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Camper submitted image from McBride Lake NF-81 DispersedView 7 Photos
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McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed

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Forest Road 81 on the southwest side of Mount St. Helens leads to this free dispersed site in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, where two pull-in spots and roughly four flat tent sites sit beneath dense tree cover. No cell service reaches the area, and the heavy shade makes solar charging impractical. Rigs up to 20 feet can manage the narrow road, though larger trailers require extra care. Ape Cave is a short drive east. Campers who want more dispersed areas around Gifford Pinchot National Forest will find several options along the same corridor.

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Map & DirectionsMcBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed is located in Washington near Cougar

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

46.14077192575746 N
122.25144016164845 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Pets
  • Fires

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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Reviews1 Camper Review - McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed

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4.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Aug. 20, 2024

Lots of shade, very private and trailer friendly.

I have camped here twice now, once during a scouting trip in 2016 with my boys and again in September 2024 with just me and my dog :).  I could pull my 17' pop-up "A" frame trailer and back into one of the two spots with no problem.  Due to the narrow road, it may be a bit more snug with bigger rigs (25+ feet long and anything more than 8+ feet wide).  I would scout the road and area before committing; however, there is a turnaround that you could use to maneuver the trailer to drive out.  It's plenty big to accommodate a few trucks/cars and one, maybe two towable trailers.  If you're going tent camping, there are about four flat places for tents.  The area has no trails, so you would not have to worry about people wandering into the campsite. The Ape Caves is a small drive away. The town of Cougar, WA. is about 10 miles away if you need gas or food.  There is a lot of shade, and it is not solar-friendly.  The main road is about 100 feet away, relatively quiet, and very private.  There was a large rock fire pit in the middle. There is no cell phone reception; however, if you drive East for a few miles, you may be able to get 2 bars with Verizon.

Per the state website, "On the southwest side of Mount St. Helens, Forest Road 81 provides an experience away from crowds. On this road, access Kalama Horse Camp, Red Rock Pass, and Forest Road 830, the road to Climber's Bivouac, and the start of the summer climbing route. From the west, the road begins on Forest Road 90, near Cougar, WA, and travels through private timberlands and state lands before entering Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The road connects with Forest Road 83 on its east side. While mostly paved, be prepared for several miles of gravel(between Forest Road 830 and 8123) and a road that is sometimes very rough."

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed by Kevin W., August 20, 2024
  • A bird's eye view and 360-degree view of the campsite.
  • Review photo of McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed by Kevin W., August 20, 2024
Showing results 1-1 of 1 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What fishing opportunities are available at McBride Lake in Washington?

McBride Lake offers serene fishing opportunities in a peaceful forest setting. The lake is suitable for those looking to enjoy fishing in a quieter, more secluded environment. Fish species and stocking information aren't widely publicized, adding to its hidden gem quality. For the best fishing experience, bring your own small watercraft or fish from accessible shoreline areas. Be sure to check Washington fishing regulations and obtain appropriate licenses before your trip.

How do I access McBride Lake for camping in Washington?

McBride Lake Dispersed Camping is accessible via a narrow forest road, NF-81. The access road can accommodate smaller vehicles and modest trailers (up to 17' pop-up style). The road may present challenges for larger RVs or trailers due to its width constraints. There are approximately two designated camping spots at the lake where you can back in vehicles. Plan accordingly if bringing a trailer, as turning around or maneuvering larger units could be difficult on the narrow access road.

What is the best time of year to camp at McBride Lake Washington?

The optimal camping season at McBride Lake is during the summer months and early fall. September offers an excellent camping experience with potentially fewer crowds while still enjoying favorable weather conditions. Late spring through early fall generally provides the most accessible conditions, though specific opening dates depend on snow melt and forest service road conditions. Winter camping is not recommended due to likely road closures and difficult access. Always check current forest road conditions before planning a trip, especially in early spring or late fall.

Are there camping facilities or amenities at McBride Lake Washington?

McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed offers a true primitive camping experience with minimal facilities. There are no developed amenities such as running water, electricity, flush toilets, or dump stations. This dispersed camping area features approximately two spots where campers can set up, suitable for smaller RVs and trailers (up to 17' pop-up style). You'll need to pack in all necessities including water, and pack out all trash. Come prepared for self-sufficient camping with appropriate supplies for the duration of your stay.

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