Top Free Dispersed Camping near Lacey, WA

Looking for the best Lacey dispersed camping? Dispersed camping gets you off the grid so you can disconnect from the hecticness of everyday life. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Washington camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lacey, WA (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park

    1. Joemma Beach State Park

    10 Reviews
    39 Photos
    254 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    2. Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    57 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    3. NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    20 Photos
    158 Saves

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping outside of a developed campground. If you enjoy selecting your own campsite, providing your own amenities, creating your own experience, and camping for FREE, then dispersed camping is for you!

    Campsite

    Choose a campsite screened from roads and trails, and at least 200 feet from water Use a campsite that’s already been established, if possible. If you choose a new site, return the site to its natural condition when you leave Pets

    Your animal friends are welcome to accompany you on your dispersed camping adventure! Fires

    Only burn wood that is already dead and down Always make sure your fire is DEAD OUT and cold to the touch before you leave it Campfires are allowed below 3,500 feet when not otherwise prohibited by fire restrictions Trash

    Store your food & trash properly to keep bears and other wildlife out of your camp Whatever you pack in, PACK IT OUT! Human Waste

    Bury your poo & paper at least 6” deep and at least 200 feet away from any water source

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    4. Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    180 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    5. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    53 Saves

    Dispersed camping is allowed along Forest Service roads in WA as long as there is adequate space to park off the roadway safely and not on any vegetation.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River

    7. Carbon River

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    88 Saves

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

    It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions. For the best information on dispersed camping opportunities and local restrictions, please contact the nearest ranger district office.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    8. NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    23 Photos
    170 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2292 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2292 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2292 Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2292 Dispersed

    9. FS-2292 Dispersed

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    34 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp

    10. Ipsut Creek Camp

    2 Reviews
    25 Photos
    78 Saves

    Part of the Northern Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park.

    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Lacey

31 Reviews of 15 Lacey Campgrounds


  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    Nice free boondocking between Port Angeles and Forks

    Not a bad find that doesn't require any permit of any kind which was great! Would stay here again I pitched a tent which was nice and found a spot right by the river.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 3, 2024

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful views but semi busy road

    Got here around sunset. Looks like some good camping spots to walk into. Beautiful view of Rainier. There was a little bit of traffic but nothing crazy. Would stay here again.

  • BMRTV
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Carbon River

    Tons of places to camp, can be a party spo5

    I came on a Friday so i could get up early to go hiking. I put up my hammock around 7pm, nobody's else there. Around 9-11pm a few people including a 5th wheel arrived and spent a bunch of time moving that around. They ran their generator, lights and music until 2:30am. My bad for coming on a Friday. Woke up to a beautiful sunrise and spent time on the bridge taking photos before riding up the gravel road up to the Summit Lake hike.

    Lots of spots along the road which I'll utilize next time to avoid the party :)

  • Holbrook P.
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 31, 2024

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    Amazing Spot Outside of Rainier

    We found an awesome walk in spot a little bit earlier on on the forest road before these actual coordinates. While we didn't have the comfota of our car parked right next to us, we had spectacular views of Mt. Rainier, easy access down to the river, and a fire pit. Unreal spot about 10-15 drive to the entrance of the park. Paved road all the way.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 22, 2024

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    Easy to find

    It was a pretty good stay, it was easy to find a spot. We just pulled over and set up a tent. A little buggy and it’s not a super special spot to camp but it was a nice stay.

  • Sam S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Olympic National Forest - Dispersed Camping

    We camped near Vance Creek trailhead to do the Olympic Bridges bike ride the next morning. Since this is a national forest, dispersed camping is allowed. We picked the first spot we got to since it was getting kind of late. It wasn't the most ideal spot and I think further down the road has prettier and more remote options, but it made do. There were really huge flies but they did not bite. The only complaint was that there was more car traffic than I wanted very late at night into the early morning. One car even slowed down and yelled at our tent around 2am. We never felt unsafe but it was annoying. A lot of trash was left behind from previous camper. I would suggest finding alternative spots if you're looking for a more enjoyable night but if you are just there for an overnight, it is fine.

