Dispersed camping near Cowiche, Washington extends beyond the Tieton River and Rimrock Lake areas to include sites in the wider Wenatchee National Forest region. The area sits between 1,500 and 4,000 feet elevation, with camping opportunities available year-round in lower elevations but primarily from late May through October in higher spots. Winter conditions often close forest roads above 3,000 feet from November through April.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At White River Dispersed Camping, the clear waters provide excellent angling. "The river noise also does a great job of masking any sounds from the nearby road, making for a peaceful, immersive nature stay," notes Mary B.
Wildlife viewing: L.T. Murray Wildlife Area offers exceptional animal spotting opportunities, especially in spring. "We saw large elk, deer, many birds, and were visited by some wild turkeys in the night," mentions Shay F. The area serves as wintering grounds for elk herds.
Skydiving observation: Ranger Creek Airstrip offers the unique opportunity to watch military training exercises. "We were there during military skydiving practice. Very cool!" reports Mike K. The airstrip sees approximately 3-5 planes weekly during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Fish Creek Dispersed, campers appreciate the isolation. "There are several spots to throw up a tent or hammocks. Getting in can be tough as the road is dirt and used for wheeling in the off-season so be careful if your car is low," explains Jeff K.
Natural water sources: Serious campers value the freshwater options. "As far as drinking water, it's not available at the site, but there is a natural spring down the road about a mile and a half. It's clean and drinkable," shares a Fish Creek visitor.
Off-grid experience: The remote nature appeals to those seeking isolation. At Rimrock - South Fork Bay Dispersed Camp, Perry B. appreciates the "Totally off grid. No amenities but worth the stay." This sentiment captures the minimalist appeal of the area.
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Most dispersed sites fill quickly during peak periods. "I got there mid-June, and there was still snow on the ground and I woke up to low 30 temps and a winter mix falling from the sky," reports a visitor to Granite Lake Dispersed Camping Area, adding "It looks like it would be a very popular place on the weekends."
Road conditions: Access requires appropriate vehicles in many cases. At L.T. Murray, visitors note: "We drove up a rocky dirt road, single lane with pull outs, for about 20 mins. Passing only a few other campers along the way," according to Pamela R.
Site cleanliness concerns: Several areas suffer from inconsiderate use. At Clear Lake Campgrounds, one camper observed: "If you come during the week, you're going to enjoy quiet, gorgeous dispersed camping. But if you come during the weekend, be prepared for the most inconsiderate, noisy, rude neighbors you've ever found."
Tips for camping with families
Natural swimming spots: Clear Lake Campgrounds offers excellent water recreation for children. "The views are incredible, beautiful grounds," notes Brynn P., though she cautions about weekend crowds.
Fire safety planning: Seasonal restrictions often impact camping plans. "Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans during high-risk periods," so families should prepare alternative meal options and activities.
Wildlife education opportunities: The L.T. Murray Wildlife Area serves as a natural classroom. "This is primarily an ORV and horseback riding area in the summer. Hunting and elk feeding/wintering grounds area in the winter," shares a visitor, making it perfect for teaching children about wildlife conservation.
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility: Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed accommodates larger vehicles. "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," states Garrett B., adding, "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."
Water management strategies: Without hookups, RVers must plan ahead. "No hookups or onsite water. We went into Mt Rainier nat park and filled a 40 gallon tank from a waterfall along the road then pumped it into the rv," shares Mike K. about Ranger Creek.
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons offers more solitude. "Best in late fall when it's cooler. Less loud drunkards," notes an RVer at Ranger Creek, who visited in October/November with a 40-foot fifth wheel.
