Top Free Dispersed Camping near Sultan, WA
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Sultan? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Sultan's most popular destinations.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Sultan, WA (20)
1. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
14 Reviews•66 Photos•421 SavesDispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.
It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.
Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions. For the best information on dispersed camping opportunities and local restrictions, please contact the nearest ranger district office.
Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking
You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. US Highway 2 - Skykomish Area east to Stevens Pass
4 Reviews•2 Photos•172 SavesTraveling along Highway 2, enter the center of the forest along the Skykomish River, a rafting adventurers' dream. Grab your skis! In just two hours you will be gliding down the slopes at Stevens Pass Ski Area. Check in at the Stevens Pass Historic District for an overview of the area's colorful railroad and mining past. Recreation Area Map National Scenic Byway
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
$50 / night
3. Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
3 Reviews•13 Photos•112 SavesWhat is Dispersed Camping? Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.
It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.
Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions. For the best information on dispersed camping opportunities and local restrictions, please contact the nearest ranger district office.
Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking
You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Market
4. Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek
3 Reviews•3 Photos•140 SavesDispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available. It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resource.
- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
5. Lake Dorothy
2 Reviews•75 Saves- Pets
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Toilets
- Alcohol
6. South Fork Sauk River
1 Review•20 Photos•103 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
8. Keechelus Lake
4 Reviews•10 Photos•105 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
10. French Cabin Creek Recreation Area
6 Reviews•22 Photos•196 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 20 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Sultan
56 Reviews of 20 Sultan Campgrounds
Abrianna M.
Traveler
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Beautiful but creepy
Nice area by a creek, very peaceful and quiet during the day, a ton of people around and lots of passerby’s. As soon as it got dark, someone decided to sneak around my campsite with a flashlight and stand outside my tent for some time. Packed up quick and zoomed out of there, very uncomfortable and would not recommend for solo campers.
Daniel W.
GuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Tinkham camping
Very cool spot with new generation trees growing out of old generation stumps, close to river for water, very popular spot so found a lot of trash but loved the sites and hiking trails nearby
- Jamie J.Traveler
French Cabin Creek Recreation Area
Right next to the river
I loved this spot for a quick overnight. I got a spot right next to the river and there were almost no people there. There is a lot of trash so next time Is bring some gloves and trash bags to help clean up any space I stay in. If we all do a little it will help.
Tia A.GuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Little pocket of peace.
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. The place is beautiful. Super dark at night, and besides the sound from the interstate and cars driving up and down, it's quite. Even with the noise, it's peaceful and perfect for a little getaway. We have Verizon and have decent service, even with crappy weather.
Bobby J.
Ranger
Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
Coordinates off
The directions had me believing that the dispersed camping was just various pull offs on the highway loop and that’s where I stayed. It was loud and it felt like the traffic was coming through my tent at times. After driving to North Cascades I discovered that there was real dispersed camping on that road but probably 45 minutes to an hour past where the coordinates took you. Once the highway turned into a gravel road is when I started seeing nice dispersed campsites
- BBre C.Traveler
Keechelus Lake
Good stay
The spots are crowded by the lake but there are some pretty quiet’s spots further up the mountain that I liked.
Jada P.Guide
Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites
BEAUTIFUL!!
So, this was my first time to this spot. The reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because of how crowded it was. We had a hard time finding an open spot so we could set up camp. We almost made it to the end of the dirt road before we found a lot with a fire pit that could fit our group of 4. AMAZING views of the mountains and it was about 7min (drive) from the beach access point. There were signs saying “camping closed”, however, everyone ignored the signs and still camped out. There wasn’t anyone coming to kick people out. On a side note, there were plenty of disrespectful people who left their garbage at the beach…other than that, this was an overall fun and memorable experience!
Joanna W.
ScoutSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great place to sleep for a night while on a road trip
So dark I couldnt even see my own hand in front of my face! I loved it. Quiet enough, could hear gentle highway hum but cant see anything but trees n nature. Earplugs ftw. Some bugs but nothing major. Plenty of spots along the road. U dont need to go all the way to coords. Just pick a spot along road n park. Some wild raspberries at our spot :) firepit nice, a little trash but not much. Thats the cost of free. Spot is free, the cost is picking up a few pieces of trash. Seems fair to me!
- Joanna W.Scout
Keechelus Lake
Road Closed on 7/10/24 for endangered fish
Says when water gets below 2840 ft to protect the fish they close the road and no camping is permitted.
