Top Free Dispersed Camping near Lakebay, WA

Looking for dispersed camping near Lakebay? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lakebay, WA (10)

    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

    1. NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    20 Photos
    159 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 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

    2. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    54 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 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

    3. 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 Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    4. Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    57 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping
    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

    6. FS-2292 Dispersed

    1 Review
    5 Photos
    35 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    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
    89 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 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

    8. 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
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road

    9. Dispersed South Shore Road

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    435 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
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Firewood Available
    • No image available

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Lakebay

    21 Reviews of 10 Lakebay 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.

    • 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 :)

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
      Jun. 10, 2024

      Dispersed South Shore Road

      Quilaut River-South Shore Road

      Several campsites along the gravel road, we found the perfect secluded spot next to the Quinault River. Drove right into the hidden alcove in our stealth camper van.

    • 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!

    • 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.

    • Lauren M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed South Shore Road
      Aug. 23, 2022

      Dispersed South Shore Road

      Rainforest heaven!

      There are about 5 sites hidden on the road. Please be careful the road is a mix of private land, national forest, national park. The sites can be easily found by their stone fire rings. The site that is directly on the river was very popular. I ended up staying 2 nights at one of the last sites before it turns to private land. It was tucked away, walk in site, had a nice fire ring, nice tent pad area. It has a large rope so you can access the river. The scenery is breath taking. Down the road there are at least 2 waterfalls on the right. In the town of quinault there is a laundry mat/shower facility!

    • Danielle S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
      Aug. 29, 2018

      Ipsut Creek Camp

      Decent Campground

      Ipsut Creek can be approached from a few different ways. The way we approached was via a multi-day backpacking trip. We had gotten used to only a couple of sites per spot so we were not prepared for a larger campsite with facilities.

      The pluses: There are around 20ish sites? We got a nice spot along the river. The sites were identified via fallen and chopped logs. The sites are decently far away from each other but no trees to block me from my neighbors.

      There are picnic tables - it was nice to be able to sit on something other than the ground or a rock.

      The trees were close enough together to string up a clothesline, or if we had brought it, a hammock.

      There are bear boxes to store you stuff.

      There are toilets, but be prepared, there were lines for the toilets and they were pretty gross.

      There was what looked to be a community center place for picnics or the like.

      We pumped our water from the creek.

    • Megan C.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ipsut Creek Camp
      Jul. 14, 2017

      Ipsut Creek Camp

      Crowded yet Cozy

      Ipsut Creek Campground is a relatively easy 5 mile trek or bike ride with a 700’ elevation gain, down a closed road (due to the road wash out about 3 miles in) to a wooded campground nestled along the Carbon River.

      Located at the trailhead are two bathrooms, a covered picnic area and a handful of parking stalls with additional parking located along the road. 

      The trail begins behind the closed gates into the shade of the old growth forest. The trail then alternates between the shade of the forest and sunny skys with river views and wildflowers along the way.

      There are a few side trips off the main Carbon River Trail even before reaching the Ipsut Creek Camp;

      1. Mini Rainforest Loop, 0.25 miles

      2. Old Mine Trail, 0.6 miles round trip

      3. Green Lake & Ranger Falls trail, 3.6 miles round trip

      Note: Sadly, the trail to Chenuis Falls has washed out, so now there is just a log bridge into the water to nowhere.

      Once you reach the campground, it has about 20 campsites with about half the sites located on the river. We were lucky enough to swoop up site number 15 though, strangely, another family decided to share it with us for our easy river front access.  Thankfully the river is pretty loud and drowned out the noise of our close campers. We did choose to camp on the high-profile weekend of the 4th of July, so all the cool campsites along the river were obviously full, which is why we think we had “friends” join us. There was a large fallen tree sort of splitting the camp site in half, so we took the left half, with the smaller 1 picnic table option, while the strangers took the right half with 2 picnic tables. 

      The trees in camp are great for setting up hammocks. We set up a hammock triangle upon arrival in camp near the river for lazy afternoon naps. My siblings both slept in their hammocks fulltime, while my husband and I set up a tent in a small clearing on the opposite side of the picnic table, closer to the bear lockers (bear lockers are a huge plus, meaning a bear canister isn’t necessary if you’re not heading deeper into the backcountry). 

