Near Plush, Oregon, campers find a variety of pet-friendly camping options at elevations between 4,500-6,000 feet in Oregon's high desert region. Summer temperatures range from 85°F days to 45°F nights, while spring and fall bring more moderate conditions. The area's alkaline lakes, sagebrush flats, and juniper woodlands create a diverse environment for outdoor recreation with pets.
What to do
Sunstone hunting with dogs: At Oregon Sunstone Public Collection Area, pets can join as you search for Oregon's state gemstone. "Sunstones are everywhere but mostly small with the occasional large one. Be advised there is about 30 miles of dirt road to reach the site," notes William J. Remember to supervise pets carefully as one camper warns: "Bring extensive first-aid kits including snake bite kits."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Warner Valley wetlands provide excellent birdwatching with pets on leash. "The backdrop is the beautiful Hart Mountain area. Lots of wildlife here in the wetlands and meadows of the Warner Valley," shares Judy T. from Camp Hart Mountain. Keep pets leashed during dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.
Stargazing sessions: The remote location offers exceptional night sky viewing. "Night sky as dark as the mummy's tomb and quiet," reports a camper at Oregon Sunstone Collection Area. Many sites have open views perfect for astronomy with pets safely secured at your campsite during evening hours.
What campers like
Remote solitude: Many visitors appreciate the isolation of Lake Abert US 395 South Pullout for dispersed camping. "This BLM dispersed camping spot was easy to find, very quiet, dark at night to enjoy the dark skies and stargazing!" explains James G. The quietness makes it easier to manage pets without disturbing neighbors.
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites. At Mud Creek Campground, visitors find "large private sites with fire rings and ginormous picnic tables plus vault toilets." Another camper notes: "Typically either pine needle floor or 3 ft tall grass," providing comfortable terrain for pets.
Basic but functional facilities: Despite the remote location, campsites maintain necessary amenities. "Each site has a fire ring, picnic table and there are vault toilets. There is a central water spigot for potable water but large rocks prevent you from filling your tank unless you have a longer hose," explains a camper at Camp Hart Mountain.
What you should know
Weather extremes: Be prepared for significant temperature fluctuations and strong winds. "It can be very windy here so make sure to stake down your tent well so it doesn't blow away! (We saw this happen to one gent. Glad he had some gear in it to keep it from flying too far)," warns a camper at the sunstone collection area.
Insect situations: Camas Sno-Park offers an alternative to sites with severe bug issues. One camper at Mud Creek reports: "It's a nice spot for a night but plan to stay inside the entire time. When I pulled up people were leaving and told me it's infested with mosquitoes to the point they'd rather go into town and get a hotel."
Limited supplies: No services exist near most campgrounds. "Bring lots of water and everything you'll need for camping since the nearest town is about 25 miles away on rough dirt roads," advises a visitor to Oregon Sunstone Collection Area. Cell service is minimal or non-existent at most sites.
Tips for camping with families
Timing is critical: For the best pet-friendly camping experience with children, plan your arrival strategically. "This place does get busy so come early for a good spot. If you stay by the creek, expect mosquitos," warns Monica W. about Camp Hart Mountain. Early arrival ensures better site selection for family needs.
Plan alternative activities: The collection areas provide unique experiences for kids and pets. "Sunstones galore. Easy to pick up right at your camp site. If it wasn't for our kids being bored to tears we may still be there," mentions Richard B. at the sunstone area, suggesting families should plan multiple activities.
Consider private campgrounds: Oregon Outback RV Park offers more amenities for families with pets. "We recently had the pleasure of hosting our family reunion here... 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," shares Nancy M.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access requires careful planning, especially with trailers. "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," warns Mike W. about Mud Creek Campground.
Site accessibility: Larger rigs have limited options in the area. At the Oregon Sunstone Collection Area, one camper advises: "Bring at least one very good spare tire and preferably two, or a spare plus a can of fix-a-flat." The rough roads leading to most pet-friendly sites require high-clearance vehicles.
Limited hookups: Most sites are primitive. "We had the place to ourselves till our friends showed up for the weekend," notes Tom G. at Mud Creek Campground, which offers no hookups but more privacy than developed campgrounds. For those needing electric connections, Oregon Outback RV Park provides these amenities while remaining pet-friendly.
