Top Free Dispersed Camping near Welches, OR

Want to go dispersed camping near Welches? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Welches. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Welches's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Welches, OR (34)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Mirror Lake

    1. Mirror Lake

    7 Reviews
    46 Photos
    247 Saves

    Mirror Lake offers a few sites for overnight camping. The hike to the lake is one of the most popular hikes on Mt Hood. While the vast majority of hikers only visit during the day, a few primitive sites are located just above the lake. When I refer to primitive sites, that is what they are. There are no facilities here. No picnic tables, and no toilets. A few fire pits have been fashioned out of rock and you may also find a makeshift bench. But for some this is an ideal camping experience. By day Mirror lake can get crowded. It is surrounded on three sides by mountains and it can get loud here. But at night it is as peaceful as you could ever want. Views of Mt Hood and Tom Dick and Harry Mountain are all outstanding.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonney Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonney Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonney Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonney Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonney Meadows
    Camper-submitted photo from Bonney Meadows

    2. Bonney Meadows

    6 Reviews
    9 Photos
    309 Saves

    A small, quiet campground with corrals, Bonney Meadows is adjacent to beautiful meadows lined with single track used by hikers, bikers and horseback riders. Campers can wake up and go for a stroll along Bonney Meadows Trail #471. Located on a high ridge near a lush meadow.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

    $10 / night

    • No image available

      3. Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

      3 Reviews
      124 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

      4. NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

      3 Reviews
      12 Photos
      166 Saves

      Dispersed camping, or camping outside of designated campgrounds, can be a great way to experience the forest- as long as everyone follows some rules and guidelines to protect forest wildlife, plants, water quality, and the health of others.

      Dispersed camping is not for everyone- and that's fine as the Mt. Hood National Forest has over 70 designated campgrounds. Camping outside of campgrounds means no toilets, no drinking water, no metal fire rings, and no trash service. You are responsible for leaving the site cleaner than you found it and learning the skills of Leave No Trace camping before you head out.

      Basic Rules & Guidance Some areas are closed to dispersed camping, such as within developed recreation sites, along certain roads, and particularly sensitive areas. Contact your local Ranger District for more information. You may camp on the forest for only 14 consecutive days. Please choose an existing site rather than create a new campsite. Camp at least 100 ft. away from streams, rivers, and lakes. If you didn't bring firewood and intend to build a campfire only collect already down wood. If your campfire is too hot to touch with bare hands- it's too hot for you to leave! Bring plenty of water and a shovel to help you put out your fire. Check in advance if there are any fire restrictions in effect. Treat or filter any stream water you collect for drinking, or bring water from home. Your group must be under 75 people. If it larger you must obtain a (usually free) permit in advance from the local Ranger District. When Nature Calls Be prepared for your own sanitation! To dispose of feces, dig a hole 6” deep at least 100 feet away from any water source. When you're done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Animals might eat it, it could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it, and plus it's just gross. Leave No Trace Pack out everything you brought with you! Dispose of your garbage properly off the forest. Leave No Trace is a framework minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. They apply to virtually every recreational activity and help increase your safety and enjoyment of the forest. Learn more about the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. The Mt. Hood National Forest belongs to all Americans- including those who will come long after us. Do your part to keep the forest clean every time you visit.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Trillium Sno-Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Trillium Sno-Park

      5. Trillium Sno-Park

      3 Reviews
      2 Photos
      49 Saves

      Sno Park permit required November 1 - April 30.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • Tents
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Cove Trailhead
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Cove Trailhead
      Camper-submitted photo from Elk Cove Trailhead
      Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG
      Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG
      Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG
      Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG
      Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG
      Camper-submitted photo from Kevin's Mt Hood OG

      7. Kevin's Mt Hood OG

      2 Reviews
      12 Photos
      160 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • No image available

        8. Zigzag River Camp

        1 Review
        34 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • Tents
        • Group
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
        Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
        Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
        Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
        Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
        Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
        Camper-submitted photo from Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside
      Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Welches

      59 Reviews of 34 Welches Campgrounds


      • Kenny L.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
        Oct. 23, 2024

        NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

        Great Spot!

        Such an awesome find! The first campsite is small and perfect for a couple tents. The second site could easily fit 3 or 4 tents and has plenty of additional space for parking, kitchen set-up, etc… both sites also have really nice fire pits. Also don’t let the Trillium Lake camp hosts scare you. They told us the gravel road to access the sites was “rough as hell” and were completely wrong. Nothing more than a few potholes. Any vehicle could make the trek.

      • Jeffrey P.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed
        Aug. 31, 2024

        Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

        Easy Get Away

        A couple spots right off the road for car camping or small campers. There was an “official” camp sight more near the Dry Creek Trail (has a bathroom). We opted to walk south along the river to try and find a space. Ended up crossing the river where there are a couple more hidden spots. We found out later that there is a trail right before you cross Trapper Creek that leads you to the spot we were at. There were a few people out and you can sometimes hear cars but overall it was an easy stay with some nice views. The river drowns out most the noise. Would definitely come back here

      • Todd J.
        Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
        Aug. 6, 2024

        Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532

        Sweet spot not far from White River East

        This spot is pretty nice, feels very secluded despite White River being close enough to use the restroom if you want. Access to a stream down the hill if you need to filter water, and it sounds very pleasant at night. Lovely trees, plenty of room for a couple of small tents among the trees, plus a ton more out on the gravel. Established fire pit, for the 2-3 days a year that's legal to use. 

