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Best Dispersed Camping near Goldendale, WA

21 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Goldendale, Washington provide access to several free primitive sites within driving distance. The Avery Recreation Area along the Columbia River Gorge offers waterfront camping with basic amenities including vault toilets and a boat ramp. This Army Corps of Engineers site allows stays up to seven days at no cost. According to reviews, the sites offer views of Mount Hood, though frequent train noise affects light sleepers. The area includes approximately 7-10 camping spots, with about half directly on the water.

Patterson Slough on Rock Creek and Outlet Creek by Mill Pond present additional dispersed camping opportunities in the region. These sites typically require no reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Forest Road 2730 in nearby Mt. Hood National Forest contains several established pull-offs with fire rings. As one camper noted, "The road was very accessible, high clearance not required," though some group sites may require AWD vehicles to navigate rocky sections.

Dispersed camping above Panther Creek Falls in Gifford Pinchot National Forest provides a unique experience within the region. The camping area sits atop a rock outcrop above the waterfall trailhead parking area. Several campers report excellent stargazing conditions and the peaceful sound of the falls from the ridge. The area contains approximately 10 spots with existing fire rings, many situated along the river under tree cover. Most sites remain accessible by standard vehicles, though larger RVs and vans may need to park near access roads due to narrow passages between trees.

Weather conditions vary significantly by season and elevation. Spring and fall typically offer moderate temperatures, while summer can bring intense heat to exposed sites. Winter access may be limited by snow at higher elevations. Always check current fire restrictions before traveling, as bans are common during dry periods. Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Goldendale, Washington (16)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Goldendale, WA

14 Photos of 16 Goldendale Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Goldendale, WA

21 Reviews of 16 Goldendale Campgrounds

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great/Quiet Spot

    Took a while to discover this spot, but clearly seems well used for dispersed camping. I parked nearest the access road, as my van would have hit trees to go a little further in. For smaller vehicles (e.g. roof top tents), you can get in a little further and off the access road. There was actually someone else back there, and we can't hear nor see each other.

  • Brendan R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 11, 2025

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great Area to Camp and Relax!

    There are several places along FR 2730 where you can pull off and camp. The road was very accessible, high clearance not required. We found a large pull off with several established fire pits. It's absolutely perfect for a group campsite. I imagine it will be a busier spot in the summer, but we couldn't find a single other person within miles of us in early May. To get up to the group camp site, you may need higher clearance (most SUVs should be fine) and 4wd/AWD, as there is a short rocky section that might cause some issues for FWD/RWD.

    Got a little chilly at night with winds whipping down through the area we were in, but overall very peaceful. You can see Mt Hood from the campsite through the trees, albeit it is decently far away and is subject to the visibility at the time you visit. We were able to see Mt Hood just before sunset, but couldn't see her at all the following morning.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2020

    Morrison Creek

    Mount Adams refuge

    Came during heatwave in August, scored one of 2 sites right on the creek, and had the place all to ourselves. Nice flat tent sites, good fire rings, and picnic table. 2 pit toilets and a trailhead.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Jun. 27, 2022

    Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls

    Beautiful dispersed camping near Panther Creek Falls

    This area of Gifford Pinchot National Forest has lots of dispersed camping spots but this area was a gem. To access it, as you are driving on NF 65 you will see a small road to the right just a bit before you see the parking for Panther Creek Falls also on the right. If you are at the parking area for Panther Creek Falls and look up you will see a huge wall of rock…the area is up there and you need to turn on the road before the parking area to access it. There are actually 3 areas where you could camp: As you drive up the small road, you will notice the first, pretty large area for camping straight ahead. It looks like a road continues up toward the right but that is actually blocked. If you go to the left you will see the road continues (and you might not think there is anything up there) and you will see one more spot straight ahead and then if you continue up toward the right (hitting some branches along the way) you will come up to a large, wide open area with tons of space for camping. We were pretty excited when we saw it!

    We spent one night in that huge open area and it was beautiful - the stars were amazing. During the day we would go peek over the edge and could see people parking to go to the falls. You could hear a tiny bit of road noise from up there but it was very light. You can also hear the noise of the waterfall from up on the ridge. The only downfall about this spot is that there is no shade and it was very hot, so hot that we couldn't have a fire. The second night we spent in the spot just down a tad so that we could have some shade and a fire.

    The hike down to Panther Creek Falls is literally right across the road and I think these falls may be the most beautiful falls I've seen in OR or WA. It's a short mile or so hike but really pretty scenery.

