23 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Several dispersed camping areas surround Mazama, Washington in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, offering free primitive campsites ranging from riverside spots to backcountry hike-in sites. Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping offers riverside sites with reasonable privacy between neighbors despite high summer visitation. Goat Creek Sno-Park provides a large open lot suitable for various vehicle types with a vault toilet, though it lacks scenic appeal. A recent review noted, "Nothing special. Just a parking lot a little off the highway. People are rolling in until about 10:30 and start leaving at 6."
Sullivan Pond Camp provides quieter dispersed camping options but requires four-wheel drive with good clearance and a Washington Discover Pass. Most dispersed sites in the area have strict fire restrictions during summer months. Black Lake offers backcountry camping accessible only by hiking in, while NF Dispersed Camping includes riverside primitive sites on forest roads. According to one visitor, "Beautiful spot near the water also has some more secluded spots if wanted. Didn't see too many people." Insect activity can be significant during summer months, particularly at sites near water.
"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."
"This is a very short drive on a gravel road less than 1/4 mile off paved road. Very large parking lot mostly flat with a few other campsites with fire ring just before it. We took one of those."
"If you are looking to hike goat peak or fox mountain this is an ideal location."
"Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required."
"There is about a dozen pull off spots on the side of the road and then a few more at the top by the lake. The lake was almost non-existent/dried out when we visited."
"While there is no fee per night to camp, a Discover Pass is required (unless you already have a Vehicle Access Pass issued with the purchase of an eligible hunting or fishing license)."
"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."
"This is a great location that is pretty much set up for hunting if you’re into that. It’s right on the water and there are plenty of spots and each spot has access areas to the river."
"We stayed at the back at the site with beach access."
"It’s on a high flat above a river, which would be easy to walk down to if you wanted to fish plenty of space for cars that are blocked off by larger rock so you could set up a tent if you wanted to or"
"There are 2 separate fire rings far enough away from eachother that 2 parties could be down here. Easy Access to the river. Ground is very sandy so be cautious during wet weather."
LegendEnjoyed a couple nights relaxing at this great spot. A couple of visitors drove through to check out the river but we were the only ones camping. We stayed at the back at the site with beach access.
GuideWe originally drove up NF-51 to check out Falls Creek Campground (which is also beautiful) and discovered this gem! While there is no fee per night to camp, a Discover Pass is required (unless you already have a Vehicle Access Pass issued with the purchase of an eligible hunting or fishing license).
No potable water or hookups available. Very stinky pit toilet. Fire rings at sites but there was a ban in place when we were there.
There was plenty of room when we were here, but I would imagine it is very busy during the summer and hunting season.
TravelerWent to camp here in my truck. Very convenient spot and easy to find off the main road. However this forest road is closed and actively under construction.
TravelerVery convenient spot. I didn’t have to go far in to find a place to car camp for the night. So I can’t speak to what’s further up the road (including Forest Road 1062, which is the marker for this Dyrt listing). I was still on Forest Road 1060, which is labeled Bacon Creek Road from Highway 20. Initially I drove past it trying to find where my map told me to turn based on the GPS. So just keep an eye out for Bacon Creek Road. Google Maps labels at Forest Road 1060.
TravelerMade it in a 5.5-in clearance sedan. Some beautiful spots right along the river and I would argue I was graced with one of the best ones! We stayed for a Thursday and Friday night, some cars coming and going. Never got to the actual waypoint marked for this but people were turning around on Friday night.
ScoutThis is perfect for a road trip overnight rest, but I would not want to spend the day here. It is a gravel pullout with a raised ledge. There was some trash and old barbed wire where someone might pitch a tent, so inspect with some good light.
There is an old road that is part of the pullout that dead ends. We parked there and raised the rooftop tent. For our purposes this place is perfect and we will probably stay here again.
ScoutThe river sounds were the highlight of this spot. Beautiful sunrise in the morning aswell
GuideMy boyfriend and I stayed here before spending time in the Cascades. There is about a dozen pull off spots on the side of the road and then a few more at the top by the lake. The lake was almost non-existent/dried out when we visited. We only saw two other people while there. The views are incredible
GuideSpent one night here while in the Cascades and we would recommend :) some spots were bigger than others. We found a spot with plenty of room for our sprinter van Pros- close to the park, off the beaten path Cons- spots filled up fast, some spots are not overly spacious.
