Dispersed camping near Methow, Washington occurs primarily in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 feet. The region features a dry continental climate with hot summers, cold winters, and minimal rainfall. Most dispersed sites lack facilities and require visitors to pack out all waste, with seasonal fire restrictions typically in effect from July through September due to high wildfire danger.
What to do
River access: At Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping, campers can enjoy close proximity to water. A reviewer notes: "Great spot with plenty of sites. Lots of room at your site and between neighbors. Super close to the river."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote Jameson Lake area offers excellent night sky viewing. According to a visitor: "Very beautiful night, great for star gazing. Great fishing spot, has split season and is only open during fishing season."
Fishing expeditions: Jameson Lake provides productive trout fishing. One camper reported: "Lots of trout, caught limit every time. Witnessed someone pull a 18" trout last visit."
Hiking nearby: From Goat Creek Sno-Park, visitors can access nearby trails. As one camper observed: "There appears to be a hitching post and a trail that leaves from the campground."
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Baldy Mountain Dispersed Camping offers panoramic vistas. A reviewer explains: "Incredible sunset views of the valley overlooking Lake Chelan to one side and a vast forested mountain range to the other."
Solitude in off-peak times: Jameson Lake can offer peace when timed right. One visitor mentioned: "We arrived here on a Sunday night in May and the place was empty... only one other camper and it was really far away."
Cell service availability: Many higher elevation sites maintain connectivity. A camper at Lake Chelan Overlook reported: "Pretty good view of the lake below and almost no light pollution. Very windy road to get up but I pulled my trailer fine."
Wildlife observation: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout spring and summer, particularly at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough forest roads. At Lake Chelan Overlook, a camper warned: "Washboard road at the beginning but it gets better. Several places along the way, and beyond, to pull off to camp."
Permit requirements: Several sites require passes. At Sullivan Pond Camp, a reviewer noted: "Washington Discover Pass is required for camping here."
Bug pressure: Insect activity can be intense during summer months. At Upper Bobcat, one camper reported: "The bugs were BAD, like hiding in the car and tent bad. Left with more bug bites than I could count."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. A Goat Creek Sno-Park visitor described it as: "Nothing special. Just a parking lot a little off the highway. People are rolling in until about 10:30 and start leaving at 6. Clean pit toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Site spacing considerations: Look for areas with adequate distance between campsites. At Upper Bobcat, a solo traveler noted: "There were a lot of people, mainly families, but everyone was super respectful and it honestly made me feel safer as a solo traveler."
Wildlife safety protocols: Store food properly in secure containers and maintain a clean campsite to avoid attracting wildlife. This is particularly important at lower elevation sites near water sources.
Seasonal wildflower viewing: Sullivan Pond Camp offers botanical viewing opportunities. A camper shared: "Really peaceful and lovely campsite. Lots of flowers, just a few camping spaces available."
Water sources: Most dispersed sites lack drinking water. Plan to carry 1 gallon per person per day, plus additional water for cooking and cleaning.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many forest roads have size restrictions. At Secret Camping Spot #1, a camper noted: "Next to Hwy and behind tall bushes. Vault bathrooms 1/4 mile down the road. Pretty quiet spot even though 300 yards from highway."
Level parking areas: Look for established pull-outs. At Goat Creek Sno-Park, a camper described: "Big open lot where you can easily park cars/campers/RVs/etc. Lots of space and room to pitch tents along the edges."
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads often lack adequate turning areas for larger vehicles. At Lake Chelan Overlook, a visitor cautioned: "Not a camp area per se. It is a pull off which is easy to miss that several people have used for camping and built a fire ring. There is only room for one tent or one camper van. Not trailer or full RV."
Alternative resort options: For those seeking more amenities, Jameson Lake Resort offers additional services. A camper suggested: "Skip this dirt field and stay at Jack's Resort. My grandparents invited me out and, be it not my dispersed style, I enjoyed the beautiful lake."
