Dispersed camping near Mead, Washington offers opportunities in the Inland Northwest's mixed pine forest and scabland terrain at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Campsites are typically situated on hardpacked soil with pine needle ground cover that can make tent staking challenging.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hog Lake Campground, campers can access the small lake for fishing. "This spot has made many memories for me. The hike is pleasant and the view is pretty awesome. Pet friendly and honestly it doesn't feel like this place is well known," notes one regular visitor.
Wildlife watching: North Fork Chewelah Creek offers excellent wildlife viewing. "Hearing the birds was really cool," shares one camper. The area hosts a variety of species including "wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes," according to visitors at Fishtrap Recreation Area.
Hiking: Several dispersed sites connect to trail networks. "There is also a trail that connects off the lot," mentions one camper about Fishtrap. At Bull Run Access, visitors enjoy "a beautiful area with multiple small lakes, deer grazing around, and plenty of wildflowers."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to highways, many sites provide peaceful settings. "What an amazing spot. Very little traffic people seem to care about the area cuz it's really clean. No traffic noise," reports a Hog Lake visitor who appreciated the quiet broken only by occasional trains and coyotes.
Night sky viewing: Clear skies and minimal light pollution make stargazing excellent. Rose Lake campers described "Bats at night, and the stars!!" The open areas at Rose Lake provide unobstructed views of constellations during summer months.
Lake views: Several sites offer water access. "Beautiful view of the lake!" exclaims a Hog Lake visitor who arrived late and discovered their prime location in the morning. At Bull Run Access, one camper notes the "Calm Breeze and Amazing Sunset!" that comes with lakeside camping.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads range from well-maintained to challenging. "The road to get there was approx six miles of gravel winding single lane road. But so worth the drive for the beautiful shaded sites," reports a visitor to Cooks Lake.
Site selection timing: Early arrival improves chances for better spots. "If you show up past 5 you'll probably end up in one of those [open spots with little shade]," advises a Hog Lake camper. Another adds, "Incredibly busy for a Tuesday night, people were pulling in all hours of the night."
Seasonal wildlife concerns: Beyond the rattlesnakes mentioned in the existing description, campers should watch for other wildlife. "Bears, coyotes, wolves and cougars are known to frequent the area," notes a camper at North Fork Chewelah Creek, though sightings are rare.
Difficult tent setup: Hard ground conditions make tent stakes challenging. "I will advise tent campers it is tent accessible but not the easiest spot in a tent. The soil is very dry and a couple of the spots were hard rocks and not accessible for tents," reports a Fishtrap visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Creek play areas: North Fork Chewelah Creek provides safe water access for children. "First time taking the godson camping and this was the perfect spot," shares a camper. "The godson loved it - he even played in the freezing cold water."
Wildlife education opportunities: Many sites offer chances to teach children about local ecology. "We experience wild turkeys, a variety of birds, the sound of coyotes not far, field squirrels and snakes," reports a family at Fishtrap, making it a natural classroom.
Site privacy considerations: For family camping, seek more private spots. "If you drive past the first couple grass campsites and continue on the narrow road with water on both sides, just off to the right is a single secluded campsite amongst the trees. The best site there imo. Privacy, lots of trees so the site gets a good amount of shade," advises a Bull Run Access family camper.
Tips from RVers
RV length restrictions: Most dispersed sites have limitations for larger rigs. "We were able to get our fifth wheel (40ft long, 13 1/2 ft tall) in and out easy!" shares a Bull Run Access visitor, though this is uncommon for most dispersed sites in the area.
Level parking challenges: Finding level spots can be difficult. "I struggled with this place, it would be really great if the two lot areas were level. There isn't a level spot anywhere," reports an RVer at Rose Lake.
Turn-around space: Check for adequate space to maneuver. "We have a 21ft trailer towed behind a pickup truck and it's able to fit in most spots," notes a visitor to Hog Lake, adding "There are 10-12 spots along the gravel road to Hog Lake. None of these are really official spots (not flattened or bordered) but it's a nice place to pass through."
