Best Dispersed Camping near Cle Elum, WA

The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest surrounding Cle Elum, Washington features predominantly dispersed camping options along forest service roads and waterways. French Cabin Creek Recreation Area and Salmon la Sac Road Dispersed Camping provide waterfront sites where campers can set up along Howson Creek, Little Salmon la Sac River, or Lake Cle Elum. The L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, located between Cle Elum and Ellensburg, offers more remote camping experiences with wide-open meadows and mountain views. Most sites are primitive with basic fire rings but few amenities, making them suitable for tent camping and smaller RVs seeking a more natural experience.

Rough forest roads with steep grades and loose rocks limit access to many camping areas, particularly after rain or snowmelt. According to one camper at L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, "From the gate we drove down a rough, rocky road... It was steep and rutted with water wash out spots. The rocks were sharp, large, and loose." Most dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles, though some areas closer to main roads can accommodate standard cars. A Discover Pass is required for Wildlife Areas, while a Northwest Forest Pass may be needed at trailheads within national forest boundaries. The camping season typically runs from May through mid-November, with fire restrictions common during summer months.

Riverside camping receives consistently positive reviews, with campers noting the sound of flowing water helps mask noise from neighboring sites. "We really enjoy camping here because it's off the main road so it's much quieter than the campgrounds right off Salmon la Sac Road, plus the river drowns out most of the noise," reported one French Cabin Creek visitor. Wildlife sightings are common, with elk, deer, wild turkeys, and various birds frequently observed. Nearby recreational opportunities include hiking trails such as Pete Lake, Salmon la Sac, and Domerie Peak, plus water activities on Lake Cle Elum where kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in town. Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with Verizon generally providing better coverage than other networks.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Cle Elum, Washington (66)

    1. L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

    7 Reviews
    Thorp, WA
    13 miles
    Website

    "**Ranger Review: Camp Fare Premium Meals at LT Murray Wildlife Area **

    Camping Review: The LT Murray Wildlife Area is located in Thorp, between Cle Elum and Ellensburg."

    "After figuring out which gate to go through (make sure and shut the gate behind you), I took a road to the right with my truck and 19 ft. epro."

    2. Kachess Lake Lakebed

    7 Reviews
    Easton, WA
    13 miles

    " Great boondocking. We made it fine in our 26ft class c, but the big sharp-edged rocks were concerning to drive over."

    "Dispersed camping , plenty space but some times overcrowded if temperature is above 80."

    3. French Cabin Creek Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Roslyn, WA
    14 miles
    Website

    "The F.C.C. dispersed camping zone can be found by crossing the first bridge off the Salmon la Sac Road, located between the Cle Elum River and Red Mountain Campgrounds. "

    "For dispersed camping you gotta get out of the main "campground". Tons of options just off the beaten path."

    4. Salmon la Sac Road Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Roslyn, WA
    14 miles

    "You can float the river down to Cle Elum lake. Once the weather warms up the river lowers and slows down. Lots of area for kids to create their little pools to swim in."

    "Easy river access from all camp spots. Great trees for hammocks, ect. Would not recommend a low clearance vehicle; big rocks and roots on most roads."

    5. Liberty Town / Williams Creek Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Thorp, WA
    13 miles
    Website

    "Stumbled on this by just exploring the backroads near the BLM campground down the road. Technically this is USDA Forest Service land, but it is RIGHT next to BLM land. "

    "Stayed here for a week, had a great time near the creek with our dogs! Attempted some fly fishing after seeing some others give it a shot with no luck. Tons of dispersed camping up and down the road!"

    6. North Fork Teanaway River - Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA
    14 miles
    Website

    "There are ~5 dispersed campsites on this side road off the main North Fork Teanaway road. Some maps show this side road as "Loop Camp 973725"."

    "We had a nice short walk through a secluded walk in site that led to a rocky river bed. We also had a horse trail across the road that we walked. Lots of wild flowers to enjoy."

    7. Dispersed Camping North Fork Teanaway Road

    1 Review
    Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA
    12 miles

    "There are many options for dispersed camping along the North Fork of the Teanaway Road. We stayed in the area directly across the Teanaway Guard Station by the river."

