Primitive camping near Raymond, Washington offers basic, self-sufficient camping opportunities within the Olympic National Forest and surrounding public lands. These sites sit at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 feet in temperate rainforest conditions with annual rainfall exceeding 70 inches. Most dispersed sites require visitors to pack out all waste and come prepared with essential supplies as amenities are minimal or nonexistent.
What to do
Hiking options: Multiple pull-offs along Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping provide access to nearby trails. "We camped near Vance Creek trailhead to do the Olympic Bridges bike ride the next morning. Since this is a national forest, dispersed camping is allowed," reports one camper at Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Wildlife viewing: The forest areas support diverse wildlife including small mammals. "Amazing views and complete silence! Tons of rabbits and wildflowers. Can't recommend this place enough for a dispersed site," notes a visitor at Road to Snag Lake.
Scenic viewpoints: From higher elevation sites, valley vistas await. At Quinalt Ridge Vistas, a camper observed, "There is a beautiful view through the trees. 2 bars Verizon LTE." These sites accommodate smaller vehicles while providing natural scenery.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Most dispersed sites offer peaceful surroundings with minimal neighbor contact. A camper at Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping shared, "It was nothing special but very quiet and peaceful other than one or two cars that passed by. Felt safe as a single tent camper."
Accessibility: Many sites can be reached with standard vehicles despite gravel roads. "Road is gravel but in great condition, even passenger cars will be totally fine. We stayed on a Friday night in August and were the only ones here," notes a visitor about Road to Snag Lake.
Cell service: Unlike many remote camping areas, several sites maintain connectivity. At Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead, a camper reported, "5 bars of cell service," making these locations suitable for those needing to stay connected.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality and steepness. "This spot was great for a night! Super quiet. However, in my little Nissan Versa, I struggled on the roads up and down. I eventually kept it around 5-10mph to avoid damaging my car," advises a Road to Snag Lake visitor.
Trash issues: Unfortunately, some sites suffer from previous campers leaving garbage behind. At Quinault Ridge Road, a camper observed, "When I was there it was kind of sad how much trash there was laying around. But for a quick overnight trip it worked out."
Permit requirements: Some locations require specific passes. For Road to Snag Lake, a camper explains, "This site is listed as free, but there is a sign at the entrance for a needing a discovery pass to use the site. Visit their website for payment options. You have to print the pass or write the transaction number on a paper and on your windshield."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some forest roads have steep drop-offs requiring caution with children. Rock Candy Mountain presents challenges as one visitor notes: "There is a long drop if you lose control and fail off road. I feel if you did and survived the fall it would be expensive to recover your vehicle."
Site selection: When camping with children, look for established pull-offs. "There are about four pull outs to set up for the night. The bathrooms are located in the trailhead parking lot. They could use cleaning, but they are open 24 hours," shares a Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy watching local wildlife at safe distances. A Road to Snag Lake camper reported, "I saw a porcupine for the first time while wandering one of the side roads!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Quinalt Ridge Vistas, a visitor cautions, "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 surfaces: Some sites offer stable bases for camping. A Road to Snag Lake camper noted, "Cement pad makes a flat tent site," which can benefit small trailers and vans needing level ground.
Overnight options: For RVers seeking quick stays rather than extended camping, Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead works well. "Overall I had a nice quiet stay. This spot isn't anything too awful special. To sum it up if you need a spot to crash for the night this place will work."
