Top Free Dispersed Camping in Oregon

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Oregon? We've got you covered. The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. These scenic and easy to access Oregon campsites are perfect for dispersed campers.

Best Dispersed Sites in Oregon (199)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Thielsen Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Thielsen Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Thielsen Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Thielsen Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Thielsen Wilderness
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Thielsen Wilderness

    1. Mount Thielsen Wilderness

    19 Reviews
    86 Photos
    617 Saves
    Diamond Lake, Oregon

    Mt. Thielsen Wilderness encompasses 54,914 acres and runs along the crest of the Cascades 80 miles east of Roseburg and just north of Crater Lake National Park. Elevations range from 5,000' to the 9,182' summit of Mount Thielsen. Born of the same volcanic activity that created Crater Lake, this is the land of fire and ice.

    Much of the Mount Thielsen Wilderness is made up of high alpine forests and open meadows. The terrain is moderate but becomes very steep toward the crest of the Cascade Mountains. Timberline stands at about 7,200 feet, just above a forest of mountain hemlock and fir mixed with whitebark pine. Lodgepole pine dominates the vegetation at lower elevations. The many streams in the area carry a substantial amount of snowmelt in spring.

    The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail winds through the Mount Thielsen Wilderness for 26 miles along the summit of the Cascade Range. For a more serene wilderness adventure, hike into Lake Lucille or Maidu Lake on the North Umpqua Trail #1414. The trail passes over deep pumice that was deposited when Mt. Mazama erupted to form Crater Lake. The famed North Umpqua Wild and Scenic River begins at Maidu on its long trek to the Pacific Ocean.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    3. Oregon Badlands Dispersed

    18 Reviews
    50 Photos
    412 Saves
    Bend, Oregon
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Painted Hills Dispersed

    4. Painted Hills Dispersed

    15 Reviews
    88 Photos
    719 Saves
    Mitchell, Oregon

    Dispersed camping is allowed on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service (USFS) lands without a permit, but it is recommended that campers obtain a map that shows current property boundaries. Please contact the BLM , (541) 573-4400 or (541) 416-6700, or the USFS, (541) 575-3000 or (541) 416-6500, for more information.

    While camping is not allowed within the three units of the monument, there are many nearby campgrounds. Some have full service amenities, some are quiet and remote, some are in the forest, and some are right on the John Day River.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from South Lake

    5. South Lake

    16 Reviews
    28 Photos
    781 Saves
    Beaver, Oregon

    At an elevation of 2400 feet, this area offers dispersed camping along the northern edge of the lake. The lake is stocked periodically with rainbow trout. There is access for launching non-motorized boats. A vault toilet is provided but no potable water. It is also the eastern trailhead of the Pioneer – Indian Trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Steelhead Falls Trailhead & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hult Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Hult Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Hult Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Hult Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Hult Pond
    Camper-submitted photo from Hult Pond

    7. Hult Pond

    14 Reviews
    47 Photos
    323 Saves
    Blachly, Oregon

    This site, sometimes referred to as Horton Lake, Hult Marsh, Hult Reservoir, or Mill Pond, was developed in the early 1900s for logging operations. The reservoir and surrounding wetland is about 40 acres and supports a rich diversity of wildlife, fish, and plant species. This recreation site is popular for activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, horseback riding, and scenic driving.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Elliott State Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elliott State Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elliott State Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elliott State Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elliott State Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Elliott State Forest Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping

    9. Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping

    11 Reviews
    43 Photos
    621 Saves
    Tillamook State Forest, Oregon

    Dispersed camping is allowed in Oregon State Forests year round. There are no fee or permit requirements. Campers are required to adhere to ODF regulations regarding placement of campsites, campfires, sanitation, and stay limits. Campfires and charcoal barbeques are not allowed in dispersed campsites during the Regulated Use portion of fire season. There are no maps for dispersed campsites.​​

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek - Willow Creek Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek - Willow Creek Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek - Willow Creek Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek - Willow Creek Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek - Willow Creek Hot Springs
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek - Willow Creek Hot Springs
Showing results 1-10 of 199 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Oregon

485 Reviews of 199 Oregon Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Sparks Lake Recreation Area
    October 4, 2024

    Sparks Lake Recreation Area

    Nice spots near Spark Lake

    There are several spots off of the road to the Spark Lake Day Use area. The road is very rough, but taken slow does not require a 4wd.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping
    October 1, 2024

    Deschutes River Overlook Dispersed Camping

    Not ideal spot for car parking

    Its a big lot area with a view of the river close to the dam. Theres a day use area and resort campground down the road which I asked the hosts there about the dispersed camping and they gave me an attitude saying that because its a state site that the sheriff may come check to ask me to leave. I told that that made no sense as its on usa owned land but they insisted not to park there. I believe they were just jealous because almost noone was at their campground. The day use area is small and watch for the tire strips. The parking area up the hill (at these coordinates) is a bit trashy but its a good spot for walk or bike.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    October 1, 2024

    Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping

    Not ideal spot and challenging road

    Diamond Milld rd is a tight logging rd with a kinda steep danger zone cliff on this edge. If you get to spot (the coordinates on dyrt arent exact but close) you will see basically the only part of the rd with a pull aside areai prob for two vans or cars. Its a nice view but kinda creepy if alone IMO. The dispersed camping for this St Forest applies to tenters mainly being 1 mile away from a paid campground. But for just car and van camp youd have to chance it at day area or drive way in to the forest down a rd.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Siuslaw National Forest Dispersed Camping
    October 1, 2024

    Siuslaw National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Fee Area but close to other Siuslaw areas

    This is a fee area. Have to look really hard this far north in Siuslaw to find a Frst Rd. Just go to Mt Hebo or back to Tili St Forest. Other that most of this north shore OR coast is tough. If anyone has coordinates for their spot Im sure its a valuable share but maybe a keepee.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Teacup Lake Sno Park
    September 29, 2024

    Teacup Lake Sno Park

    Paved Pull off

    Maybe if you’re in a pinch this place would work for the night but definitely not somewhere I’d stay longer than that.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping
    September 29, 2024

    Crooked River National Grasslands Dispersed Camping

    Solitude and wide open space

    Love this dispersed campsite! 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! A little bumpy ride for regular cars as it is in a dirt road; an AWD preferred.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Prospect OHV Dispersed Camping
    September 26, 2024

    Prospect OHV Dispersed Camping

    Perfect place for OHV riding

    We absolutely loved camping here. During our off season stay it was fun and with all the ATV trails it was our favorite place to camp.

    Our neighbor campers decided they could ride the trails without helmets and found out the hard way that is is a no no. They were brought back to the camp without their bikes and in the back of a National Forest Service Enforcement vehicle. After being spoken to about the importance of following the rules of the trails, they were left at camp and had to find their own way back to their motorcycles.

    Fortunately we did not have the same experience. It can get very dusty so just be prepared for that. The trails are absolutely great and access to the Rogue River is just icing on the cake.

    It was so nice to have areas provided for unloading bikes and ATV's so folks could safely load and unload their toys.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Rock Camping
    September 18, 2024

    Badlands Rock Camping

    Cool sandy area with many spots

    A good open area with lots of nice smelling juniper. Theres parking at the few trailheads or off the road. The best spot, with some nice features such as lava rocks, is the 3rd right from the main road. Some folks may be particular about their "spot". No toilet, trash nor water but good trails. About 20 mins into town. Didnt see any snakes but was checking just in case. Prob best for RV or car camping. High desert gets to 40s at night this time of year.

  • Camper-submitted photo from BEND FS 4610 Dispersed
    September 17, 2024

    BEND FS 4610 Dispersed

    Super easy

    This spot was close enough to town that we could call an Uber to Hayden Homes after we set up, then Uber back when the concert finished. The main red dirt road is gorgeous with various pull offs spaced decently far apart. I saw one or two neighbors to the left and right of our spot but it was far enough that our spot felt private. Really quiet and felt remote while still accessible to town and had cell service.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Millsite Forest Dispersed Camping
    September 13, 2024

    Millsite Forest Dispersed Camping

    Easy off the main road stop

    Quiet camping area off 138. You come up to what looks like a county shop, but keep going to the left, and you're here. A handful of sites. We were easily able to park out jeep a ways in.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping
    September 8, 2024

    Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping

    PNW road trip 🏕️

    Great area with lots of room to separate you from others ! The road in is paved till you drop into the actual camp site which is rocky but easy for a suv to do. The views are amazing and the privacy is even better!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping
    September 5, 2024

    Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping

    Unreal Experience

    Tillamook Forest has so many amazing dispersed camping opportunities! We turned onto Ben Smith road and then took logging trails up the peaks. We found a perfect spot that looked like we were on the edge of a cliff but was actually still very safe for our toddler. No cell service, so we just unplugged for 3 nights and enjoyed the time together. We could see the northern lights the first night we were there, and it was absolutely incredible. We had a lot of privacy. One hunter walked by, I assume he was using the nearby trail. We heard some ATVs over the days, but it wasn't disruptive. Totally recommend it, and we'll definitely be back.

  • Camper-submitted photo from South Lake
    September 3, 2024

    South Lake

    Road blocked, but still great!

    We camped where the road was blocked and it was great. Saw a cougar as we were leaving, though! Luckily we were all in the car, so cool to see, but be aware!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek
    September 1, 2024

    Forest Road 51 near Beaver Creek

    Fun spot for impromptu camping trip!

    My husband and I decided we wanted to camp at the coast this weekend and every other camp site and state park was full, so we stumbled upon this place! It was easy to find following the directions on this site. Like other reviews mentioned, there are cars that drive by since it is a forest road, but we didn’t notice too much of a disturbance from them. It was pretty secluded. We stayed at the intersection campsite, and it was great! There was trash from previous campers, but we cleaned it up before we left!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Terrebonne West Camp Dispersed
    August 21, 2024

    Terrebonne West Camp Dispersed

    Nice and Peaceful

    EDIT: We had a park ranger stop by and inform us that this location is closed to passenger vehicles. No passenger vehicles are allowed past the boulders. We are currently parked at the one and only camp slot that passenger vehicles are allowed, so this is a 99% dispersed camping location that you have to walk to your camp site location. The Park Ranger also reminded me that all BLM land is a 14-day stay for recreational camping only, and if you are living out of your RV, you are liable to be harassed more often then others.

