Dispersed camping near Bow, Washington offers several options within 30 miles of the small community. The region features diverse terrain ranging from lakefront sites to mountain forest settings, with elevations from near sea level to over 3,000 feet. Weather patterns can shift quickly in this area, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F during the day and dropping to 40-50°F at night.
What to do
Water exploration: At Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County, campers access a unique island camping experience. "We kayaked to the island, 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," advises one camper. The island features a hiking trail that circles its perimeter.
Mountain biking: Near Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite, several unmarked trails provide opportunities for mountain biking. The terrain varies from beginner to advanced, with some trails requiring technical skills to navigate roots and rocks. "If you think all the spots are taken, keep driving. So many spots along Baker Lake Road," notes one visitor about finding good access points.
Hot springs soaking: Baker Hot Springs requires a 0.25-mile walk from the parking area. The springs consist of three soaking tubs set among trees. Temperatures vary between tubs, with some reaching 100°F. No facilities exist at the springs, so pack out all items brought in.
What campers like
Waterfront access: At Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp, sites near Baker Lake provide direct water access. "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. The fire pit setup was perfectly sized and shielded from wind," shares one camper who appreciated the lakeside setting.
Privacy options: Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp offers secluded spots away from main roads. "Meandering sites along the river with good logs for benches and fire rings made from forest rocks. Heavily forested and beautiful," notes a camper who found the natural setting appealing. Sites become more secluded along the gravel portion of the highway.
Wildlife viewing: Rustic camping spots around Bow provide wildlife observation opportunities. Marine mammals frequent the waters near island camping areas, with one camper reporting, "we had the place to ourselves. we kayaked to the island... there were raccoons on the island with us but other than that we had the place to ourselves... There were some sea lions swimming around in the area."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires navigating unpaved roads. At NF Dispersed Camping, road quality varies significantly. "Driveway is a little rough but I made it in a car," mentions one camper, while others note, "the end of the road spot did require 4wheel drive and higher clearance (suv height), the one closer to hwy 20 could have easily been driven to in a standard car."
Campsite availability: Competition for prime dispersed campsites increases during summer months, especially weekends. Arrival times matter significantly, with Thursday arrivals recommended. One camper at Baker Lake Road reported: "Plenty of spots (even on Labor Day)," suggesting that persistent searching can yield results even during peak times.
Campsite conditions: Unfortunately, some dispersed camping areas suffer from previous visitor neglect. "Both sites were straight up trashed! Trash everywhere! The site closer to hwy 20 had both trash and food debris (pineapple and coconut shell) everywhere. The tent pad was completely unusable because of trash," reports one NF Dispersed camper. Carrying trash bags to clean your area improves experiences.
Tips for camping with families
Location selection: Choose sites away from steep water access when camping with children. "Not recommended for hauling myriad items up from kayaks," warns one visitor about Point Doughty, which features "a path up to the sites from the beach is very steep and slippery on the dirt but there is a rope to help."
Campsite layout: When camping with families, select sites with natural boundaries. Baker Lake Road offers spots where "you will need a tent if you want to sleep by the water if not you'll have to sleep in a pull off," allowing for customization based on family needs and equipment.
Noise considerations: Select camping areas based on noise tolerance. "Cute sites, but you will be interrupted 500 times a day with walkers who use the trail and want to go straight through your site," notes one Pine Lake camper, indicating sites on main paths may not work well for families seeking quiet or privacy.
Tips from RVers
Parking logistics: Small RVs and vans find limited but workable options at most dispersed sites. "Got a spot with lake and Mountain View's. Very small, quiet, stunning campground... We have a rooftop tent, not many sites with large enough spots to park trailers or vans. Mostly tent sites that are walk in," reports a Lower Sandy camper.
Turnaround space: Check for adequate turnaround space when taking larger vehicles. Many forest roads narrow significantly, with limited options for turning around. "Probably some good camping out this way, but we didn't get more than a mile in our promaster before turning around. Camped on a wider part of the road," shares one camper about their experience.
Leveling requirements: Bring leveling blocks or equipment, as most dispersed sites aren't graded. "Not super level, but worked with limited options available," notes a camper about NF Dispersed sites, highlighting the importance of being prepared for uneven terrain.
