Dispersed camping near Paisley, Oregon creates opportunities for remote outdoor experiences throughout the Fremont National Forest, where elevations range from 4,700 to over 7,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature swings, with summer highs often exceeding 90°F while nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in July. Most forest roads accessing camping areas require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after spring thaw when washouts are common.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Summer Lake Hot Springs offers exceptional night sky viewing due to its Dark Sky sanctuary designation. "This is a Dark Sky sanctuary - so many stars. Caveats: bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley," notes one camper at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Hot springs soaking: Relax in natural mineral pools with both indoor and outdoor options. A visitor mentioned, "The hot springs were WONDERFUL, with both indoor (bathhouse) and outdoor pools. If I recall, clothing optional after 9pm."
Fishing access: Multiple campsites near Paisley provide direct river access for fishing. At Happy Camp, one camper noted, "Great campground right on Dairy Creek. Only 9 first come, first serve sites and several have old log lean to covers over the tables. Site at the far back to the right is far and away the best with its own beach on the river."
Wildlife observation: The wetland areas around campgrounds support diverse wildlife viewing. "Lots of beaver activity nearby and could hear them thumping in the evening," reported a visitor to Happy Camp.
What campers like
Peaceful remoteness: Campsites around Paisley offer quiet settings away from urban noise. At Marster Spring Campground, a camper shared, "For a small campground, which could only accommodate small RV's and tenters, this campground has everything you might need. Along the banks of Sage Hen Creek, this intimate campground offers well-spaced out sites."
Clean facilities: Despite the rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain good standards. According to a visitor, "The two vault toilets were very clean and well stocked. The campground has trash, a returnables bin and drinking water."
Scenic diversity: The landscape offers varied terrain from volcanic features to river valleys. At Lake Abert US 395 South Pullout, a camper noted, "We found refuge for the night off one of the little pullouts and set up camp right by the water. Highway was a little noisy but nothing too bad as it was quiet in the middle of the night. Sunset was perfect. We saw a Coyote on the hill leading to the scarp."
Warm mineral pools: The hot springs provide year-round comfort in an otherwise harsh climate. "Clean campground with amazing views from the bathhouse. Full hookups on level pads and cabins if you left your rv at home," reported a visitor to Summer Lake Hot Springs.
What you should know
Limited services: Pack supplies before arriving at campgrounds near Paisley. "Bring food and water, as there are limited (and expensive) groceries in nearby Paisley. The water is hard enough to stand on therefore bring your own," advised a camper at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Fire impacts: Several campgrounds show evidence of past wildfires. A visitor to Fremont National Forest Rock Creek Forest Camp reported, "There are tables and a couple of fire rings. Rustic camping possible on the creek."
Road conditions: Forest Service roads require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Bald Butte Lookout advised, "Strongly advise 4x4 to get up there, stayed outside the hut and surprisingly a lot of flys. Perfect star gazing spot."
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing and proper gear. "Hint. Take a warm, fluffy robe and good sandals for your walk to and from the soaking pools," suggested a visitor to Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Splash-friendly options: Some locations offer water play for children. A camper noted, "The main pool area was a large pool like area with a barn like covering. This pool was not hot at all and the amount of children splashing and playing did not make it very relaxing."
Site selection strategy: Choose areas with natural shade and play spaces. At Oregon Outback RV Park, a visitor shared, "We loved the big shade trees and green grass at our group's 3 sites. Plenty of room for our big RV's in the easy pull-through sites."
Group camping possibilities: Several locations accommodate family reunions. "The owners went above and beyond by reserving the entire park exclusively for our family, creating a private and intimate setting that made our reunion truly special," reported a family that stayed at Oregon Outback RV Park.
Accessible wildlife viewing: Introduce children to nature observation. "We wanted to visit the Oregon Dark Sky Sanctuary and found this incredible RV park! It's in a beautiful area!" noted a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites exist in the area. "Full hookups on level pads and cabins if you left your rv at home," reported an RVer at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies widely by location. "They have Starlink so we even had WiFi!" noted a visitor to Oregon Outback RV Park.
Dump station access: Plan waste management accordingly. Another RVer mentioned, "Showers onsite, dump for a fee. Great off-leash area for my dog."
Wind protection: Position RVs strategically to minimize wind exposure. "It can get very windy here. A totally calm day is rare," advised a camper at Summer Lake Hot Springs.
