Dispersed camping near Mossyrock, Washington offers access to the diverse ecosystems of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 4,500 feet across camping areas. Weather conditions can shift rapidly during camping season, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during days but dropping to 45-55°F at night. Many primitive sites are situated along creeks and small watersheds rather than just beside major forest roads.
What to do
Volcanic exploration: At Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping, visitors can set up camp with views of this active volcano. "This dispersed camping is free, huge bonus in my book. While searching for our perfect spot we did come across a few large parties, making us apprehensive that we would experience our ideal peaceful experience, but we were wrong to be," reports Madison D.
Underground adventures: The Ape Caves are within driving distance of several dispersed sites. A camper at McBride Lake NF-81 noted, "The Ape Caves is a small drive away. The town of Cougar, WA is about 10 miles away if you need gas or food."
Backcountry hiking: For more adventurous campers, the Pumice Butte area offers hiking-only access sites. "Pumice Butte is a dispersed camping area along the Loowit trail that circles Mt St Helens. If you're starting from Ape Canyon or June lake Pumice Butte is a great place to camp for your first night (about 5-6 miles in respectively)," explains Stephanie Z.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campers frequently mention the scenic landscapes as a highlight. At Small Site but Million $ View, one camper reported, "It's basically a pull off from the forest service road with a fire ring, but remote enough that you never see anyone. Going on day 3 and I've yet to see another car go by. The views in the pictures speak for themselves."
Secluded lake camping: Cora Lake Back Country provides a more secluded experience with a short hike in. "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," shares Robert M.
Creek sounds: Many campers value the natural soundscape. At National Forest 84, Jordan R. mentioned "multiple beautiful spots in the same area. The sound of the creek is soothing overnight."
Wildlife viewing: Seeing native animals adds value to the camping experience. At Dome Camp, Eric H. reported, "In the morning, there was a herd of mountain goats along the ridge to the south west looking down over us, playfully dancing along the steep walls. Woodpeckers and coyotes could be heard in the distance truly expanding the environment."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Forest roads serving dispersed sites can be challenging. At National Forest 84, Kellan W. warns, "the road itself is full of potholes, maybe wouldn't recommend if you have a old/low to the ground/2 wheel drive car."
Bring water purification: Water sources may be seasonal or require treatment. A camper at Pumice Butte noted, "Water was flowing at this camp when we passed in late July, but it was silty in the late afternoon and early evening, clear in the morning."
Weekend crowds: Popular areas fill quickly during peak season. Madison D. at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping shared, "While searching for our perfect spot we did come across a few large parties," while another camper noted, "There are a lot of places for dispersed camping along FS-83, but they do get pretty full on nice weekends."
Wildlife preparation: Insects can be problematic at certain sites. At NF-52 Dispersed Camping, Diana M. reported, "I used the big pull in spot where you can get good access to the river via multiple paths. Then realized there were ants ALL OVER!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some dispersed areas are more family-friendly. Robert M. at Cora Lake Back Country shared, "Walked up for a night. Youngest was 11. Told the kids it was a 2 hour walk. Did it in under an hour."
Consider seasonal timing: Late spring camping may encounter snow. "Snow patches at end of May, but enough soggy ground to camp on. Bring a tarp or plastic sheeting for under the tent," advises Robert M. from Cora Lake.
Bring insect protection: Bugs can impact comfort levels significantly. One camper at Butte Camp/Climbers Bivouac noted, "The forest has majestic trees and when it rains, it resembles a rainforest," which can create ideal conditions for insects.
Find maintained sites: While most areas lack facilities, some dispersed camping areas receive seasonal maintenance. Sheryl H. at NF-52 observed, "Forest Service has installed 6 temporary toilets for the third year in a row to assist with human waste issues."
Tips from RVers
Scout before committing: Not all dispersed sites accommodate larger vehicles. Kevin W. at McBride Lake NF-81 advises, "Due to the narrow road, it may be a bit more snug with bigger rigs (25+ feet long and anything more than 8+ feet wide). I would scout the road and area before committing."
Limited turnaround space: Plan your approach carefully. "It's plenty big to accommodate a few trucks/cars and one, maybe two towable trailers," notes Kevin W. about McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed.
Small trailer options: Some sites work for compact RVs. "I could pull my 17' pop-up 'A' frame trailer and back into one of the two spots with no problem," shares Kevin W. about McBride Lake.
Avoid low-clearance RVs: Forest roads can challenge vehicles with limited ground clearance. A camper at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping observed, "The road coming in the last 10 miles is rough in many spots. It's hard to see the bumps and dips in the road in the early evening."
