Are you in need of a campground near Mazama, WA? Mazama is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Mazama, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"Just a parking lot a little off the highway. People are rolling in untill about 10:30 and start leaving at 6. Clean pit toilet. Nothing wrong with it, great place just to sleep and keep moving."
"Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required."
"Washington Discovery Pass is required for camping here."
"Super close to the river. There were a lot of people, mainly families, but everyone was super respectful and it honestly made me feel safer and a solo traveler. Would definitely go back."
"A wonderful site, with awesome lake access."
"(CLEARANCE NEEDED - around the same amount as the Subaru line of vehicles or greater - 4wd not necessary)
Beautiful area, small town nearby where you could likely pick up a few things. I didnt stop."
"Beautiful spot near the water also has some more secluded spots if wanted. Didn’t see too many people. And had no issues picking a spot to car camp. Definitely recommend."
"A couple spots washed out and need high clearance but otherwise just a long slow switchbacky road to the top."
"Near the peak of Fox Mountain, this area is at one of the highest points in the area. Great cell service(AT&T) and a amazing view for both sunrise and sunset!"
"Sandy dirt camping site near the USGS sensor station. No fires today due to high fire danger, but there was a pit in the camp. Tent right on the ridge. Dirt road was 12 miles up the mountain."
"Passed a park ranger on the way and he never said anything. There is also paid for camping on the way up here."
TravelerA couple spots washed out and need high clearance but otherwise just a long slow switchbacky road to the top.
TravelerThe campsite is right by the forest road. Fire restrictions are in place for the summer months, so no campfires. Quite a few mosquitos do bring spray or other repellant types.
GuideThis campsite is along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route between the Cashmere and Chelan sections along NF-8410. Obviously, this is a 4X4 road but if you approach from the Chelan side you could maybe get away with a high clearance AWD vehicle. Incredible sunset views of the valley overlooking Lake Chelan to one side and a vast forested mountain range to the other. This particular spot photographed is on the south side of the road to the north of the Baldy Mountain crest. This area seemed to have a good number of sites in the immediate vicinity, not that we saw anything in them. This particular site was clearly well used as it was flat, had log stump seats, and a stone fire pit (even if you aren't supposed to have fires most of the year in this forest). Someone even built a rustic camp toilet in the woods just away from the campsite.
TravelerThis is a dry Camp only. , no water/power ect. Has a small lake or a large pond? With a beautiful view of the valley floor.
ScoutNice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required.
ScoutNo rain while I was there but I dont imagine it would get too muddy/sloppy. The road does have minimal gravel lining it. (CLEARANCE NEEDED - around the same amount as the Subaru line of vehicles or greater - 4wd not necessary)
Beautiful area, small town nearby where you could likely pick up a few things. I didnt stop. Gas station nearby.
There is a fast flowing stream with crystal clear water. Quiet mountain/forest area. No sounds of civilization. Multiple turnouts/improvised camping spaces. Keep driving till you find one you like. Easy to access the creak bank at any point along the road by walking through a little brush.
TravelerBeautiful spot near the water also has some more secluded spots if wanted. Didn’t see too many people. And had no issues picking a spot to car camp. Definitely recommend.
TravelerGreat campsite with an awesome view. Sandy dirt camping site near the USGS sensor station. No fires today due to high fire danger, but there was a pit in the camp. Tent right on the ridge. Dirt road was 12 miles up the mountain. Lots of switchbacks, but passible in a sedan. Takes 45 mins to get up. Take shady pass road to the top.
RangerThe location is amazing!!!! Sadly though the campsites are not well cared for. I stayed at two different sites, one toward the end of the road and one closer to hwy 20. The end of the road spot did require 4wheel drive and higher clearance (suv height), the one closer to hwy 20 could have easily been driven to in a std. car. The river was gorgeous! The further down the road the likelihood you won’t have access to the river (creek). Both sites were straight up trashed! Trash everywhere!!! The site closer to hwy 20 had both trash and food debris (pineapple and coconut shell) everywhere. The tent pad was completely unusable because of trash. This site has a gorgeous water access but again found plastic bags floating on the creek edge. The site further down was littered with toilet paper and a huge polystyrene cooler full of “waste” so gross. I just used these spots as jumping off point for my hikes in the cascades and I slept in my car so it was a fine stay both times.
Experience the beauty of dispersed camping near Mazama, Washington, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season for dispersed camping in Mazama?
Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping near Mazama. Summer provides excellent access to higher-elevation sites like Chelan Lookout - NF 8410 Dispersed and Baldy Mountain Dispersed Camping, with spectacular views and moderate temperatures. However, be aware that summer brings mosquitoes and typically comes with fire restrictions. Early fall offers cooler temperatures, fewer insects, and potentially relaxed fire restrictions. Spring camping can be beautiful but may have muddy conditions on forest roads. Winter access is extremely limited except for spots like Goat Creek Sno-Park. Always check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Where can I find dispersed camping near Mazama?
Numerous dispersed camping options exist around Mazama. NF Dispersed Camping offers beautiful riverside spots with varying levels of seclusion and good proximity to North Cascades National Park. Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping provides higher-elevation sites accessed via switchbacks (high clearance recommended). For smaller, more intimate sites, consider Hard Creek Bridge (better for car/van camping) or Goat Creek Sno-Park, which offers a simple base just off the highway with pit toilets. Forde Lake provides camping near a small lake with valley views. Most sites are primitive with no services, so come prepared with water and supplies.
What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Mazama?
Dispersed camping in the Mazama area typically requires a Washington Discover Pass for parking on public lands. Sullivan Pond Camp and other sites are subject to seasonal fire restrictions, particularly during summer months when campfires are often prohibited. Campsites are generally primitive with no amenities or services. Most areas follow standard dispersed camping protocols: camp at least 100 feet from water sources, pack out all trash, and use existing fire rings when fires are permitted. Vehicle access often requires high-clearance vehicles and sometimes 4WD, particularly for more remote sites. Always check current regulations with the local ranger district before your trip, as restrictions change seasonally.
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