Dispersed camping near Chelan, Washington primarily consists of primitive sites scattered across the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Most campsites sit between 1,500-4,800 feet elevation with variable temperatures - summer days can reach 90°F at lower elevations while dropping below 45°F at higher sites. Forest service roads typically open by late May but remain snow-covered at highest elevations until mid-June.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several dispersed camping areas provide lake access. At Jameson Lake, campers can fish directly from shore. "Great fishing spot, has split season and is only open during fishing season. Lots of trout, caught limit every time. Witnessed someone pull a 18" trout last visit," reports Robert.
Mountain biking: The Derby Road (NF-7400) area serves as a basecamp for bikers. "NF dispersed camping along Derby RD. Multiple sites along the road...make sure to look for signs as there are some pullouts marked 'no camping.' No amenities but super quiet. Great place when you need to escape," notes Sara S.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies at higher elevation sites provide excellent night viewing. "Pretty good view of the lake below and almost no light pollution. Very windy road to get up but I pulled my trailer fine," shares Ryan S. at Lake Chelan Overlook.
What campers like
Solitude at higher sites: More remote sites tend to see less traffic. "This area lies along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route between the Cashmere and Chelan sections along NF-7400. We saw only one ATV for the whole time we were there," writes Meghan about Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Sunrise views: Many campers note the morning vistas as a key feature. "Great area to camp along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route... Incredible sunset views of the valley in front of Chumstick Mountain, it gets pretty windy at night but there are treelines you can position against," adds Meghan.
Cell service availability: Surprisingly good connectivity exists at certain sites. "Near the peak of Fox Mountain, this area is at one of the highest points in the area. Great cell service(AT&T) and a amazing view for both sunrise and sunset!" reports Joseph about Cooper Mountain Road Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Site availability fluctuations: The first accessible sites often fill quickly on weekends. "Lots of small pullouts on the way up but they were all taken. None of those would work for Starlink. We went as far as we could in our Ram Promaster till there was a crazy steep and washed out climb," notes Ciara W. about Derby Road.
Road quality varies seasonally: Spring conditions can worsen access routes. "Service roads did have some heavily washed out areas and rocks that higher ground clearance and AWD/4WD would be beneficial, but a 2WD car could make it to some sites," reports Ashley V.
Limited amenities: Most sites offer only the basics. "Rock fire rings and basically nothing else," explains JS about Swallow Caves Dispersed. Bring everything you need, including water.
Tips for camping with families
Alternate options for easier access: Some families prefer sites with more amenities. "Skip this dirt field and stay at Jack's Resort. My grandparents invited me out and, be it not my dispersed style, I enjoyed the beautiful lake. Jack's Resort is extremely well maintained. It has a little cafe. Immaculate bathrooms," suggests Cheese H.
Water recreation spots: Lakes provide cooling options during hot days. "We had our choice of sites so we picked one that sat away from others and was right above the water making the launch of the kayaks pretty easy," shares Dawn G.
Weather preparation: Wind exposure affects comfort at higher elevations. "This would get 5 stars if it weren't for the terribly bumpy and long road up to the main site. The views of the mountains all around are insane! Loved watching the sunset and sunrise up here. It is very windy!" warns Alyson M.
Tips from RVers
Gravel pullout options: Some areas offer better RV parking than others. "There is a large gravel parking lot suitable for large RVs plus those towing a trailer or boat. Below the gravel area was a large paved area for boat trailers," explains Judy T. about Baldy Mountain Dispersed Camping.
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all sites accommodate bigger rigs. "Almost at the top of the mountain but not quite. Several places along the way, and beyond, to pull off to camp, at least a dozen, and they're quite dispersed from each other," notes Ryan S.
Road washout alerts: Conditions can change rapidly and affect RV access. "A couple spots washed out and need high clearance but otherwise just a long slow switchbacky road to the top," reports Brett B. about Cooper Mountain Road.
