Dispersed camping near Coupeville, Washington centers on several remote, primitive sites scattered across the Olympic Peninsula and nearby islands. The region features diverse ecosystems where Puget Sound meets dense forests, with elevation ranging from sea level to 500+ feet at some campsites. Most remote camping opportunities in this area require significant planning as access varies from boat navigation through tidal waters to forest roads with seasonal conditions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Point Doughty, campers can observe marine life from shore. One visitor reported, "2 orca whales cavorted just 100' off and a stellar sea lion, harbor seals and many sea bird varieties provided fantastic entertainment."
Island exploration: Many of the dispersed sites offer trails for exploring. At Hope Island Marine State Park, campers can hike around the perimeter. One visitor noted, "Beautiful views with a trail that circles the island. There were some sea lions swimming around in the area but never actually approached the land."
Hiking to alpine lakes: For those seeking more elevation gain and forest environments, the backcountry offers several options. At Lake Angeles, the hike is "about 4 miles from the trailhead with ~2,500ft of elevation gain. Trailhead is right by the toll booths for the park."
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many dispersed sites offer rare opportunities for isolation. At Hope Island Marine State Park, one camper was pleasantly surprised: "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."
Kayaking access: Several sites are accessible primarily by water, creating unique camping experiences. One visitor described their approach to Hope Island: "Rent kayaks (or bring your own) at Boston Harbor in Olympia. It's a short trip to the island, which is only accessible by boat... this was an easy and un-intimidating introduction to kayaking."
Scenic viewpoints: Pine Lake Campground offers "cute sites" according to visitors, though they note the trade-off is that "you will be interrupted 500 times a day with walkers who use the trail and want to go straight through your site."
What you should know
Access challenges: Most boat-in sites have landing conditions that vary with tides. At Point Doughty, "During low tide 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."
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal or no amenities. At NF-27 Tunnel Creek, it's "dry camping. There was already a fire ring made... lots of mosquitoes around."
Permit requirements: Several locations require permits or passes. Lake Angeles requires backcountry permits through Olympic National Park, and Hope Island requires a Discover Pass for state parks.
Weather considerations: Marine sites are subject to rapidly changing conditions. For Hope Island, a camper advises: "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. Or if you have the option of using a motorized boat!"
Tips for camping with families
Site accessibility assessment: Carefully research the physical demands of reaching each site. Point Doughty presents particular challenges as "the path up to the sites is steep and slippery with loose dirt but there's a rope to help out... Not recommended for hauling myriad items up from kayaks."
Wildlife awareness: Several sites have resident wildlife to be aware of. At Hope Island, campers should note that "there were raccoons on the island with us but other than that we had the place to ourselves."
Insect protection: Walker Valley ORV Recreation Area and other forested sites have significant insect populations, particularly in summer months. Lake Angeles visitors advise: "Lots of bugs so make sure to bring bug repellant."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Most dispersed sites near Coupeville aren't suitable for RVs, but those with high-clearance vehicles can access certain forest roads. NF-27 Tunnel Creek has an approach road that is "half paved and unpaved, not too bumpy. Big area for camp."
Self-contained requirements: No hookups or facilities exist at any dispersed sites. For any vehicle camping, bring all necessary water, waste storage, and supplies for the duration of your stay.
Parking limitations: Even at trailheads for hike-in sites, space can be scarce. At Lake Angeles, "Parking is limited so try to get there at a reasonable time."
