Best Dispersed Camping near Mount Rainier National Park

Home to what is, by far, the tallest peak in Washington, Mt. Rainier National Park is a majestic sight to behold. Southeast of Seattle, WA, this is a respite for the city or a destination in and of itself.

Camping in Rainier National Park is straightforward, with one major campground in each section of the park. Ohanapecosh Campgrounds has the greatest number of individual campsites. Mowich Lake Campground in the northwest is the only tent-exclusive primitive camping option. The others offer RV camping, with Cougar Rock Campground having the largest length maximum at 35 feet (27 feet for trailers). The best camping near Mount Rainier National Park during the busy season is in any of the surrounding US Forest Service Land. With options in three directions, you won’t be short on places to camp. Tahoma State Forest near Ashford, WA, is a good option as well.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Mount Rainier National Park (44)

    1. White River Dispersed Camping

    20 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 825-6585

    "Right outside the entrance to Mt."

    "If you come here you must leave no trace."

    2. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (425) 783-6000

    "We had high hopes for this USFS campground, having read that it’s on an airstrip, it sounded neat. But we decided not to stay here after we checked it out."

    "We had high hopes for this USFS campground, having read that it’s on an airstrip, it sounded neat. But we decided not to stay here after we checked it out."

    3. NF-52 Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Puyallup, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1103

    "Forest Service has installed 6 temporary toilets for the third year in a row to assist with human waste issues. "

    "We found an awesome walk in spot a little bit earlier on on the forest road before these actual coordinates."

    4. Carbon River

    4 Reviews
    Carbonado, WA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 270-7504

    "My fiance' and I are sleeping in a tent and it has rained a lot but if you go into the woods, you can still find dry branches for starting a fire."

    "I go every year, but unfortunately the only bridge to gain access to camping is closed until further notice"

    5. Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park

    2 Reviews
    Mount Rainier National Park, WA
    9 miles
    Website

    "Located at the trailhead are two bathrooms, a covered picnic area and a handful of parking stalls with additional parking located along the road. "

    6. National Forest 84

    2 Reviews
    Longmire, WA
    13 miles

    "the road itself if full of potholes, maybe wouldn’t recommend if you have a old/ low to the ground/ 2 wheel drive car"

    7. Cora Lake Back Country

    3 Reviews
    Longmire, WA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "Campground Review:

    There are a ton of amazing places to camp around Mt. Rainier and Cora Lake did not disappoint."

    "secluded lakeside camping underneath high rock. 3 mile hike to the lake, 6 round trip. Tons and tons of frogs and tadpoles which meant no bugs! beautiful area"

    8. Skate Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Longmire, WA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "Mostly roadside pull-offs with some drive-in & larger sites available. Come earlier for better sites! Lots of good options for car campers to wake up with a view of Rainer."

    9. Forest Road 7300 Pull-Off

    2 Reviews
    Greenwater, WA
    15 miles

    "There were many spots right next to the stream. There was a fire ban during our stay but there are many fire pits at each site."

    10. FS Road 44 Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Packwood, WA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 497-1100

    "They must have parked off the highway. Multiple spots to camp. We went a little further in for a more secluded area and barely had any traffic. Would stay here again."

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Showing results 1-10 of 44 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mount Rainier National Park

132 Reviews of 44 Mount Rainier National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Mount Rainier National Park

Dispersed camping near Mount Rainier National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning views and a variety of activities, these spots are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Scenic River Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The White River Dispersed Camping area provides open spaces and beautiful views, making it an ideal spot for those looking to relax by the water.
  • Campers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the river, although it's important to note that the water is glacial runoff, which may not be suitable for swimming.
  • For a more secluded experience, Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed offers plenty of room for larger rigs and is close to a river, allowing for exploration of the surrounding woods.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Mount Rainier National Park

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of NF-52 Dispersed Camping to trails leading to breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, making it a great base for day hikes.
  • The Granite Lake Dispersed Camping Area is perfect for those who enjoy fishing and swimming in a serene lake setting, although access requires a rugged vehicle due to rough roads.
  • Campers at Cora Lake Back Country can enjoy a cozy lakeside experience, with opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Sluice Creek

  • The Sluice Creek Dispersed Spot is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful environment with good Verizon reception, making it a great choice for those who want to stay connected while enjoying nature.
  • This area features level spots with fire pits, perfect for evening campfires under the stars.
  • Campers should be aware that while the site is beautiful, it is essential to leave no trace and clean up after yourself to maintain the area's natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mount Rainier National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mount Rainier National Park is White River Dispersed Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 20 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mount Rainier National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 44 dispersed camping locations near Mount Rainier National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.