  • Danielle S.
    Camper-submitted photo from FS-2292 Dispersed
    Jul. 27, 2024

    FS-2292 Dispersed

    Epic views

    Very far off the beaten path, every time I camp here I don’t run into anyone. You’re camping on the Ridgeline so it can be a bit windy. East of the campsite there is a walking trail that takes you to an overlook, perfect for watching the sunrise.

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 21, 2024

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    Ok stay near Mt Rainier

    It was just a pretty ok spot. Nothing fancy, my spot wasn’t right on the river and I had a creek which was just full of mosquitoes

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 16, 2024

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    One of my favorites!

    One of my favorite dispersed sites of all time, now let me say , there can be a lot of bugs, but there are lots of sites , and the view of rainier is amazing. !!!! There is a lot of traffic but I love it everytime.

  • Mar Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead
    Jul. 7, 2024

    Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    Perfect woodsy rest stop off highway

    Right off the highway. Pit toilet and wooded areas. Can still hear highway from this exact GPS location, so I went further on up the road for a quieter spot. A few trucks did speed by in the middle of the night, but it was a Saturday and July 4th weekend. 5 bars of cell service.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Jun. 29, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    It’s was ok

    NF-2419 is a very busy road at all hours. 2 or 3 cars drive by all day and all through the night. As far as we could find there aren’t many spots that are more secluded they are mostly just turn outs.

  • Jason C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Jun. 22, 2024

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    NF-2419

    Great avenue to get out into nature with various streams crossing the path of the service road. Truly magical place. It is frequented by others so low privacy unless you camp away from the vehicle path. Grateful a place like this exists.

  • Flare9
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Carbon River

    Carbon River (first time)

    It is currently the beginning of June '24, cold at nights and the mornings. My fiance' and I are sleeping in a tent and it has rained a lot but if you go into the woods, you can still find dry branches for starting a fire. We were set up by the river, mostly quiet and can hear traffic now and then but nothing obnoxious. Would definitly camp here again as it seems we had a prime location.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
    Mar. 27, 2024

    Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    The view!!!!!

    Fantastic secluded spot at the top of the mtn with amazing views! First night we camped next to the creek pull off site and the second night we scored the top of the mountain. Please be aware it’s at the snow line and very cold in March! Cell phone service for Cricket was great. Not so much for Verizon!

  • Beamus R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead
    Mar. 8, 2024

    Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    A spot to sleep

    Overall I had a nice quiet stay. This spot isn't anything too awful special. There are about four pull outs to set up for the night. The bathrooms are located in the trailhead parking lot. They could use cleaning, but they are open 24 hours. As for cell service Verizon was barely there. To sum it up if you need a spot to crash for the night this place will work. Y'all stay safe and be well out there.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
    Mar. 2, 2024

    Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    Good spot for a night

    Not the most private spot if vehicles were to pass. the road looks like it’s used but no one around when we arrived. the road itself is a gorgeous drive and since it’s free it’s worth it!

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 21, 2023

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    Attack of the ants!

    I used the big pull in spot where you can get good access to the river via multiple paths. I backed my SUV in and set my car tent up. Then realized there were ants ALL OVER! Maybe the big trash pile but they seemed bigger (Carpenter?). Not only could I not enjoy the space outside my tent and just chill but they also were all over multiple path entrances. If I hadn’t already set my tent up I’d have found another spot!

  • Sheryl H.
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-52 Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 10, 2023

    NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    This Dispersed Camping area is next to the Skate Creek Rd. It is beautiful!

    The area is beautiful with about 38 sites. Forest Service has installed 6 temporary toilets for the third year in a row to assist with human waste issues.  Many of the campers do not understand the rules and they depart with trash and litter everywhere. 

    Volunteers continue to cleanup after these abusers as well as the Forest Service.

  • Trevor M.
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2419 Dispersed Site
    Jun. 19, 2023

    NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    Forest Road camping

    Had a blast coming up the mountain with the family , found a few great spots that we pinned for later that are unmarked with fire rings. Not many other campers' sites are well dispersed . Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories. Definitely recommend going , we saw people driving various types of vehicles so most will make it up. My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem . Bring in water and plenty of fire wood. Happy camping!

