Dispersed camping options near Blaine, Washington can be found primarily on Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land and Washington State Parks property. Seasonal considerations affect site accessibility, particularly at water-accessible locations where weather conditions impact safe kayaking and boating. Most free camping locations near Blaine require a Discover Pass for vehicle access or appropriate permits for overnight stays on state lands.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pine Lake Campground offers direct access to walking paths around the lake. Campers should prepare for regular foot traffic, as one visitor noted, "Cute sites, but you will be interrupted 500 times a day with walkers who use the trail."
Wildlife viewing: Hope Island Marine State Park provides opportunities to observe marine life. A camper reported, "Beautiful views with a trail that circles the island. There were some sea lions swimming around in the area but never actually approached the land."
Island exploration: Small islands accessible only by watercraft offer unique camping experiences. At Hope Island, visitors can "Nice trail to walk with beautiful views. Very romantic setting! Rough paddle to this island!"
What campers like
Privacy at remote sites: Point Doughty provides seclusion but requires effort to access. According to one review, "For such a fabulous location, this campground is woefully behind the times. Compared to other Cascade Water Trails locations under the WA State Parks jurisdiction that are clean."
Ocean wildlife sightings: Marine camping offers chances to observe sea creatures up close. One Point Doughty camper encountered "2 orca whales cavorted just 100' off and a stellar sea lion, harbor seals and many sea bird varieties provided fantastic entertainment."
Vehicle-accessible options: NF 33 Dispersed Camping provides more traditional dispersed camping access. A reviewer noted, "A handful of dispersed sites along this national forest road. A couple sites are near the river/creek, but most are just off the road."
What you should know
Water access challenges: Boat-in sites can be difficult to reach in adverse conditions. For Hope Island, one reviewer advised: "the waters were pretty rough so I would recommend for anyone planning to stay here to look into the waters, tide and wind report the day of. Or if you have the option of using a motorized boat!"
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have minimal amenities. At Pine Lake Campground, expect no drinking water or trash service. The free camping sites operate on a first-come basis without reservations.
Road conditions: For camping areas accessible by vehicle, prepare for rough terrain. A visitor to Walker Valley ORV Recreation Area noted road access requires high-clearance vehicles in many sections.
Tips for camping with families
Kayak rentals: Introduce children to kayaking with a short paddle to an island. According to one Hope Island camper, "Rent kayaks (or bring your own) at Boston Harbor in Olympia. It's a short trip to the island, which is only accessible by boat."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings at island campsites. One visitor reported, "there were raccoons on the island with us but other than that we had the place to ourselves."
Site selection: Pine Lake Campground offers family-friendly options but select sites away from main trails for more privacy. The lake provides recreational opportunities while maintaining relatively easy access.
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: NF 33 Dispersed Camping has road limitations that affect RV access. A camper warned, "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."
Parking limitations: Most free camping near Blaine, Washington requires compact vehicles or small trailers. Standard-sized RVs may find suitable parking only at the beginning of forest roads.
Cell service: Communication can be limited at dispersed sites. At NF 33, campers report "No amenities nor cell service," so prepare with offline navigation and emergency plans before arrival.
