Dispersed camping opportunities near Roslyn, Washington extend throughout the Wenatchee-Okanogan National Forest with elevations ranging from 2,200 to 4,500 feet. Most sites sit within pine and fir forests with seasonal access typically running from late May through October, depending on snowpack conditions. Roads throughout the area vary significantly in quality, with many requiring high-clearance vehicles to navigate safely.
What to do
Swimming and cooling off: Find relief during hot summer days at Salmon la Sac Road Dispersed Camping where "Lots of people floating down the river" create a social atmosphere during peak season. Sites along this corridor offer direct water access for swimming and wading.
River exploration: Create natural swimming areas for children at shallow points along waterways. "You can float the river down to Cle Elum lake. Once the weather warms up the river lowers and slows down. Lots of area for kids to create their little pools to swim in," notes a visitor to Salmon la Sac.
Hiking from camp: Access multiple trail networks from French Cabin Creek Recreation Area which connects to several wilderness trails. "We have nothing but love for French Cabin Creek dispersed camping zone! There are several hiking trails located close to the F.C.C. camp zone as well; Pete Lake trail, Salmon la Sac trail, Domerie Peak trail, French Cabin Creek trail and Thorp Creek/Little Joe Lake trail, just to name a few."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At North Fork Teanaway River - Dispersed, campers appreciate the spacing between sites. "Lots of options in the area. Some sites were close together while many were nice and secluded. Our only complaint was that our site was right off the road and we experienced moderate traffic which caused a lot of dust."
Waterfront camping: Many rustic campsites near Roslyn provide direct river or lake access. At the North Fork Teanaway River, one camper noted "The sounds of the river are nice. It's a mild scramble to get down to the river, but worth it. The water was clear and cold. Very pretty."
Solitude on weekdays: While weekends become crowded, midweek camping offers significantly more isolation at most dispersed sites. At Cle Elum River Dispersed Camp, one camper reported: "Camped on the river bank. Definitely insanely rocky but there are spots that are in the dirt that are near the water... Relatively quiet for the 4th of July."
What you should know
High clearance requirement: Most dispersed areas near Roslyn require vehicles capable of navigating rough terrain. At L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, "We passed through some very narrow, brush lined roads. It was also steep and rutted with water wash out spots. The rocks that made the road are sharp, large, and loose."
Gate procedures: Some areas require campers to pass through gates that must be closed after entry. At L.T. Murray, "After figuring out which gate to go through (make sure and shut the gate behind you), I took a road to the right with my truck and 19 ft. epro. We drove up a rocky dirt road, single lane with pull outs, for about 20 mins."
Fire restrictions: Strict seasonal fire bans typically run from July through September. One camper at Salmon la Sac noted: "Beware of burn bans." Propane fire pits are sometimes permitted when wood fires are prohibited.
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for variable cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At French Cabin Creek, campers report "absolutely no cell phone service while we were there," while at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site, "We have Verizon and have decent service, even with crappy weather."
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Various wildlife can be spotted in early mornings and evenings. At L.T. Murray, one camper observed: "We saw large elk, deer, many birds, and were visited by some wild turkeys in the night."
Check site reviews before selecting: Family camping experiences vary widely between sites. At French Cabin Creek, some report challenging conditions: "There wasn't a lot of shade, so definitely bring a canopy if you have one," while others find the area perfect for families: "The sound of the Howson Creek will lull you to sleep at night."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs only. At Kachess Lake Lakebed, one RVer noted: "We made it fine in our 26ft class c, but the big sharp-edged rocks were concerning to drive over. And when we left we found a giant rock wedged between the two back tires."
Road conditions: Access routes often deteriorate the further from main roads you travel. One camper at French Cabin Creek observed, "The road in was okay at first, but the farther you go the bumper it gets."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most sites. At South Fork Snoqualmie River, "A lit if the spots are on the smaller side, so we had a bit of trouble finding one that could fit our motorhome, but it was worth it."
