Dispersed camping areas around Liberty Lake, Washington offer free overnight options on public lands within 25-60 miles. Most sites sit at elevations between 2,000-4,000 feet and experience temperature swings of 30-40°F between day and night. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-90°F while spring and fall camping means cooler nights in the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At North Fork Coeur D'Alene River, campers can enjoy excellent fly fishing access. One visitor noted, "The fish were jumping like CRAZY the night I stayed!" The river access points are typically a short walk from most camping spots.
Hiking trails: Several camping areas connect to hiking paths. At Fishtrap Recreation Area, campers can access "a really nice hiking trail behind it," making it worth a stop even for short stays. The trails wind through diverse terrain with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Wildlife viewing: Free camping near Liberty Lake offers chances to observe various animals in their natural habitat. One camper at Fishtrap Recreation Area mentioned, "We experience wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes." Early morning and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Lake access: Many appreciate the water proximity at these free camping locations. At Rose Lake, one camper shared, "Nice elevated views of Rose Lake through the trees at the boat ramp. Several fishermen loading up after a day on the lake." The lake offers recreational opportunities beyond just camping.
Privacy options: Campsites with more seclusion are highly valued. At Bull Run Access Dispersed, a reviewer recommended, "If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the tree." These secluded spots fill quickly, especially on weekends.
Sunset views: Several campgrounds offer memorable evening vistas. One visitor to Bull Run Access noted, "Calm Breeze and Amazing Sunset! Stopped at the little restaurant and got a fantastic meal after being on the road all day then headed past all the massive houses to end up in such a gorgeous location."
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is essential at most sites. A camper at Bull Run Access warned, "Just stopped for one night but I enjoyed the rest. Pretty spot close to the lake, but the mosquitoes are abundant! I had my door opened for just a few minutes and had to kill like 20 before I could sleep."
Campsite selection timing: Arriving early improves your chances for better spots. At Hog Lake Campground, a visitor observed, "Surprisingly busy...Incredibly busy for a Tuesday night, people were pulling in all hours of the night." Weekend arrivals after 5 PM often mean settling for less desirable locations.
Site conditions: Many free camping areas near Liberty Lake have minimal maintenance. One camper at Hog Lake Campground mentioned, "Kind of littered with trash just about everywhere. Broken glass in some sites so be careful." Bringing trash bags to pack out more than you bring in helps maintain these free resources.
Tips for camping with families
Location scouting: Some areas are more family-friendly than others. At Cooks Lake, a camper described, "Cute little dispersed campground approx 6 sites. The water was warm and we swam all day. Bats at night, and the stars!!" Families particularly enjoy sites with swimming access and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Bathroom considerations: Most dispersed sites have limited facilities. A visitor noted about Cooks Lake, "Has one vault toilet that was pretty clean but bring your own tp." Families should pack portable toilet supplies and hand sanitizer for more comfortable camping.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for animal sightings and noises. A camper mentioned hearing "chipmunks and rabbits. Tadpoles and turtles and little water snakes" at Cooks Lake. These encounters can become educational opportunities for children if approached with proper preparation.
Tips from RVers
Access road assessment: Road conditions vary significantly between sites. For Bull Run Access, one RVer confirmed, "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy! Lots of spaces and places to turn around." Many recommend scouting locations first before bringing larger rigs.
Leveling challenges: Finding level parking can be difficult. A Rose Lake visitor noted, "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere." RVers should bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilizers, especially at the more primitive sites.
Site selection strategy: For RVs at Fishtrap Recreation Area, campers recommend arriving early as "It's a fine large gravel pull out" with limited dedicated RV spots. The most accessible RV locations are often near the main entrance roads rather than deeper into the camping areas.
