Top Free Dispersed Camping near Trout Lake, WA

Want to go dispersed camping near Trout Lake? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Trout Lake, WA (45)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest

    1. Gifford Pinchot National Forest

    5 Reviews
    8 Photos
    531 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping

    2. Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    654 Saves

    Forest Road 83 provides access to Mt St Helens campgrounds. There are dispersed sites along this road for camping, and the area provides access to Climber's Bivouac, Ape Cave, and Lava Canyon. Camping near Mt St Helens is open from Memorial Day until snow blocks the roads. Food, lodging, gas, and other services are available in nearby communities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Morrison Creek

    5. Morrison Creek

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    54 Saves

    This site was burned over in the Cascade Creek Fire of 2012. Several primitive camp sites are available, some along Morrison Creek. The site serves as a trailhead to the Shorthorn Trail #16 which enters Mount Adams Wilderness and is within 3 miles of the popular South Climb #183 Trail and route up Mt Adams. Road access is rough and not recommended for trailers or motor homes.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Huckleberry Mountain Dispersed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Huckleberry Mountain Dispersed Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Oldman Pass Sno-Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oldman Pass Sno-Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oldman Pass Sno-Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oldman Pass Sno-Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Oldman Pass Sno-Park

    7. Oldman Pass Sno-Park

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    17 Saves

    A Washington Sno-Park permit is required from Dec. 1 - March 31

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

    9. Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

    6 Reviews
    10 Photos
    152 Saves

    Open to the public except during commercial treaty fishing seasons

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site

    10. NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    37 Saves

    Dispersed camping, or camping outside of campgrounds, is permitted throughout most of the Forest! Always follow Leave No Trace principles and PACK-OUT all trash and leave the area cleaner than you found it.

    The Motor Vehicle Use Map shows the roads, trails and areas where you can legally drive. These roads, trails and areas are designated by type of motor vehicle allowed and the allowable season of use.

    The following guidelines apply to anyone camping outside of developed campgrounds on the National Forest:

    Camping

    Camp 100 feet away from lakes and streams. Camp outside of fragile meadows and restricted areas, preferably on bare or mineral soil. Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it. Clean up and remove any trash, manure and straw before leaving. Avoid trenching. Water

    Streams and lakes are home to many microscopic organisms; some of them can make you very sick! Treat your water or bring water from home. Never clean dishes in a stream or lake.

    Campfires

    Have extra water & shovel available to extinguish your fire. Never leave a fire unattended. Never burn plastic, aluminum or non-paper trash.
    Use an existing fire ring where available. If you need one, build it small and away from overhanging branches. Be sure your fire is DEAD OUT before you leave -- drown it, turn it, stir it until it's cool to the touch. Gather only dead and down wood for your campfire. Human Waste

    Choose a suitable spot at least 100 feet away from any stream or lake. Dig a hole 6 inches deep. After use, re-fill the hole with soil and replace the duff. This allows the waste to decompose naturally. Bury toilet paper in the same hole. Empty built-in or portable toilets at sanitary dump stations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
Showing results 1-10 of 45 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Trout Lake

77 Reviews of 45 Trout Lake Campgrounds


  • Tavi C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Avery Rec Area- Columbia River Gorge

    Do you like sleep?

    I mostly want to balance out these other reviews. No one said something that wasn’t true, but the weight that they seem to put on how disruptive the trains are surprising to me. You don’t just have trains passing, you have them blowing their horn multiple times a night, and they are close enough you can feel their vibration. If you are a very VERY deep sleeper, I’d say this is a 5 star stop. I wore noise canceling headphones and played a white noise machine in the background- and still had to take a sleeping pill at 3am after being woken up multiple times.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 44 Dispersed
    Sep. 3, 2024

    FS Road 44 Dispersed

    Secluded

    Could not find the spot in the previous review. They must have parked off the highway. Multiple spots to camp. We went a little further in for a more secluded area and barely had any traffic. Would stay here again.

