Best Dispersed Camping near Longmire, WA

The forested surroundings of Longmire, Washington feature predominantly dispersed camping options within the Mount Rainier National Park vicinity. National Forest lands bordering the park offer numerous free primitive sites, particularly along NF-52 and near White River, where riverside camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors. Cora Lake provides backcountry options for those willing to hike in, while areas like National Forest 84 and Skate Creek Dispersed accommodate both tent and RV camping. Most sites lack amenities but compensate with mountain views, river access, and proximity to park entrances, typically within 5-15 miles of Longmire proper.

Road conditions and vehicle requirements significantly impact site accessibility throughout the region. As one camper noted, "Definitely need a high clearance vehicle. I made it with my Crosstrek but luckily found a site that was easy to approach." Many forest service roads feature potholes, narrow passages, and rough terrain that limit access for larger vehicles or trailers. Most dispersed sites operate on a 14-day stay limit and require Northwest Forest Passes or similar permits. Cell service ranges from nonexistent to spotty, with reviewers frequently mentioning "no T-Mobile service" or "very weak for Verizon." Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with rain and occasional snow possible even in summer months at higher elevations.

Riverside locations rank among the most sought-after sites in the area, with campers frequently highlighting their appeal. "Plenty of sites along the river with multiple ingress/egress options from the road," wrote one visitor about White River Dispersed Camping. Environmental stewardship concerns appear frequently in reviews, with multiple mentions of trash and improper waste disposal at popular sites. One reviewer lamented that "the entire area was littered with toilet paper and discarded furniture" at an NF-52 site. Quieter experiences can be found at less accessible locations like Small Site but Million $ View, where a camper reported, "It's basically a pull off from the forest service road with a fire ring, but remote enough that you never see anyone."

Best Dispersed Sites Near Longmire, Washington (50)

    1. NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Puyallup, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1103

    "Forest Service has installed 6 temporary toilets for the third year in a row to assist with human waste issues. "

    "We found an awesome walk in spot a little bit earlier on on the forest road before these actual coordinates."

    2. White River Dispersed Camping

    21 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "Right outside the entrance to Mt."

    "If you come here you must leave no trace."

    3. Cora Lake Back Country

    3 Reviews
    Longmire, WA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "Campground Review:

    There are a ton of amazing places to camp around Mt. Rainier and Cora Lake did not disappoint."

    "secluded lakeside camping underneath high rock. 3 mile hike to the lake, 6 round trip. Tons and tons of frogs and tadpoles which meant no bugs! beautiful area"

    4. National Forest 84

    2 Reviews
    Longmire, WA
    4 miles

    "the road itself if full of potholes, maybe wouldn’t recommend if you have a old/ low to the ground/ 2 wheel drive car"

    5. Skate Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Longmire, WA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "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."

    6. Small Site but Million $ View!

    1 Review
    Longmire, WA
    5 miles

    "It’s basically a pull off from the forest service road with a fire ring, but remote enough that you never see anyone. Going on day 3 and I’ve yet to see another car go by."

    7. NF Big Dispersed Camping Spot

    1 Review
    Longmire, WA
    3 miles

    "A lot of space, it’s near the road but there is almost no traffic in the evening. Quite a lot of mosquitoes but nice for a short stay"

    8. Sluice Creek Dispersed Spot

    4 Reviews
    Packwood, WA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1103

    9. FS Road 44 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Packwood, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "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."

    10. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 783-6000

    "We had high hopes for this USFS campground, having read that it’s on an airstrip, it sounded neat. But we decided not to stay here after we checked it out."

    "We had high hopes for this USFS campground, having read that it’s on an airstrip, it sounded neat. But we decided not to stay here after we checked it out."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Longmire, WA

148 Reviews of 50 Longmire Campgrounds



Guide to Longmire

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Longmire, Washington, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes. This area offers a variety of spots for campers looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Enjoy Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Longmire

  • Experience breathtaking views of Mount Rainier from NF-52 Dispersed Camping, where you can find beautiful spots to set up your tent and enjoy the scenery.
  • The White River Dispersed Camping area provides open spaces and stunning river views, perfect for those who appreciate the sound of flowing water while camping.
  • For a more secluded experience, head to Sluice Creek Dispersed Spot, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the beauty of the forest.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Ranger Creek Airstrip

  • The Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed area is ideal for larger rigs, offering plenty of space and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
  • Located close to Mt. Rainier National Park, this spot allows for quick trips to explore the park while enjoying the comforts of a well-reviewed camping area.
  • With vault toilets available, the Ranger Creek Airstrip provides a balance of convenience and natural beauty, making it a great choice for families and groups.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Longmire, Washington

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot at Granite Lake Dispersed Camping Area, as this area can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
  • Be prepared for rough roads when visiting Cora Lake Back Country, as a high-clearance vehicle is recommended to navigate the terrain.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles, especially in popular spots like Carbon River, to help maintain the natural beauty of these areas for future campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Longmire, WA is NF-52 Dispersed Camping with a 3.7-star rating from 7 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 50 dispersed camping locations near Longmire, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.