Dispersed camping sites near Ocean Shores, Washington can be found throughout Olympic National Forest. These free camping locations typically consist of small clearings or pull-offs along forest service roads at elevations between 800-2,500 feet. Winter camping isn't recommended in some areas due to steep, narrow roads that can become hazardous in poor weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking from camp: Several dispersed sites provide direct access to hiking trails. The spots near FS-2292 Dispersed offer walking trails with scenic overlooks. "East of the campsite there is a walking trail that takes you to an overlook, perfect for watching the sunrise," reports one camper at FS-2292.
Wildlife viewing: Many free camping areas near Ocean Shores host diverse wildlife. At Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed, campers report seeing "tons of rabbits and wildflowers" during summer months. Morning hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
River access: Some dispersed sites provide direct water access. Near Dispersed South Shore Road, one site "has a large rope so you can access the river," according to a reviewer. Several sites along this road offer direct river frontage where fishing is permitted with proper licensing.
What campers like
Cell service: Unlike many remote areas, several free camping spots near Ocean Shores maintain reliable connectivity. On Quinault Ridge Road, campers report adequate service for basic needs. At Road to Snag Lake, reviewers note excellent coverage: "This site is up a decently maintained but long and steep gravel road, doable in a Prius but she was panting by the end."
Solitude: Many dispersed sites in the area remain uncrowded even during peak season. "Very far off the beaten path, every time I camp here I don't run into anyone," writes a camper about FS-2292. Another notes, "We stayed here and heard maybe 1 car the whole day/night."
Concrete pads: Several sites at Road to Snag Lake feature concrete pads, providing level surfaces for tents or vehicles. "Cement pad makes a flat tent site," notes one reviewer, making these locations particularly valuable during wet weather when level ground is essential.
What you should know
Trash issues: Unfortunately, litter remains a problem at several sites. At Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping, "A lot of trash was left behind from previous camper." Consider bringing extra bags to pack out others' waste.
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful driving. "The road was a little rough but my suv made it fine," notes a camper about FS-2292. For Road to Snag Lake, several reviews mention "washboard" sections requiring reduced speeds.
Permit requirements: Most free camping near Ocean Shores requires a Washington State Discovery Pass. "This site is listed as free, but there is a sign at the entrance for needing a discovery pass to use the site," explains one Road to Snag Lake camper. Passes can be purchased online with transaction numbers written on paper for dashboard display.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some dispersed camping areas have potential hazards. At Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead, a reviewer cautions about steep drop-offs: "There is a long drop if you lose control and fall off road. I feel if you did and survived the fall it would be expensive to recover your vehicle."
Bathroom access: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but some areas provide basic toilets. Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead has pit toilets that "are located in the trailhead parking lot. They could use cleaning, but they are open 24 hours."
Weekend crowds: For family camping, weekday visits offer more site selection. One camper at Road to Snag Lake reported, "We stayed on a Friday night in August and were the only ones here," suggesting Thursday arrivals provide optimal site selection while avoiding weekend competition.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas near Ocean Shores accommodate smaller vehicles only. At Quinalt Ridge Vistas, a reviewer advises: "Can fit from a car to a van here but I wouldn't go any larger. Narrow road on mountain side with few turn arounds."
Parking limitations: Class B and smaller RVs have more options than larger rigs. "Not suitable for anything wider than a class B," warns a camper about Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead area. Most accessible sites are found along main forest service roads rather than side roads.
Level surfaces: RVers should seek sites with concrete pads where available. At Road to Snag Lake, "Other sites have solid pack gravel covered by grass," providing reasonable alternatives when concrete pads are occupied.
