Best Dispersed Camping near Burien, WA

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Burien? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Washington camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Burien, Washington (20)

    Dana R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA

    1. Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    39 Photos
    262 Saves
    Lakebay, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $12 / night

    Mario E.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA

    2. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    14 Reviews
    66 Photos
    437 Saves
    Snoqualmie Pass, Washington

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

    It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions. For the best information on dispersed camping opportunities and local restrictions, please contact the nearest ranger district office.

    Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking

    You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
    Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
    Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Annie C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA

    3. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    33 Photos
    286 Saves
    Greenwater, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24 near Lilliwaup, WA

    4. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    63 Saves
    Lilliwaup, Washington

    Dispersed camping is allowed along Forest Service roads in WA as long as there is adequate space to park off the roadway safely and not on any vegetation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Flare9's photo of a dispersed camping area at Carbon River near Carbonado, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Carbon River near Carbonado, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Carbon River near Carbonado, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Carbon River near Carbonado, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Carbon River near Carbonado, WA

    5. Carbon River

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    95 Saves
    Carbonado, Washington

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

    It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions. For the best information on dispersed camping opportunities and local restrictions, please contact the nearest ranger district office.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Spencer L.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at NF-2419 Dispersed Site near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF-2419 Dispersed Site near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF-2419 Dispersed Site near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF-2419 Dispersed Site near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF-2419 Dispersed Site near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF-2419 Dispersed Site near Lilliwaup, WA

    6. NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    20 Photos
    171 Saves
    Lilliwaup, Washington

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping outside of a developed campground. If you enjoy selecting your own campsite, providing your own amenities, creating your own experience, and camping for FREE, then dispersed camping is for you!

    Campsite

    Choose a campsite screened from roads and trails, and at least 200 feet from water Use a campsite that’s already been established, if possible. If you choose a new site, return the site to its natural condition when you leave Pets

    Your animal friends are welcome to accompany you on your dispersed camping adventure! Fires

    Only burn wood that is already dead and down Always make sure your fire is DEAD OUT and cold to the touch before you leave it Campfires are allowed below 3,500 feet when not otherwise prohibited by fire restrictions Trash

    Store your food & trash properly to keep bears and other wildlife out of your camp Whatever you pack in, PACK IT OUT! Human Waste

    Bury your poo & paper at least 6” deep and at least 200 feet away from any water source

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Amber G.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 near Lilliwaup, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 near Lilliwaup, WA

    7. Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    3 Reviews
    9 Photos
    196 Saves
    Lilliwaup, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Lillie P.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Annette Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Annette Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Annette Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Annette Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Annette Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Annette Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA

    8. Annette Lake

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    321 Saves
    Snoqualmie Pass, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol

    $5 / night

    Megan C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park near Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park near Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park near Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park near Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park near Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park near Mount Rainier National Park, WA

    9. Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    2 Reviews
    25 Photos
    78 Saves
    Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

    Part of the Northern Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park.

    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Marasha's photo of a dispersed camping area at Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Keechelus Lake near Snoqualmie Pass, WA

    10. Keechelus Lake

    4 Reviews
    10 Photos
    122 Saves
    Snoqualmie Pass, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
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Showing results 1-10 of 20 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Burien, Washington

53 Reviews of 20 Burien Campgrounds


  • william T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead
    Feb. 18, 2025

    Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    The first spot when you turn in on the right

    It's ok just a spot to pull over and camp really. There is a trail next to it I don't know how far but, it's cool. The road up the Montana is dirt but some parts are very rocky. Not many dispersed camping spots just pullover spots really

  • Sam S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Olympic National Forest - Dispersed Camping

    We camped near Vance Creek trailhead to do the Olympic Bridges bike ride the next morning. Since this is a national forest, dispersed camping is allowed. We picked the first spot we got to since it was getting kind of late. It wasn't the most ideal spot and I think further down the road has prettier and more remote options, but it made do. There were really huge flies but they did not bite. The only complaint was that there was more car traffic than I wanted very late at night into the early morning. One car even slowed down and yelled at our tent around 2am. We never felt unsafe but it was annoying. A lot of trash was left behind from previous camper. I would suggest finding alternative spots if you're looking for a more enjoyable night but if you are just there for an overnight, it is fine.

  • Amber G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Dec. 2, 2024

    Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    Amazing

    Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night. It’s December so of course it’s a bit cold at night and I’d recommend at least AWD to get up here. Will be back.

