Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Tapps, WA

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lake Tapps, WA (33)

    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping

    1. White River Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    58 Photos
    726 Saves
    Greenwater, Washington

    The historic Mather Memorial Parkway (State Route 410) is the gateway to a recreational haven. On a clear day, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Rainier. For more excitement, take a spin in the off-road vehicle area at Evans Creek, or zip down the slopes of Crystal Mountain Ski Area. Or if you prefer solitude, escape into the solace of the forest and leave the world behind.

    Mather Memorial Parkway Created in 1931, this paved two-lane classic Cascades drive along Highway 410 from Enumclaw to the eastern edge of Mount Rainier National Park presents majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks. More than 200 miles of trails accommodate hikers, horses and mountain bikes. Drive, hike or ride to the Suntop Lookout Cabin at the top of Forest Road 7315. Choose a primitive campsite along forest roads east and west of the parkway. In November buy a permit at the Enumclaw office and take the family out to the woods to cut your own Christmas tree. Most forest roads are unpaved and minimally maintained. Cell phones have limited coverage in the mountains.

    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.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    2. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    14 Reviews
    66 Photos
    424 Saves
    Snoqualmie Pass, Washington

    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.

    Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking

    You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
    Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
    Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    3. Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    39 Photos
    258 Saves
    Lakebay, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbon River

    5. Carbon River

    3 Reviews
    3 Photos
    89 Saves
    Carbonado, Washington

    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 Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    6. Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    2 Reviews
    25 Photos
    78 Saves
    Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

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

    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 7300 Pull-Off
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Annette Lake
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Showing results 1-10 of 33 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Lake Tapps

89 Reviews of 33 Lake Tapps Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    Great spot, plenty of room for Big Rigs

    This is my favorite dispersed site so far. Plenty of room for larger rigs, very close to a river and lots of woods to explore nearby.  Close enough to Mt. Rainier NP and nearby towns for supplies.   Vault toilets if needed, and the airstrip was only used twice in the 4 nights we stayed, i think (heard one mid-day, and saw another late morning).  

    There is a single-lane bridge when turning in that could be tricky for a motorhome that is towing, but not enough traffic to cause us any issues getting in. For larger rigs - take the second left (at a Y-intersection, and then keep to the left and you won't have any trouble getting in. Going to the right at the Y takes you to an area that big rigs might have trouble finding spots or turning around, but still doable.

  • Abrianna M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Oct. 5, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Beautiful but creepy

    Nice area by a creek, very peaceful and quiet during the day, a ton of people around and lots of passerby’s. As soon as it got dark, someone decided to sneak around my campsite with a flashlight and stand outside my tent for some time. Packed up quick and zoomed out of there, very uncomfortable and would not recommend for solo campers.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200
    Sep. 26, 2024

    Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200

    Beautiful morning view of Mount Rainier

    Our daughter told us about this place. You have to climb up a narrow gravel road to get here. A drive leads out to a flat area with a fire pit It was raining when we pulled in, so views were limited. In the clear morning, we got a beautiful view of Mount Rainier. We got decent Starlink signal with a bar of Verizon. Spot would be perfect except prior campers left toilet paper around a bush.

  • Josh S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 10, 2024

    White River Dispersed Camping

    Could be beautiful

    We intended to stay a week, left after 4 days. Could be a beautiful place if not for people.

    Pros:
    Open space, plenty of room Beautiful View Near the park

    Cons:

    Crowded, even mid week we had close neighbors

    Party spot, loud people with loud music

    Dirty, we picked up an entire garbage bag of trash just in the spot we were at. Much more in the rest of the area.

    Road noise, you're literally right off the road

    River is nice, but it's a glacial run off so it's definitely not a swimming area (dirty)

    Road in is super rough

    Again, overall it could be a nice place. We stayed Wednesday through Saturday after labor day. So not "peak" season and the place was absolutely trashed. Feces, TP, beer cans and bottles, food trash, even car parts litter the area. We did a clean up but barely made a dent.

    The first night was quiet and then some locals came and you could tell it was a party area. Loud music, dogs off leash, close neighbors.

    We ended up leaving Saturday because it just wasn't enjoyable.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 9, 2024

    White River Dispersed Camping

    Amazing

    Right off the main road, but several sweet camping spots more tucked away and along the river. I’d definitely recommend a higher clearance vehicle if you want to camp deeper near the river due to rocks and tree roots. People need to clean up after themselves though. We pulled up to a spot that was thrashed. That is how free things get shut down.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 44 Dispersed
    Sep. 3, 2024

    FS Road 44 Dispersed

    Secluded

    Could not find the spot in the previous review. They must have parked off the highway. Multiple spots to camp. We went a little further in for a more secluded area and barely had any traffic. Would stay here again.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 3, 2024

    White River Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful spot!

    This place was gorgeous. Right off a busy road but with being right by the water it tunes out the noise of the traffic. Plenty of spots and can drive in further to be more secluded if needed.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 2, 2024

    White River Dispersed Camping

    Fantastic camping spot

    We had a bit of trouble finding it at first (came from the south of white river), but the little shop down the street has WiFi and we weren’t too far from the entrance. Lots of places to camp, friendly visitors, and overall pretty quiet even with the road right there. The river is so peaceful! Bring a ground sheet for your tents, lots of twigs and foliage.

