Best Dispersed Camping in Oregon

With a strong reputation for adventures in nature, Oregon sits high on many hikers’ and campers’ outdoor bucket lists. And with over 50 percent of state land declared public, camping in Oregon is literally everywhere. To help you get started, here’s some of the best spots to pitch a tent and catch a view!

While the Cascades mountain range used to be a major obstacle for settlers riding the Oregon trail, it has now become an outdoor adventurer’s playground. Mt. Hood, the fourth highest peak in the Cascades and just two hours outside of Portland, is home the most popular park for campers looking for a taste of Oregon’s natural diversity. Aside from the snowy mountain top, the old-growth forests and flowing water features make this a prime location for camping in Oregon. 

Lake lovers might appreciate the serene views of the Wy’east at campsites around Trillium Lake. Waking up to the fog that drifts on the lake and Mt. Hood standing tall behind it is a picture-perfect moment every camper dreams of. Rent yourself a boat, canoe or kayak and spend the day gliding around the 63-acre lake or angling for local trout.

If you’d like to ditch some of the crowds around Mt. Hood while also getting a hike in, make your way through a canopy of old-growth forest on the Old Salmon River Trail. The backwoods sites along the trail offer a natural escape to some of the best camping in Oregon.

If you’re looking for a more active natural beauty, venture about three hours south from Mt. Hood to Silver Falls State Park outside of Salem. People call it the “crown jewel” of the Oregon State Parks system, and once you visit, you know why. The scenic waterfall hike offers a 360-degree view of a 178-foot cascade (where else can you hike behind a waterfall?) With sites a hike away from the falls, anyone looking for camping in Oregon can’t miss this spot. Throughout your exploration around Oregon, you can find all the best campsites with The Dyrt.

Best Dispersed Sites in Oregon (210)

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Guide to Oregon

Oregon offers a wealth of opportunities for dispersed camping, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of amenities, these spots are perfect for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

Top Activities While Free Camping in Oregon

  • Enjoy hiking and breathtaking views at Mount Thielsen Wilderness, where you can explore numerous trails and enjoy the serene environment.
  • Experience the beauty of the Painted Hills while camping at Painted Hills Dispersed, which offers easy access to scenic trails and unique geological formations.
  • Take a short drive to Crater Lake from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site for a day of exploration and stunning views of one of the deepest lakes in the U.S.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out These Unique Spots

  • For a peaceful retreat, South Lake provides a quiet atmosphere with picnic tables and access to beautiful lakeside views.
  • If you're looking for a family-friendly environment, Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground offers a great base for hiking and enjoying the nearby river.
  • Experience the rugged beauty of the Oregon Badlands at Oregon Badlands Dispersed, where you can find solitude and expansive views of the desert landscape.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping in Oregon