  • Rachel K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED
    Jun. 9, 2023

    NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED

    Beautiful views- Use EXTREME CAUTION when on this road

    I love this area and come out here frequently, many rivers and creeks with camping spots right next to them. The people camping are always super kind, secluded, but not too far from each other and always willing to help. DRIVE VERY CAREFULLY, LOTS OF POT HOLES AND DOWNED DEBRIS IN ROAD - STEEP DROP OFFS AND TIGHT TURNS The road goes from ground level up and around the mountain, so be cautious of time of year traveling as I have gotten stuck in the snow up at higher elevations trying to get back down to the other side. This is an area that they do regenerative forest work so big open areas from clear cuts give an amazing view of the hills and mountains.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Jul. 1, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    It was alright

    You can hear the road from most camping spots. When we arrived at our site there was garbage all over the place in a fire pit so we cleaned it up.

    There was a nice long trail that took us to the river. That was nice. Cleaning up sucked because the floor got muddy.

    Lots of mosquitoes.

    Lots of camping spots. We left Friday evening and most spots were taken.

  • Max H.
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Aug. 27, 2022

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Wooded campsites off a backyard

    The campsites aren’t bad. There in heavy wooded areas. If you get here early enough you can get a good secluded site on an offshoot, but most sites are just right off the road. Some sites are really close together with like 50 yards.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    May. 31, 2021

    Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    Camp next to an active airstrip!

    This is such a cool place to camp! You are literally right on an active airstrip. There are roughly 40 sites spread out along a long narrow loop, with some walk in sites. There are no services here- no water, no, wifi, no trash pick up, no campground host(there is a moderately clean vault toilet). But it’s also free, or a$5 donation at the iron ranger. It was a little confusing. AND IT'S ON AN ACTIVE AIRSTRIP!! Most sites have good trees for hammocks. I strongly suggest you have a way to secure your food and trash as there are lots of squirrels and raccoons. Did I mention it's on an active airstrip? While no planes came in while I was there, I walked across the airstrip to the“comfort station” for fliers and read the log book. Two planes had flown in earlier in the day and left nice messages. It looked like 3-5 planes used the airstip a week in the warm months. The White River is between the campground/airstrip and the highway and it drowns out most of the road noise. I didn’t check things out on the other side of the airstrip too much, but it looked like there were some dispersed sites there as well.

  • Mario E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Jun. 8, 2022

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Great dispersed camping near Seattle

    This is near the Tinkham Campground. Plenty of dispersed sites with fire pits. Some sites are close together however if you keep going down the road you'll find plenty of quiet and private places. They also are redoing the roads as I'm here so little to no potholes.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Jun. 29, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    It’s was ok

    NF-2419 is a very busy road at all hours. 2 or 3 cars drive by all day and all through the night. As far as we could find there aren’t many spots that are more secluded they are mostly just turn outs.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Mar. 27, 2024

    Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    The view!!!!!

    Fantastic secluded spot at the top of the mtn with amazing views! First night we camped next to the creek pull off site and the second night we scored the top of the mountain. Please be aware it’s at the snow line and very cold in March! Cell phone service for Cricket was great. Not so much for Verizon!

  • Trevor M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Jun. 19, 2023

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    Forest Road camping

    Had a blast coming up the mountain with the family , found a few great spots that we pinned for later that are unmarked with fire rings. Not many other campers' sites are well dispersed . Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories. Definitely recommend going , we saw people driving various types of vehicles so most will make it up. My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem . Bring in water and plenty of fire wood. Happy camping!

  • Olwyn L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorothy
    Jul. 16, 2018

    Lake Dorothy

    Peaceful Alpine lake camping.

    Easy stair stopped trail; a bit harder with a 40# pack. Lots of camp sites to choose from, but the one on the far shore of the lake is my fav. Great for groups. Primitive toilets along the way. Bring bug repellant. The flies are abysmal.

  • Joanna W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Jul. 10, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Great place to sleep for a night while on a road trip

    So dark I couldnt even see my own hand in front of my face! I loved it. Quiet enough, could hear gentle highway hum but cant see anything but trees n nature. Earplugs ftw. Some bugs but nothing major. Plenty of spots along the road. U dont need to go all the way to coords. Just pick a spot along road n park. Some wild raspberries at our spot :) firepit nice, a little trash but not much. Thats the cost of free. Spot is free, the cost is picking up a few pieces of trash. Seems fair to me!