  • BMRTV The Dyrt PRO User
    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.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Lets Go O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kachess Lake Lakebed
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Kachess Lake Lakebed

    Land Destruction

    Up to $5,000 fines for litter and $10,000 for illegal fire (plus up to a year jail time) now enforced!

    People are destroying this lake. There is NO legal driving in the lake bed, even when the water is low. The lake bed is spawning grounds for the endangered Bull Trout. The lake nearby, Kacheless, is now closed due to people driving in the lake bed.

    There are also burn bans July-September due to extremely high fire danger. Mountains of garbage around due to no garbage services, and human feces everywhere.

    PACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT. Respect the land on which you travel, or this too will be closed down.

  • Tia A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Aug. 1, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Little pocket of peace.

    A lit if the spots are on the smaller side, so we had a bit of trouble finding one that could fit our motorhome, but it was worth it. The place is beautiful. Super dark at night, and besides the sound from the interstate and cars driving up and down, it's quite. Even with the noise, it's peaceful and perfect for a little getaway. We have Verizon and have decent service, even with crappy weather.

  • 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

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Keechelus Lake
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Keechelus Lake

    Good stay

    The spots are crowded by the lake but there are some pretty quiet’s spots further up the mountain that I liked.

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 44 Dispersed
    Jul. 17, 2024

    FS Road 44 Dispersed

    Awesome spots along the river!

    The road goes awhile in both directions, there were a lot of pull offs and we just picked one. The one we picked had obvious fire rings and had been recently camped, there was also human feces not too far in the foods , GROSS. Other than that I loved this stay because of the beauty.

  • 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.

  • Jada P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 15, 2024

    White River Dispersed Camping

    Fantastic soundscapes

    The first time I came here was solo camping. That was scary especially because there was a collapsed tree on top of a truck that was abandoned. The second time was with friends and there were other campers out. I love the view and the sound of the river! Each site is pretty small…maybe enough for 2-3 tents. Be careful of getting too close to the river because it looks like the earth can erode and break away into the river (why the trees collapse). I would definitely go again!!

  • Jada P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites

    BEAUTIFUL!!

    So, this was my first time to this spot. The reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because of how crowded it was. We had a hard time finding an open spot so we could set up camp. We almost made it to the end of the dirt road before we found a lot with a fire pit that could fit our group of 4. AMAZING views of the mountains and it was about 7min (drive) from the beach access point. There were signs saying “camping closed”, however, everyone ignored the signs and still camped out. There wasn’t anyone coming to kick people out. On a side note, there were plenty of disrespectful people who left their garbage at the beach…other than that, this was an overall fun and memorable experience!

  • Corbanzo B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from White River Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 12, 2024

    White River Dispersed Camping

    10/10 Site

    I stayed here two nights while visiting MRNP. It was an absolutely beautiful location, about 10-15 minutes away from the Sunrise Entrance. The first night, I got there after 9pm and there were still plenty of spots available. I found a spot right next to the river. There were a few other people, but everyone was very quiet. You could see the lights and hear the cars driving on the main road, but they eventually stopped. The second night, I managed to find a spot tucked super far in that had a small private beach. It was farther from the road so you couldn't see or hear anything. I didn't see anyone else the whole afternoon/night. Highly recommend!!

  • Joanna W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
    Jul. 10, 2024

    South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    Great place to sleep for a night while on a road trip

    So dark I couldnt even see my own hand in front of my face! I loved it. Quiet enough, could hear gentle highway hum but cant see anything but trees n nature. Earplugs ftw. Some bugs but nothing major. Plenty of spots along the road. U dont need to go all the way to coords. Just pick a spot along road n park. Some wild raspberries at our spot :) firepit nice, a little trash but not much. Thats the cost of free. Spot is free, the cost is picking up a few pieces of trash. Seems fair to me!

  • Joanna W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Keechelus Lake
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Keechelus Lake

    Road Closed on 7/10/24 for endangered fish

    Says when water gets below 2840 ft to protect the fish they close the road and no camping is permitted.



Guide to Lake Tapps

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake Tapps, Washington, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and outdoor adventures without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape into the wilderness.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lake Tapps, Washington

  • Be prepared for a rustic experience, as many sites, like Carbon River, lack amenities such as drinking water and toilets, so bring your own supplies.
  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends, as places like Ipsut Creek Camp can fill up quickly during peak times.
  • Familiarize yourself with local regulations, including permit requirements, to ensure a smooth camping experience at locations such as Joemma Beach State Park Campground.

Enjoy hiking and outdoor activities while free camping near Lake Tapps

  • The trails around Annette Lake offer stunning views and a challenging hike, perfect for those looking to test their endurance while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Explore the nearby Carbon River area, where you can find numerous hiking opportunities and beautiful scenery, making it an ideal base for adventures from Meadow Landing on Forest Road 7200.
  • Don't miss the chance to experience the wildlife and natural beauty at White River Dispersed Camping, where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings and the sound of flowing water.

Dispersed campers should check out Ipsut Creek Camp

  • Located within Mount Rainier National Park, Ipsut Creek Camp provides a unique opportunity to camp near stunning natural features while being close to hiking trails.
  • The area is known for its picturesque views and access to the Carbon River, making it a great spot for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • Be mindful of the campground's popularity, especially during holidays, as it can get crowded, so plan your visit accordingly to enjoy a more tranquil experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lake Tapps, WA is White River Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 19 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 33 dispersed camping locations near Lake Tapps, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.