        We got in at 5pm on a Friday in summer; I think four more cars came down to see if the spot was free before 9pm.

      • MThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping
        Jul. 29, 2024

        Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

        Trail of Turds…

        The site was great honestly, nice flat pads for tents, plenty of room for a trailer if you’re brave enough to bring it down about 5 miles of rough rough gravel road. For being such a remote location it was very busy this weekend lots of cars, foot traffic, and fishermen. It’s beautiful u can’t blame anyone for wanting to come but i was surprised by the volume. Maybe try a weekday for less crowds.

        We had a private trail (about a country block in length), we quickly realized it was a “shitty” trail, a trail of Turds😭😭💩🧻

        Other then that water and surrounding scenery was breath taking..

      • tom P.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake dispersed camping
        Jul. 24, 2024

        Clear Lake dispersed camping

        Pretty good

        There's lots of other pull outs on the drive into this spot which are nicer. The road is in bad shape so v slow and not really suitable for cars. Quiet and private. Some trash around

      • Jeremy P.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF
        Jul. 15, 2024

        Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

        Fanastic sunset views of Mount Hood

        There's a handful of dispersed campsites throughout NF44 and various side roads. I had several options to choose from and never saw another person. This was on a Thursday afternoon.

      • Kennedy F.
        Camper-submitted photo from McNeil Point Dispersed Camping
        Jul. 15, 2024

        McNeil Point Dispersed Camping

        Can’t beat the views at McNeil point

        Ended up backpacking up here on a whim right before I headed back to Utah. I started at the Top Spur trailhead and hiked the clockwise route up to McNeil (a little longer but saved be the scramble through rocks). On my way I ended up going to Muddy Fork which added about 4 miles to my overall trek up. I ended up camping at the point rather than further down, which was a challenge to carry my pack up, but so worth it in my opinion. It’s dispersed camping so solitude is easily reachable considering not too many people stay the night. This was easily one of the top 5 most amazing sunsets I’ve ever seen. The mountain range is unbeatable and waking up to Mt. Hood as your veiw is incredible. It’s a challenge with the best reward.

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake dispersed camping
        Jul. 1, 2024

        Clear Lake dispersed camping

        Beautiful area ruined by humans.

        I stopped for the night while traveling and found a huge dispersed camping area right off the road. Unfortunately, some disgusting, disrespectful, immature family left a ton of garbage and feces all over the site. There were three sites with piles of feces and toilet paper right on the camp site. Not 100 feet away, not buried. It was disgusting. This makes me lose faith in humans.

      • Ashlyn C.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from FR-604 Dispersed Site
        Jul. 1, 2024

        FR-604 Dispersed Site

        Private and spacious campsite!

        The campsite was nice, right off the road but there wasn’t an absurd amount of traffic to where it bothered me but you will hear the cars on the road while you sleep if you’re in a tent. If you follow the trail by foot in the back of the forest for maybe 10 minutes you will find a beautiful swimming hole and small waterfalls! I recommend blocking the entrance with your vehicles to block noise and people trying to drive in to the campsite.

      • Brooks H.
        Camper-submitted photo from NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site
        Jun. 23, 2024

        NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site

        Many Sites Available of Variety

        Plenty of spots available. At the bottom of road coming from Carson often crowded, but if you go further you are bound to find something. Beautiful trees and foliage with obvious sites on side of road.

      • Jeffrey P.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping
        Jun. 22, 2024

        Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

        Pretty good!

        Road got a little bumpy getting out here but once we found a spot right near the riverbank, you felt like you were deep in it. Saw a few people on the way out. Really relaxing next to the sound of the river. Would definitely recommend sleeping mats if you’re in a tent as the grounds rather hard. The spot we went didn’t really have anywhere for hammocks but saw a couple on the way out. “Spaces” were far enough apart that you couldn’t even tell anyone else was out there. Wood was kinda sparse in the spot we were in too but you’re close enough to your car that you can just bring some. Would definitely recommend for a quick and convenient spot.

      • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF
        Jun. 21, 2024

        Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

        Great/Quiet Spot

        Took a while to discover this spot, but clearly seems well used for dispersed camping. I parked nearest the access road, as my van would have hit trees to go a little further in. For smaller vehicles (e.g. roof top tents), you can get in a little further and off the access road. There was actually someone else back there, and we can't hear nor see each other.