- Ginger M.Guide
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Quick easy getaway
Went up at the end of 4th of July weekend. Found a great spot but it was apparent that the group before us used everywhere to go to the bathroom and covered it with paper towels. PRO TIP: make the hole first for when you need it and you want have any excuse not to use it! PLEASE LEAVE NO TRACE! Other wise we really enjoyed a quick night away in our van.
- MMarashaGuide
Keechelus Lake
Sweet spot
Great spot to land after long day of driving. Definitely some spots have more human waste and trash than I would want to camp too close to—not to mention the impacts of some campers’ poor habits on the many natural water sources throughout this area. Still, such a sweet spot with uber PNW vibes (water, tree lines, mountains, etc.). I love any spot where I can camp free and safely at night and wake up early to paddleboard a few hundred feet away. Great spot to SUP.
- AAdrian E.Traveler
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
It was alright
You can hear the road from most camping spots. When we arrived at our site there was garbage all over the place in a fire pit so we cleaned it up.
There was a nice long trail that took us to the river. That was nice. Cleaning up sucked because the floor got muddy.
Lots of mosquitoes.
Lots of camping spots. We left Friday evening and most spots were taken.
- JJon H.Guide
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great Camping in the PNW!
This spot was truly beautiful. Green as far as the eye can see, with a creek by that provides the perfect white noise to fall asleep to. The road is fairly accessible, though there are some fairly large potholes that could damage smaller vehicles, and the road could become muddy after raining. On weekends you might have to drive pretty far down the road to find an unclaimed spot, but I didn't have a hard time on a Tuesday night. There was some trash, including broken glass in firepits and a few beer cans spotted in the woods, but for the most part it was clean! The sites further down the road are definitely cleaner. No bathrooms, so plan on dropping the kids off at the pool before visiting. Seeing as there is water nearby, there are plenty of mosquitoes. Bring some bug spray! There are towns within 15 minutes of the road.
Katrina H.Traveler
Old Cascades Highway Dispersed
Beautiful Area with Small Campsites
It's a lovely area right by a beautiful river. However, it was hard to find a large enough spot that was also level to park our van. There was some traffic on the road, and a great bonus is that the road is paved, so no worries about destroying a tire. We did have phone service, and it's close to a small deli and other conveniences.
- PPaiton L.Scout
Lake Wenatchee Airstrip SnoPark
Lake Wenatchee Airstrip
We turned at (47.8178974, -120.7258512) which you travel a short distance down a well maintained FS road to a very large gravel and dirt parking area. You can park in this parking lot if you choose, lots of space, great internet speeds. To the right of the information sign you will see a small sign with a snowmobile on it. That is the road that you can take back to the airstrip portion of the site. You will only travel about 100 yards on that road before it opens up to a very large grass field (and airstrip) you will need to turn left to head toward the camping locations. To the right will be the landing strip so you need to avoid that area. There is a dirt/sandy road leading back to 2-3 sites with fire rings but also a very large open field where you can camp as well. MOSQUITOES WERE AWFUL AT NIGHT FYI. A forest service rig pulled up on us in the AM and just waved :)
- SSusan and Dorin D.Traveler
Kachess Lake Logging Road Campsites
Kachess Lake Logging Road Dispersed Camping
First of all, this is western Washington: it rains! We had two days and two nights of rain. Snow was still on the ground, and it was cold. Fortunately we were in an RV. There are only one or two sites on this logging road that are available for RVs our size (ours is a Class A 35') about a mile up the compacted gravel road from the lake. Road is packed well, washboard in some sections. Great for vans. Secondly, the site was trashed. We picked up a full garbage bag of trash. On the upside, it was very peaceful, and there are very cute little critters--chipmonks, humming birds, and butterflies. Beautiful wildflowers and a beautiful creek running behind the campsite. There are three fire rings, and plenty of places for tents. No water. No electricity. We enjoyed our stay and we sat outside for a couple of hours in the sunshine on our last day.
Sydney D.GuideChina Point on Cle Elum River
Easy in and out for no all wheele drive
Pretty simple pull in and out! There was about 3 spots, the farthest back one was big enough for a group to stay. All 3 had fire rings. No snow on the roads but there was snow on the ground. Sun light didn’t really hit us till about an hour after it came up because of it being in a valley. Ground was a bit in even but if you go to the farthest one, there is plenty of space to stretch out and find a spot. Also- all around is private property so be careful. It’s labeled pretty well though.
