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

158 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas exist near the Painted Hills section of Ochoco National Forest, with most sites located on BLM land. The Painted Hills Dispersed area offers multiple primitive sites off gravel roads, though the dirt access routes can become rutted and muddy after rain. A camper noted, "If you have higher ground clearance you can go through the main camping area and take a dirt road just a bit further to a single spot that's flat and shaded."

Priest Hole Recreation Area provides riverside camping with vault toilets but no other amenities, accommodating both tents and RVs with big-rig friendly access. Little Hay Creek Road features a clearing by Marks Creek bridge suitable for overnight stays. According to a visitor, "There are many spots down the road once you pass the bridge, but the roads were too pot holed and rough for us in our 26ft class c." Other options include Jasper Point Dispersed with ridge views, Gable Creek Road with 360-degree vistas, and Green Mountain North Trailhead with established fire pits. All areas require visitors to pack out trash and human waste, with most sites lacking drinking water or facilities.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland (40)

    1. Painted Hills Dispersed

    17 Reviews
    Mitchell, OR
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 573-4400

    "We stayed at Priest Hole, which is a few miles past the Painted Hills visitor center on dirt roads. We saw a few vans and a pop-up trailer, but no RVs."

    "We spent a weekend in June celebrating our anniversary in this stunning location. The Painted Hills are so beautiful. The hikes and trails are so well thought out and maintained."

    2. Little Hay Creek Rd Dispersed

    1 Review
    Prineville, OR
    4 miles
    Website

    "the road once you pass the bridge here, but the roads were too pot holed and rough for us in our 26ft class c, and seeing as how we only needed a place for one night we decided to just stay in the big flat"

    3. Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, OR
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6500

    "Has a nice area to turn around a big truck. Looks like people have been cutting firewood here. There some litter and obvious signs of people."

    4. Painted Hills South Camp

    3 Reviews
    Mitchell, OR
    20 miles

    "Coordinates take you to a location for four-ish spots on the right side of the road.  If you drive a little bit further, there are another two spots on the left. "

    "This site is on the far end of the painted hills park, just outside of the gate. "

    5. Priest Hole Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Mitchell, OR
    27 miles

    "These upgrades were done over the past several years according to BLM Prineville staff."

    "Getting to camp you drive into a “canyon”, switch backs most of the way down. The road is bumpy but does not require 4WD or high clearance."

    6. Jasper Point Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Prineville, OR
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6700

    "its a nice spot, bit rocky so the places to camp arent super great, but the view is beautiful 10/10. road up here is really tough, definitely want a high clearance vehicle if you wanna go very far along"

    "There is a gate you have to open and close behind you that will look questionable. Do not let this stop your journey but so close the gate behind you."

    7. Crystal Creek Campsite

    Be the first to review!
    Mitchell, OR
    10 miles

    8. Gable Creek Road Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Mitchell, OR
    20 miles

    "This dispersed spot was a nice one-night stopover. It’s pretty close to the main road (26) on a pretty good gravel road."

    9. Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground

    19 Reviews
    Terrebonne, OR
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 416-6700

    "Also very hot and dry, as to be expected in the high desert. The scent of Mock orange hung heavy in the evenings air and the waterfalls area had a pool nearby you could hang out in."

    "Breathtaking drives and not hard to find with given coordinates. Dirt roads are not too hard to drive but during the dry months it is extremely dusty."

    10. Lower Crooked River

    1 Review
    Prineville, OR
    23 miles
    +1 (541) 416-6700
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

158 Reviews of 40 Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Campgrounds

  • Corinna B.
    Oct. 1, 2017

    Painted Hills Dispersed

    Absolutely the Best. And free!

    This was by far my favorite place we stayed on our entire 4000+ mile road trip…. and it was free! We stayed at Priest Hole, which is a few miles past the Painted Hills visitor center on dirt roads. We saw a few vans and a pop-up trailer, but no RVs. The road was okay but not great, so not sure if regular RVs would make it or not. Fine for cars, trucks or vans.

    It's Bureau of Land Management land, which means all camping is free. We camped right on the banks of the John Day River and it was amazingly beautiful. The water was the perfect temperature for swimming and crystal clear. There were people a couple hundred yards from us on either side, so not too crowded. We were there on a Thursday and pulled right up to an empty spot.

    Only vault toilets. Bring your own water. No showers, picnic tables, etc. The only drawback, besides lack of a nice bathroom and not much natural shade, was quite a few earwigs and other bugs attacking the outside tent at night when we had our light on. Not the worst thing, but slightly annoying for the kiddos.

