Primitive camping opportunities surround Reedsport, Oregon, with several forest service roads leading to secluded sites in both the Siuslaw National Forest and Elliott State Forest. The region's coastal climate brings frequent rainfall, particularly from October through May, creating lush forest conditions. Most dispersed camping areas sit between 500-1,500 feet elevation, offering varying terrain from creek bottoms to ridgeline viewpoints.
What to do
Forest exploration: Siuslaw National Forest offers numerous hiking options through old-growth forests. "I drove back in a few miles and camped along the road, in some old growth forest. It was dark, and I mean truly dark in there when you shut off your lights off, and silent as a tomb. Huge uncut trees, bad ass country!" notes one camper at Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Water activities: Smith River Falls provides opportunities for swimming and fishing during summer months when water levels are appropriate. Many tent camping sites near Reedsport offer creek access, though visitors should check current conditions as seasonal changes affect water levels and quality.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Reedsport host diverse wildlife. One camper at Elliott State Forest Dispersed mentioned, "Beautiful view overlooking the mountains. Low traffic but rains a lot and we had a visitor come sniff around but quickly left."
What campers like
Creek-side locations: Many tent campers prefer sites along forest creeks for natural ambiance. "We found an awesome spot along Marlow Creek Road, about 4 miles into the forest (coming in from Allegeny). There are plenty of pull outs all along the way, with room for 2-3 cars, as well as full tents and chairs set up. The road follows a babbling creek which was amazing to sleep next to," reports a visitor to Elliott State Forest Dispersed.
Seclusion: Sites throughout the forests offer privacy not found at developed campgrounds. One camper at Nesika County Park shared, "This place was about empty... It's beautiful, right next to a river that is actually accessible to old farts like myself."
Cost efficiency: Most dispersed camping around Reedsport is free, making it attractive for budget-conscious campers. "The camping is clean and the surroundings are gorgeous. The camp host is super friendly and nice. Best rate on firewood. By the barrel. The river is beautiful," notes a Nesika County Park visitor.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping advised, "Excellent spot up 2 steep inclines. Some of the most beautiful views. Good fire ring. Do not attempt if wet."
Navigation challenges: Cell service is unreliable throughout the region. "Needed a last minute to car camp that was close to the coast, found these dispersed sites online and figured it try it out. There was surprisingly multiple spots that I had cell service (AT&T) so I was able to navigate myself around through a satellite map," reports one Elliott State Forest Dispersed camper.
Environmental concerns: Previous campers sometimes leave trash behind. "We stayed for a night on our way down the coast. Nice and close to Bandon. No trouble accessing in our midsize suv. It was muddy at the site, and unfortunately, those before us left a lot of trash. Did my best to clean up when was left behind," noted one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Be aware of potential hazards when tent camping near Reedsport with children. One camper noted about Elliott State Forest: "This is a logging forest, so we had huge logging trucks roll by in the morning - because of this, it may not be the best spot for kids or off leashed dogs. The trucks went by very quickly, stirring up a lot of dust."
Consider developed options: For families wanting basic amenities, Tyee - Sutherlin offers more established facilities. "Tyee campground is a nice get away close to home, there's fishing and bike riding. Very beautiful area," reports one visitor.
Weather preparation: The coastal influence brings frequent precipitation and fog to camping areas around Reedsport. Pack extra tarps, rain gear, and warm clothing even in summer months when cool overnight temperatures can occur.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Finding level spots for RVs requires careful scouting. "You have to drive some winding forest service roads to get to a spot then find one on or near the road but there's a couple good camp spots," advises a visitor to Elliott State Forest Dispersed.
Access limitations: Some forest roads have tight turns and steep sections that challenge larger vehicles. "Very Steep. We stayed all day but decided not to stay a night. Our day stay was due to the road being too steep for my 1993 truck camper. It got too hot and blew the transmission, made a nice long trail in the steep road," cautions an Elliott State Forest camper.
Turnaround planning: When tent camping near Reedsport with an RV, scout potential turnaround points before committing to narrow forest roads, as backing long distances on single-lane routes can be extremely difficult.