Dispersed camping near Mazama, Washington offers access to the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest with elevations ranging from 1,800 to over 5,000 feet. The area experiences warm, dry summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during July and August, while nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer. Fire restrictions typically begin in early July and extend through September due to the region's high wildfire risk.
Mountain biking on forest roads: Cooper Mountain Road dispersed camping area provides an excellent base for mountain biking adventures. "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!" notes Joseph from Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping.
Fishing for native trout: Blue Lake North offers multiple access points for fishing. According to Mike D., "Beautiful lake, long, big and I hear they have fish (not a fisherman). Has several points of access to the lake." The lake requires a Washington State fishing license, available at local outdoor shops in Winthrop.
Paddling on small waterways: Forde Lake provides calm waters suitable for kayaking and paddleboarding. "Short trip from the town of Loomis. Only a mile or so of gravel road. The campground has 10 sites. It sits between Forde lake and a pond we call reflection," shares Al M.
Riverside camping spots: Chewuch River Camping offers excellent water access. Sarah S. explains, "It's right on the water and there are plenty of spots and each spot has access areas to the river. The one in the very back left has its own personal beach area, which is the one that we stayed at." The site includes established fire rings when restrictions aren't in place.
Privacy between sites: Despite high visitation during summer months, Sullivan Pond Camp offers peaceful dispersed camping. One visitor noted, "Really peaceful and lovely campsite. Lots of flowers, just a few camping spaces available. Washington Discovery Pass is required for camping here."
Proximity to North Cascades: Dispersed camping along forest roads provides convenient access to the national park. "Probably a 4.5. Not the best site ever, but definitely good enough for a one nighter... Proximity to North Cascades is nice. River nearby," reports Reagan S., who camped in the area.
Road conditions can be challenging: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. Marco reports about NF Dispersed Camping: "Probably some good camping out this way, but we didn't get more than a mile in our promaster before turning around. Camped on a wider part of the road."
Site cleanliness varies significantly: Some dispersed camping areas suffer from trash issues. Lauren M. shares, "The location is amazing!!!! Sadly though the campsites are not well cared for. I stayed at two different sites... Both sites were straight up trashed! Trash everywhere!!!"
Pack insect repellent: Mosquitoes are prevalent throughout summer months, especially near water. Jeremy M. warns, "Quite a few mosquitos do bring spray or other repellant types," regarding his stay at Sullivan Pond Camp.
Choose sites with established facilities: Goat Creek Sno-Park offers vault toilets and ample space for families. Anna P. notes, "Big open lot where you can easily park cars/campers/RVs/etc. Lots of space and room to pitch tents along the edges. Long drop toilet."
Consider timing for quieter experiences: Many dispersed sites have predictable traffic patterns. Ashley A. observed at Goat Creek Sno-Park, "People are rolling in until about 10:30 and start leaving at 6. Clean pit toilet. Nothing wrong with it, great place just to sleep and keep moving."
Create designated play areas: At river sites, establish safe zones away from fast currents. Russell M. describes NF Dispersed Camping: "There is a fast flowing stream with crystal clear water. Quiet mountain/forest area. No sounds of civilization. Multiple turnouts/improvised camping spaces."
Length restrictions for larger rigs: Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping can accommodate smaller RVs with careful positioning. Emma notes, "Great spot with plenty of sites. Lots of room at your site and between neighbors. Super close to the river."
Consider road surfaces when planning: Forest roads deteriorate significantly after rain. Jacob R. cautions about NF Dispersed Camping: "Lovely spot right by the National park. We camped in our truck. The road was rough. We have a 27 foot rv I would not bring any trailers down here. Vans were there."
Reserve designated campsites during peak season: Al M. advises about Forde Lake: "The campground has 10 sites... Four of the sites looked able to handle our 27 ft trailer. A few are slide in camper sized. Not busy during our stay and was a less improved area near by with more sites."
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.
Keep Exploring
