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Best Dispersed Camping near North Cascades National Park

39 Reviews

National Forest dispersed camping near North Cascades National Park occurs along forest roads with varying accessibility. NF Dispersed Camping areas offer riverside spots with clearance needed for access. Many sites have established fire rings, though summer fire restrictions frequently apply. Roads often feature potholes and rough conditions, with reviews noting "Clearance needed - around the same amount as the Subaru line of vehicles or greater." Several sites sit alongside creeks or rivers, providing natural water features but no amenities.

Most dispersed sites require a permit, with the Washington Discover Pass needed for areas like Sullivan Pond Camp near Winthrop. Baker Lake Road offers dispersed tent sites with drinking water access, while Upper Bobcat provides more established primitive camping with toilets and trash service. Road quality varies significantly, with some routes accessible to standard vehicles and others demanding high-clearance 4WD. A recent visitor reported, "The end of the road spot did require 4wheel drive and higher clearance, the one closer to hwy 20 could have easily been driven to in a std. car."

Map showing campgrounds near North Cascades National Park, WashingtonExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near North Cascades National Park (24)

    1. NF Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Marblemount, WA
    24 miles

    "CLEARANCE NEEDED - around the same amount as the Subaru line of vehicles or greater - 4wd not necessary)

    Beautiful area, small town nearby where you could likely pick up a few things. I didnt stop."

    "Beautiful spot near the water also has some more secluded spots if wanted. Didn’t see too many people. And had no issues picking a spot to car camp. Definitely recommend."

    2. Hard Creek Bridge

    1 Review
    Marblemount, WA
    18 miles

    3. Goat Creek Sno-Park

    2 Reviews
    Mazama, WA
    22 miles

    "Just a parking lot a little off the highway. People are rolling in untill about 10:30 and start leaving at 6. Clean pit toilet. Nothing wrong with it, great place just to sleep and keep moving."

    4. Eldorado Peak Alpine Camp — North Cascades National Park

    Be the first to review!
    North Cascades National Park, WA
    12 miles
    Website

    5. Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    6 Reviews
    Concrete, WA
    36 miles

    "Stayed at one that was overlooking the lake. Lots of spots with easy lake access. Pros: free, good views, easy to get to, plenty of spots (even on Labor Day), fire rings."

    "No facilities! The drive in is easy."

    6. Sullivan Pond Camp

    3 Reviews
    Winthrop, WA
    33 miles

    "Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required."

    "Washington Discovery Pass is required for camping here."

    7. Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp

    7 Reviews
    Concrete, WA
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 854-2553

    "Arrived around 4pm on a Friday and there were a few spots left. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables available. No water. Got a spot with lake and Mountain View’s."

    "Loved this free campground on Baker Lake near mt baker, WA! Take the first turn after horseshoe cove campground and follow the gravel road all the way to the lake."

    8. Suiattle Riverside Camp

    1 Review
    Darrington, WA
    32 miles

    9. Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Winthrop, WA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 754-4624

    "Super close to the river. There were a lot of people, mainly families, but everyone was super respectful and it honestly made me feel safer and a solo traveler. Would definitely go back."

    10. Chewuch River Camping

    1 Review
    Winthrop, WA
    32 miles

    "This is a great location that is pretty much set up for hunting if you’re into that. It’s right on the water and there are plenty of spots and each spot has access areas to the river."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near North Cascades National Park

28 Photos of 24 North Cascades National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near North Cascades National Park

39 Reviews of 24 North Cascades National Park Campgrounds

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2023

    Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping

    Nice spot up a long forest/logging road

    A couple spots washed out and need high clearance but otherwise just a long slow switchbacky road to the top.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    Sullivan Pond Camp

    Winthrop

    The campsite is right by the forest road. Fire restrictions are in place for the summer months, so no campfires. Quite a few mosquitos do bring spray or other repellant types.

  • Eric O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite

    All things considered, good spot

    Many pull offs along the gravel road. Stayed at one that was overlooking the lake. Lots of spots with easy lake access.

    Pros: free, good views, easy to get to, plenty of spots (even on Labor Day), fire rings.

    Cons: some spots have lots of trash (please remember leave no trace), most spots are along the gravel road so there are cars passing by every once in a while and sometimes they go by quite quickly kicking up lots of dust.

    All things considered, pretty good spot and would stay again.

  • H
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp

    Quiet camp with great views

    Arrived around 4pm on a Friday and there were a few spots left. Pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables available. No water. Got a spot with lake and Mountain View’s. Very small, quiet, stunning campground. Felt safe. We have a rooftop tent, not many sites with large enough spots to park trailers or vans. Mostly tent sites that are walk in. Mostly open, some sites in the forest. Had one bar of Verizon service. Would stay again!

  • John T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2023

    Sullivan Pond Camp

    Sullivan Pond, Winthrop WA

    Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2023

    Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp

    Great free spot on Baker Lake

    Loved this free campground on Baker Lake near mt baker, WA! Take the first turn after horseshoe cove campground and follow the gravel road all the way to the lake.

