Underhill Site

For Oregonians with a love for raw, unfiltered nature and a penchant for self-sufficient adventure, Underhill Site in Dufur, OR, offers a unique and decidedly rustic camping experience. Tucked away in the eastern reaches of the magnificent Mount Hood National Forest, this site isn't your typical bustling campground with a host of amenities. Instead, it embodies the spirit of primitive camping, providing a tranquil and free opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Oregon's high country.

Underhill Site is a testament to the understated charm of unmaintained forest service land. While it may not boast flashy signs or extensive facilities, it offers something increasingly rare: a quiet retreat where the sounds of the forest prevail over human activity. It's a place for those who are prepared to embrace the wild, navigate un-signed trails, and appreciate the simple comforts of a fire ring and a sturdy roof. For locals who often find popular campgrounds fully booked, Underhill Site stands as a reliable, albeit "fallback," option for a spontaneous escape or a planned minimalist adventure. It's a reminder that some of Oregon's best outdoor experiences come without a price tag and require a little more self-reliance.

Visitors describe Underhill Site as "scruffy" and "much-ignored," yet paradoxically clean and functional where it counts. Its allure lies in its unpolished authenticity and the sense of discovery it offers. It's a place for those who understand that true wilderness often comes without a welcoming committee or perfectly manicured paths.

Underhill Site is nestled off Dufur Valley Road in Dufur, Oregon. The address can be located at:

Dufur Valley Rd, Dufur, OR 97021, USA

This location places it within the vast expanse of the Mount Hood National Forest, specifically on its eastern side, providing access to a different, often less-traveled, landscape compared to the more popular western slopes of the mountain. Dufur itself is a small, historic town in Wasco County, east of the Cascade Range.

Accessibility to Underhill Site is relatively straightforward by vehicle, as it is situated directly off Dufur Valley Road. However, as noted by past visitors, it may lack prominent signage, so having a map or GPS coordinates (approximately 45.39658277 N, 121.41575236 W) is advisable. From Dufur, the site is approximately 15 miles west on Forest Road 44. While the site is accessible by car, it's important to understand that the "roadside" nature of the camp spots means less privacy than what might be found in more secluded sites. Being a free, non-reservable site, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Drive times from major Oregon cities include approximately 1 hour and 41 minutes from Portland and 2 hours and 15 minutes from Bend, making it a feasible option for a weekend trip for many Oregon residents.

Underhill Site is a primitive Forest Service campground, meaning its amenities are basic, designed for self-sufficient campers.

• Campsites: The site offers a small number of camp spots, typically two or three, suitable for tent camping. These sites are described as "austere," with limited trees and views, and not much privacy. While suitable for a tent, some sites may have steeper grades or limited flat space. Each site generally includes a fire ring with an integral grill for cooking.
• Covered Area/Structure: A notable feature is an old, "ramshackle" covered area or building. It has a functional roof and houses a large picnic table, offering a communal shelter, especially useful during inclement weather. There is also a seriously burned-out wood stove inside, which is not usable.
• Vault Toilet: A vaulted toilet is available on-site. Past reviews indicate that while the lock may sometimes be broken and the door might show signs of wear (e.g., bullet holes), the facility itself is often found to be clean and includes a lined trashcan.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to note that there is no potable water available at Underhill Site. Visitors must bring all necessary drinking water or have a reliable method for filtering and purifying water from nearby Ramsey Creek.
• No Official Signage/Maintenance: The site is generally unmaintained by the Forest Service and lacks official signage. Campers are responsible for keeping the area clean ("keep it in tip-top shape!") and packing out all trash, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.

• Free Camping: One of the most significant advantages of Underhill Site is that it is free to use, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious campers or those looking for a spontaneous, no-cost overnight stay.
• Secluded and Quiet: Despite being off a road, the site offers a relatively quiet and secluded atmosphere, especially when compared to more popular or developed campgrounds. It's a place to escape crowds.
• Access to Underhill Trail: The campground serves as a trailhead or access point for the Underhill Trail. While this trail is noted for being "reclaiming" by nature, with blowdowns, overgrown sections, and a narrow path, it offers a challenging and adventurous hiking experience for those prepared. It follows Ramsey Creek and can connect to forest roads for loop hikes.
• Ramsey Creek Proximity: Ramsey Creek runs near the site, providing a natural water source (though non-potable for human consumption) and a pleasant soundscape. An old ramshackle structure is located next to the creek before a bridge.
• Mountain Views (Distant): While the immediate campsites may lack "compelling views," the broader area within the Mount Hood National Forest offers stunning Oregon mountain landscapes.
• Primitive Charm: For those who prefer a less manicured and more authentic outdoor experience, Underhill Site's primitive nature is a highlight. It encourages self-reliance and a deeper connection with the untamed environment.
• Emergency Fallback Option: As some reviews suggest, it's a solid "fallback-fallback-fallback option" if more popular campgrounds like Eightmile, Lower Eightmile, Pebble Ford, Knebal Springs, and Fifteenmile are full, or if dispersed camping isn't feasible.
• Proximity to Dufur: The nearby town of Dufur offers basic services and supplies if needed, despite the campground's somewhat remote feel.

Given that Underhill Site is an unmaintained and unofficial (in terms of active listing) Forest Service site, direct inquiries are best directed to the local Ranger District or the Mount Hood National Forest office that manages this area. While a general phone number for the area is provided:

Phone: (541) 467-2291

Mobile Phone: +1 541-467-2291

Address: Dufur Valley Rd, Dufur, OR 97021, USA

It's important to understand that this phone number likely connects to a ranger station or forest service office that covers the region, rather than a specific contact person for Underhill Site itself. For the most up-to-date information on road conditions, potential closures, or any specific rules pertaining to this primitive site, contacting the closest U.S. Forest Service office within the Mount Hood National Forest that covers the Dufur area (e.g., Barlow Ranger District or The Dalles Ranger District) is recommended. Online resources like Hipcamp or The Dyrt may also offer user-submitted updates and insights.

For Oregonians, Underhill Site holds a particular appeal as a truly local, no-frills outdoor escape. Its designation as a free, unmaintained Forest Service site makes it incredibly accessible for those seeking a spontaneous camping trip without the hassle of reservations or fees. In a state where popular campgrounds often book out months in advance, Underhill Site offers a valuable alternative for a quick and convenient immersion in nature, especially for those residing in central or eastern Oregon.

The "austere" nature of the campsites, coupled with the rugged "reclaiming" Underhill Trail, speaks directly to the adventurous spirit often found in Oregon locals. It's a place that encourages self-reliance and the development of outdoor skills, moving beyond the comforts of more developed sites. The presence of a vault toilet, even with its quirks, provides a basic necessity that enhances the primitive camping experience. The rustic covered area with its large picnic table, while old, serves as a functional and unique communal space.

This site is perfectly suited for those who appreciate solitude, quiet nights under the stars, and the challenge of exploring lesser-known trails. It's an excellent training ground for dispersed camping, offering a taste of backcountry living with the relative ease of roadside access. For Oregonians who embrace the state's ethos of outdoor exploration and appreciate hidden gems, Underhill Site is more than just a fallback option; it's an opportunity to connect with the raw, untamed beauty of the Mount Hood National Forest on their own terms, providing a genuine and memorable escape from the everyday.

Underhill Site

Dufur Valley Rd, Dufur, OR 97021, USA