Best Dispersed Camping near Manchester, WA

The Kitsap Peninsula surrounding Manchester, Washington features a mix of coastal and forest camping options within an hour's drive. Joemma Beach State Park Campground on the peninsula's southern end offers waterfront sites with potable water and pit toilets, operating seasonally from March through October. Dispersed camping opportunities extend into the nearby Olympic National Forest, where forest service roads like NF-2419 and NF-27 Tunnel Creek provide primitive sites with established fire rings. Most dispersed sites lack facilities but offer greater privacy and scenic views, particularly at higher elevations like Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419, which receives consistently high ratings from visitors.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many forest service roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance." Winter camping becomes challenging or impossible at many sites due to snow and steep terrain. Cell service is surprisingly available at many locations, though coverage varies by carrier. Permits are required at some sites, particularly in state parks where a Washington Discovery Pass is needed for parking. Weather patterns typical of the Pacific Northwest mean rain is possible year-round, with summer offering the most reliable dry camping conditions.

Campers frequently highlight the natural beauty and solitude available at dispersed sites. "Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night," reported one visitor to Hilltop Camp. Sites near water bodies are particularly popular, with creeks providing "perfect white noise to fall asleep to." Weekday visits typically offer better site selection, as one camper observed: "Mid week after Labor Day, I had my choice of sites arriving in late afternoon." Visitors should be prepared for varying levels of site maintenance, as some areas have issues with accumulated trash. Wildlife sightings are common, with reports of deer, chipmunks, and birds frequently mentioned in reviews of forest camping areas.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Manchester, Washington (14)

    1. Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lakebay, WA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (253) 884-1944

    $12 / night

    "Simple, small, peaceful campground with pit toilets and potable water.

    Mid week after Labor Day, I had my choice of sites arriving in late afternoon."

    "We arrived little later around 6 p.m. And being such a nice day there were only few sites left."

    2. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

    2 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    25 miles
    Website

    "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!"

    3. NF-27 Tunnel Creek

    1 Review
    Quilcene, WA
    25 miles

    "The drive up to this road is half paved and unpaved , not too bumpy. Big area for camp- dry camping. There was already a fire ring made, we opted out of having a fire."

    4. NF-2419 Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 956-2402

    "Great avenue to get out into nature with various streams crossing the path of the service road. Truly magical place."

    "Not many other campers' sites are well dispersed . Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories."

    5. Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419

    3 Reviews
    Lilliwaup, WA
    32 miles

    "Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night."

    "No water. First come first served and this one goes quickly!"

    6. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    17 Reviews
    Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 888-1421

    "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn’t recommend driving down it without good ground clearance."

    "PLEASE LEAVE NO TRACE! Other wise we really enjoyed a quick night away in our van."

    7. NF-2419 Dispersed Pullout

    1 Review
    Lilliwaup, WA
    32 miles

    "Great spot on the NF-2419, about a mile before the Mt Elinor lower trailhead. Plenty of space for a large vehicle"

    8. FS-2292 Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Matlock, WA
    45 miles

    "No signal and got a little snow on the roof in the morning but it was a good spot with a great view."

    "Very far off the beaten path, every time I camp here I don’t run into anyone. You’re camping on the Ridgeline so it can be a bit windy."

    9. Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Matlock, WA
    39 miles

    "We camped near Vance Creek trailhead to do the Olympic Bridges bike ride the next morning. Since this is a national forest, dispersed camping is allowed."

    "This is a gravel road through the National Forest with a bunch of pull-offs where you can camp. It was nothing special but very quiet and peaceful other than one or two cars that passed by."

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Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Manchester, WA

47 Reviews of 14 Manchester Campgrounds



Guide to Manchester

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Manchester, Washington, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24

  • This spot offers a handful of large pull-out areas along the road, making it a convenient choice for those looking to set up camp quickly.
  • While it may not provide complete seclusion, the scenic drive leading to this location is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate beautiful landscapes.
  • Enjoy the freedom of camping without the need for a permit, allowing for a spontaneous getaway at Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Manchester, Washington

  • For a well-maintained area with essential amenities, consider Joemma Beach State Park Campground, where you can enjoy drinking water and picnic tables for a more comfortable stay.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful experience, the NF-2419 Dispersed Site is a great option, offering free camping along a river with no permits required.
  • Be prepared for a busy atmosphere at some locations, like Carbon River, where you might encounter fellow campers, especially on weekends.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Manchester

  • The Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 provides stunning views and access to hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • For those who love fishing, Joemma Beach State Park Campground features a long dock perfect for casting a line.
  • Explore the enchanting surroundings of the NF-2419 Dispersed Site, where streams and lush forests create a magical atmosphere for nature walks and wildlife spotting.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Manchester, WA is Joemma Beach State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Manchester, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.