  • Jeffrey P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

    Easy Get Away

    A couple spots right off the road for car camping or small campers. There was an “official” camp sight more near the Dry Creek Trail (has a bathroom). We opted to walk south along the river to try and find a space. Ended up crossing the river where there are a couple more hidden spots. We found out later that there is a trail right before you cross Trapper Creek that leads you to the spot we were at. There were a few people out and you can sometimes hear cars but overall it was an easy stay with some nice views. The river drowns out most the noise. Would definitely come back here

  • Kevin W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed
    Aug. 20, 2024

    McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed

    Lots of shade, very private and trailer friendly.

    I have camped here twice now, once during a scouting trip in 2016 with my boys and again in September 2024 with just me and my dog :).  I could pull my 17' pop-up "A" frame trailer and back into one of the two spots with no problem.  Due to the narrow road, it may be a bit more snug with bigger rigs (25+ feet long and anything more than 8+ feet wide).  I would scout the road and area before committing; however, there is a turnaround that you could use to maneuver the trailer to drive out.  It's plenty big to accommodate a few trucks/cars and one, maybe two towable trailers.  If you're going tent camping, there are about four flat places for tents.  The area has no trails, so you would not have to worry about people wandering into the campsite. The Ape Caves is a small drive away. The town of Cougar, WA. is about 10 miles away if you need gas or food.  There is a lot of shade, and it is not solar-friendly.  The main road is about 100 feet away, relatively quiet, and very private.  There was a large rock fire pit in the middle. There is no cell phone reception; however, if you drive East for a few miles, you may be able to get 2 bars with Verizon.

    Per the state website, "On the southwest side of Mount St. Helens, Forest Road 81 provides an experience away from crowds. On this road, access Kalama Horse Camp, Red Rock Pass, and Forest Road 830, the road to Climber's Bivouac, and the start of the summer climbing route. From the west, the road begins on Forest Road 90, near Cougar, WA, and travels through private timberlands and state lands before entering Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The road connects with Forest Road 83 on its east side. While mostly paved, be prepared for several miles of gravel(between Forest Road 830 and 8123) and a road that is sometimes very rough."

  • Todd J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Dispersed Site - End of NF 4800-532

    Sweet spot not far from White River East

    This spot is pretty nice, feels very secluded despite White River being close enough to use the restroom if you want. Access to a stream down the hill if you need to filter water, and it sounds very pleasant at night. Lovely trees, plenty of room for a couple of small tents among the trees, plus a ton more out on the gravel. Established fire pit, for the 2-3 days a year that's legal to use. 

    We got in at 5pm on a Friday in summer; I think four more cars came down to see if the spot was free before 9pm.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

    Trail of Turds…

    The site was great honestly, nice flat pads for tents, plenty of room for a trailer if you’re brave enough to bring it down about 5 miles of rough rough gravel road. For being such a remote location it was very busy this weekend lots of cars, foot traffic, and fishermen. It’s beautiful u can’t blame anyone for wanting to come but i was surprised by the volume. Maybe try a weekday for less crowds.

    We had a private trail (about a country block in length), we quickly realized it was a “shitty” trail, a trail of Turds😭😭💩🧻

    Other then that water and surrounding scenery was breath taking..

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake Campgrounds
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Clear Lake Campgrounds

    Very loud neighbors!!

    We camped specifically at the Indian Creek Dispersed sites. There is a collection of camp grounds in this surrounding area, so I wouldn’t be concerned about finding a spot.

    The views are incredible, beautiful grounds. Sadly the sites were covered in trash, people were riding quads and chainsawing until 2am, as well as yelling and loud music.

    We did come on a weekend so it got very busy.

  • Adam K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake Campgrounds
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Clear Lake Campgrounds

    Depends on the day of the week

    If you come during the week, you're going to enjoy quiet, gorgeous dispersed camping. Big spaces, big trees, big lake.

    But if you come during the weekend, be prepared for the most inconsiderate, noisy, rude neighbors you've ever found. They leave trash everywhere, play music and shoot guns late into the night, and don't respect boundaries whatsoever. I had multiple people drive right into my campsite and park 10 feet from my rig, walk through camp yelling and playing music, you name it.

