Tent camping near Paisley, Oregon encompasses several rustic forest camps within the Fremont National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 feet. The area receives limited annual precipitation, creating a high desert environment with juniper and ponderosa pine forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during the day but can drop below 40°F at night, requiring campers to pack appropriate clothing layers regardless of season.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Dairy Creek and nearby streams provide seasonal fishing opportunities for rainbow trout. At Corral Creek, one camper noted, "I stayed here 1 night. There was one other trailer there in the campground that I neither saw nor heard anyone the entire time. Pretty nice spot, I had a fire that night in the rain."
Wildlife observation: The forest camps offer opportunities to spot various wildlife species. At Happy Camp, a visitor mentioned, "Great campground right on Dairy Creek. Only 9 first come, first serve sites and several have old log lean to covers over the tables. Lots of beaver activity nearby and could hear them thumping in the evening."
Photography opportunities: The burned forest areas create stark contrasts for landscape photography. Near Rock Creek Forest Camp, a camper observed, "Massive fire two years ago devastated the area and left this campground in ruins."
What campers like
Natural water features: Creeks and springs provide both scenic beauty and practical resources. A visitor to Clear Spring Forest Camp shared, "The fresh water spring is not a 1/4 mile but just across the road where it has easy access through a pipe flowing into a small pool. Tons of flow and I found the water pure and clean."
Privacy and seclusion: The remote location means minimal crowds even during peak season. One Happy Camp visitor simply stated, "This areas pristine."
Riverside camping spots: Several sites offer the chance to camp directly adjacent to water. A Clear Spring Forest Camp visitor noted, "Lovely location with a couple spots to put your tent right next to Dairy Creek. The road gets very low use so not a bother."
What you should know
Fire damage impacts: Several campgrounds in the region have been affected by wildfires. A review for Rock Creek Forest Camp states, "There are tables and a couple of fire rings. Rustic camping possible on the creek."
Limited facilities: The best tent camping near Paisley, Oregon typically includes minimal amenities. At Deadhorse Lake, a visitor shared, "We really liked it, except for the dead forest. That made it kind of uncomfortable in the heat of summer. Brings tarps for shade."
Water availability varies: While some camps have natural water sources, treatment is recommended. Clear Spring Forest Camp has abundant spring water with a reviewer noting, "Description is accurate - one table, one fire ring and room for a couple of tents, but not much else."
Tips for camping with families
Shade considerations: Forest fires have affected tree cover in some areas. A Deadhorse Lake camper advised, "Brings tarps for shade."
Tent positioning: Choose sites strategically based on sun exposure and creek access. At Corral Creek, a visitor experienced, "Pretty nice spot, I had a fire that night in the rain, went to bed, never heard another person. Overall a nice spot, and it was free!"
Site selection timing: Popular spots fill quickly during summer weekends. At Happy Camp, a visitor recommended, "Site at the far back to the right is far and away the best with it's own beach on the river."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to most tent camping areas near Paisley require careful driving. Happy Camp has limited space but can accommodate small trailers and RVs.
Size limitations: Most forest camps cannot accommodate large recreational vehicles. Rock Creek Forest Camp offers "rustic camping possible on the creek" but with limited space for RVs.
Self-contained requirements: With minimal facilities, RVers must be prepared for primitive camping. A Corral Creek visitor mentioned, "There was one other trailer there in the campground that I neither saw nor heard anyone the entire time."