      The campground had a decent amount of wildlife running around.  We had a number of chipmunks running around our camp cleaning up any scraps left daily; we found a live mouse chilling in a water bottle one morning upon setting up for breakfast, and deer came through the camp just about anytime it was quiet.  

      The campground does have two restrooms but they smell like the bog of eternal stench, so bring strong essential oils, a scented hanky, or a shovel to dig cat tracks in the woods far from camp and water sources. 

      The campground is a good base camp to explore the surrounding Carbon Glacier/ Mowich Lake area. We visited Ipsut Falls, which was less than a half mile round trip out of camp, making for a sweet little trip to break up the day in camp. 

      We also chose to make the adventure up to the Suspension Bridge and to the Carbon Glacier view point. Our morning started off cool in heavy fog, which burned off throughout the day, giving way to magnificent views of the mountain and glacier. The trail was covered in wildflowers, cairns, creeks and mini waterfalls. It made for a beautiful day trip out of camp with plenty of opportunities to go further into the backcountry closer to Winthrop Glacier, out to Tolmie peak area or back out along the Wonderland Trail. Backcountry options seemed endless. 

      Though the trail and camp (and site) were crowded, the hike to the glacier made the entire trip worth our cozy campsite. The Carbon Glacier is a bit dirty looking but to be standing in front of something so ancient and magnificent is truly amazing.  My husband, sister and I have now added a new item to our bucket lists and that is to see as many glaciers as we can before they melt, here’s to our first. =) 

      Note: The campground is located within Mount Rainier National Park (no pets are allowed) so you’ll need to stop by the Carbonado Ranger Station for a Wilderness Permit and National Park Day Pass or Annual Permit to display for parking. No campfires within the campground.



    Guide to Lakebay

    Camping near Lakebay, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

    What to do:

    • Hiking and Wildlife Watching: There are several trails around the campgrounds, perfect for hiking with family. One camper mentioned, "Love coming here to hike with the dogs and kids," highlighting the miles of trails and wildlife sightings at Dash Point State Park Campground.
    • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Seal Rock Campground, are right on the water, making it easy to enjoy beachcombing and swimming. A reviewer noted, "It’s the best of the best!" when describing the beach activities available.
    • Fishing and Kayaking: The nearby waters are great for fishing and kayaking. One visitor at Belfair State Park Campground said, "The water in the hood canal is beautiful," making it a perfect spot for water sports.

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Millersylvania State Park Campground mentioned, "Super clean bathrooms and showers," which is a big plus for families.
    • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer decent spacing between sites. One camper at Penrose Point State Park Campground said, "The sites are decently spaced with tall trees," providing a nice sense of privacy.
    • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Dosewallips State Park Campground are popular with families. A visitor noted, "This is the ultimate family campground," thanks to the amenities and activities available.

    What you should know:

    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or other campers. A reviewer at Potlatch State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites are dramatically close, so there is little to no privacy if it was busy."
    • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Staircase Campground lacks showers, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
    • Reservation Recommendations: It’s wise to book your spot in advance, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Twanoh State Park Campground noted, "They prefer exact cash when possible," which is good to keep in mind.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A parent at Millersylvania State Park Campground said, "The kids spent most days playing in the river or at the beach," making it a great choice for families.
    • Plan for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor toys. One reviewer at Fay Bainbridge Park mentioned, "Lots of space to fly kites and walk," which can keep kids entertained.
    • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make things easier. A camper at Belfair State Park Campground appreciated the nearby town for quick supplies, saying, "Town is 5 minutes down the road if you need something."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Dosewallips State Park Campground mentioned, "I appreciate there is electric, sewer and water," which is essential for RV camping.
    • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have close quarters. A visitor at Potlatch State Park Campground noted, "The spots are a bit close together and a bit difficult backing in to."
    • Stay Connected: Check cell service availability. One camper at Seal Rock Campground found, "The cell service is better than I get at home," which can be a plus for those needing to stay connected.

    Camping near Lakebay, Washington, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for you!

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lakebay, WA is NF-2419 Dispersed Site with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

      TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Lakebay, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.