    So, four stars because the place is amazing - but choose your timing wisely.

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 44 Dispersed
    Jul. 17, 2024

    FS Road 44 Dispersed

    Awesome spots along the river!

    The road goes awhile in both directions, there were a lot of pull offs and we just picked one. The one we picked had obvious fire rings and had been recently camped, there was also human feces not too far in the foods , GROSS. Other than that I loved this stay because of the beauty.

  • Jeremy P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Fanastic sunset views of Mount Hood

    There's a handful of dispersed campsites throughout NF44 and various side roads. I had several options to choose from and never saw another person. This was on a Thursday afternoon.

  • Kennedy F.
    Camper-submitted photo from McNeil Point Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 15, 2024

    McNeil Point Dispersed Camping

    Can’t beat the views at McNeil point

    Ended up backpacking up here on a whim right before I headed back to Utah. I started at the Top Spur trailhead and hiked the clockwise route up to McNeil (a little longer but saved be the scramble through rocks). On my way I ended up going to Muddy Fork which added about 4 miles to my overall trek up. I ended up camping at the point rather than further down, which was a challenge to carry my pack up, but so worth it in my opinion. It’s dispersed camping so solitude is easily reachable considering not too many people stay the night. This was easily one of the top 5 most amazing sunsets I’ve ever seen. The mountain range is unbeatable and waking up to Mt. Hood as your veiw is incredible. It’s a challenge with the best reward.

  • Ashlyn C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FR-604 Dispersed Site
    Jul. 1, 2024

    FR-604 Dispersed Site

    Private and spacious campsite!

    The campsite was nice, right off the road but there wasn’t an absurd amount of traffic to where it bothered me but you will hear the cars on the road while you sleep if you’re in a tent. If you follow the trail by foot in the back of the forest for maybe 10 minutes you will find a beautiful swimming hole and small waterfalls! I recommend blocking the entrance with your vehicles to block noise and people trying to drive in to the campsite.

  • Brooks H.
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site
    Jun. 23, 2024

    NF-65 National Forest Dispersed Site

    Many Sites Available of Variety

    Plenty of spots available. At the bottom of road coming from Carson often crowded, but if you go further you are bound to find something. Beautiful trees and foliage with obvious sites on side of road.

  • Jeffrey P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

    Pretty good!

    Road got a little bumpy getting out here but once we found a spot right near the riverbank, you felt like you were deep in it. Saw a few people on the way out. Really relaxing next to the sound of the river. Would definitely recommend sleeping mats if you’re in a tent as the grounds rather hard. The spot we went didn’t really have anywhere for hammocks but saw a couple on the way out. “Spaces” were far enough apart that you couldn’t even tell anyone else was out there. Wood was kinda sparse in the spot we were in too but you’re close enough to your car that you can just bring some. Would definitely recommend for a quick and convenient spot.

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great/Quiet Spot

    Took a while to discover this spot, but clearly seems well used for dispersed camping. I parked nearest the access road, as my van would have hit trees to go a little further in. For smaller vehicles (e.g. roof top tents), you can get in a little further and off the access road. There was actually someone else back there, and we can't hear nor see each other.

  • Shelby S.
    Camper-submitted photo from NF-3511 @ Mt Hood
    Jun. 15, 2024

    NF-3511 @ Mt Hood

    Great views on the drive up

    While you can't see the mountain from the site itself.There's a great turnaround point and views on the way up and down! Past a few vans pulled over on the way up, But no one drove past me the entire night

  • Boosa L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sluice Creek Dispersed Spot
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Sluice Creek Dispersed Spot

    Nice hidden gem

    We are a 29ft, easy to get there but take it slow (take a right turn from the 48th first road). Good Verizon reception, Pretty level, there is a fire pit made by someone before us.

  • Susannah H.
    Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
    Jun. 8, 2024

    White River West Sno-Park

    Great view and pit toilets

    Big paved lot with really well managed pit toilets. Short walk takes you to the White River, which was more of a creek when we were there, and a breathtaking view of Mt. Hood.

