The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Ilwaco. Ilwaco is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Ilwaco, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"There's basically zero traffic on the dirt road near the campsite. A lot of the trees around seem to be new growth. Great view of the stars at night!"
"There are several spots off the road around these radio tower stations and it is quite secluded. We didn't see any other person the whole time we were there."
"The coordinates did not take us to the exact spot, but the pin on the map was the closest, it’s actually to the left on the dirt road. You’ll see a tiny dirt road going up hill and that’s the spot."
"This spot has an almost 180 degree view around to the west! Could fit about 2-4 people comfortably. No amenities but such a good time!"
"Some paths are less driven on so maybe avoid with a big RV or van, can also get a little hilly and tight.
I got in around 8:45pm and there were a good amount of spots left."
"Definitely best for car camping as the spots down by the river were pretty wet and muddy this time of year. The waterfall is amazing and only a 15 minute hike down!"
"The river is a walk down a very steep hill behind the pullout. No place to pitch a tent, best for car camping."
"Secluded yet close to Cannon Beach. Road was very accessible. Creek and trailhead nearby. Spot at the dead end is best."
"Definitely quite the long and slow drive up a narrow backcountry road - steep in sections but overall quite manageable."
"It’s just past a river around a bend when heading east on the south side. You’ll see signs off the pavement for Cook Creek campground. Keep on driving up staying on the main road."
GuideGreat spot because it's so secluded in the forest. There's basically zero traffic on the dirt road near the campsite. A lot of the trees around seem to be new growth. Great view of the stars at night!
There are at least 4 other campsite off this road at different points if you keep driving. Some of them are more or less level and more or less muddy. This one was the best, but there are lots of options. All of them are commonly used because there are ashes from fires. There's a moderate amount of trash at most of them.
Requires a Discovery Pass. I bought a day pass for $12 online since I don't need the annual pass. They tell you to write the date and order number in large print on a piece of paper and put it on your dash. No one came to check my pass though (in January, so it's the off season)
You have to take a dirt road to reach the campsite, but it is pretty well maintained. The only difficulty I encountered were two points where a few inches of road were a bit washed out. They were small enough that I could manage them alright in a 2WD van that had normal clearance. So most cars could probably manage them.
There's a small trail behind this spot that that leads to the creek, which is nice. Other than that, you can hike along the dirt roads, but there aren't any actual hiking trails that I found. I saw a porcupine for the first time while wandering one of the side roads! I didn't drive up to Snag Lake.
GuideThis place was beautiful!! Definitely best for car camping as the spots down by the river were pretty wet and muddy this time of year. The waterfall is amazing and only a 15 minute hike down! The only reason this place got lower than a 5 star is because of all the trash near the parking lot. Too beautiful of a place to be used as a dump!! Definitely used as a party spot but aside from this it’s worth the visit!
GuideThis was a really fantastic campsite! Definitely quite the long and slow drive up a narrow backcountry road - steep in sections but overall quite manageable. There are a few options up here but one really phenomenal site with wide ranging views. Be weary that it is a long drive to get here and no way to tell if there's sites available until you do the entire drive up. No water up here.
ScoutA big pavement pull off on the ride of the road. The river is a walk down a very steep hill behind the pullout. No place to pitch a tent, best for car camping. Had some issues with people stopping and playing loud music, seems to be a hangout spot.
GuideThere are several spots off the road around these radio tower stations and it is quite secluded. We didn't see any other person the whole time we were there. The spot we chose was the best as it is away from the towers and buildings, plus has a great view overlooking the valley and bay, and you can see the ocean between the peaks in the distance. The road getting here is a bit rough with lots of washboard, steep grades and rocks. But it's fun. No amenities, obviously, but there is a concrete pad from an old structure you can park on. Other sites have solid pack gravel covered by grass.
GuideThis is my first wildcamping/boondocking location, but I loved it. It feels like you're right in the middle of the forest! It's a wide dirt pullout with room for 7-10 cars. And although it's right alongside the road, it's not a super busy road like some highway spots, so it felt pretty secluded and quiet. Very few cars at night.
No signs of any kind indicating "no parking." 1 bar of Verizon LTE.
The dirt was solid -- I wasn't worried at all about getting stuck in the mud (and I'm here in the middle of winter with tons of recent rain). Plenty of room to turn around with ease.
And you're right at a hiking trail that takes you to beautiful falls!! What more could you ask for? -- Don't make the mistake I did. The trail all the way on the left side of the parking lot takes you to the falls. The trails in the middle of the lot are super steep and muddy and don't lead to the falls.
Only downside is it's not perfectly flat. It wasn't too bad though. I just parked with my head pointing uphill when I go to bed, of course.
There is also another option down the road to the east about 500 feet. It's a paved pullout, but it is smaller so it doesn't have as much space to turnaround.
GuideAmazing views and complete silence! Tons of rabbits and wildflowers.
Can’t recommend this place enough for a dispersed site. Road is gravel but in great condition, even passenger cars will be totally fine.
We stayed on a Friday night in August and were the only ones here.
GuideOverall this was a great campsite. Very peaceful and quiet. We tent camped at the very end of the road at the top. Unfortunately we could see nothing but clouds this visit, but I would still come back! No photos since it was so foggy and misty. Not much for tent camping but better for cars or campers and very bumpy on the way up.
GuideVery quiet. Spots for van or tent are between radio/cell towers, so doesn't feel like wilderness but there is the potential for spectacular views if the clouds clear. Site is up a decently maintained but long and steep gravel road, doable in a Prius but she was panting by the end. Only ones here on a Tuesday. Cement pad makes a flat tent site.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Ilwaco, Washington, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there free beach camping available in Ilwaco?
Direct beach camping in Ilwaco is limited due to regulations protecting coastal areas. However, nearby alternatives offer free camping with beach access. Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight provides a large paved pullout ideal for car camping, with the river accessible down a steep hill. While not directly on the beach, it offers a forest experience. For those seeking coastal proximity, Dispersed Camping Near Cannon Beach provides free options within driving distance of beaches. Always check current regulations, as coastal camping rules can change seasonally and may require permits in some areas.
Where can I find dispersed camping near Ilwaco, Washington?
Several dispersed camping options exist near Ilwaco. Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed offers secluded forest camping with multiple sites along a dirt road. It features spectacular valley views, minimal traffic, and excellent stargazing. The gravel road is steep but generally accessible for most vehicles. For those willing to venture slightly further, Cole Mt Ridge provides camping spots with nearly 180-degree western views. Look for the small dirt road going uphill with chopped trees and a fire pit area. Both locations offer true wilderness experiences with no facilities, so come prepared with everything you need, including water and waste disposal bags.
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Ilwaco?
Dispersed camping near Ilwaco follows standard public land regulations. At Scenic Overlook Dispersed Camp near Foley Creek and soapstone lake trail dispersed camping, you'll need to practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, use established fire rings only (if fires are allowed), and camp at least 200 feet from water sources. Most sites have a 14-day stay limit. No facilities are provided, so bring your own water and waste disposal system. Vehicle-accessible sites typically require parking in designated pullouts only. Check for seasonal fire restrictions before your trip, as bans are common during dry summer months. Some areas may require a Northwest Forest Pass for parking.
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