Primitive camping near Bennington Lake requires proper planning, especially for accessing remote sites in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Many dispersed sites sit at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet with access primarily via dirt Forest Service roads. Road conditions deteriorate significantly after rainfall, with many sites becoming inaccessible without 4WD vehicles during wet periods.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several primitive sites along the Snake River provide access to fishing. At Riparia, visitors can fish directly from shore near the campground. "There is a boat launch here though it is not maintained, use at your own discretion," notes one camper.
Wildlife viewing: The dispersed areas around McDougall offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. As one camper at McDougall Dispersed Camping explains, "You'll see many types of wildlife here are hundreds of varieties of meadow wildflowers."
Star gazing: The remote nature of these sites creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. A camper at Riparia points out that there's "Absolutely no electricity here, not even for park lights. This makes for AMAZING star gazing."
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Many dispersed sites provide privacy and a genuine wilderness experience. A camper at North of Spring Creek on Forest Road 21 shares, "This type of site is usually what we look for when traveling - dispersed, primitive camping sites spaced far apart from each other. We had a little patch of forest all to ourselves."
River access: Sites along the Snake River are popular for their water access. At Devil's Bench Recreation Area, one visitor appreciates the "Large spot, with paved access right near the Dam, toilet, no service, 4 tables."
Proximity to trails: Many dispersed sites serve as gateways to hiking trails. At McDougall, a camper reports, "Tall pines and firs shade the eastern Oregon forest floor provided a nice region to explore, continuing up the forest road you'll reach a large meadow the rolls for miles downhill into the valley."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Winter access can be challenging or impossible at higher elevations. A camper at McDougall warns, "The road to the site was not plowed. Several feet of snow. Not many alternatives in the area so plan accordingly if you hope to stay here."
Bug activity: Insect populations vary by season but can be intense. At Wallowa-Whitman NF 21 - Dispersed, one camper observed, "Flying insects during the day. There are many so take appropriate action. Mostly flies and a couple different types of bees. By sunset, the insects went to sleep."
Road access issues: Many primitive sites require careful vehicle selection. At North Elgin Dispersed Camp, a visitor advises, "Great free place to camp 4x4 is advised and not really car accessible. Down side no water near by, not even a creek."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with natural features for children to explore. At McDougall, one camper suggests, "This is an amazing location to bring your family. You'll see many types of wildlife here are hundreds of varieties of meadow wildflowers."
Dam visitation hours: If crossing dams to access camping areas, note restricted crossing times. At Little Goose Landing, campers can observe river traffic: "Watched a cruise ship and a couple barges pass by. This is a bring it in, pack it out camping. A set of vault toilets are available."
Water safety: Exercise caution with children near the Snake River. At Riparia, a camper notes there are "a few little coves that are nice for kids to play in and great to stay out of the river current."
Tips for RVers
Limited suitable areas: Most primitive sites near Bennington Lake aren't RV-friendly. A camper at Riparia shares their experience: "We stayed here in the most shaded part of the campground with our Travel Trailer with a 50 gallon fresh water tank. It lasted the 4 of us the 5 day weekend."
Generator needs: Plan for power management at sites without hookups. The same Riparia camper adds, "It was a hot weekend and we did end up having to run the generator for a few hours during the day to keep the newborn cool."
Route selection: Avoid steep access roads with trailers. One Riparia visitor warns, "I followed my GPS which took me off of Highway 26 and onto Old Highway 26. DON'T do this. Take Hay rd. Old HWY 26 will take you onto Hammer Grade Rd. This is NOT a fun road with a trailer."