    Original Review: We parked in a space close to the main road. Minus the sounds from it, the place is very peaceful. There's lots of sage bushes, and trees are plenty but not clustered. There is a lot of wildlife in the area if the animal bones are anything to judge by. There are a lot of ant colonies and other burrowing creatures in the area as well. If you choose to walk off designated paths, watch your step, or you might end up in a shallow hole like I did. Some spots are more solar friendly than others, but none of the trees are overbearingly tall to completely block out the ability for it. Flies aren't too bad compared to other places, and honestly, I'm not sure if the ones we are dealing with are from here or left over from our 1 night stay at another location. The river is only a shortish walk away, and field mice do live in some of the boulders in the area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Burma Pond BLM
    August 19, 2024

    Burma Pond BLM

    Awesome spot not too far off I5

    The road getting up to it wasn't too bad. Some bigger potholes that we're easy enough to avoid. The pond at the top was beautiful with tons of bats flying around at night. Super cool!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry
    August 18, 2024

    Dispersed near Baboon Creek Quarry

    Good spot for a few nights

    There are a few spots and spurs off NF-6510 that would make for good boondocking. Might be hard to get level, but other than that it’s pretty nice. The spot on the map has a stone fire ring. There are a few spots before and after that would be suitable to setup camp as well.

    I got to the spot marked on the map in my extended Transit, but I’m sure road conditions may change with the seasons, storms; etc. Depending on your comfort, you may only want to head this way with high-clearance vehicle.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight
    August 14, 2024

    Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight

    Easy Car Camp

    Relative to other options in Northwest Oregon this was an easy to find, plenty of space place to park the car. My partner and I angled our vehicle to block our tent from the road and slept like rocks.

    Not scenic (though the waterfall that is a short hike away is). My only safety concern is someone taking the corner too fast running into your car.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Derrick Road Dispersed Camping Area
    August 13, 2024

    Derrick Road Dispersed Camping Area

    Derrick road dispersed camping

    This is an old campground no longer maintained. First of all, there is nothing but several feet of sand in a big lot. There is only a small section that is not sand. Don’t go past that. You will get stuck. Luckily we did not. There are huge sand dunes so tons of ATVs. The sand is disgustingly dirty from trash and feces. The ATV’ers are relentless. It’s quiet on a Monday night…



Guide to Oregon

Camping in Oregon offers a fantastic way to connect with nature, whether you're pitching a tent by a lake or parking your RV in a scenic spot. With stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking and Exploring: Many campgrounds are near beautiful trails. For example, at Paulina Lake Campground, you can hike around the lake and visit nearby hot springs. One camper mentioned, “The lake is great for fishing, hiking, and has amazing hot springs on one side.”
  • Water Activities: If you love water sports, check out Crooked River Campground. It’s perfect for boating and fishing. A reviewer said, “Fishing is fantastic here, and you can rent a boat from the marina.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Prineville Reservoir Campground offer great opportunities to see deer and other wildlife. One visitor noted, “We have deer and squirrels and lizards every day.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. At Tumalo State Park Campground, one reviewer said, “The bathrooms were clean and awesome.”
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds have a welcoming vibe. A camper at Smith Rock State Park Campground mentioned, “It gives off a nice outdoorsy kind of communal vibe but it’s still private.”
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking scenery. At Skull Hollow Campground, a visitor said, “We had beautiful sunsets each night.”

What you should know

  • Crowded in Peak Season: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially in summer. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver noted, “It was a kind of a maze, lots of different areas and lots of curves.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or water. For instance, Smith Rock State Park Campground has no electric hookups or water hookups. A camper mentioned, “You park in a central area and walk to the camp area.”
  • Wildlife Rules: Some campgrounds have strict rules about pets. At Tumalo State Park Campground, a visitor said, “The upper loop is geared more towards families with children and retired folks who are looking to camp surrounded by other people.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. Crooked River Campground has a playground and a fenced dog park. A family camper said, “Cove Palisades state park is pretty rad, especially if you’ve got a family!”
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One family at Paulina Lake Campground enjoyed, “We always bring tow lines for our younger kids when they tire out of paddling their kayaks.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone happy with plenty of snacks. A camper at Prineville Reservoir Campground mentioned, “The campground is beautiful, we have deer and squirrels and lizards every day.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver said, “The sites are heavily treed with exceptional spacing between.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need amenities, choose campgrounds that offer them. At Prineville Reservoir Campground, a camper noted, “The roads are paved, and the sites are as well with fire pits and picnic tables.”
  • Be Prepared for Limited Connectivity: Many campgrounds have poor cell service. A visitor at Crooked River Campground warned, “There is NO CONNECTIVITY! Even with our Wii-Boost and 20-foot antenna, there was nothing.”

Camping in Oregon is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but knowing what to expect can make your trip even better!