  • Abrianna M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Beautiful but creepy

    Nice area by a creek, very peaceful and quiet during the day, a ton of people around and lots of passerby’s. As soon as it got dark, someone decided to sneak around my campsite with a flashlight and stand outside my tent for some time. Packed up quick and zoomed out of there, very uncomfortable and would not recommend for solo campers.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
    Mar. 2, 2024

    Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    Good spot for a night

    Not the most private spot if vehicles were to pass. the road looks like it’s used but no one around when we arrived. the road itself is a gorgeous drive and since it’s free it’s worth it!

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    Great spot, plenty of room for Big Rigs

    This is my favorite dispersed site so far. Plenty of room for larger rigs, very close to a river and lots of woods to explore nearby.  Close enough to Mt. Rainier NP and nearby towns for supplies.   Vault toilets if needed, and the airstrip was only used twice in the 4 nights we stayed, i think (heard one mid-day, and saw another late morning).  

    There is a single-lane bridge when turning in that could be tricky for a motorhome that is towing, but not enough traffic to cause us any issues getting in. For larger rigs - take the second left (at a Y-intersection, and then keep to the left and you won't have any trouble getting in. Going to the right at the Y takes you to an area that big rigs might have trouble finding spots or turning around, but still doable.

  • Lillie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
    Aug. 2, 2020

    Annette Lake

    Alpine lake camping

    We hiked in to Annette Lake to test out some new backpacking gear as we’re just getting into backpacking - it was great! The 4 mile hike in was just enough of a challenge for our first time with weight in our packs. We went left where the trail splits at the lake. There are campsites both sides, but lake access is really easy on the left side. There is 1 toilet a little back from the lake. Fire pits are at every spot. Loved it here!

  • Danielle C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    May. 14, 2023

    Carbon River

    Great camping spot but the people....

    So first off, this location is beautiful. It is so relaxing! We were so excited when we found a spot with a fire pit. We set up camp and started enjoying ourselves. Here where it gets weird. People were harassing us about camping. We spoke to a ranger and verified that we were at the right spot. She said yes. One person drove past and yelled that you don't belong here. It was super uncomfortable specially considering I had a four year old with me. We ended up packing up camp and hiking into a further remote camp site. It was great after that.

  • Austin R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Jul. 18, 2023

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Great Spot

    I travel and work remotely so I’m always looking for free places that have cell reception and this place hits the jackpot. I’ve come in twice on a Saturday afternoon and have been able to find an open spot with my 18 ft travel trailer, I have Verizon and have 2-3 bars of service, it is very close to the interstate so you’ll hear a constant hum of cars but it’s very nice to feel like you have your own slice of the mossy old growth forest.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Keechelus Lake
    Jul. 8, 2024

    Keechelus Lake

    Sweet spot

    Great spot to land after long day of driving. Definitely some spots have more human waste and trash than I would want to camp too close to—not to mention the impacts of some campers’ poor habits on the many natural water sources throughout this area. Still, such a sweet spot with uber PNW vibes (water, tree lines, mountains, etc.). I love any spot where I can camp free and safely at night and wake up early to paddleboard a few hundred feet away. Great spot to SUP.

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Jul. 14, 2017

    Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    Crowded yet Cozy

    Ipsut Creek Campground is a relatively easy 5 mile trek or bike ride with a 700’ elevation gain, down a closed road (due to the road wash out about 3 miles in) to a wooded campground nestled along the Carbon River.

    Located at the trailhead are two bathrooms, a covered picnic area and a handful of parking stalls with additional parking located along the road. 

    The trail begins behind the closed gates into the shade of the old growth forest. The trail then alternates between the shade of the forest and sunny skys with river views and wildflowers along the way.

    There are a few side trips off the main Carbon River Trail even before reaching the Ipsut Creek Camp;

    1. Mini Rainforest Loop, 0.25 miles

    2. Old Mine Trail, 0.6 miles round trip

    3. Green Lake & Ranger Falls trail, 3.6 miles round trip

    Note: Sadly, the trail to Chenuis Falls has washed out, so now there is just a log bridge into the water to nowhere.

