Dispersed camping options near Lummi Island, Washington include several primitive sites accessible by water, hiking trails, or forest roads. The region encompasses Puget Sound islands and mainland forest areas within Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Seasonal considerations significantly impact campsite availability, with summer bringing drier conditions but increased competition for sites, while spring and fall offer greater solitude with cooler temperatures and more precipitation.
What to do
Explore hot springs: Baker Hot Springs near Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite offers natural soaking opportunities. A camper noted, "Spots are not near each other so you get privacy that way. A lot of through traffic because of the hikes nearby and the sites are right on the road."
Paddle to secluded shorelines: Access remote beaches by kayak from Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County. "This is an awesome little island! 1 vault toilet, picnic table and fire rings. There were raccoons on the island with us but other than that we had the place to ourselves," reports one visitor.
Search for quieter spots: During peak season, continue exploring forest roads for available sites. At Baker Lake Road, "If you think all the spots are taken, keep driving. So many spots along Baker Lake Road. Late July, there's a lot of partying on the lake."
What campers like
Lake access: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites at Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp. One reviewer shared, "We found an amazing site right on the lake, with great views and it was fairly quiet. Despite that, great campground with toilets, picnic table, fire ring (when allowed), and lots of trees for hammocking."
Wildlife viewing: Campers frequently spot marine and forest wildlife from island sites. At Point Doughty, one visitor experienced "2 orca whales cavorted just 100' off and a stellar sea lion, harbor seals and many sea bird varieties provided fantastic entertainment."
Scenic viewpoints: Many dispersed sites offer mountain and water vistas. A visitor to Lower Sandy Camp commented, "Our spot (site #3) was tucked away in low area by the water. Semi-private and peaceful. Perfect space for 2-4 people to camp. The fire pit setup was perfectly sized and shielded from wind."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many sites require difficult approaches. At NF 33 Dispersed Camping, "The road does get much rougher the further you go, so not big-rig friendly nor for low-clearance vehicles or vehicles with bald/old tires. No amenities nor cell service."
Limited facilities: Most free camping near Lummi Island lacks amenities. Lower Sandy Camp offers basic services: "There's a single pit toilet and no running water. Seems like a pretty popular spot but we were able to get a site mid week at the end of August."
Competitive weekends: Arrive early during peak season. One camper at Lower Sandy noted, "There are only a couple spots, you have to go down a long gravel road with lots of huge potholes and most of the spots are away from the water, you'd have to walk into someone else's campsite to get to use the lake."
Permit requirements: Most Washington Department of Natural Resources sites require a Discover Pass ($10 daily/$30 annual). National Forest dispersed camping typically requires a Northwest Forest Pass ($5 daily/$30 annual).
Tips for camping with families
Consider island camping: Hope Island offers unique family adventures with proper preparation. A visitor noted, "We kayaked to the island, the waters were pretty rough so I would recommend for anyone planning to stay here to look into the waters, tide and wind report the day of."
Watch for tent space limitations: Many dispersed sites have small footprints. At Pine Lake Campground, "Cute sites, but you will be interrupted 500 times a day with walkers who use the trail and want to go straight through your site."
Plan for insects: Summer brings mosquitoes to lakeside areas. One Baker Lake Road camper warned, "A TON of mosquitos so bring your spray!"
Pack all supplies: No stores exist near most dispersed sites. Bring drinking water, food, and emergency supplies. Lower Sandy visitors advised, "Loved this free campground on Baker Lake near mt baker, WA! Take the first turn after horseshoe cove campground and follow the gravel road all the way to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Choose pull-offs carefully: Most dispersed camping areas have limited RV parking. A Baker Lake Road visitor explained, "Spots are close together and there are a lot of people. But we couldn't tell we had people around us. You will need a tent if you want to sleep by the water if not you'll have to sleep in a pull off."
Assess road conditions: Forest roads often deteriorate seasonally. At Baker Lake Road, "Many pull offs along the gravel road. Stayed at one that was overlooking the lake. Lots of spots with easy lake access."
Consider dust impacts: Summer camping brings dust concerns. One Baker Lake Road camper mentioned, "Most spots are along the gravel road so there are cars passing by every once in a while and sometimes they go by quite quickly kicking up lots of dust."
