Best Dispersed Camping near Des Moines, WA

Iowa isn’t always considered when you think of states to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or just a place to spend the night, Des Moines, Iowa has plenty of options.

The best camping near Des Moines is going to be near the Saylorville Lake Project. While any lakefront spot is great, the Bob Shetler Recreation area is popular for tents and RVs. If you’re willing to make a bit of a drive, you’ll find the Red Rock Wildlife Management Area near Hartford, IA. While WMA camping depends on the state, you’re welcome to spend up to 14 consecutive days at your campground when you’re at Red Rock. Kick your feet up and enjoy a lakefront campsite when you’re there.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Des Moines, Washington (27)

    1. Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 884-1944

    $12 / night

    "Simple, small, peaceful campground with pit toilets and potable water.

    Mid week after Labor Day, I had my choice of sites arriving in late afternoon."

    "We arrived little later around 6 p.m. And being such a nice day there were only few sites left."

    2. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    16 Reviews
    Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 888-1421

    "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn’t recommend driving down it without good ground clearance."

    "PLEASE LEAVE NO TRACE! Other wise we really enjoyed a quick night away in our van."

    3. White River Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "Right outside the entrance to Mt."

    "If you come here you must leave no trace."

    4. Carbon River

    4 Reviews
    Carbonado, WA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 270-7504

    "My fiance' and I are sleeping in a tent and it has rained a lot but if you go into the woods, you can still find dry branches for starting a fire."

    "I go every year, but unfortunately the only bridge to gain access to camping is closed until further notice"

    5. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 783-6000

    "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."

    "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."

    6. Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    2 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    35 miles
    Website

    "Located at the trailhead are two bathrooms, a covered picnic area and a handful of parking stalls with additional parking located along the road. "

    7. Annette Lake

    3 Reviews
    Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 888-1421

    $5 / night

    "Hike was definitely challenging for middle aged man but I made it and my 10 year old did too (albeit after handing his backpack to dad to carry)."

    "We hiked in to Annette Lake to test out some new backpacking gear as we’re just getting into backpacking - it was great!"

    8. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    2 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    37 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!"

    9. Keechelus Lake

    5 Reviews
    Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    43 miles

    "Great spot to land after long day of driving."

    "Super easy to drive up to the lake and camp, have a fire, hang out and explore!"

    10. NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    44 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."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Des Moines, WA

90 Reviews of 27 Des Moines Campgrounds



Guide to Des Moines

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Des Moines, Washington, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Des Moines, Washington

Fishing and Water Activities for Dispersed Campers

  • The South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site is perfect for fishing enthusiasts, offering a serene creekside experience.
  • For those who enjoy paddleboarding, Keechelus Lake provides a beautiful backdrop and easy access to the water.
  • If you're looking for a scenic spot to relax by the water, Annette Lake features stunning alpine views and is great for swimming.

Hiking Adventures While Free Camping Near Des Moines

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Des Moines, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Des Moines, WA is Joemma Beach State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 27 dispersed camping locations near Des Moines, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.