Dispersed camping options near Alder Springs, Oregon span across Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest lands between 2,500-3,500 feet elevation. The region experiences significant temperature swings with daytime summer highs often exceeding 90°F while dropping to the 40s at night. Most rustic sites in this area sit on rocky, sage-covered terrain with limited natural shade and consistent wind exposure.
What to do
Waterfall viewing: Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground offers an easy half-mile hike to the falls. "Half mile easy hike to the waterfall but the trail keeps going another Half-ish mile for a slightly longer walk. Lots of fishermen and folks walking the trail in the morning," notes Anna P.
Night sky observation: Central Oregon's clear skies and limited light pollution create ideal stargazing conditions. At Crooked River National Grasslands, campers report "Decent stargazing" according to Jacob D., while Kelly H. mentions, "We were rewarded with a lovely sunset over the Cascade mountains the night before."
Riverside relaxation: The Deschutes River provides opportunities for swimming during summer months. At Steelhead Falls, "You can fish and jump off the rocks into the water," according to Braden M., making it a popular spot for cooling off when temperatures rise.
What campers like
Sunrise/sunset vistas: Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping offers panoramic views that campers consistently praise. "So much wife open space. We were the only campers here last night. So quiet that you can hear a pin drop. Oh, the 360 views are fantastic!" reports Mary B.
Quick access from highways: Many sites offer convenient overnight stops for travelers. "Super easy to find and nobody around. Easy to jump back on the hwy in the morning," writes Rachele V. about Crooked River National Grasslands, while Epiphany C. notes Deschutes River Overlook "was large and flat, perfect for a night camping in our van."
Solitude and quiet: Terrebonne East Camp Dispersed provides isolation despite its proximity to town. "Had a great night of solitude and stargazing here! Didn't see anyone else while I was here at the end of the holiday weekend," reports maru Y.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Many sites require careful navigation. The road to Cove Palisades Lookout Dispersed "becomes very rough" past the gate. "Do not pass the gate if your vehicle doesn't have 4WD," warns Cassidy E., adding it "took about 30 mins to get down to site—the road is about 1/2 mile long."
Limited facilities: Most rustic camping near Alder Springs provides no amenities. "It's all free dispersed camping so there is no development besides the dirt road," explains Jacob D. about Crooked River National Grasslands, while Steelhead Falls has only "a vault toilet" according to Isabella M.
Weather exposure: Without substantial tree cover, sites experience significant wind. Sarah J. notes sites at Deschutes River Overlook had "Very windy in the tent," while Jules S. at Terrebonne East adds, "Open skies for solar/starlink" highlighting the lack of overhead coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with toilets: For families with young children, Skull Hollow Dispersed offers basic facilities. "The campground has public, dry toilets near the entrance of the road. Some sites are shaded by juniper trees," notes Alex.
Bring adequate water supplies: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites in the area. When visiting Smith Rock, Marc M. suggests, "It was a great spot to stay while visiting the Smith Rock Valley and Redmond area," but reminds campers to pack all necessary water.
Create shade structures: Limited natural shade means you'll need to bring your own. Aaron from Steelhead Falls recommends, "Things to consider bringing for comfort: Shade. A canopy or whatever is reasonable for your group."
Tips from RVers
Watch for size restrictions: NF970 - Brassuer's Butte and similar forest roads have tight clearances. "Once you turn off NF-1270 the road is real tight. Hopefully, you don't mind pin stripes," warns GianLuc B.
Check road conditions before committing: Many dispersed camping access roads deteriorate after wet weather. At Terrebonne East, maru Y. reports, "The location marked shows where the turnoff onto the dirt road is, and I navigated well in a low-clearance subaru."
Look for established pullouts: At Cyrus Horse Camp, suitable spaces exist despite rough access. "Great secluded dispersed camping. It was obviously meant for folks with horses, but I was the only one there, so there were no horses in sight," explains Kelda C., adding the road involves "about 5 miles of bumpy, windy dirt roads."
