Dispersed camping near Morton, Washington provides access to the vast Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The area sits at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,000 feet, with seasonal access typically running from late spring through early fall. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours, dropping to 45-55°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for significant temperature fluctuations and frequent precipitation.
What to do
Hiking to Cora Lake: This 3-mile hike leads to secluded lakeside camping beneath High Rock. The trail is suitable for families with children as young as 11, with some groups completing the hike "in under an hour" despite telling kids it would take two hours. According to one camper at Cora Lake Back Country, there were "tons and tons of frogs and tadpoles which meant no bugs!"
Viewing volcanic landscapes: The Mount St. Helens area offers unique geological features. One visitor to Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping found "a bunch of pull offs" along Forest Road 83, noting that in late April they "didn't see anyone for miles." The road provides access to nearby attractions including Lava Canyon and Ape Canyon.
Exploring forest service roads: Forest roads like NF-84 offer both camping opportunities and scenic drives. A camper described the area as having "multiple beautiful spots in the same area" and mentioned that "the sound of the creek is soothing overnight." However, be prepared for challenging road conditions as "the road itself is full of potholes."
What campers like
Morning views: Many campsites offer memorable waking views. At Small Site but Million $ View!, one camper described it as "basically a pull off from the forest service road with a fire ring, but remote enough that you never see anyone" and reported going three days without seeing another car pass by.
Solitude and seclusion: The vast network of forest service roads provides opportunities for private camping experiences. A visitor to Dispersed Camping FS-025 found "3-4 nice little sites very well spaced out along the road" and reported that "all of the spots here were pretty clean, no major concerns."
Proximity to Mount Rainier: The area's location makes it ideal for accessing Mount Rainier National Park. At Skate Creek Dispersed, a visitor noted there are "lots of good options for car campers to wake up with a view of Rainier" and that it's "not a far drive to the park." They also mentioned it's "close to Ashland (15ish minutes) where you can get gas and groceries."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest service roads require appropriate vehicles. On the road to Small Site but Million $ View, one camper noted it is "a bit rough with potholes so I wouldn't recommend bringing a low car" though they did manage with "a 2004 Honda Civic" which "was a bit sketchy."
Variable site quality: Site conditions can vary widely across the area. At NF-52 Dispersed Camping, one camper found "It was a pretty good stay, it was easy to find a spot. We just pulled over and set up a tent. A little buggy and it's not a super special spot to camp but it was a nice stay."
Wildlife and insects: Prepare for encounters with local wildlife. A camper at NF-52 described finding "ants ALL OVER! Maybe the big trash pile but they seemed bigger (Carpenter?). Not only could I not enjoy the space outside my tent and just chill but they also were all over multiple path entrances."
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible hikes: Some back-country sites are suitable for families with children. At Cora Lake, a visitor reported: "Walked up for a night. Youngest was 11. Told the kids it was a 2 hour walk. Did it in under an hour. Camped on the right hand shore as it basked in the morning sun."
Pack extra tarps: Spring camping often means wet ground conditions. The same Cora Lake camper advised: "Snow patches at end of May, but enough soggy ground to camp on. Bring a tarp or plastic sheeting for under the tent."
Consider toilet access: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. At NF Big Dispersed Camping Spot, a visitor noted it has "a lot of space, it's near the road but there is almost no traffic in the evening. Quite a lot of mosquitoes but nice for a short stay." When planning multi-day stays with children, locate nearest toilet facilities in advance.
Tips for RVers
Select appropriate sites: Not all dispersed areas accommodate larger vehicles. At Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping, a reviewer observed "There are many spots to choose from for cars, trucks, and vans. It doesn't seem like it's designed for RV's and trailers."
Arrive early for level spots: Many dispersed sites fill quickly during peak season. At National Forest 84, campers will find "multiple beautiful spots in the same area" but should arrive early as the best spots get taken first.
Be prepared for rough access roads: Forest service roads often present challenges for RVs. A visitor to FR74 dispersed noted they "tucked in off of Forest Road 74" finding "beautiful sites" but mentioned there was "quite a bit of trash" and clarified that "the pin is shown on the left side of the road when driving uphill, it should be on the right."