    When the river is higher (sometimes in the winter) there's a large grassy area in the center of the area for tents, but a bit far away from the water. But in the summer when the river is lower you can camp in any of the rocky dry stream beds and be safely right on the water.

  • 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!

  • Aaron M.
    Jul. 7, 2021

    Deschutes Forest NFD 4600-120 Dispersed Camping

    Fine dispersed camping close to town

    Just a forest service road. The area close to the road is closed to camping entirely. I showed up at 1am and missed that part since I'm so used to seeing no campFIRES and was hassled by a local for making their scenic walk less pretty. But if you look at the map posted you just need to be further in from the road - you'll see new signs for 14-day limits. Lots of mountain bikers riding past since there are a ton of trails out here. They also seem to be grumpy about seeing a vehicle parked out here, but oh well. 

    I don't know who is marking this area for services and water and toilets and RV hookups.... it's just a dirt road. However I do get 2-3 bars LTE on AT&T and Verizon even further in where you can camp.

  • Trevor G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 9, 2023

    Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    Quiet spot with epic view

    Nabbed a nice quiet spot about a mile up the dirt road. The fire ring looked like a bottledrop convention, but I quickly "Molly Maided" the site and was back to camping in no time. (Leave no trace, peeps!) Snow started to fall early in the evening and through the night. Woke up to single digits, but overall it was a perfect overnight getaway just outside of town.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2022

    Skull Hollow Dispersed

    Free and close to Smith Rock!

    If you keep driving on the forest service road past the Skull Hollow campground there are many designated spots to car camp along the road. The road is dirt but 2WD/low clearance is fine. The campground has public, dry toilets near the entrance of the road. Some sites are shaded by juniper trees.

  • Adrianne D.
    Jul. 3, 2021

    Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground

    HOT and scenic

    So so beautiful and scenic! Also very hot and dry, as to be expected in the high desert. The scent of Mock orange hung heavy in the evenings air and the waterfalls area had a pool nearby you could hang out in. TONS of desert wildflowers too, along with several hundred year old juniper trees and sagebrush lizards all over bathing on rocks in the morning sun. It was during bitterly breeding season too, it’s a breeding ground for monarchs! No fires due to fire restrictions and the GPS coordinates on here took us an hour past the destination.. we found it eventually after good going though.

  • Braden M.
    Jun. 13, 2022

    Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground

    Favorite type of terrain to camp in

    Beautiful trip. Breathtaking drives and not hard to find with given coordinates. Dirt roads are not too hard to drive but during the dry months it is extremely dusty. The campground on the trailhead is nice but a little too close for dispersed camping. Trail is not too long to a waterfall. You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water. We stayed one night at the designated camp site but ended driving about 10 minutes down a dirt road next the the campground entrance that is actual dispersed camping. Really enjoyed that spot with a trail down to the river and 2 drive in spots and multiple walk in campsites along the cliffs. 

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

What amenities or facilities are available for dispersed campers in Ochoco National Forest?

Dispersed camping in Ochoco National Forest offers very limited amenities, as is typical with dispersed camping. Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground provides access to natural water features, though no treated water is available. Near Peterson Ridge Road Dispersed, you may find established fire rings at some sites, but you should bring all other necessities with you. Most dispersed areas have no toilets, water sources, trash collection, or other facilities. Some locations near designated campgrounds, like Skull Hollow, offer access to dry toilets at the main campground entrance. Pack out all trash, bring your own water supply, and prepare for completely self-sufficient camping. Cell service is typically limited throughout the forest.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Ochoco National Forest?

The Ochoco National Forest offers several excellent dispersed camping areas. Painted Hills Dispersed is highly recommended, particularly the Priest Hole area located a few miles past the Painted Hills visitor center. While accessible via dirt roads, it may not be suitable for large RVs. Another great option is Skull Hollow Dispersed, where you can find many designated spots along the forest service road past the main campground. The dirt road is navigable with 2WD vehicles, and some sites offer shade from juniper trees. For more dispersed camping opportunities, explore Little Hay Creek Road and the areas around Crystal Creek, which offer more remote experiences with fewer visitors.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Crooked River National Grassland?

Dispersed camping in Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping follows standard Forest Service regulations. Camping is limited to 14 days within a 30-day period. Camp at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and developed recreation areas. Use existing fire rings when possible and fully extinguish all fires. Some areas may have seasonal fire restrictions or closures, especially during high fire danger periods. Terrebonne East Camp Dispersed and other similar areas require campers to pack out all trash and waste. Motorized vehicles must stay on designated roads and camping is only permitted in previously used sites. Always check current conditions and restrictions with the Ochoco National Forest office before your trip, as regulations may change seasonally.

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