A question that our office frequently hears from visiting riders is, “Where can I camp?”
Travelers are strongly encouraged to camp in an official campground or a Sno Park (parking lots that access winter recreation). Check out our Bend and Oakridge home pages for links to a variety of camping and lodging options.
What about dispersed camping?
Due to increased fire danger and issues with trash, there has been a concerted effort to discourage non recreational camping around Bend and Oakridge. Many dispersed sites have been decommissioned and blocked with large boulders. Near Bend, many of the forest roads close to town are gated and locked, the open roads are farther from town.
If dispersed camping is your scene, please consider these tips:
- Select a camp site in an area designated for overnight use, this does not include trailheads or sites adjacent to a trail. Day users have priority in these spots and overnight camping limits another person’s ability to access the forest.
- Practice Leave No Trace principals: Camp on durable surfaces, pack out all your trash and manage human waste by digging a latrine or using a portable toilet in your rig.
- Keep Oregon Green: Be aware of the Industrial Fire Precaution Levels and follow all fire rules for the forest you are visiting. Keep hot vehicles off dry vegetation and skip the camp fire.
- Limit your stay to 14 days or less.