Dispersed camping near Siuslaw National Forest offers primitive camping options throughout Oregon's Coast Range. The terrain features steep elevation changes between 500-2,000 feet with dense Douglas fir and western hemlock forests. Winter months bring significant rainfall averaging 60-80 inches annually, creating challenging driving conditions on forest roads from November through March.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Kentucky Falls Road provides access to multiple waterfall trails. "Birdsongs and gorgeous sunrise in the morning! Didn't feel completely content solo due to some of the characters I drove by on the way up, but all good... had a great night of sleep with lovely hiking and natural views all around," notes a visitor at BLM Kentucky Falls Road.
Forest exploration: The extensive road network offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and forest walks. According to one camper at Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping: "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!"
Creek wading: During summer months, small streams provide refreshing spots for cooling off. "The road follows a babbling creek which was amazing to sleep next to. There are no amenities, follow any postings about campfire restrictions," shares a camper about their experience in the area.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Most dispersed campsites offer significant privacy from other campers. "Very secluded but spacious sites. From the start of Marlow Creek Road to where I chose to camp was 8.5 miles. There are several forks in the road that you can follow to more campsites, but I opted to camp right off the main road. I was the only car out there," reports a visitor at Elliott State Forest Dispersed.
Minimal light pollution: The remote nature of these sites creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Unbelievable vista off paved and then maintained gravel road... It was awesome to car camp here. I only saw two others- one camper van going further in the forest where there were several other spots," describes a camper at Forest Road 55 Pulloff.
Easy coastal access: Many sites provide camping within 30-45 minutes of Oregon coast attractions. "We stayed for a night on our way down the coast. Nice and close to Bandon. No trouble accessing in our midsize suv," notes one reviewer about their experience.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads vary significantly in quality and may become impassable after rain. "The way Google took us to this spot was terrible. Instead of keeping us on the gravel road, it had us drive through an overgrown dirt path. Thank got we didn't get stuck! If you are going, stay on the clearly marked gravel road!" warns a visitor at Suislaw National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Vehicle requirements: Some roads require higher clearance vehicles, especially after traveling several miles in. "Excellent spot up 2 steep inclines. Some of the most beautiful views. Good fire ring. Do not attempt if wet," advises a camper.
Map preparation: Cell service is unreliable throughout the forest. "Needed a last minute to car camp that was close to the coast, found these dispersed sites online and figured I'd 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."
Winter access: Many forest roads become muddy or impassable from November through March due to heavy rainfall. "It was super damp and rainy while we were there so we were unable to start a fire. The road had quite a few pot holes but still pretty nice."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with adequate space for children away from steep drop-offs. "Only little pull offs that I found. Drove pretty deep into the forest and found a dead end spur. When back tracking the next morning I saw a few other campers camping close to where your GPS will take you," notes a visitor at Near Fawn Creek Campground (BLM).
Logging traffic: Be aware that some dispersed areas experience commercial logging traffic. "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."
Trailhead proximity: Consider camping near established trails for structured activities with children. "Great spot! Quiet and if you walk a little over through a trail you'll get an amazing view of the sunset," shares a camper at Kentucky Falls Road.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs under 25 feet. "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 RVer at Corn Spur Road BLM.
Site scouting: Arrive early in the day to assess potential sites before committing to narrow forest roads. "Just beware some of the side roads are a bit overgrown and can scratch up your car."
Pull-off selection: Look for established pull-offs with evidence of previous use. "There are several pull outs all along the way, with room for 2-3 cars, as well as full tents and chairs set up."