Sara J.Scout
Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek
Beckler creek riverside
Nice large campsite near the water. There were many campsites along the road. I had to clean up a lot of trash when it got here. Please pack out your own trash and follow other leave no trace rules. The campfire was awesome
Jamie E.ScoutMountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
Peaceful
Easy to find and peaceful next to the river. No noise from the road.
- CChris C.Scout
Keechelus Lake
Solid Spot (in the right season)
Super easy to drive up to the lake and camp, have a fire, hang out and explore! Should always be able to access aside from when the snow is melting, as they don’t service the road until it’s mostly all melted.
Mary B.GuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Quiet and Free Camping
My friend slept in her vehicle(end of the road) and I camped next to the river. There were no other tent campers on this day; many RVs and campers on the way to the river. I highly recommend for peace and solitude.
Jack R.Guide
Cabin Creek Dispersed Camping
The area was beautiful
It was a really nice spot but we left early because an old man took a picture of our campsite in a very rushed matter, making us feel uneasy so we left a couple hrs later we stayed here 2 days and slept good we were upset that we needed to leave so soon
Jennifer H.
LegendMountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
Sites just off the gravel portion of the mountain loop
Easy enough to access right off the mountain loop highway. Meandering sites along the river with good logs for benches and fire rings made from forest rocks. Heavily forested and beautiful.
- Jennifer H.Legend
South Fork Sauk River
Remote, no services, easy enough to access, beautiful
Half way along the mountain loop highway you encounter numerous spacious tent sites with fire rings and gorgeous river & Mountain View camp grounds.
Tee C.LegendCabin Creek Dispersed Camping
Convenient to 90
This camping area consists of a large gravel parking area very near 90’s on ramps, another pretty large gravel parking area slightly further back from the road, and then a gravel road that leads back to a few camping spots that are still noisy from the road, but at least in the trees. Good Verizon signal. First true camp site was taken by a couple of RVs, and they kinda looked like they could have been there quite a while. Found another site with a fire pit. Fair amount of trash. Overall, good for a night and free!
- EEthan F.Traveler
Annette Lake
Very Pretty/Very Popular
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). It was pretty but there were a lot of people camping and not all of them were there to enjoy quiet and tranquility…
- Jose B.Guide
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great to spend the night for free
This is my second time. It is free good spaces to camp with a lot for trees. I always sleep on my car but people camp on tents on the forest. Dogs welcome
Guide to Sultan
Camping near Sultan, Washington, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking: Explore the trails around the area. Campers have enjoyed the hikes along Denny Creek, with one reviewer noting, "Nice hikes along Denny Creek to Franklin Falls, or up into the cascades" at Denny Creek Campground.
- Fishing: The rivers near campgrounds like Middle Fork Campground provide great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, "Very clean site with good day hikes and river fishing in the area."
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. A visitor at Beckler River Campground shared, "Bears have visited the campground in the past…berry bushes everywhere."
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One happy camper at Tolt MacDonald Park said, "Love this place, the view from the bridge makes for some amazing photographs."
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like Verlot Campground, are praised for their cleanliness. A reviewer noted, "The bathrooms were spotless."
- Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. At Tinkham Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Spacious campsites with a decent amount of privacy trees and brush in between."
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Camano Island State Park Campground, lack certain amenities. A camper pointed out, "There's a definite decline being seen in State Parks and Camano Island is no exception."
- Road Conditions: Access roads can be rough. A reviewer at Tinkham Campground mentioned, "The road was my only issue. It’s full of deep dips and bumps throughout."
- Water Availability: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. One camper at Middle Fork Campground noted, "Water is currently unavailable."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. Tolt MacDonald Park has a playground nearby, making it a good choice for families.
- Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A family at Fay Bainbridge Park enjoyed the space to fly kites and walk around.
- Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. One camper at Denny Creek Campground mentioned, "It’s a good spot for hikers to get to all the other places to go hike."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Tall Chief Campground said, "Most sites are pretty big too. We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle."
- Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with good facilities. One RV traveler at Lake Pleasant RV Park noted, "The facilities were very clean, laundry was great and very affordable!"
- Arrive Early: Popular spots can fill up fast. A visitor at Tall Chief Campground advised, "I would scout the map and be first for check-in just in case someone left that day."
Camping near Sultan, Washington, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sultan, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sultan, WA is South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site with a 4-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Sultan, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 dispersed camping locations near Sultan, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.