Tent camping near Heisson, Washington offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 300 to 3,000 feet across nearby dispersed sites. The area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F between June and September, with rainfall increasing significantly in October. Several campgrounds maintain primitive conditions and require campers to pack in their own water and supplies.
What to do
Kayaking at Merrill Lake: The no-motorized-boat policy at Merrill Lake Campground creates ideal conditions for peaceful paddling. "Great lake to kayak on," notes Jess G., who appreciated the walk-in sites. Another camper found it "a great little campground, on the lake shore amidst a grove of Old Growth Cedar."
Hiking nature trails: Follow short trails that connect many camping areas to larger trail systems. At Gifford Pinchot National Forest, paths lead from Canyon Creek to connecting waterways. One visitor reported, "The site I picked had a trail down to the creek that was nice. Would recommend the area for just a nice quiet disconnect."
Swimming at secluded spots: Natural swimming holes provide cooling options during summer months. Naked Falls offers "one of the best for swimming I've seen in the PNW," according to Heather P., who recommends "going on a weekday since the weekends get pretty busy from not only campers, but day use swimmers."
What campers like
Natural privacy barriers: Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping offers seclusion among tall trees. "Great, quiet area. Clean and not much left behind," reports Autumn B., who found it while searching for alternatives when their original site was snowbound. Madison D. appreciated how the "tall trees offered our site seclusion and privacy."
Uncrowded weekday camping: Several campgrounds near Heisson become significantly less crowded midweek. Dan M. reported staying at Merrill Lake "for 3 nights midweek in early May and had the place to myself. Fisherman come and go during the day, but I never saw more than 3 vehicles at the boat launch."
Island camping experiences: Sand Island Marine Park Campground provides a unique boat-accessible camping option. "Accessible by boat or kayak. Sites are primitive, no tables," explains Daniel L., highlighting its location "on the columbia river water kayak trail."
What you should know
Tent site surfaces vary: Many tent pads near Heisson require ground protection. At Merrill Lake, campsites are "leveled out in a crushed rock space so be sure to bring a tarp for under your tent," advises Shannon B.
Navigation challenges: Forest road systems can be confusing without proper directions. At Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping, one camper warns, "The coordinates here were incorrect coming from Hood River Oregon. It sent me down a rough dead end forest service road. I ended up lost on the mountain for 3 hours."
Bathroom facilities limited: Most dispersed sites lack toilets entirely, while established campgrounds have basic facilities. Chris J. found Canyon Creek "like others said road getting in sucks. Site I picked had a trail down to the creek that was nice. Would recommend the area for just a nice quiet disconnect."
Pack extra supplies: Water and toilet paper rarely available at primitive sites. Jeffrey P. notes about Canyon Creek: "Would definitely recommend sleeping mats if you're in a tent as the grounds rather hard... Wood was kinda sparse in the spot we were in too but you're close enough to your car that you can just bring some."
Tips for camping with families
Boat-in island experiences: Government Island State Recreation Area offers boat-accessible camping that children often find adventurous. "We love camping on the island, as you can only get to it via boat so it is not overly populated," shares Fatima H., noting "no potable water, so bring your own."
Playground access: Cougar Park & Campground provides tent-only sites with amenities for children. "There are flushing toilets, showers and a playground for kids," reports Mary C., who recommends "site 44 or 45" for families seeking optimal locations.
Swimming safety considerations: When bringing children to swimming areas, check water conditions first. Heather P. found while camping at Naked Falls that "the river was absolutely amazing and one of the best for swimming," but recommends carefully choosing campsites since "if you have small children I'd not recommend this site since there is a drop off at the edge of the campsite that kids could fall down easily."
Tips from RVers
High-clearance vehicle needs: Mount St. Helens dispersed camping requires careful vehicle selection. "Road is rough in some spots but any vehicle can drive it," according to Starseed P., while Chris notes "the road coming in the last 10 miles is rough in many spots. It's hard to see the bumps and dips in the road in the early evening."
Tent-only designations: Several campgrounds explicitly prohibit RVs despite allowing vehicles. Keith H. warns about Cougar Park & Campground: "Be forewarned that this is a tent only campground. We showed up with our VW Eurovan (smaller than half the pickup trucks parked there) and were immediately lectured on not having a tent."
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads often lack sufficient room for larger vehicles to maneuver. When exploring Mount St. Helens dispersed camping, one visitor observed "many spots to choose from for cars, trucks, and vans. It doesn't seem like it's designed for RV's and trailers."
