Best Dispersed Camping near St. Helens, OR
Primitive camping options surround the St. Helens area across both Oregon and Washington sides, with several free dispersed sites available in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Tillamook State Forest, and Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Campers can access no-fee sites along forest service roads including NF-81, Canyon Creek, and Little Soda Springs Road. Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping and Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping provide multiple established primitive sites with fire rings but no facilities. These areas typically require visitors to practice Leave No Trace principles and use existing fire rings where permitted.
Many access roads to dispersed sites require cautious driving, with several locations demanding high-clearance vehicles. According to visitor reports, Forest Road 81 near McBride Lake includes sections of rough gravel that may challenge larger vehicles. Tillamook State Forest roads include narrow passages where logging trucks operate, even during early morning hours. Most dispersed sites lack amenities like toilets or potable water, though some locations like Little Soda Springs have vault toilets at nearby trailheads. Camping is typically limited to 14 days in a 30-day period on Forest Service lands, and Northwest Forest Passes or America the Beautiful passes are required at some locations.
These primitive camping areas offer varying degrees of seclusion and natural features. Little Soda Springs Road dispersed sites provide creek access and forest service patrols regularly check permits. "There were about three sites. I stayed at the first site when you first get there back there on the right hand side. It's a short hike down to the creek," noted one visitor. The Mount St. Helens dispersed areas provide volcanic views and proximity to attractions like Ape Canyon and Lava Canyon trails. Cell service is typically non-existent in these remote locations, with one camper advising, "There's absolutely no cell service, so make sure to download any maps or trail guides before you get there." Some areas near Tillamook State Forest experience significant noise from off-highway vehicles, particularly on weekends, while other sites remain quiet with minimal traffic.
