Best Dispersed Camping near Lynnwood, WA
Want to go dispersed camping near Lynnwood? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Lynnwood, Washington (13)
1. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
14 Reviews•66 Photos•437 SavesSnoqualmie Pass, WashingtonDispersed 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.
Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking
You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. Joemma Beach State Park Campground
10 Reviews•39 Photos•262 SavesLakebay, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
$12 / night
3. Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
3 Reviews•13 Photos•119 SavesMt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, WashingtonWhat is Dispersed Camping? 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.
Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking
You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Market
4. Hope Island Marine State Park - Skagit County
3 Reviews•16 Photos•69 SavesLa Conner, WashingtonA quick paddle or boat ride will get you to Hope Island State Park between La Conner and Whidbey Island on Skagit Bay. Once on the island, quiet hikes through forest and wildland meadows will charm you and relieve your stress.
Boaters know this park as a great place to tie up and take in the sunset or sunrise, but many come ashore and pitch a tent at one of Hope Island's primitive campsites.
Whether you arrive on a luxury boat, by the power of your arms and shoulders, or anything in between, you'll feel far from your daily routine and deserving of this island time.
PARK FEATURES Hope Island Marine State Park is a 181-acre marine park with six campsites, two mooring buoys, lovely beaches and a trail across the island. Most of the island is a nature preserve, and visitors are asked to stay on established trails and in designated campsites.
The park offers six primitive campsites on the north shore bay. The pay station is near the eastern campsite. A vault toilet is in the woods 100-feet south of the campsites. The rest of the island is a Natural Area Preserve, off limits to recreational use. Standard primitive campsite rules apply.The overnight parking fee is in effect at Cornet Bay boat launch.
Check-in time is 2:30 p.m. Check-out time is 1 p.m.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Picnic Table
- Alcohol
5. US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area east to Stevens Pass
4 Reviews•2 Photos•176 SavesBaring, WashingtonTraveling along Highway 2, enter the center of the forest along the Skykomish River, a rafting adventurers' dream. Grab your skis! In just two hours you will be gliding down the slopes at Stevens Pass Ski Area. Check in at the Stevens Pass Historic District for an overview of the area's colorful railroad and mining past. Recreation Area Map National Scenic Byway
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
$50 / night
6. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
2 Reviews•8 Photos•63 SavesLilliwaup, WashingtonDispersed 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)
7. NF-2419 Dispersed Site
4 Reviews•20 Photos•171 SavesLilliwaup, WashingtonDispersed 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
8. Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
3 Reviews•9 Photos•196 SavesLilliwaup, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
9. Lake Dorothy
2 Reviews•76 SavesSkykomish, WashingtonA Northwestt Forest Pass (daily/annual) is required for entrance to Dorothy Lake. view more information here: https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes#northwest-forest-pass-details
- Pets
- Dispersed
- Toilets
- Alcohol
10. Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek
3 Reviews•3 Photos•144 SavesSkykomish, WashingtonDispersed 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 resource.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Lynnwood, Washington
38 Reviews of 13 Lynnwood Campgrounds
- T
Trevor
Traveler
Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek
Dispersed camping along Beckler Creek
Found this sweet spot a little bit ago. Various dispersed camping spots along the road and up the forest service roads. There are some really sweet spots along the road with water access.
Bobby J.
Ranger
Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
Coordinates off
The directions had me believing that the dispersed camping was just various pull offs on the highway loop and that’s where I stayed. It was loud and it felt like the traffic was coming through my tent at times. After driving to North Cascades I discovered that there was real dispersed camping on that road but probably 45 minutes to an hour past where the coordinates took you. Once the highway turned into a gravel road is when I started seeing nice dispersed campsites
Theresa K.
ScoutDispersed Camping Beckler Creek
Repulsive
Every dispersed campground we checked along this road (maybe five or so) was littered with human feces and toilet paper everywhere. We found a literal bucket of human waste beside the river with a soiled pool noodle nearby I can only assume was being used as a toilet seat. Please, if you care about keeping nature wild, carry out your toilet paper and dig a cathole or use the outhouse in the campground. If you don’t know what a cathole is, you should probably should not being using dispersed camping and try the campground down the road. We ended up staying at the campground because we couldn’t find dispersed camping where there wasn’t poop and had a positive experience there. Leave no trace!!
https://www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm
Amber G.Traveler
Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
Amazing
Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night. It’s December so of course it’s a bit cold at night and I’d recommend at least AWD to get up here. Will be back.
Rachel K.ScoutNF-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.
- AAdrian E.Traveler
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
It was alright
You can hear the road from most camping spots. When we arrived at our site there was garbage all over the place in a fire pit so we cleaned it up.
There was a nice long trail that took us to the river. That was nice. Cleaning up sucked because the floor got muddy.
Lots of mosquitoes.
Lots of camping spots. We left Friday evening and most spots were taken.
vicki
GuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Secluded
Nice secluded camp site. Pros: privacy, river access, sunny. Cons: trash and glass scattered throughout the site. Freeway noise is very loud
Karina J.Traveler
US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area east to Stevens Pass
A Quiet Escape
Our favorite camp spots are right on the water, and most spots you'll find here deliver - creeks run through the (what seems to be) endless forest, trees provide shade and lovely hammock set ups, and most spots are separate from others giving you a private, relaxing experience. Hike out to Blanca Lake!
