Primitive camping near Ravensdale, Washington offers campers access to dense forest terrain at elevations ranging from 500 to 3,000 feet in the surrounding Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Weather conditions vary dramatically through seasons, with summer high temperatures averaging 75°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Most dispersed sites require Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful pass displayed on vehicles.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Access excellent trail networks from Annette Lake camping areas, where a 4-mile hike leads to stunning lake views. "The 4 mile hike in was just enough of a challenge for our first time with weight in our packs. We went left where the trail splits at the lake. There are campsites both sides, but lake access is really easy on the left side," notes one Annette Lake camper.
Explore aviation history: Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed offers the unique opportunity to camp alongside an active airstrip. "This is such a cool place to camp! You are literally right on an active airstrip. While no planes came in while I was there, I walked across the airstrip to the 'comfort station' for fliers and read the log book. Two planes had flown in earlier in the day and left nice messages," shares a visitor.
Swimming in creek pools: Forest Road 7300 Pull-Off sites feature excellent creek access with natural swimming holes. "Lots of great creekside campsites along Huckleberry Creek with small swimming spots and fire pits to enjoy," reports a camper who frequented the area.
What campers like
Cell reception for remote work: Some dispersed sites maintain surprisingly good connectivity. "I travel and work remotely so I'm always looking for free places that have cell reception and this place hits the jackpot. I've come in twice on a Saturday afternoon and have been able to find an open spot with my 18 ft travel trailer, I have Verizon and have 2-3 bars of service," reports an Austin R. at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site.
Riverside camping: White River Dispersed Camping offers excellent water access with natural sound barriers. "The campsites are absolutely beautiful—tucked among the trees with stunning views and the soothing, constant sound of the roaring White River nearby. The river noise also does a great job of masking any sounds from the nearby road," writes a camper.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting in shoulder seasons reduces crowds significantly. "Best in late fall when it's cooler. Less loud drunkards. Don't get me wrong, I love my cocktails but can get a little obnoxious," explains Mike K. about Ranger Creek Airstrip camping.
What you should know
Hidden turnoffs: Several camping areas have easily missed access roads. "You have to keep your eye out for the turn off. The road can be a bit thin, so I would be careful with extra large vehicles. It is also a bit of a challenging road, so low clearance vehicles wouldn't be treated well," warns a camper about White River Dispersed.
Safety considerations: Some camping areas have natural hazards to watch for. "Lovely area such beautiful surroundings. But be very cautious as near one of the camp sites are very dangerous plants that are fatal and they are lined all around the campground so not recommended if you have children," cautions Lewis G. about Tinkham Road sites.
Weekend competition: Arrive early to secure preferred sites. "There are a ton of great sites along this road, although most of the drive-in sites will be taken if it's a busy weekend, so get there early!" advises Parker C. about South Fork Snoqualmie River sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking: Annette Lake provides an excellent introduction to backpacking for families. "Hike was definitely challenging for middle aged man but I made it and my 10 year old did too (albeit after handing his backpack to dad to carry)," shares Ethan F., demonstrating the trail is manageable for children with proper planning.
Water safety: Many primitive camping areas lack barriers between sites and water. "I would definitely go again! Be careful of getting too close to the river because it looks like the earth can erode and break away into the river (why the trees collapse)," warns Jada P. about riverfront camping.
Bug protection: Prepare for seasonal insects around water sources. "Seeing as there is water nearby, there are plenty of mosquitoes. Bring some bug spray!" advises Jon H. from their experience camping near streams.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Keechelus Lake offers lakeside camping but with space constraints. "The spots are crowded by the lake but there are some pretty quiet spots further up the mountain that I liked," notes Bre C., highlighting the need to scout appropriate parking areas for larger vehicles.
Road conditions: Access roads deteriorate significantly with weather. "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance," warns Parker C. about South Fork Snoqualmie roads.
Leveling challenges: Most primitive sites lack designated parking pads. "This is my favorite dispersed site so far. Plenty of room for larger rigs, very close to a river and lots of woods to explore nearby," shares Garrett B., though noting the importance of bringing leveling blocks for uneven terrain.
