Best Dispersed Camping near Pendleton, OR

Looking for dispersed camping near Pendleton? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Pendleton, including photos, reviews, and tips. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pendleton, OR (5)

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Showing results 1-5 of 5 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Pendleton

12 Reviews of 5 Pendleton Campgrounds


  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Jul. 11, 2024

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Well maintained roads

    Sites are far apart but some lack privacy. I saw Lots of elk and turkeys(?) and a rattlesnake. Outside of the lack of privacy there are some people who it appears that they live there(I a have no issues with that) my issue is the drive up and down the road multiple multiple time a day at high rates of speed leaving dust flying. When I was out walking I walked past one of their campsites on accident I didn’t get close and they started firing a gun in the air. I slept in my car that night and left the next morning. Also trash is an issue as well as people using the bathroom right on the ground and leaving used baby wipes everywhere. So watch out for human waste if you use a tent.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Easy Nature

    Many options for private pull-offs once you drive past established NF campgrounds—likely tough to do without high clearance and/or 4WD when wet. Only “traffic” was the occasional ATV/OHV. Tons of great hiking around.

  • Jodie E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Apr. 2, 2024

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Great spot for overnight.

    We just needed a quick tent soot on a monday night on the way to moab. better than expected. bit muddy. some shells. but lots of space. drove in to about 45.35967, -118.30846

  • Hayley M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Mar. 9, 2024

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Good Quick Overnight Spot in the Off Season

    Stayed one night on my way to Seattle. I drove up the road some and found it pretty passable in my van, although most of the sites were too muddy and I was worried about getting stuck. Camped in the first spots behind the Spring Creek Info sign and had good phone service (verizon) and a uneventful night. But area had a ton of broken glass, nails and shotgun shells and a decent amount of litter. Don't know how rowdy it gets in the warmer months but it might be wise to skip this place or camp further up the road at the campground then, especially if you're a solo female.

  • Michael W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed
    Jul. 4, 2023

    Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed

    Hasty overnight

    Easy and vacant find for a last minute change to our route. Primitive dispersed campsites with rock fire rings right off the highway. Down side is it's a little too noisy for my taste. Would have driven further down into the woods if I had more time to set up as we got here late. All in all its an easy find just off the highway.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from McDougall Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 10, 2022

    McDougall Dispersed Camping

    Over grown and no place to park without working about a grass fire

    Drove to the location based on GPS. It was over grown and not well cleared. I decide to go to the NP campground. Glad I did.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from McDougall Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 30, 2021

    McDougall Dispersed Camping

    Many nice places to camp, lots of trash

    I was disappointed when I was checking out this area for camping (June 27th) I didn't get any pictures, but there was trash everywhere. Every time we found a good spot, full of poopy toilet paper, litter, beer cans, cigarette butts ect. It was overall disappointing and we decided to go elsewhere instead 😔

  • Chris
    Camper-submitted photo from McDougall Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2021

    McDougall Dispersed Camping

    McDougall camping

    Primitive location, nothing there, but maybe a fire ring and a spot to park your vehicle. Go about 2 miles on the dirt road and watch out for the dirt pot holes. At my site, you could fit 2 vehicles comfortably, but 3 is a little crowded. Flying insects during the day. There are many so take appropriate action. Mostly flies and a couple different types of bees. By sunset, the insects went to sleep.

  • lauren C.
    Camper-submitted photo from McDougall Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 20, 2021

    McDougall Dispersed Camping

    Cute place in the woods

    Either these are not the correct coordinates, or the trail has been overgrown. We’re car camping here for one night and it’s a lovely spot! Could not find the trail and just pulled off to camp on the side of the road. Dispersed & free & very wooded area!

  • Brandon K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from McDougall Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 13, 2020

    McDougall Dispersed Camping

    McDougall Mushroom Wonderland

    McDougall is a small mountain community located in the blue mountains above Weston, Oregon. There is a small neighborhood consisting of permanent RVs, cabins and shanties. There are a number of mountain man type locals that call this area home.

    Just past the village you get into the woodland where the Morels are plentiful. This is an ideal location to go mushrooming. The camping is unrestricted, just be respectful and careful. This is not RV camping, but tent and bag only.

    Tall pines and firs shade the eastern Oregon forest floor provided a nice region to explore, continuing up the forest road you’ll reach a large meadow the rolls for miles downhill into the valley. The views here are breathtaking - this is an amazing location to bring your family.

    You’ll see many types of wildlife here are hundreds of varieties of meadow wildflowers.

    Spend a few days in the blues and shake off those blues.


Drive Time


Guide to Pendleton

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pendleton, Oregon, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Scenic Wildlife Encounters for Dispersed Campers

  • At Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed, visitors often spot elk and other wildlife, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts.
  • The area is known for its spacious sites, allowing campers to enjoy the natural surroundings while keeping a respectful distance from others.
  • Be prepared for some unexpected encounters, as one reviewer noted a rattlesnake sighting, highlighting the area's diverse wildlife.

Hiking Adventures While Free Camping Near Pendleton

  • The McDougall Dispersed Camping area offers numerous hiking opportunities, with trails leading through beautiful wooded landscapes.
  • Campers can explore the nearby mountains, where the terrain is ideal for both casual walks and more challenging hikes.
  • The region is also known for its mushroom foraging, particularly for Morels, making it a unique spot for those interested in foraging while enjoying the great outdoors.

Peaceful Retreats for Dispersed Campers

  • For a quiet escape, consider North Elgin Dispersed Camp, which provides a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle.
  • This location is recommended for those with 4x4 vehicles, as the access can be challenging, ensuring a more secluded experience.
  • Campers should note that while the area is peaceful, it lacks nearby water sources, so it's essential to come prepared with enough supplies.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pendleton, OR?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pendleton, OR is Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed with a 4.2-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pendleton, OR?

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Pendleton, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.