    8. Cle Elum River Dispersed Camp

    1 Review
    Roslyn, WA
    13 miles

    "Definitely insanely rocky but there are spots that are in the dirt that are near the water. Fire pits were around but there was a burn ban in effect. Loved the spot. Stayed for 2 days."

    9. Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites

    4 Reviews
    Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    18 miles

    "We almost made it to the end of the dirt road before we found a lot with a fire pit that could fit our group of 4."

    "Lots of dispersed camping opportunities leading up to the Rachel Lake Trailhead and the Box Canyon Creek Site on NF-4930. Also many spots on the NF-118 spur, which is where we stayed."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cle Elum, WA

193 Reviews of 66 Cle Elum Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2021

    White River Dispersed Camping

    Riverside perfection

    Plenty of sites along the river with multiple ingress/egress options from the road. Right outside the entrance to Mt. Rainier National Park and the access road to Crystal Mountain. 

    4x4 / high clearance vehicles recommended - saw some subarus trying to navigate into a cleared area and it was pretty scrape-y. 

    Great place to stay if you can't get a spot at White River / Ohanapecosh.

    Leave no trace.

  • Ashley V.
    May. 23, 2022

    Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Dispersed Camping on Derby Rd NF7400

    Dispersed campsites along the service road.

    As described, little to no water sources. Private property marked in some areas. Camp sites are just off the road so there is some road dust. In May there was plenty of wood for burning. Do be mindful of burn restrictions later in the season. This area is very popular with mountain bikers and some dirt bikes. 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. Great spot though to camp near Leavenworth Wenatchee area. Verizon phone service was ok, T-Mobile was spotty at best occasionally a message would get through.

  • Ashley M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 5, 2020

    Dispersed near Salmon la Sac

    Dispersed near Salmon la Sac

    Single campsite off the forest service road. No porta potty, no water, no electricity. Could accommodate a group. No picnic table. Not an actual metal fire pit but someone made a rock ring. The downside is the shooting pit right below the site. When we were there a family came to shoot but they stopped by our site to let us know beforehand.

  • Cheryl M.
    Oct. 1, 2022

    Old Bluett Pass Road Dispersed

    High Elevation Site off Hwy 97N

    Dog wasn’t feeling well so took a chance and went up this USFS mostly paved road. There are lovely views on the trip up and a few roadside areas you could car or van camp in a pinch. Towards the top a couple private roads break off, and just above the now dirt USFS road continues. Here is 1 large, not terribly level, high clearance needed, site with fire ring and lots of parking options.

  • Shay F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2020

    L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

    Beautiful Solitude for Boondocking

    **Ranger Review: Camp Fare Premium Meals at LT Murray Wildlife Area **

    Camping Review: The LT Murray Wildlife Area is located in Thorp, between Cle Elum and Ellensburg. It is often referred to as Elk Heights or Joe Watt Canyon. This is primarily an ORV and horseback riding area in the summer. Hunting and elk feeding/wintering grounds area in the winter. This is also a great area to find elk sheds once wintering season is over. There are plenty of dispersed camping sites along the Forest Service roads. All you need is a Discover Pass and a high clearance, capable vehicle. 

    We were looking for a close by, no reservation, free place to camp for a weekend. I remember riding horses up here as a kid but have not been up to this area for many years. Once you arrive to the Wildlife Area, you must let yourself in the gate and close it after you pass through. From the gate we drove down a rough, rocky road and passed a wide-open meadow where there we a couple other trailers camping, maybe living, along the road. We passed through some very narrow, brush lined roads. It was also steep and rutted with water wash out spots. The rocks that made the road are sharp, large, and loose. We did not go too far as we were not sure what shape the road would be in and did not want to get in a situation with our trailer that we could not get out of. Plug for our Airstream Basecamp. It's advertised as being "built for adventure and tough enough to go anywhere." I think I really believe it now. 

