Best Dispersed Camping near Mead, WA
Dispersed camping opportunities near Mead, Washington include several free BLM sites within reasonable driving distance. Hog Lake Campground offers primitive camping with multiple sites accessible via a gravel road that can be rough in spots. Fishtrap Recreation Area provides open, level sites in a prairie setting with vault toilets at the trailhead. Several campers note that Fishtrap is particularly suitable for RVs and solar charging due to its open landscape, though tent campers should be prepared for hard, rocky soil that can make tent setup challenging.
These primitive sites require self-sufficiency as amenities are minimal. No drinking water is available at any of the dispersed sites, and most lack established facilities beyond occasional vault toilets. According to reviews, Hog Lake features a single vault toilet near the lake, though seasonal closures may affect access. Fire restrictions are common, especially during dry summer months. Visitors should check current regulations before planning to have campfires. Cell service varies by location, with Fishtrap Recreation Area reportedly having good coverage (3-bar 5G reported on T-Mobile).
Road conditions to these sites require careful navigation. The access road to Hog Lake becomes increasingly rough, with one camper noting, "I personally would not want to drive anything bigger than a camper van down there." Wildlife encounters are common, with coyotes frequently heard at Hog Lake. Rattlesnakes have been observed on trails, so appropriate caution is advised. Most sites permit a maximum 14-day stay. The terrain is typically dusty and dry, particularly at Fishtrap, where shade is limited. Campers seeking privacy should explore sites farther from main access points, as the more accessible locations fill quickly during peak seasons.
