Best Dispersed Camping near Kelso, WA

The area around Kelso, Washington has several dispersed camping zones for those who like to rough it. Kelso City Park Campground includes some primitive sites where you'll need to bring everything you need - there's no water or toilets nearby. You'll have to pack out all your trash and follow Leave No Trace practices in these spots. If you head to Kelso Area State Park, you can find more remote camping options, but remember to set up well away from roads and water sources. Most dispersed sites in this region have a two-week maximum stay. Many of the better spots require vehicles with decent clearance since the access roads can get pretty rough. The Forest Service often restricts campfires during summer and fall when things dry out, so always check current fire rules before heading out. With good preparation and respect for the land regulations, the primitive camping around Kelso can be really rewarding.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Kelso, Washington (22)

    1. Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight

    6 Reviews
    Clatskanie, OR
    12 miles

    "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."

    3. Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Cougar, WA
    38 miles

    "This is a dispersed campsite near the south side of Mount St. Helens. It's free, which is always great. The drive in is just off the highway and up a little hill, but my car had no problems with it."

    "This dispersed camping is free, huge bonus in my book."

    4. Butte Camp/Climbers Bivouac Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Cougar, WA
    32 miles
    Website

    "Group camping with 4-5 places for tents and 2 maybe 3 spots for travel trailers but will need to back in. 2 fire pits and a few walking trails. Solar friendly and level."

    "The area around mount Saint Helens is beautiful, tons of space to park any rig, tent, or vehicle. The forest has majestic trees and when it rains, it resembles a rainforest."

    5. Tillamook State Forest Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Tillamook State Forest, OR
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 357-2191

    "Accessible through the Jones Creek campground turn off, continue up the forest roads past the OHV staging area and you’re in paradise!"

    "These sites are beautiful and really meant for tent camping—but you can park an rv in most of the spots.

    There is a vault toilet closer to site 14 but no hookups."

    6. McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed

    1 Review
    Cougar, WA
    31 miles

    "I would scout the road and area before committing; however, there is a turnaround that you could use to maneuver the trailer to drive out. "

    7. Pumice Butte- Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Cougar, WA
    33 miles

    "Pumice Butte is a dispersed camping area along the Loowit trail that circles Mt St Helens."

    "The camp is around a gully on the north side of Pumice Butte with outstanding views of Mt St Helens and Mt Adams."

    8. Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Cougar, WA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 891-5000

    "Road got a little bumpy getting out here but once we found a spot right near the riverbank, you felt like you were deep in it. Saw a few people on the way out."

    10. Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Naselle, WA
    48 miles
    Website

    "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!"

    "in a clearing for solar power, surrounded by brush had has decent cell signal. seems to be a quiet road."

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Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kelso, WA

61 Reviews of 22 Kelso Campgrounds



Guide to Kelso

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Kelso, Washington, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of locations to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Kelso, Washington

The stunning waterfall hike at Beaver Falls for dispersed campers

  • The short hike to the waterfall from Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight offers breathtaking views and a perfect photo opportunity.
  • While the camping area itself may not be scenic, the nearby waterfall makes it a worthwhile destination for nature lovers.
  • Keep in mind that the area can attract party-goers, so consider visiting during weekdays for a quieter experience.

Dispersed campers should check out McBride Lake for a peaceful retreat

  • McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed is known for its privacy and ample shade, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
  • The site is accessible for both tents and RVs, but larger rigs should scout the area first due to narrow roads.
  • With no cell reception, this spot is perfect for disconnecting and enjoying the serene surroundings, including nearby hiking trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kelso, WA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kelso, WA is Beaver Falls Trailhead - Overnight with a 4.3-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 22 dispersed camping locations near Kelso, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.