    The spot we chose turned out to be beautiful. We had a view of the Thorp valley and the forested gully and ridge across from us. The stars were out and the comet NEOWISE was visible. We saw large elk, deer, many birds, and were visited by some wild turkeys in the night. It can get very windy in this area. Fires are not allowed due to red flag conditions. There is nothing out here. You must bring everything you need. Food, water, TP, lights. The best part was we saw two other cars, a couple ORV's, and a couple horseback riders total for the 2 days we were there. You can't get any quieter and more unplugged than that! 

    Product Review: Camp Fare Beef Burgundy with Field Vegetables and Chicken Tikka Masala with French Green Lentils

     I ordered these meals a bit short of our last trip and was unable to make them. I was happy I had them saved for our trip up to LT Murray given we traveled quick and light. Camp Fare https://campfare.com/ advertises their food as high quality, delicious, chef-crafted, and ready to eat- no refrigeration required. All you have to do is submerge in hot water for 2-3 minutes, tear open the pouch, and enjoy. Selection is limited but covers all the bases. Beef Burgundy, Chicken Tikka Masala, Wild Alaskan Salmon, and Brown Rice and Red Quinoa with Pink Beans. They all sound great! We had our camp stove and a pot of water but you could probably stuff the pouch into a larger Jet Boil for backpacking too. I chose the Beef and had my partner eat the Chicken. 

    Preparation was as quick and easy as promised. The meals may not look amazing, especially on a plate instead of the pouch or in a bowl, but they really are delicious. The Beef Burgundy was flavorful and tender. The Chicken Tikka Masala was Indian restaurant good, seriously. I would way rather eat these meals than something dehydrated ever again. Looking forward to trying the Salmon and maybe getting the Chicken again for future trips.

  • Theresa K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2023

    Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek

    Repulsive

    Every dispersed campground we checked along this road (maybe five or so) was littered with human feces and toilet paper everywhere. We found a literal bucket of human waste beside the river with a soiled pool noodle nearby I can only assume was being used as a toilet seat. Please, if you care about keeping nature wild, carry out your toilet paper and dig a cathole or use the outhouse in the campground. If you don’t know what a cathole is, you should probably should not being using dispersed camping and try the campground down the road. We ended up staying at the campground because we couldn’t find dispersed camping where there wasn’t poop and had a positive experience there. Leave no trace!! 

    https://www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2019

    French Cabin Creek Recreation Area

    Ranger Review: GCI Waterside Pod Rocker with Sunshade at French Cabin Creek

    Ranger Review: GCI Waterside Pod Rocker with Sunshade at French Cabin Creek Dispersed Camping

    Camping Review: 5 stars

    We have nothing but love for French Cabin Creek (F.C.C.) dispersed camping zone!

    From our home (Seattle area) to the camp zone typically takes less than 2 hours to arrive, horrific I-90 weekend traffic not included.

    The F.C.C. dispersed camping zone can be found by crossing the first bridge off the Salmon la Sac Road, located between the Cle Elum River and Red Mountain Campgrounds. 

    Once you arrive in the zone most of the camps are located along either Howson Creek, Little Salmon la Sac River or the backside of Lake Cle Elum.  They are available for camping from May to mid-November. Each camp we’ve stayed in offers waterfront camping, at least 2 parking spots, 2+ cleared spots for tents, trees for hammocks, usually 1 fire ring or more, and a honey-bucket somewhere nearby. 

    We really enjoy camping here because it’s off the main road so it’s much quieter than the campgrounds right off Salmon la Sac Road, plus the river drowns out most of the noise from any loud camp neighbors.

    The F.C.C. dispersed camping zone is located nearby the local Salmon la Sac swimming hole and Lake Cle Elum, so you have plenty of water activity options close at hand. We typically see folks’ kayak, raft, even SUP-board by our camp on their way down to the lake. Kayak and SUP rentals are available in the towns of Cle Elum and Roslyn for $50 daily.

    Did I mention there are several hiking trails located close to the F.C.C. camp zone as well; Pete Lake trail, Salmon la Sac trail, Domerie Peak trail, French Cabin Creek trail and Thorp Creek/Little Joe Lake trail, just to name a few.

