Dispersed camping near Everson, Washington requires navigation of rural forest roads, with some sites demanding moderate to high clearance vehicles. Seasonal access varies, with many National Forest roads impassable during winter months or after heavy rainfall. The area experiences typically mild summer temperatures averaging 70-75°F during peak camping season, though mountain sites see significantly cooler overnight temperatures even in summer.
What to do
Kayak to Hope Island: The island offers boat-in only camping with a trail that circles the entire island. "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," notes a camper at Hope Island Marine State Park.
Explore Baker Lake: Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and paddling at various points along the shoreline. "Spots are not near each other so you get privacy that way. A lot of through traffic because of the hikes nearby and the sites are right on the road," reports a camper about Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite.
Wildlife viewing: The coastal and forest settings provide opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. At Point Doughty, one camper shared their experience: "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."
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Many dispersed sites offer direct lake access. "We found an amazing site right on the lake, with great views and it was fairly quiet... great campground with toilets, picnic table, fire ring (when allowed), and lots of trees for hammocking," says a visitor to Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp.
Solitude on weekdays: Mid-week visits significantly increase chances of finding available sites. "Very small, quiet, stunning campground. Felt safe. We have a rooftop tent, not many sites with large enough spots to park trailers or vans. Mostly tent sites that are walk in," notes a camper about Lower Sandy Camp.
Free camping options: Several sites near Everson require no fee. "It's free! Beautiful view. Very serene. No facilities! The drive in is easy," reports a camper at Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many forest roads have rough sections requiring appropriate vehicles. "The road does get much rougher the further you go, so not big-rig friendly nor for low-clearance vehicles or vehicles with bald/old tires. No amenities nor cell service," warns a visitor to NF 33 Dispersed Camping.
Site availability fluctuates: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. One camper at Lower Sandy Camp shared: "There are only a couple spots, you have to go down a long gravel road with lots of huge potholes and most of the spots are away from the water."
Facilities are minimal: Most dispersed camping requires self-sufficiency. At Pine Lake Campground, visitors should note the site is "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."
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes can be abundant, particularly near water. "A TON of mosquitos so bring your spray!" warns a camper about Baker Lake Road.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For families, developed sites offer more convenience. "Our spot (site #3) was tucked away in low area by the water. Semi-private and peaceful. Perfect space for 2-4 people to camp. The fire pit setup was perfectly sized and shielded from wind," explains a visitor to Lower Sandy Camp.
Pack entertainment: Limited amenities mean bringing your own activities. At Pine Lake Campground, the hiking access provides opportunities for exploration but requires planning.
Verify access: Some sites require significant hiking or boat travel. Point Doughty camping requires steep access: "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."
Plan for weather changes: Mountain weather can shift rapidly, requiring appropriate gear. One camper at NF Dispersed Camping observed the area has "No sounds of civilization. Multiple turnouts/improvised camping spaces."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller vehicles only. "We have a rooftop tent, not many sites with large enough spots to park trailers or vans. Mostly tent sites that are walk in," notes a Lower Sandy Camp visitor.
Road clearance requirements: Forest roads often require higher clearance. At NF Dispersed Camping, one RVer reports the sites need "clearance around the same amount as the Subaru line of vehicles or greater - 4wd not necessary."
Limited parking at popular sites: Designated parking can be minimal. "Parking for some of the spots is not the best but we were still able to car camp comfortably," says a visitor at Baker Hot Springs.
Consider weekday travel: Weekend congestion impacts RV camping significantly. "Probably some good camping out this way, but we didn't get more than a mile in our promaster before turning around. Camped on a wider part of the road," shares an RVer about NF Dispersed Camping.
