Dispersed camping opportunities near Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland span from high-elevation forest sites to riverside locations in the high desert. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F during daytime hours but can drop below 50°F at night due to the region's 3,000-4,500 foot elevation. Most rustic camping sites lack cell service, with the exception of occasional single-bar LTE service at higher elevation points.
What to do
Swimming in the John Day River: At Priest Hole Recreation Area, the clear waters provide relief during hot summer days. "The water was the perfect temperature for swimming and crystal clear," notes one visitor who enjoyed camping along the riverbank.
Hiking the Steelhead Falls Trail: From the Steelhead Falls Trailhead Campground, access an easy half-mile walk to the falls. "Half mile easy hike to the waterfall but the trail keeps going another Half-ish mile for a slightly longer walk," shares a camper who visited in July 2025.
Stargazing from ridge viewpoints: The Jasper Point Dispersed area offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. A visitor reports, "This spot is great for watching a meteor shower, gets a little windy and not too much shade during the day."
What campers like
Direct river access: Campers value the waterfront sites at Priest Hole after recent renovations. "There's an area in the beginning with new paved out camping spots on the river and a vault toilet. If you bypass that area and keep going along the gravel/dirt road you'll find more pull out spots that are more secluded."
Fire rings and established sites: Green Mountain North Trailhead Dispersed Camping features established fire pits and turnaround areas. A visitor observed, "This a a beautiful area. There are some fire pits here, so I assume you can camp here. Has a nice area to turn around a big truck."
Proximity to Painted Hills: The Painted Hills South Camp provides convenient overnight options when visiting the geological formations. "Great spot to stay when visiting the Painted Hills or passing through the area," notes a camper, highlighting its strategic location.
What you should know
Access road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating unimproved roads. At Painted Hills Dispersed, a reviewer warns, "The dirt road to the campsite is bumpy and rutted but I made it just fine with my Tacoma and off-road trailer. I wouldn't trust the road in the rain, it looks like it turns into a mud pit."
Limited shade coverage: Most camping areas in this region lack natural shade. At Jasper Point, a camper explains, "The road leading to the edge is a rough drive (Mazda CX-5), but it is absolutely worth the view. It's not too hot, and while there aren't many places for tents because of rocks, we were able to hammock no problem."
Weather variability: Temperature swings and sudden storms can impact camping plans. A visitor to Jasper Point recalls, "We suddenly had lightning all around us, followed by the sky dumping rain the next morning for hours practically creating a river. Then as soon as it was done it dried up basically like nothing happened. Be prepared for all weather."
Tips for camping with families
Bring water supplies: No potable water exists at most rustic Ochoco National Forest campsites. A camper at Steelhead Falls Trailhead Campground advises, "There is no water nearby. Closest place we found was Smith Rock day use area. Pay the day use fee and fill water jugs there."
Consider campsite sun exposure: Without natural shade, summer camping requires additional cooling strategies. "It's pretty close to the main road (26) on a pretty good gravel road. The site can accommodate a pretty big rig or trailer, although there's really only one fairly level area," notes a visitor to Gable Creek Road Dispersed Camping.
Plan for bathroom needs: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. At Priest Hole, a camper observed, "Each campsite had recently been upgraded with heavy duty Pilot Rock fire pits, fresh gravel, restrooms were clean. These upgrades were done over the past several years according to BLM Prineville staff."
Tips from RVers
Turn-around space limitations: Some roads narrow without warning. For Little Hay Creek Road Dispersed, a reviewer driving a 26-foot Class C notes, "There are many spots down the road once you pass the bridge here, but the roads were too pot holed and rough for us."
Level parking spots: At Painted Hills South Camp, larger rigs can find suitable spaces. "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. Each with fire pits and could fit a 30' rig."
Consider entry points carefully: Signage can be confusing for GPS directions to dispersed camping. "If you are coming from the west on 26, don't follow the GPS. That will want you to turn left onto a private drive. Keep heading east until you get to Burnt Ranch Road," advises an RVer at Painted Hills South Camp.
