The "Underhill Site" campground, located in Wasco County, Oregon, within the expansive Mt. Hood National Forest, presents a unique and distinctly primitive camping opportunity. Categorized under Campgrounds & RV Parks, this site deviates significantly from more developed campgrounds by offering a truly unmaintained and free camping experience, catering to those who prefer a self-sufficient and back-to-basics approach to outdoor recreation.
The environment of Underhill Site is characterized by its natural, forested setting within the eastern flank of the Mt. Hood National Forest. Situated near Dufur, Oregon, the terrain consists of a mix of forested areas and open spaces, providing a diverse backdrop for camping. The presence of a creek nearby, often highlighted as a feature, adds to the natural ambiance, providing a soothing soundscape and opportunities for casual exploration along its banks. Temperatures in the area can range from approximately 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer, indicating a seasonal window for comfortable camping. While not directly at a major landmark, the site is within reasonable driving distance to notable attractions such as Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, allowing for broader regional exploration. The elevation contributes to a pleasant escape from summer heat, and the mixed tree cover offers natural shade. This environment is ideal for campers who appreciate rustic tranquility and are comfortable without the typical amenities of a commercial campground.
Services at Underhill Site are exceptionally minimal, aligning with its designation as a free, unmaintained campground. It is crucial for prospective campers to understand that this site offers virtually no traditional services. There are no hookups for electricity, water, or sewage. Potable water is not available on-site, requiring campers to bring their entire water supply for drinking, cooking, and sanitation. There are no designated restroom facilities, meaning campers must adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles regarding waste disposal, including proper human waste management. Given its "unmaintained" status, campers are responsible for the cleanliness and upkeep of their chosen site, adhering to a "pack it in, pack it out" ethic for all trash and waste. There is no on-site staff or camp host. While it is noted as being able to accommodate small RVs or trailers, the lack of services means any RV must be entirely self-contained. Access to the site is via Forest Road 44, approximately 15 miles west of Dufur, and while generally accessible, road conditions in national forests can vary with weather and season. The lack of amenities emphasizes the self-reliance required for camping at Underhill Site.
The features of Underhill Site are primarily its natural attributes and the freedom it offers. As a "primitive" site, campers can expect cleared areas suitable for pitching tents or parking small RVs. While specific site markers or amenities like picnic tables and fire rings are not guaranteed due to its unmaintained nature, campers often create their own informal setups. The key features include:
The sense of quietude and seclusion is a significant feature, appealing to those who wish to disconnect from modern conveniences and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the forest.
Promotional information for Underhill Site emphasizes its basic, no-frills character and its appeal to adventurous campers. It is often highlighted as a "free, non-reservable, unmaintained site" on platforms that list primitive camping options. The message conveyed is that this is a place where you "take a hike along the creek" and where "word-in-the-woods says this is a great campground to bring the kiddos." The cost, or lack thereof, is a primary promotional point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious campers or those seeking a truly rustic experience. It is positioned as an opportunity for campers to "keep it in tip-top shape," implying a community responsibility for its cleanliness. While not a destination for luxury RVs or those seeking full amenities, it strongly appeals to tent campers, car campers, and self-contained small RVs looking for a simple, natural setting. The relatively easy access via Forest Road 44 from a town like Dufur means it's not entirely remote, yet its primitive nature ensures a degree of solitude. Overall, Underhill Site is promoted as a tranquil and adventurous spot for those willing to embrace a do-it-yourself camping philosophy amidst the natural beauty of the Mt. Hood National Forest.
Public restroom
Tent sites
Good for kids
Dogs allowed
Hiked Underhill trail 11/4/19 from Underhill Site to a Forrest road on top of the mountain and did a loop returning via a Forrest road. Nature is reclaiming Underhill trail. Blowdowns, overgrown and narrow trail. There is an old ramshackle structure next to Ramsey creek before the bridge over ramsey. No signs on trails so make sure you have a map. There is a vaulted toilet at Underhill site, 3 camp spots and a covered area right off of dufur valley road. 11/4/19 4.41 miles with 528ft Elevation gain.
Underhill is a strange Forest Service campground. It doesn't have an official sign, nor does it appear on the website’s list of campgrounds. And yet here it is: a scruffy, seemingly much-ignored patch right off the Dufur Valley Road. When I visited, the vault toilet's lock was broken and the steel door had some sizable bullet holes in it. It was, however, a clean facility, and someone had even put a lined trashcan inside. The two (or is it three?) campsites are austere — not many trees, no nearby body of water, no privacy and no particularly compelling views— but there is that building, which has a fairly decent roof over it, a massive picnic table inside, and a seriously burned-out wood stove that no one should even think of using. I'd pitch a tent here if Eightmile, Lower Eightmile, Pebble Ford, Knebal Springs and Fifteenmile were all full, and I didn't bring the necessary for dispersed camping. Call it a fallback-fallback-fallback option. On the upside, it's free!
Small campground with 3 spots. It is in between two quiet roads with light traffic. Nothing amazing but it's a place to get your campfire on. There is also a covered area if it is raining.
Off the beaten path but just off the road, peaceful and idyllic in the winter
Nice hidden camp spots , Ramsey Creek is perfect. People complain about silliest things.