    Lots of spots with tables and fire rings, some spots have nice tent pads. Some sites are marked and some are not. There’s a single pit toilet and no running water. Seems like a pretty popular spot but we were able to get a site mid week at the end of August.

    Parking for some of the spots is not the best but we were still able to car camp comfortably. Will definitely be staying here again!

  • Russel M.
    Mar. 31, 2023

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful

    No rain while I was there but I dont imagine it would get too muddy/sloppy. The road does have minimal gravel lining it. (CLEARANCE NEEDED - around the same amount as the Subaru line of vehicles or greater - 4wd not necessary)

    Beautiful area, small town nearby where you could likely pick up a few things. I didnt stop. Gas station nearby.

    There is a fast flowing stream with crystal clear water. Quiet mountain/forest area. No sounds of civilization. Multiple turnouts/improvised camping spaces. Keep driving till you find one you like. Easy to access the creak bank at any point along the road by walking through a little brush.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    NF Dispersed Camping

    Bacon Point

    Beautiful spot near the water also has some more secluded spots if wanted. Didn’t see too many people. And had no issues picking a spot to car camp. Definitely recommend.

Guide to North Cascades National Park

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near North Cascades National Park in Washington, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of spots to choose from, you can immerse yourself in the great outdoors while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out NF Dispersed Camping

  • This area offers a serene experience deep in the woods, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. Many visitors have found it to be a peaceful retreat, often with few other campers around.
  • Located near a flowing river, NF Dispersed Camping provides easy access to water activities and stunning views, making it a great spot for relaxation and exploration.
  • While amenities are limited, the freedom to choose your own site and the allowance for campfires enhance the experience for those who appreciate a more rugged camping style.

Enjoy hiking and nature exploration while free camping near North Cascades National Park

  • Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite is known for its breathtaking views and numerous spots along the road, making it an ideal base for hiking adventures in the surrounding wilderness.
  • The area around Upper Bobcat Dispersed Camping is rich in natural beauty, with plenty of room between sites, allowing for a more private experience while still being close to nature trails.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Black Lake Backcountry Campsite offers excellent lake access and is perfect for backpacking enthusiasts looking to explore the backcountry.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near North Cascades National Park in Washington

  • When visiting Sullivan Pond Camp, be prepared for rough access roads; a vehicle with good clearance is recommended to navigate the terrain comfortably.
  • Keep in mind that many dispersed camping areas, like Baker Lake Horse Camp, require a permit, so plan ahead to ensure a smooth experience.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles, especially in popular spots like NF Dispersed Camping, where maintaining the natural beauty is essential for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free camping allowed in North Cascades National Park?

Free camping is not allowed within North Cascades National Park boundaries, as all overnight stays require permits and fees. However, free dispersed camping is available in the surrounding national forest lands. Baker Lake Road Dispersed Campsite offers free camping with beautiful views and serene surroundings, though without facilities. Goat Creek Sno-Park provides a simple, free overnight option just off the highway with clean pit toilets. Many free dispersed sites require a Northwest Forest Pass or Discover Pass for parking. Always practice Leave No Trace principles at free sites, pack out all trash, and be prepared with your own water and waste disposal solutions.

Where are the best dispersed camping locations in North Cascades National Park?

The North Cascades area offers excellent dispersed camping options just outside the national park boundaries. NF Dispersed Camping is particularly well-regarded for its proximity to the park and nearby river access. For those seeking mountain views, Lower Sandy Dispersed Camp on Baker Lake offers stunning vistas with basic amenities like pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Most dispersed sites in the region require a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass. Remember that true dispersed camping within North Cascades National Park boundaries is limited to designated backcountry sites that require permits, while the surrounding national forest lands offer more flexible dispersed options.

What are the rules for dispersed camping along Cascade River Road?

When dispersed camping along Cascade River Road, you must camp at least 100 feet from any water source, 200 feet from trails, and out of sight from the main road when possible. Hard Creek Bridge offers pull-out spots best suited for car/van camping rather than RVs. Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp connects to the broader area, though sites directly on the road can be noisy with traffic. Campfires may be prohibited during summer months due to fire restrictions. Pack out all trash, bury human waste at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources, and store food properly to prevent wildlife encounters. A Northwest Forest Pass is typically required for parking at dispersed sites in this area.

Can you dispersed camp near Diablo Lake or Ross Lake?

Dispersed camping directly alongside Diablo Lake is not permitted, as it's within North Cascades National Park where camping is restricted to designated sites with permits. For Ross Lake, boat-in dispersed camping is available along the shoreline with proper permits from the National Park Service. Outside the immediate lake areas, Cooper Mnt Rd Dispersed Camping offers nearby options, though some spots require high clearance vehicles due to the switchback road and occasional washouts. Sullivan Pond Camp provides quieter dispersed camping in the broader region, but requires 4WD with good clearance. Remember that summer fire restrictions often apply, and mosquito repellent is recommended.

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