Best Dispersed Camping near Chimacum, WA

Dispersed camping opportunities near Chimacum, Washington include several primitive sites on National Forest land and marine access locations. NF-27 Tunnel Creek provides a spacious dry camping area with established fire rings and partial road access. The route features both paved and unpaved sections that most vehicles can navigate without difficulty. According to recent visitors, mosquitoes are prevalent in warmer months, so insect protection is essential.

Forest Road 2419 contains multiple dispersed camping options with varying levels of privacy. The sites range from simple pullouts to more established areas with fire rings. Several campers noted the road is "frequented by others," with limited seclusion unless camping away from the main path. The Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 features exceptional mountain views and level tent sites but fills quickly on weekends and during peak season.

For water-based camping, Hope Island Marine State Park offers boat-in primitive camping with basic amenities including vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The island is accessible only by kayak or boat, with challenging water conditions possible. Visitors should check tide and wind reports before attempting the crossing. Lake Angeles in Olympic National Park provides backcountry camping accessible via a 4-mile trail with 2,500 feet of elevation gain.

All dispersed sites require proper preparation. No drinking water is available at these locations; campers must pack in all water supplies. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans common during dry periods. Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Winter access to higher elevation sites may require AWD/4WD vehicles, and snow can make some areas inaccessible. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Chimacum, Washington (11)

    1. NF-27 Tunnel Creek

    1 Review
    Quilcene, WA
    18 miles

    "The drive up to this road is half paved and unpaved , not too bumpy. Big area for camp- dry camping. There was already a fire ring made, we opted out of having a fire."

    2. Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County

    3 Reviews
    La Conner, WA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 675-3767

    "Very different, primitive camping. Small island with only 2 sites that I could find. According to the website there were supposed to be more. 1 vault toilet available, picnic table and fire ring."

    "It's a short trip to the island, which is only accessible by boat. I was worried, with only four camping spots, that we wouldn't get one, but we ended up being the only people on the island."

    3. Lake Angeles — Olympic National Park

    1 Review
    Port Angeles, WA
    31 miles
    Website

    "Super cool, isolated campground right next to Lake Ángeles. Only way to access is by hiking to it. Lots of bugs so make sure to bring bug repellant."

    4. NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 956-2402

    "Great avenue to get out into nature with various streams crossing the path of the service road. Truly magical place."

    "Not many other campers' sites are well dispersed . Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories."

    5. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    2 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    36 miles
    Website

    "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!"

    6. Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    3 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    41 miles

    "Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night."

    "No water. First come first served and this one goes quickly!"

    7. NF-2419 Dispersed Pullout

    2 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    41 miles

    "Great spot on the NF-2419, about a mile before the Mt Elinor lower trailhead. Plenty of space for a large vehicle"

    9. Pine Lake Campground

    1 Review
    Bellingham, WA
    48 miles

    "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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Chimacum, WA

19 Reviews of 11 Chimacum Campgrounds


  • Amber G.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Jill R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2019

    Point Doughty

    DNR site badly in need of care

    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 and now sport awesome composting toilets, Point Doughty under the Department of Natural Resources has a particularly horrible pit toilet that you have to scramble up a bluff to get to. I understand a storm took out the stairs a while back and it's obvious there's been some activity to get stairs rebuilt. However, it's impossible as of this writing to get any gear from the beach to the campsites on the bluff. I wound up camping on the beach as I was in my kayak and there were no other options nearby. Actually the beach was quite pleasant as 2 orca whales cavorted just 100' off and a stellar sea lion, harbor seals and many sea bird varieties provided fantastic entertainment.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    Incredible view!

    Fairly large and level site with an amazing view. No water. First come first served and this one goes quickly!

  • Jason C.
    Jun. 22, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    NF-2419

    Great avenue to get out into nature with various streams crossing the path of the service road. Truly magical place. It is frequented by others so low privacy unless you camp away from the vehicle path. Grateful a place like this exists.

  • Luis N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 25, 2021

    Lake Angeles — Olympic National Park

    Lake Ángeles Campground

    Super cool, isolated campground right next to Lake Ángeles. Only way to access is by hiking to it. Lots of bugs so make sure to bring bug repellant. Primitive campground, so bring your own water, trowel, tp, everything!! Hike is about 4 miles from the trailhead with ~ 2,500ft of elevation gain. Trailhead is right by the toll booths for the park. Parking is limited so try to get there at a reasonable time.

  • Pat M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2019

    Point Doughty

    Point

    3 non-reservable sites are available on Washington area preserve land. The path up to the sites is steep and slippery with loose dirt but there’s a rope to help out. Looks like they started to build steps, who knows if it will get finished. Not recommended for hauling myriad items up from kayaks. The restroom is a vault toilet that lacked toilet paper and was quite unsavory. We brought a couple rolls from Sucia to help out. During low side it is very rocky and tough on fiberglass kayaks, but there’s a small path that can launch one or two kayaks at a time. There’s a couple short paths to explore the area, and an epic view at the tip of the point. Best used for small groups and simple camping.

  • Trevor M.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • K
    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!

  • Pat M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2019

    Point Doughty

    Gamble for a view

    Only 3 non-reservable sites with tables and fire pits on DNR land. The path up to the sites from the beach is very steep and slippery on the dirt but there is a rope to help. Looks like they’re trying to create a stairway in the future. Not recommended if you need to haul myriad items up to the campground. One vault toilet had no toilet paper and was quite unsavory. We grabbed some rolls from Sucia to restock it for people. There is an epic view with short trails to walk around though.


Guide to Chimacum

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Chimacum, Washington, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, there's something for everyone looking to escape into the wild.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Chimacum, Washington

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like NF-2419 Dispersed Site, allow for a free stay, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious campers.
  • Be prepared to bring your own supplies, as places such as Lake Angeles — Olympic National Park do not offer amenities like drinking water or toilets.
  • Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits, especially when visiting spots like Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419, which require permits for camping.

Dispersed campers should check out Hope Island Marine State Park

  • Accessible only by boat, Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County offers a unique primitive camping experience with stunning views and a romantic setting.
  • The island features a vault toilet, picnic table, and fire ring, making it a well-equipped choice for those looking to enjoy nature without sacrificing too much comfort.
  • Kayaking to the island can be challenging due to rough waters, so it's advisable to check conditions beforehand or consider using a motorized boat for easier access.

Scenic views await at Pine Lake Campground

  • Nestled in a picturesque area, Pine Lake Campground provides a charming atmosphere, though be prepared for foot traffic from hikers passing through.
  • This spot is perfect for those who enjoy a lively environment, as the nearby trails attract many visitors throughout the day.
  • With a permit required for camping, this location ensures that the natural beauty is preserved while still allowing for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Chimacum, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chimacum, WA is NF-27 Tunnel Creek with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Chimacum, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.