The Fremont-Winema National Forest surrounds Plush, Oregon, offering camping options at elevations between 4,500 and 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during the day, with sudden weather changes possible in this high desert region. Free primitive sites are common throughout the area, with limited or no amenities beyond basic vault toilets.
What to do
Wildlife viewing trails: Mud Creek Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the adjacent Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. "Close to Hart Mtn Antelope Refuge. Would camp here again," notes Ariel & John W. about Mud Creek Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Seasonal streams and nearby lakes offer fishing when water levels permit. "There is a trailhead a mile up the road with parking. There are vault toilets and space for both tent and RV camping," explains Kelly N. about their stay at Fremont National Forest Mud Creek Forest Camp.
Hiking exploration: Multiple unmarked trails extend from campgrounds into surrounding forest areas. "We had the place to ourselves till our friends showed up for the weekend," reports Tom G. about the spacious and quiet setting at Mud Creek Campground.
What campers like
Private sites: The distance between camping spots provides solitude and quiet experiences. "Beautiful, large, private & free," writes Ariel & John W., adding that Mud Creek has "large private sites with fire rings and ginormous picnic tables plus vault toilets."
Uncrowded atmosphere: Even during peak season, these campgrounds rarely fill completely. "This campground has a vault toilet, a water pump, and a brown water dump site. It has 7 back in camping spots, and there is fishing nearby," describes Edna S. about Fremont National Forest Mud Creek Forest Camp.
Free camping: No fees are required at these primitive Forest Service sites. "This is a USFS campground in the Fremont Winema NF. No hookups but large private sites with fire rings and ginormous picnic tables plus vault toilets," confirms a camper from their October stay.
What you should know
Seasonal mosquito problems: Insects can be overwhelming during certain periods. "It's a nice spot for a night but plan to stay inside the entire time... If you dare to go outside you'll be eaten alive spray or not I tried," warns Mike W. about his experience at Mud Creek Campground.
Primitive facilities: Expect basic accommodations with seasonal limitations. "Typically either pine needle floor or 3 ft tall grass. Not maintained well. Picknick benches, fire rings, pot bathroom and manual water pump for water," explains Nicolaus N.
Wildlife concerns: Various animals frequent the camping areas. "Be on the look out for rattlesnakes, ticks, and cows out here," advises Kelly N. about the open range conditions near campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Communication planning: No cellular service exists in the area. "If you need phone or internet service this site is not for you," warns Edna S. about the complete disconnection from communication networks.
Water availability: The manual pump only operates during summer months. "During August there was no creek nor lake here. Other times of the year it looks to flood," notes Nicolaus N. about seasonal water conditions at Mud Creek.
Activity preparation: Limited on-site activities require bringing entertainment options. "There is no cell service out there, but many hiking trails and peace and quiet if that is what you are searching for," suggests a camper about the simple recreational options available.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle size limitations: The access roads and campsite clearance restrict larger RVs. "I'm towing a 30 foot TT and my roof was touching the tree branches on the way in. I would not recommend a 5th wheel or anything longer. It's tight," cautions Mike W. about the potential damage from overhanging branches.
Site selection for trailers: Back-in sites accommodate smaller trailers best. "I would suggest smaller trailers and RVs or tent camping," recommends Edna S. based on the limited turning radius and site dimensions at Fremont National Forest campgrounds.
Road conditions: Forest roads remain passable for most vehicles despite being unpaved. "Easy to find. Road is well maintained. Paved roadway," notes a reviewer about the access route to Mud Creek despite its remote location.