    No forest passes are needed to stay in the F.C.C. dispersed camping zone so camping is truly free (unless you find yourself at a trailhead, then you will need a Northwest Forest Pass for the Wenatchee-Okanogan National Forest, be warned)!

    Now just a few last-minute gentle reminders (since this is a dispersed camping zone) that there will be NO: running water, RV hookups or dump stations, no trash bins (pack it in/pack it out), picnic tables, fire pit grills, and on occasion a few more campfire restrictions than in the local campgrounds.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=57515

    Gear Review: 4.5 stars

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, I occasionally get to test out products to review – I recently tested the GCI Pod Rocker with Sunshade and boy am I in love with this chair!

    The chair is as described, a beachside rocking chair with a positional SPF sun blocking shade but GCI did a really great job designing this chair! 

    The chair has a large comfortable seat holding up to a 250 lb. adult. The rocking mechanism is fantastic, rocking smoothly and quietly all weekend long on my first trip out. I was even able to set the chair up on uneven ground and continue rocking away while watching the river and kayakers float past our camp. 

    I am super fair skinned and tend to burn through clothing and sunscreen, so having an extra layer of protection from the sun in the form of the SPF UV blocking sunshade is a real-life saver for me! My husband laughed all weekend at me, as I happily readjusted my sunshade time and again to stay safe and sunburn-free. 

    Another little plus I love about the GCI Pod Rocker with Sunshade is the cool side pouch made to hold your phone and a beverage, which is super convenient for all-day lounging.  

    When you are done using your Pod Rocker for the day, the chair easily folds up and fits into a travel bag with shoulder strap for opportune travel capability. 

    Now the only complaint I have with the chair is the color.  After a weekend camping, leaving it out overnight, I awoke to the seat covered in sticky pine needles that left slight stains on the light aqua colored fabric.  Then there was the wild incident when our ketchup bottle lid flew off and sprayed me and the chair in ketchup, that also left its mark on the light-colored chair fabric.

    My husband’s complaint with the chair is that he feels too hunched over when sitting in it for long periods of time. He said he feels like the chair won’t allow him to sit up straight. Now I don’t know if that is because he is so tall, at 6’4” or just how he fit in the chair but I am 5’6” and didn’t experience this problem. So, I’m guessing it’s more him and his height or long skinny frame?

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 18, 2025

    Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    Not for Us, But We'd Try Again

    We had high hopes for this USFS campground, having read that it’s on an airstrip, it sounded neat. But we decided not to stay here after we checked it out. There were lots and lots of other campers there, lots of camo, lots of large pickup trucks that don’t slow down on gravel roads, lots of “don’t tread on me” flags. 

    We drove to the end where the bathroom is and decided to turn around, though it seems that the camp spots do continue after that point. This was on a Saturday, in all fairness, so the vibe might be different during the week. 

    It’s a 14 day stay limit, and other than the toilets there are no other amenities, so please pack out your trash. At the entrance it says that the following passes are honored: Annual Northwest Forest Pass, Golden Eagle Passport, and Washington and Oregon Recreation Pass. However, at the bathrooms, there’s another sign that says a $5 day use fee required. Doesn’t make sense that camping is free with certain passes but for day use it’s a $5 fee, but since we weren’t staying we didn’t look much into it. No ATV or off road riding here. 

    Cell signal was very weak for Verizon and non-existent for ATT. Giving it 4 stars instead of 3 because it wasn't so bad that I wouldn't be willing to check it out again the next time we're in the area.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 18, 2025

    Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    Not for us, but we would try again.

    We had high hopes for this USFS campground, having read that it’s on an airstrip, it sounded neat. But we decided not to stay here after we checked it out. There were lots and lots of other campers there, lots of camo, lots of large pickup trucks that don’t slow down on gravel roads, lots of “don’t tread on me” flags. We drove to the end where the bathroom is and decided to turn around, though it seems that the camp spots do continue after that point. This was on a Saturday, in all fairness, so the vibe might be different during the week. 