  • Rachel K.
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED
    Jun. 9, 2023

    NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED

    Beautiful views- Use EXTREME CAUTION when on this road

    I love this area and come out here frequently, many rivers and creeks with camping spots right next to them. The people camping are always super kind, secluded, but not too far from each other and always willing to help. DRIVE VERY CAREFULLY, LOTS OF POT HOLES AND DOWNED DEBRIS IN ROAD - STEEP DROP OFFS AND TIGHT TURNS The road goes from ground level up and around the mountain, so be cautious of time of year traveling as I have gotten stuck in the snow up at higher elevations trying to get back down to the other side. This is an area that they do regenerative forest work so big open areas from clear cuts give an amazing view of the hills and mountains.

  • Danielle C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    May. 14, 2023

    Carbon River

    Great camping spot but the people....

    So first off, this location is beautiful. It is so relaxing! We were so excited when we found a spot with a fire pit. We set up camp and started enjoying ourselves. Here where it gets weird. People were harassing us about camping. We spoke to a ranger and verified that we were at the right spot. She said yes. One person drove past and yelled that you don't belong here. It was super uncomfortable specially considering I had a four year old with me. We ended up packing up camp and hiking into a further remote camp site. It was great after that.

  • Caroline E.
    Camper-submitted photo from Skate Creek Dispersed
    Oct. 16, 2022

    Skate Creek Dispersed

    Dispersed near Rainer

    Mostly roadside pull-offs with some drive-in & larger sites available. Come earlier for better sites! Lots of good options for car campers to wake up with a view of Rainer. No cell signal with AT&T. Close to Ashland (15ish minutes) where you can get gas and groceries. Great views of Rainer from most sites, and not a far drive to the park.

  • Robert M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cora Lake Back Country
    Jun. 4, 2021

    Cora Lake Back Country

    Accessible and quiet

    Walked up for a night. Youngest was 11. Told the kids it was a 2 hour walk. Did it in under an hour. Camped on the right hand shore as it basked in the morning sun. Snow patches at end of May, but enough soggy ground to camp on. Bring a tarp or plastic sheeting for under the tent.



Guide to Lacey

Camping near Lacey, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: Many campers enjoy the miles of hiking trails available. One visitor at Dash Point State Park Campground mentioned, "Several miles of hiking trails and chances to see wildlife or catch frogs." This makes it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Beach Access: If you love the water, Alder Lake Park is a fantastic choice. A reviewer said, "A lovely lake is within a short walk and has a playground, a designated swim area and a large dock."
  • Fishing and Water Sports: Ike Kinswa State Park Campground is perfect for those who enjoy fishing or kayaking. One camper noted, "Lake Mayfield, where it is located, is beautiful for kayaking, fishing, swimming in approved areas."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Millersylvania State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms are very nice. They charge a nominal fee for the showers but they have great water pressure and hot water."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A reviewer at Elkamp Eastcreek mentioned, "The sites are comfortably private and well thought out for tent, table, and fire ring placements."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Penrose Point State Park Campground are great for families. One camper shared, "Our kids were only one of many groups of roving kids so it's a very family-friendly setting."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or other campers. A visitor at Alder Lake Park noted, "Only con is road noise from Hwy7."
  • Site Proximity: Campsites can be close together, which might affect privacy. A camper at Potlatch State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are dramatically close, so there is little to no privacy if it was busy."
  • Reservation Recommendations: During peak seasons, it's wise to make reservations. A reviewer at Ike Kinswa State Park Campground advised, "If you’re going on a weekend, we highly recommend making a reservation."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A family at Belfair State Park Campground enjoyed, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach."
  • Pack for Rain: Washington weather can be unpredictable. A camper at Millersylvania State Park Campground mentioned, "It rained a couple of nights but being surrounded by huge trees made it really cozy."
  • Plan for Evening Activities: Bring games or outdoor activities for the evenings. A visitor at Rainbow Falls State Park Campground said, "The campsite was spacious and was plenty of room to fit 2 large tents. Really enjoyed the open field to do some late-night stargazing!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Dash Point State Park Campground noted, "I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water."
  • Arrive Early for Best Spots: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly. A visitor at Alder Lake Park mentioned, "We had it to ourselves during the week."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some RV sites can be tricky to navigate. A camper at Potlatch State Park Campground said, "The spots are a bit close together and a bit difficult backing in to."

Camping near Lacey, WA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lacey, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lacey, WA is Joemma Beach State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Lacey, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.