Oregon Off-Road Trails

Whitehorse Ranch Road is a well-maintained 50-mile gravel road that is easy to access. It starts from U.S. Route 95 and extends to Oregon Route 205, 8 miles south of Fields. It is named for the historic cattle ranch Whitehorse Ranch, founded in 1869 by John S. Devine, a well-known 19th-century cattle baron. There are no noticeable campsites off this road, but this road also provides access to the iconic Willow Creek Hot Springs off Whitehorse Fifteen Mile, which offers excellent dispersed camping choices.

This is a point-to-point route starting at FR18, going up and over "The Dome," and ending at East Lake Campground. Along the way, you drive on the rim of a volcanic dome and go through the Newberry Wildlife Refuge. The views and scenery are amazing, and this is a great drive whether you have a destination in mind or not! There are also some pretty epic primitive camping options in addition to all of the camping areas around East and Paulina Lakes.

There are rocky areas with steep inclines. High clearance and all or 4WD may be necessary, depending on your vehicle.

Traveling from north to south, 2308 starts off Highway 70. Look for the "Desert Forest Journey" sign. Most of the route meanders along the eastern boundary of Crater Lake National Park. In several areas, fallen trees block the path, and fallen trees are prevalent in this region. A few areas of the trail are narrow, slightly off-camber, and washed out, warranting the moderate rating. Numerous opportunities for dispersed camping abound. The improved Scott Creek Campground, located on FR2010, is also available.

Sun Mountain Road connects at the south end where the Jackson F. Kimbell State Recreation Area sits. This area has great campsites with direct access to the headwaters of Sun Creek. This campground is a great way to start or end your day's journey! Sun Mountain Road quickly climbs up the mountainside from the campground and levels off after Sun Pass. From there, it is basically a straight shot to the road's terminus, where it meets with The Dalles-California Highway. You need to be careful on the majority of this road. While it is straight and seemingly well-maintained, there are numerous dips and trees that can catch you off guard if you don't slow down. There are endless opportunities for dispersed camping in the area. Just be ready for mosquitoes!

Ladd Canyon Road, also known as National Forest Development Road 43, is a scenic route in Oregon that winds through the stunning Wallowa Whitman National Forest. This picturesque road takes travelers through dense forests, offering breathtaking views of towering trees and rolling hills. Crossing the summit of Anthony Butte, the road provides stunning vistas of the Pilcher Creek Reservoir and the Wallowa Mountains to the east.

Nature enthusiasts will find this route a haven, with access to hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. The road is rough and not recommended for passenger vehicles or trailers. Along the way, there are opportunities for dispersed camping and the designated campground at Grande Ronde Lake, which has a nightly fee.