      • Shelby S.
        Camper-submitted photo from NF-3511 @ Mt Hood
        Jun. 15, 2024

        NF-3511 @ Mt Hood

        Great views on the drive up

        While you can't see the mountain from the site itself.There's a great turnaround point and views on the way up and down! Past a few vans pulled over on the way up, But no one drove past me the entire night

      • Susannah H.
        Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
        Jun. 8, 2024

        White River West Sno-Park

        Great view and pit toilets

        Big paved lot with really well managed pit toilets. Short walk takes you to the White River, which was more of a creek when we were there, and a breathtaking view of Mt. Hood.

      • Vanessa T.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
        Jun. 8, 2024

        Panther Creek Creekside Camp

        Best spot ever!

        I was headed down 14 looking for somewhere to camp between the Dalles and camas. I got stuck in road construction and decided to open up the dyrt app. I clicked on one that looked closish lol I decided to take the chance and go check it out. Man I'm glad I did This is one of the best dispersed camp sites I've ever stayed at!!

      • M
        Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
        May. 25, 2024

        White River West Sno-Park

        Great spot to stay.

        We did not know what to expect when we reached this site. It is just a large parking area, we found a pretty level place for our travel trailer. Only 2 other trailers and 1 tent camper during the day. A lot of van and car campers the latter the day got. Good spot to stay when checking out the area. The view out our door was amazing, when the sun was out. We stayed 5 nights, had all types of weather on our stay, from lots of rain to sun and also snow. Would stay here again if in the area. Free to stay from May 1 to October 31.

      • RThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Zigzag River Camp
        Feb. 14, 2024

        Zigzag River Camp

        Side of the road camping?

        These coordinates get you the Kiwanis camp, other than that I wouldn't say a great dispersant camping spot, area is nice though.

      • Kelly H.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
        Jan. 7, 2024

        White River West Sno-Park

        So easy! Great view!

        We thought we'd try this out with some friends.  Tucked our trailers up in the far corner with a commanding view of Mt. Hood!  Well, not much view the first smokey day, but it cleared up nicely after a wind shift the following day.  So much room it never felt crowded with other folks coming and going.

        Paved, Pit toilets, garbage can.

        Walking and hiking from here.  Road noice not bad!  We actually spent 3 nights and explored the area around Mt. Hood.  

        Just a couple hours from home, an easy get away.

      • Amber H.
        Camper-submitted photo from NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping
        Sep. 19, 2023

        NF2656 - Mt. Hood Dispersed Camping

        Dispersed campsite above Trillium Lake.

        I would just like to thank whomever originally uploaded this site! We used it this weekend and it was perfect for us!! We will definitely be using it again next summer! Best camping trip of the season!



      Guide to Welches

      Camping near Welches, Oregon, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

      What to do:

      • Hiking: There are great trails around the area. For example, at Trillium Lake, one reviewer mentioned, "Great 2 mile hiking loop around the lake. Beautiful view of Mt Hood." This makes it a perfect spot for a family hike.
      • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Lost Lake Resort And Campground, offer fishing and boat rentals. A visitor shared, "The lake is fun for fishing and renting a little boat or canoe to get onto the water."
      • Wildlife Watching: At Milo McIver State Park, you can see a variety of wildlife. One camper noted, "We saw so many elk, water birds, and at least 5 bald eagles."

      What campers like:

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Ainsworth State Park Campground stated, "Hot showers. Nice amount of room around each site."
      • Privacy: Many campgrounds provide a sense of seclusion. A visitor at Trillium Lake mentioned, "Clean sights with good privacy between camp spots."
      • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight helpful staff. At Mt Hood Village Resort, one guest said, "Staff was very nice and helpful."

      What you should know:

      • Accessibility Issues: Some campgrounds may not be suitable for everyone. A review for Lost Lake Resort And Campground pointed out, "This location is far from being accessible for handicapped visitors."
      • Noise Levels: Be prepared for potential noise from nearby trains or other campers. One camper at Cascade Locks KOA noted, "The train was very loud (especially at night)."
      • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Clear Lake Campground, have basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "It has limited services, potable water, garbage and pit toilets."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places that offer fun for kids. At Lost Lake Resort And Campground, one reviewer said, "There’s a store, rental boats, etc."
      • Plan for Crowds: Some spots can get busy, especially during weekends. A camper at Trillium Lake mentioned, "It can be super crowded, but this place is a gem."
      • Pack Essentials: Bring your own supplies, as some campgrounds may not have markets. A visitor at Milo McIver State Park noted, "No laundry and there’s a sump station."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One reviewer at Mt Hood Village Resort mentioned, "Many spaces are level dirt parking."
      • Look for Full Hookups: If you want more comfort, choose campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Cascade Locks KOA said, "Nice sized area for our trailer with full hook-ups."
      • Be Prepared for Weather: Oregon can be unpredictable. A visitor at Barton County Park Campground advised, "It’s great for groups since the spaces are so close together."

      Camping near Welches, Oregon, has something for everyone. Whether you're with family or friends, there's plenty to enjoy in the great outdoors!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Welches, OR?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Welches, OR is Mirror Lake with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Welches, OR?

        TheDyrt.com has all 34 dispersed camping locations near Welches, OR, with real photos and reviews from campers.