lava canyon, Cougar, Washington

Accessible via Forest Road 83, Lava Canyon provides dispersed camping in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest near Mount St. Helens. The area sits at elevation with forest roads leading to various informal camping spots among Douglas fir and hemlock stands.

Campers find this location serves as a base for exploring the volcanic landscape and trail system. Swift Creek on Forest Road 83 lies just east, while Climber's Bivouac Campground offers developed facilities to the north. Standard dispersed camping regulations apply, with no facilities or potable water available.

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Map & Directionslava canyon, Cougar, Washington is located in Washington near Cougar

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

46.12879727188535 N
122.18524214182617 W

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DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - lava canyon, Cougar, Washington

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4.5

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2 Reviews

Reviewed May. 27, 2026

In the woods near ape caves and mt st helens

Drove in with our camper van. Right off of forest rd. Little creek you can hear and easily walk to with a little waterfall just up a few feet. Nice rock fire pit. Secluded and flat. Soft ground.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed May. 3, 2026

Close to road

This site is close to a road. A decent amount of traffic went by when I checked it out. Would be a hard area to set up a larger tent. Would be ideal for rooftop tent or hammock camping. Creek near by with short trail to creek.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of lava canyon, Cougar, Washington by Chris J., May 3, 2026
  • Review photo of lava canyon, Cougar, Washington by Chris J., May 3, 2026
  • Review photo of lava canyon, Cougar, Washington by Chris J., May 3, 2026
  • (5) View All