  • Vanessa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Panther Creek Creekside Camp

    Best spot ever!

    I was headed down 14 looking for somewhere to camp between the Dalles and camas. I got stuck in road construction and decided to open up the dyrt app. I clicked on one that looked closish lol I decided to take the chance and go check it out. Man I'm glad I did This is one of the best dispersed camp sites I've ever stayed at!!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from White River West Sno-Park
    May. 25, 2024

    White River West Sno-Park

    Great spot to stay.

    We did not know what to expect when we reached this site. It is just a large parking area, we found a pretty level place for our travel trailer. Only 2 other trailers and 1 tent camper during the day. A lot of van and car campers the latter the day got. Good spot to stay when checking out the area. The view out our door was amazing, when the sun was out. We stayed 5 nights, had all types of weather on our stay, from lots of rain to sun and also snow. Would stay here again if in the area. Free to stay from May 1 to October 31.

  • Sydney D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Goat Rock Wilderness
    Apr. 28, 2024

    Goat Rock Wilderness

    Goat Rock wilderness Rocks!

    There are about 9 fire circles around the lake and there are planting of areas to camp without fire circles. It was raining all day Saturday but when we got there at 1 in the afternoon, there were already 7 groups there..that’s how awesome the site is! You have to hike out 5 miles but there is not too much up and down elevation change. The trailhead is about 5 miles up a National Park Service Road and was pretty well kept.. aka no huge rocks, no trees down, no potholes. I could easily get a mini bus up there.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Zigzag River Camp
    Feb. 14, 2024

    Zigzag River Camp

    Side of the road camping?

    These coordinates get you the Kiwanis camp, other than that I wouldn't say a great dispersant camping spot, area is nice though.



Guide to Trout Lake

Camping near Trout Lake, Washington, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the water, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Lower Falls Campground, one reviewer said, "There are miles of trails close by and the hike to middle and upper falls is great." This makes it a perfect spot for those who love to explore the outdoors.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Takhlakh Lake Campground, are situated near lakes and rivers. A visitor mentioned, "This campground is a perfect spot for lakeside hanging, fishing, and paddleboarding."
  • Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. One camper at Memaloose State Park Campground noted, "Song birds galore," making it a great place for birdwatching.

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A review for Tucker Park Campground highlights, "Great place for us to camp for a few nights in our van. Quiet site on the river, flush toilets, showers."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Cascade Locks KOA said, "The bathrooms were clean and well-maintained, providing a refreshing end to our days of exploration."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers appreciate helpful staff. One reviewer at Panther Creek Campground mentioned, "Nice flat and level outlined areas for us tent campers," highlighting the staff's assistance in finding suitable spots.

What you should know

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near highways or train tracks. A camper at Cascade Locks KOA noted, "The train was very loud (especially at night)," which might be a concern for light sleepers.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Lower Falls Campground has no showers, so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Cell Service: Many areas have poor cell reception. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground mentioned, "No cell service so plan accordingly!" This is great for disconnecting but might be a downside for some.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities like flush toilets and showers. One camper at Tucker Park Campground appreciated the "helpful hosts" and "level sites," making it easier for families to set up.
  • Plan Activities: Bring games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A family at Memaloose State Park Campground enjoyed the "tons of hiking trails nearby," which can be a fun way to explore together.
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. One reviewer at Sunset Falls Campground mentioned, "Great small campground with easy access to falls," making it a perfect spot for a picnic.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Iron Creek Campground noted, "A 40ft would be maximum length," so plan accordingly.
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Cascade Locks KOA offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One camper said, "Nice sized area for our trailer with full hook-ups."
  • Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some campgrounds have bumpy access roads. A reviewer at Takhlakh Lake Campground mentioned, "The last 5 miles of road to the campground is a mess," so drive carefully.

Camping near Trout Lake, Washington, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery. Just be prepared for some noise and limited amenities, and you'll have a fantastic time!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Trout Lake, WA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Trout Lake, WA is Gifford Pinchot National Forest with a 4.8-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Trout Lake, WA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 45 dispersed camping locations near Trout Lake, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.