    It’s a 14 day stay limit, and other than the toilets there are no other amenities, so please pack out your trash. At the entrance it says that the following passes are honored: Annual Northwest Forest Pass, Golden Eagle Passport, and Washington and Oregon Recreation Pass. However, at the bathrooms, there’s another sign that says a $5 day use fee required. Doesn’t make sense that camping is free with certain passes but for day use it’s a $5 fee, but since we weren’t staying we didn’t look much into it. No ATV or off road riding here. 

    Cell signal was very weak for Verizon and non-existent for ATT. Giving it 4 stars instead of 3 because it wasn't so bad that I wouldn't be willing to check it out again the next time we're in the area.


Guide to Cle Elum

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cle Elum, Washington, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out French Cabin Creek Recreation Area

  • This area offers a peaceful retreat right next to the river, making it ideal for those who enjoy the sound of flowing water while they camp. Check it out at French Cabin Creek Recreation Area.
  • While it allows campfires, be prepared to bring your own firewood, as it is not provided on-site.
  • Keep in mind that there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, so come prepared with all necessary supplies.

Scenic river access for dispersed campers at Salmon la Sac Road

  • This location features easy river access from various camping spots, perfect for swimming or floating during warmer months. Explore it at Salmon la Sac Road Dispersed Camping.
  • The area can get crowded on weekends, but there are plenty of secluded spots for a quieter experience during the week.
  • Be cautious of burn bans during dry seasons, as they can affect campfire use.

Top activities while free camping near L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

  • This hidden gem offers a private retreat where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature without the noise of other campers. Discover it at L.T. Murray Wildlife Area.
  • The area is known for its stunning wildflowers and wildlife sightings, making it a great spot for nature photography and hiking.
  • Accessing the dispersed sites may require a high-clearance vehicle, so plan accordingly if you're bringing a trailer or larger RV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping available at Cle Elum Lake?

Yes, dispersed camping is available around Cle Elum Lake. Kachess Lake Lakebed, which is near Cle Elum Lake, offers drive-in and walk-in dispersed camping options that are even suitable for big rigs. The lake area provides scenic camping with access to water recreation. When camping here, remember there are no facilities, so you'll need to bring all supplies including water and waste disposal systems. Practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware that camping spots are first-come, first-served. Forest Service roads around the lake provide access to numerous dispersed sites, but road conditions can vary seasonally. Always check current regulations and fire restrictions before your trip.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots around Cle Elum?

The Cle Elum area offers several excellent dispersed camping options. French Cabin Creek Recreation Area is highly rated, located less than 2 hours from Seattle, with multiple sites available. Another popular option is Dispersed near Salmon la Sac, which offers secluded sites off forest service roads. Both areas require proper dispersed camping etiquette—pack out waste, respect fire restrictions, and be prepared with all necessary supplies. For the best experience, arrive early on weekdays as these spots fill quickly during peak season. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many of these areas, especially for the more remote sites that offer the most privacy.

Where can I find free camping areas in Cle Elum?

Free camping is available in several areas around Cle Elum. L.T. Murray Wildlife Area (also known as Elk Heights or Joe Watt Canyon) provides free dispersed camping opportunities, particularly popular with ORV enthusiasts and horseback riders. North Fork Teanaway River - Dispersed is another free option with drive-in access. These areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations or fees. Be prepared for primitive conditions with no facilities, potable water, or trash service. Pack out all waste, bring your own water, and check seasonal fire restrictions. The best free sites tend to fill quickly on summer weekends, so midweek arrival is recommended for better site selection.

Are there dispersed camping sites along Cle Elum River?

Cle Elum River Dispersed Camp offers multiple dispersed camping opportunities along the scenic Cle Elum River. Additionally, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Dispersed Camping on Derby Rd NF7400 provides access to camping areas not far from the river system. Sites along the river are typically primitive with no facilities, so campers need to be self-sufficient. These riverside spots are particularly appealing for fishing access and water activities. Most sites are accessible via Forest Service roads, though road conditions can be rough in places. Be mindful of private property boundaries, which are marked in some areas. During peak summer months, arrive early to secure prime riverside locations, as these spots are highly sought-after.