Dispersed camping opportunities near Mukilteo, Washington extend beyond the popular Mountain Loop Highway into several lesser-known areas of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Most free camping sites are located within a 1-2 hour drive from Mukilteo, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 feet. Winter weather typically closes many access roads from November through May, while summer brings drier conditions and increased competition for prime spots.
What to do
River activities: Access to numerous water features makes swimming and fishing popular at sites along Forest Road 24. One camper noted, "The road itself is a gorgeous drive and since it's free it's worth it!" Sites near Large Pull Out on FR 24 offer several pullouts suitable for both activities.
Hiking opportunities: The Lake Dorothy trail provides a moderate 1.5-mile hike to lakeside camping. A visitor explained, "You can hike on from Dorothy to another lake further up the trail (Bear Lake if memory serves me). There are some areas sort of cleared for camping, that have clearly been used before." Lake Dorothy requires no reservation but does need a Northwest Forest Pass for parking.
Berry picking: Summer brings wild berry harvesting opportunities in the Skykomish area. A camper reported, "Fantastic berry picking & great views (when there is no smoke)." August through September offers prime blackberry and huckleberry gathering along trails and forest roads in the US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area region.
What campers like
River proximity: Many campers seek sites with direct water access. "Found this sweet spot a little bit ago. Various dispersed camping spots along the road and up the forest service roads. There are some really sweet spots along the road with water access," shared one reviewer about Beckler Creek.
Privacy between sites: The spacing between camping areas receives positive mentions. One camper at the Skykomish Area observed, "Our favorite camp spots are right on the water, and most spots you'll find here deliver - creeks run through the (what seems to be) endless forest, trees provide shade and lovely hammock set ups, and most spots are separate from others giving you a private, relaxing experience."
Established features: Natural amenities enhance the primitive camping experience. A visitor to South Fork Sauk River mentioned, "All had fire rings, and quite a few had spare firewood from previous occupants. Thanks, all!" This voluntary firewood sharing appears common among dispersed sites in the region.
What you should know
Dust concerns: The unpaved roads create significant dust issues during dry months. "The Mountain Loop Highway is gravel and dirt through here, and many people travel too fast on it and kick up a lot of dust. This gets everywhere, so be careful of allergies and expect to clean all your gear if you're camping in the summer," warned one South Fork Sauk River camper.
Limited navigation assistance: GPS coordinates can be misleading in this region. As one visitor explained about Mountain Loop Highway, "The directions had me believing that the dispersed camping was just various pull offs on the highway loop and that's where I stayed. It was loud and it felt like the traffic was coming through my tent at times."
Waste management issues: Pack-out requirements aren't always followed. "I had to clean up a lot of trash when it got here. Please pack out your own trash and follow other leave no trace rules," reported a Beckler Creek camper. Bringing extra trash bags and being prepared to clean sites before setting up camp is advisable.
Tips for camping with families
Island camping option: For families seeking a unique experience, Hope Island Marine State Park offers boat-in camping. "This campground is on a tiny island in the Puget Sound. Rent kayaks (or bring your own) at Boston Harbor in Olympia. It's a short trip to the island, which is only accessible by boat," shared one visitor. The island has limited sites, so midweek visits are recommended.
Train noise awareness: Families with light sleepers should consider camping locations away from the railroad. One Skykomish Area camper mentioned, "The only noise you'd probably hear is the trains and the cars passing on highway 2." Sites further up forest roads typically have less noise intrusion than those closer to main highways.
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic, particularly for children. "Prepare yourself for biting flies that won't leave you alone," warned one Skykomish Area visitor. Another camper at Lake Dorothy advised, "Bring bug repellant. The flies are abysmal." Insect repellent, bug nets, and long-sleeve clothing are essential during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Large Pull Out on FR 24, a camper observed, "There was a handful of large pull out spots along this road. Nothing fancy and not secluded but got the job done." Vehicles over 25 feet may have difficulty finding suitable turnouts on many forest roads.
Road condition monitoring: Check forest service websites for current road conditions before attempting access. Many roads deteriorate significantly after rainfall, with rutting and washouts common. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most dispersed camping areas near Mukilteo, especially for sites beyond the paved portions of access roads.
Leveling requirements: Bring substantial leveling blocks as most free camping sites near Mukilteo aren't graded. Pull-offs often slope toward ditches or waterways, requiring significant leveling for comfortable overnight stays. Corner spots typically offer the flattest terrain for RV parking.