  • Madeline N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2025

    Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls

    Great Location

    We stayed in the large open area at the top of the rock outcrop above the trailhead parking area and it was perfect. Like someone else said, you take the road on the right just before the parking lot and then there are a few spots just up the road which are all pretty private. These are walking distance to the waterfall which is awesome, but there are about 10 additional spots with existing fire pits on the road up there. Most of them sit right up against the river under tree cover which would be ideal on hot days. It was cold and rainy so we didn’t have any issues being out in the open.

  • Evan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

    If there wasn’t a train and if the sites were more private, this would be a 5!

    Great spot right on the shores of the Columbia River. There’s a pit toilet, and a garbage dumpster on-site. Over half the “sites” are right on the water, while the others are less than 50 feet away.

    It is just a big gravel parking lot, so don’t expect any privacy, but it’s still a great spot with Mount Hood visible down the river.

    There are train tracks and a controlled crossing right beside the campground, which means it’s loud - and even through the night, trains do blow their horns at this crossing. I’m not a light sleeper, but it even woke me up a handful of times through the night.

    Aside from that, this spot is pretty fantastic though!

  • Audrey M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2021

    Big Huckleberry Mountain Dispersed Campground

    Beautiful views of Adams & Mt.Hood

    No mosquitos up here! We didn't camp at the very top of Big Huckleberry Mountain because there were already a couple other parties, so we decided to camp at the base of the last ascent to the top. I'm glad we did because the grass was lush from having rain a couple days before and we had clear blue skies that gave a beautiful, uninterrupted view of Mt. Adams.

    We met some PCT hikers along the way; some were heading towards the Crest Camp Trailhead. This was the trail we followed: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/big-huckleberry-mountain-via-pacific-crest-trail

    Bring your trowel and TP to stay at these dispersed sites. There are two main water sources on the trail so be sure to stop at one before you arrive. We brought a 6L and filtered it before getting to the top and it was enough to last us for our group only 1 night. The first water source is a PVC pipe that trickles water out; making it easy to fill up your filtered water bottle or a small camelbak. The other is a stream (you'll see a sign made of wood with the word "WATER" and an arrow carved into it) that you'll have to stick your filter bag into. The water is cold; I think it may be snow melt.

    The night was peaceful; I bet you could see stars but we camped close to a full moon so it didn't get very dark. I would definitely come back here again.

  • Shelby S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 15, 2024

    NF-3511 @ Mt Hood

    Great views on the drive up

    While you can't see the mountain from the site itself.There's a great turnaround point and views on the way up and down! Past a few vans pulled over on the way up, But no one drove past me the entire night

Guide to Goldendale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Goldendale, Washington, where nature meets tranquility. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Scenic Views and Relaxation while Free Camping near Goldendale

  • Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Hood from the Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge, where you can set up camp right by the water's edge.
  • The Morrison Creek area offers a peaceful retreat with flat tent sites and the soothing sounds of the creek nearby, making it an ideal spot for relaxation.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls provides stunning starry nights and the gentle roar of the falls, creating a serene atmosphere.

Outdoor Adventures Await at Local Attractions

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

  • Campers at the Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF can enjoy fantastic sunset views, making it a perfect spot for evening gatherings around the fire.
  • The Elk Cove Trailhead offers a secluded atmosphere with fire rings available, ideal for those looking to unwind in a quiet setting.
  • For a more adventurous experience, the NF-3511 @ Mt Hood provides access to hiking trails with stunning views, allowing campers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites around Goldendale?

Dispersed camping sites around Goldendale typically offer minimal amenities. Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge stands out with pit toilets and garbage dumpsters on-site, plus prime spots directly on the Columbia River. Most sites here are within 50 feet of the water. At Morrison Creek, you'll find flat tent sites, established fire rings, picnic tables, and two pit toilets. However, most dispersed areas have only basic fire rings with no water, restrooms, or garbage service. Be prepared to pack out all trash and bring your own water supply.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Goldendale?

The Goldendale area offers several free dispersed camping options within an hour's drive. Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF provides multiple pull-off spots with established fire pits, accessible without high-clearance vehicles. The road is well-maintained and suitable for vans and small RVs. Another excellent option is Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, accessed via a small road just before the falls parking area. This area features several private spots including a large open area at the top of a rock outcrop above the trailhead parking.

Are permits required for dispersed camping in Goldendale?

Most dispersed camping areas near Goldendale don't require specific camping permits, but some locations may require forest passes for parking. In Mount Hood National Forest, sites like Pinnacle Ridge dispersed camping typically require a Northwest Forest Pass for parking your vehicle. Three Mile Canyon Park and similar Columbia River sites generally don't require permits. However, regulations can change seasonally, especially during high fire danger periods when fire restrictions may be implemented. It's always best to check with the local ranger district office before your trip for the most current permit requirements and fire restrictions.

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