    Once you reach the campground, it has about 20 campsites with about half the sites located on the river. We were lucky enough to swoop up site number 15 though, strangely, another family decided to share it with us for our easy river front access.  Thankfully the river is pretty loud and drowned out the noise of our close campers. We did choose to camp on the high-profile weekend of the 4th of July, so all the cool campsites along the river were obviously full, which is why we think we had “friends” join us. There was a large fallen tree sort of splitting the camp site in half, so we took the left half, with the smaller 1 picnic table option, while the strangers took the right half with 2 picnic tables. 

    The trees in camp are great for setting up hammocks. We set up a hammock triangle upon arrival in camp near the river for lazy afternoon naps. My siblings both slept in their hammocks fulltime, while my husband and I set up a tent in a small clearing on the opposite side of the picnic table, closer to the bear lockers (bear lockers are a huge plus, meaning a bear canister isn’t necessary if you’re not heading deeper into the backcountry). 

    The campground had a decent amount of wildlife running around.  We had a number of chipmunks running around our camp cleaning up any scraps left daily; we found a live mouse chilling in a water bottle one morning upon setting up for breakfast, and deer came through the camp just about anytime it was quiet.  

    The campground does have two restrooms but they smell like the bog of eternal stench, so bring strong essential oils, a scented hanky, or a shovel to dig cat tracks in the woods far from camp and water sources. 

    The campground is a good base camp to explore the surrounding Carbon Glacier/ Mowich Lake area. We visited Ipsut Falls, which was less than a half mile round trip out of camp, making for a sweet little trip to break up the day in camp. 

    We also chose to make the adventure up to the Suspension Bridge and to the Carbon Glacier view point. Our morning started off cool in heavy fog, which burned off throughout the day, giving way to magnificent views of the mountain and glacier. The trail was covered in wildflowers, cairns, creeks and mini waterfalls. It made for a beautiful day trip out of camp with plenty of opportunities to go further into the backcountry closer to Winthrop Glacier, out to Tolmie peak area or back out along the Wonderland Trail. Backcountry options seemed endless. 

    Though the trail and camp (and site) were crowded, the hike to the glacier made the entire trip worth our cozy campsite. The Carbon Glacier is a bit dirty looking but to be standing in front of something so ancient and magnificent is truly amazing.  My husband, sister and I have now added a new item to our bucket lists and that is to see as many glaciers as we can before they melt, here’s to our first. =) 

    Note: The campground is located within Mount Rainier National Park (no pets are allowed) so you’ll need to stop by the Carbonado Ranger Station for a Wilderness Permit and National Park Day Pass or Annual Permit to display for parking. No campfires within the campground.

  • Danielle S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Aug. 29, 2018

    Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    Decent Campground

    Ipsut Creek can be approached from a few different ways. The way we approached was via a multi-day backpacking trip. We had gotten used to only a couple of sites per spot so we were not prepared for a larger campsite with facilities.

    The pluses: There are around 20ish sites? We got a nice spot along the river. The sites were identified via fallen and chopped logs. The sites are decently far away from each other but no trees to block me from my neighbors.

    There are picnic tables - it was nice to be able to sit on something other than the ground or a rock.

    The trees were close enough together to string up a clothesline, or if we had brought it, a hammock.

    There are bear boxes to store you stuff.

    There are toilets, but be prepared, there were lines for the toilets and they were pretty gross.

    There was what looked to be a community center place for picnics or the like.

    We pumped our water from the creek.


Guide to Burien

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Burien, Washington, where nature awaits just a short drive away. Experience the tranquility of the outdoors while enjoying various amenities and stunning views.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Burien, Washington

Scenic views for dispersed campers

  • For breathtaking vistas, check out Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views right from your campsite.
  • The Carbon River area offers picturesque river views, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
  • If you're looking for a serene lakeside experience, Annette Lake provides beautiful alpine scenery and easy access to the water.

Dispersed campers should check out Ipsut Creek Camp

  • Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park is a great spot for those who enjoy hiking, as it serves as a base for various trails leading to stunning natural attractions.
  • This site features picnic tables and bear boxes, making it a convenient choice for families and groups looking to enjoy a comfortable camping experience.
  • Be aware that this area can get crowded, especially during holidays, so consider visiting during the week for a more peaceful stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Burien, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Burien, WA is Joemma Beach State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 10 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Burien, WA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 20 dispersed camping locations near Burien, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.