay in a van, but might be for a 4wd car.

      GPS: 44.448114, -121.102884

    • Kelda C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
      Jul. 17, 2024

      Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground

      Great Option in the Area

      There aren't a ton of free camping options near Redmond. This is a great option. Only 2-3 spots for vans/small RVs. The other spots are clearly for tent camping. Would definitely recommend for a few days. I will say the vault toilets are disgusting- so plan accordingly. The hike is a great combination of short and pretty :-)

      GPS: 44.410140, -121.293505

    • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from BEND FS 4610 Dispersed
      Jul. 17, 2024

      BEND FS 4610 Dispersed

      Okay spot

      There was a fair amount of shady traffic c but all was well during my night stay with my dog. Good place to crash near bend in the woods.

    • Theresa N.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes Forest NFD 4600-120 Dispersed Camping
      Jul. 13, 2024

      Deschutes Forest NFD 4600-120 Dispersed Camping

      great place to crash

      perfect place to sleep if you’re looking to explore downtown bend - only about a 10 minute drive out of town. mostly 1 big parking lot with lots of vans and RVs with some pullouts for tents. we did pop a tent in the larger open space and felt safe, just no privacy. pit toilet at entrance but no potable water that we could find. however easy to find potable water in town. overall great!

    • Kent G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from BEND FS 4610 Dispersed
      Jul. 12, 2024

      BEND FS 4610 Dispersed

      FS Road 4610

      A nice gravel rd with no major ruts or holes. Navigable with a van all wheel drive. Drove in about a mile+to find an empty spot. Most already taken. Seems to be a mix between a mobile and a stationary group of campers. A good spot close to Bend.

    • CThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from BEND FS 4610 Dispersed
      Jul. 11, 2024

      BEND FS 4610 Dispersed

      Okay for a quick overnight

      I drove pretty far down this road and the further back you gp, you lost cell service and also lots of "extended stay" campers, junky trailer and one with a leather recliner next to their minivan. Somebody had hung up their laundry to dry in between two pine trees.

      The road noise was LOUD.

      Also some of the sites are very soft sand so be careful if you don't have a four-wheel drive vehicle.

      Super super dusty. It just gets all over everything. Spent an extra hour packing up just to wipe things down. Then there is a layer of dust inside the entire vehicle that we're going to have to wipe down. I've been to lots of disbursed campsites and never had dust like this before that just sticks on everything.

      And many people drive by at like 50 miles an hour and kick up huge dust clouds so be prepared for that too.

      IN THE MORNING A WHITE TRUCK WITH TWO MEN DROVE BY OUR CAMP REALLY SUPER SLOW, EYEBALLING IT. I TURNED AROUND A LITTLE BIT OF THE ROAD AND THEN CAME BACK AGAIN AND THEN DROVE SLOW PAST AGAIN. REALLY UNNERVING.

      Decent cell service for T-Mobile. 2-3 bars 5G (close to the entrance though. No cell service the further you drive in.)

    • CThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
      Jul. 11, 2024

      Badlands Rock Camping

      NO ACCESS as of July 2024 -Completely blocked off to motor vehicles

      Tried to drive in but all entrances were blocked by large rocks and signs that say no motor vehicle access.

      Same with the other entrance a couple miles down the road.

    • Kelda C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping
      Jun. 30, 2024

      Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

      Pretty View for One Night

      Essentially a parking lot over a very pretty view. There was a trailer that seemed to be permanently located at one end of the lot, and a local woman stopped by to ask what I was doing there. Wouldn't have stayed for more than a night, but a gorgeous view!

    • Kelda C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
      Jun. 30, 2024

      Badlands Rock Camping

      Good Option Near Bend

      Basically a gravel/dirt lot about 20 minutes outside of Bend. There's a chance I needed to drive further down the road to find better options. Stayed for two nights - no complaints. Near the road but quiet enough. A solid option for a short stay.



    Guide to Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

    Dispersed camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

    Enjoy Stargazing While Free Camping Near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

    • The Jasper Point — Prineville Reservoir State Park is an excellent spot for stargazing, especially during meteor showers, thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution.
    • At Skull Hollow Dispersed, you can find designated spots along the forest service road that provide a peaceful atmosphere for enjoying the night sky, with some sites shaded by juniper trees.
    • Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping offers wide-open spaces and fantastic views, making it a perfect backdrop for a night under the stars.

    Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland in Oregon

    • When visiting Painted Hills Dispersed, be prepared for a quiet experience; it's common to have the area to yourself, allowing for a truly serene getaway.
    • If you're heading to Cyrus Horse Camp, expect a bumpy ride on dirt roads, but the secluded nature of the site makes it worthwhile for those looking for peace and quiet.
    • Always pack out what you bring in, especially at sites like Lower Crooked River, where there are no trash facilities available.

    Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Painted Hills Dispersed

    • The Painted Hills Dispersed area is well-reviewed for its stunning scenery and easy access to hiking trails, making it a great base for exploring the Painted Hills.
    • Visitors often mention the tranquility of the site, with many enjoying evenings by the fire while taking in the breathtaking views.
    • This location allows for both tent and RV camping, providing flexibility for different camping styles while being completely free of charge.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland is Painted Hills Dispersed with a 4.5-star rating from 15 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland?

      TheDyrt.com has all 37 dispersed camping locations near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, with real photos and reviews from campers.