By:
Submission
Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed in most places. From getting away from it all to just enjoying a weekend with friends, dispersed camping can make for a great story. Across the forests, opportunities range from dispersed camping miles into wilderness or just off a forest road in designated dispersed areas. Make sure to bring everything you need when dispersed camping, as water, restrooms, and fire rings may not be available nearby, and always remember to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Use the links below to explore the wide range of dispersed opportunities the forests and grasslands have to offer. For comprehensive information on dispersed camping opportunities, please contact the ranger district office in the area you plan to visit.
My favorite National Forest gaurd station. Big enough that you don't feel cramped, skiing, hiking, and fishing right out the front door.
Stayed for 2 nights starting Nov 29, 2019. The cabin is rough as some other reviews indicate. Do not expect this to be like a nice Airbnb or VRBO rental. Previous guest did a good job cleaning up and leaving things as orderly as possible, but it's still a pretty rough cabin. Sort of like indoor camping. No electricity, no water in winter. We were unable to light the propane lanterns on the walls despite multiple attempts, so bring your own flashlights/lanterns. The propane stove worked really well. One of the 4 beds was broken, good thing there were only 3 of us. There are definitely mice in the cabin. We didn't see them, but heard them at night. Bring a tight box or something to secure your food in. There is a TON of firewood outside the cabin, but you may have to split the logs yourself...there is a maul provided. The wood stove does a great job of heating the cabin. This is a gorgeous location and in the winter is secluded and peaceful, though you may hear snowmobiles going by if the weather is decent.
