Dispersed camping options near Bellingham, Washington range from boat-accessed islands to lakeside pull-offs along forest roads. The region sits at the northwestern edge of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, with elevations from near sea level to several thousand feet. Most primitive sites require Northwest Forest Passes, with camping conditions varying dramatically by season and location.
What to do
Water activities at Baker Lake: For kayaking and swimming, Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite offers direct lake access. "Lots of spots with easy lake access," notes Eric O., who adds "plenty of spots (even on Labor Day)" make this area reliable even during peak times.
Island exploration: Camping on Hope Island Marine State Park requires watercraft access but rewards with private island camping. "We ended up being the only people on the island," shares Raphaela H., who rented kayaks from Boston Harbor. The island features "a trail that circles the island" with "beautiful views" according to Jess G.
Mountain viewing: Sites along forest roads provide views of Mount Baker. At NF Dispersed Camping, the natural water features stand out. As Russel M. describes, "There is a fast flowing stream with crystal clear water. Quiet mountain/forest area. No sounds of civilization."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Despite being close to popular areas, Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp offers some secluded spots. Geoffrey P. found "Our spot (site #3) was tucked away in low area by the water. Semi-private and peaceful. Perfect space for 2-4 people to camp."
Natural surroundings: Many campers value the undeveloped setting at Baker Pull-Off, where Sarah S. discovered "2 little walkways down to your own little private section of the lake" despite some overnight traffic.
Wildlife viewing: Rustic camping near Bellingham often includes wildlife encounters. At Hope Island Marine State Park, campers might see marine life. Jess G. mentions "There were raccoons on the island with us but other than that we had the place to ourselves."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires careful driving. At NF Dispersed Camping, Lauren M. warns "The end of the road spot did require 4-wheel drive and higher clearance (SUV height)," while spots closer to highways are more accessible with standard vehicles.
Site availability: Many dispersed sites fill quickly during peak season. At Lower Sandy Camp, Sidney B. reports "Very few spots and very crowded... there were people trying to camp off the side of the road."
Campsite cleanliness: Trash can be an issue at unmaintained sites. Lauren M. found NF Dispersed Camping sites "straight up trashed! Trash everywhere!" and noted one site had "both trash and food debris everywhere."
Toilet facilities: Bathroom options vary widely. Point Doughty has "a vault toilet that lacked toilet paper and was quite unsavory," according to Pat M., while many other dispersed sites have no facilities at all.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites: For camping with kids, Lower Sandy Camp offers more amenities. Haley F. notes it has "Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables available. No water. Got a spot with lake and Mountain views."
Consider island camping: For adventurous families, Pine Lake Campground provides a different experience, though Duane and Janey D. caution "you will be interrupted 500 times a day with walkers who use the trail and want to go straight through your site."
Plan for bugs: Summer camping means insect protection. At Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite, Alaina I. warns about "A TON of mosquitos so bring your spray!"
Check cell service: Remote camping often means limited communication. Haley F. reports having "one bar of Verizon service" at Lower Sandy Camp, making it possible to stay connected for emergencies.
Tips from RVers
Check clearance needs: Many Bellingham area primitive sites have rough access roads. At NF 33 Dispersed Camping, Meghan B. warns "The road does get much rougher the further you go, so not big-rig friendly nor for low-clearance vehicles or vehicles with bald/old tires."
Look for pull-offs: For van or small RV camping, Baker Lake offers suitable spots. Jacob R. found at NF Dispersed Camping that "The road was rough. We have a 27 foot rv I would not bring any trailers down here. Vans were there."
Consider tent sites: Many primitive camping areas near Bellingham work better for tent camping than RVs. At Baker Lake Tent camping, Sarah S. found it "very spacious" with "2 fire rings set up with an upper and lower camping option."
