Best Dispersed Camping near Lummi Island, WA
Dispersed camping opportunities near Lummi Island, Washington include several primitive sites that require boat or hike access. Point Doughty and Pine Lake Campground provide free camping options on Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) land. Additionally, Hope Island Marine State Park offers boat-in dispersed camping opportunities. For those willing to travel slightly farther inland, Baker Lake area features multiple dispersed camping locations, including Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp and Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite, where primitive camping is permitted with minimal facilities.
Access varies significantly depending on the specific site. Point Doughty requires boat access with steep, slippery trails leading to three non-reservable campsites. Pine Lake Campground is accessible only by hiking trails. Hope Island requires watercraft, with kayakers commonly making the journey from nearby launch points. Inland sites near Baker Lake are generally accessible via gravel roads with numerous potholes, sometimes requiring high-clearance vehicles. Many dispersed sites lack running water, and visitors must pack out all trash. Permits are required for most locations, and fire restrictions apply seasonally, particularly during summer months when bans are common.
These primitive camping areas provide varied experiences based on their location and access type. Waterfront sites at Lower Sandy Camp offer views of Baker Lake and mountains, though privacy can be limited. One camper reported: "Got a spot with lake and Mountain views. Very small, quiet, stunning campground." Island camping provides more seclusion, though Baker Hot Springs and other inland sites may offer easier access for those without watercraft. A visitor to Baker Lake Road noted: "If you think all the spots are taken, keep driving. So many spots along Baker Lake Road." The boat-in locations like Hope Island and Point Doughty feature wildlife viewing opportunities including sea lions, harbor seals, and occasionally orcas swimming offshore.