- Max H.Scout
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Wooded campsites off a backyard
The campsites aren’t bad. There in heavy wooded areas. If you get here early enough you can get a good secluded site on an offshoot, but most sites are just right off the road. Some sites are really close together with like 50 yards.
- Bobby J.Ranger
Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
Various Large Pullout spots
There was a handful of large pull out spots along this road. Nothing fancy and not secluded but got the job done
Mario E.TravelerSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great dispersed camping near Seattle
This is near the Tinkham Campground. Plenty of dispersed sites with fire pits. Some sites are close together however if you keep going down the road you'll find plenty of quiet and private places. They also are redoing the roads as I'm here so little to no potholes.
- SSpencer L.Traveler
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.
Sara J.ScoutDispersed Camping Beckler Creek
Beckler creek riverside
Nice large campsite near the water. There were many campsites along the road. I had to clean up a lot of trash when it got here. Please pack out your own trash and follow other leave no trace rules. The campfire was awesome
- KKim K.Traveler
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!
Trevor M.GuideNF-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!
- HHannah G.Traveler
NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED
ROAD IS BLOCKED AND CANNOT ENTER
The road to this campsite is blocked and you are unable to get to it anymore. Someone dropped a dirt pile in the road and now there’s a trench.
- Olwyn L.Scout
Lake Dorothy
Peaceful Alpine lake camping.
Easy stair stopped trail; a bit harder with a 40# pack. Lots of camp sites to choose from, but the one on the far shore of the lake is my fav. Great for groups. Primitive toilets along the way. Bring bug repellant. The flies are abysmal.
Joanna W.ScoutSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great place to sleep for a night while on a road trip
So dark I couldnt even see my own hand in front of my face! I loved it. Quiet enough, could hear gentle highway hum but cant see anything but trees n nature. Earplugs ftw. Some bugs but nothing major. Plenty of spots along the road. U dont need to go all the way to coords. Just pick a spot along road n park. Some wild raspberries at our spot :) firepit nice, a little trash but not much. Thats the cost of free. Spot is free, the cost is picking up a few pieces of trash. Seems fair to me!
Abrianna M.TravelerSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Beautiful but creepy
Nice area by a creek, very peaceful and quiet during the day, a ton of people around and lots of passerby’s. As soon as it got dark, someone decided to sneak around my campsite with a flashlight and stand outside my tent for some time. Packed up quick and zoomed out of there, very uncomfortable and would not recommend for solo campers.
- Jose B.Guide
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great to spend the night for free
This is my second time. It is free good spaces to camp with a lot for trees. I always sleep on my car but people camp on tents on the forest. Dogs welcome
- KKahli C.Scout
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!
Austin R.GuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great Spot
I travel and work remotely so I’m always looking for free places that have cell reception and this place hits the jackpot. I’ve come in twice on a Saturday afternoon and have been able to find an open spot with my 18 ft travel trailer, I have Verizon and have 2-3 bars of service, it is very close to the interstate so you’ll hear a constant hum of cars but it’s very nice to feel like you have your own slice of the mossy old growth forest.
Jamie E.ScoutMountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
Peaceful
Easy to find and peaceful next to the river. No noise from the road.
Jennifer H.
LegendMountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
Sites just off the gravel portion of the mountain loop
Easy enough to access right off the mountain loop highway. Meandering sites along the river with good logs for benches and fire rings made from forest rocks. Heavily forested and beautiful.
- Jennifer H.Legend
South Fork Sauk River
Remote, no services, easy enough to access, beautiful
Half way along the mountain loop highway you encounter numerous spacious tent sites with fire rings and gorgeous river & Mountain View camp grounds.
- Josiah P.Guide
US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area east to Stevens Pass
Berries & Views
Fantastic berry picking & great views (when there is no smoke).
- KKyla M.Scout
US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area east to Stevens Pass
Awesome Dispersed spots
Beat the crowd! Summer time , everyone’s camping. Prepare yourself for biting flies that wont leave you alone. Haha!
Guide to Lynnwood
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lynnwood, Washington, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Here are some top spots to consider for your next outdoor getaway.
Enjoy Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Lynnwood
- Experience breathtaking views at Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419, where you can find a spacious site with an incredible panorama.
- The South Fork Sauk River offers numerous tent sites with stunning river and mountain views, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
- For a peaceful riverside experience, check out Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek, where you can set up camp near the water and enjoy the soothing sounds of the creek.
Dispersed Campers Should Check Out the Mountain Loop Highway
- Along the Mountain Loop Highway, Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp provides a variety of sites that are easily accessible and surrounded by lush forests.
- The South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site features spacious tent sites along the river, making it a great choice for those who enjoy fishing or simply relaxing by the water.
- For a more secluded experience, consider NF-2419 Dispersed Site, where you can find spots along a service road that lead to beautiful streams and a tranquil atmosphere.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Lynnwood, Washington
- Always pack out what you pack in; sites like Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek have been noted for litter, so be sure to leave the area cleaner than you found it.
- Be prepared for limited amenities; many spots, such as Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24, do not offer water or restroom facilities, so bring your own supplies.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular locations like Joemma Beach State Park Campground, which can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lynnwood, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lynnwood, WA is South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site with a 4-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lynnwood, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 13 dispersed camping locations near Lynnwood, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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