Best Dispersed Camping near University Place, WA
Want to go dispersed camping near University Place? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Washington excursion.
Best Dispersed Sites Near University Place, Washington (22)
1. Joemma Beach State Park Campground
10 Reviews•39 Photos•262 SavesLakebay, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
$12 / night
2. Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead
3 Reviews•2 Photos•63 SavesTumwater, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
14 Reviews•66 Photos•437 SavesSnoqualmie Pass, WashingtonDispersed 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
4. Carbon River
3 Reviews•3 Photos•95 SavesCarbonado, WashingtonDispersed 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.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
5. NF-2419 Dispersed Site
4 Reviews•20 Photos•171 SavesLilliwaup, WashingtonDispersed camping is the term used for camping outside of a developed campground. If you enjoy selecting your own campsite, providing your own amenities, creating your own experience, and camping for FREE, then dispersed camping is for you!
Campsite
Choose a campsite screened from roads and trails, and at least 200 feet from water Use a campsite that’s already been established, if possible. If you choose a new site, return the site to its natural condition when you leave Pets
Your animal friends are welcome to accompany you on your dispersed camping adventure! Fires
Only burn wood that is already dead and down Always make sure your fire is DEAD OUT and cold to the touch before you leave it Campfires are allowed below 3,500 feet when not otherwise prohibited by fire restrictions Trash
Store your food & trash properly to keep bears and other wildlife out of your camp Whatever you pack in, PACK IT OUT! Human Waste
Bury your poo & paper at least 6” deep and at least 200 feet away from any water source
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
6. Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
3 Reviews•9 Photos•196 SavesLilliwaup, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
7. Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
2 Reviews•8 Photos•63 SavesLilliwaup, WashingtonDispersed camping is allowed along Forest Service roads in WA as long as there is adequate space to park off the roadway safely and not on any vegetation.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
8. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
9 Reviews•33 Photos•286 SavesGreenwater, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
9. Ipsut Creek Camp — Mount Rainier National Park
2 Reviews•25 Photos•78 SavesMount Rainier National Park, WashingtonPart of the Northern Loop Trail in Mount Rainier National Park.
- Fires
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
10. NF-52 Dispersed Camping
7 Reviews•23 Photos•183 SavesPuyallup, Washington- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Recent Dispersed Reviews near University Place, Washington
60 Reviews of 22 University Place Campgrounds
william T.
Scout
Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead
The first spot when you turn in on the right
It's ok just a spot to pull over and camp really. There is a trail next to it I don't know how far but, it's cool. The road up the Montana is dirt but some parts are very rocky. Not many dispersed camping spots just pullover spots really
Sam S.
Guide
Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping
Olympic National Forest - Dispersed Camping
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. We picked the first spot we got to since it was getting kind of late. It wasn't the most ideal spot and I think further down the road has prettier and more remote options, but it made do. There were really huge flies but they did not bite. The only complaint was that there was more car traffic than I wanted very late at night into the early morning. One car even slowed down and yelled at our tent around 2am. We never felt unsafe but it was annoying. A lot of trash was left behind from previous camper. I would suggest finding alternative spots if you're looking for a more enjoyable night but if you are just there for an overnight, it is fine.
- MMenneCampScout
Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
Good alternative to regular campgrounds
Nice place for dispersed camping and only 5$! close the NP entrance and plenty of space here
Amber G.
Traveler
Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
Amazing
Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night. It’s December so of course it’s a bit cold at night and I’d recommend at least AWD to get up here. Will be back.
Rachel K.Scout
NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED
Beautiful views- Use EXTREME CAUTION when on this road
I love this area and come out here frequently, many rivers and creeks with camping spots right next to them. The people camping are always super kind, secluded, but not too far from each other and always willing to help. DRIVE VERY CAREFULLY, LOTS OF POT HOLES AND DOWNED DEBRIS IN ROAD - STEEP DROP OFFS AND TIGHT TURNS The road goes from ground level up and around the mountain, so be cautious of time of year traveling as I have gotten stuck in the snow up at higher elevations trying to get back down to the other side. This is an area that they do regenerative forest work so big open areas from clear cuts give an amazing view of the hills and mountains.
- 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.
- BBella M.Traveler
NF-52 Dispersed Camping
Beautiful views but semi busy road
Got here around sunset. Looks like some good camping spots to walk into. Beautiful view of Rainier. There was a little bit of traffic but nothing crazy. Would stay here again.
vickiGuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Secluded
Nice secluded camp site. Pros: privacy, river access, sunny. Cons: trash and glass scattered throughout the site. Freeway noise is very loud
- Max H.Scout
South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Wooded campsites off a backyard
The campsites aren’t bad. There in heavy wooded areas. If you get here early enough you can get a good secluded site on an offshoot, but most sites are just right off the road. Some sites are really close together with like 50 yards.
Annie C.
LegendRanger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
Camp next to an active airstrip!
This is such a cool place to camp! You are literally right on an active airstrip. There are roughly 40 sites spread out along a long narrow loop, with some walk in sites. There are no services here- no water, no, wifi, no trash pick up, no campground host(there is a moderately clean vault toilet). But it’s also free, or a$5 donation at the iron ranger. It was a little confusing. AND IT'S ON AN ACTIVE AIRSTRIP!! Most sites have good trees for hammocks. I strongly suggest you have a way to secure your food and trash as there are lots of squirrels and raccoons. Did I mention it's 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. It looked like 3-5 planes used the airstip a week in the warm months. The White River is between the campground/airstrip and the highway and it drowns out most of the road noise. I didn’t check things out on the other side of the airstrip too much, but it looked like there were some dispersed sites there as well.
Bobby J.
Ranger
Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
Various Large Pullout spots
There was a handful of large pull out spots along this road. Nothing fancy and not secluded but got the job done
Ethan H.Ranger
Cora Lake Back Country
cozy lakeside camp
secluded lakeside camping underneath high rock. 3 mile hike to the lake, 6 round trip. Tons and tons of frogs and tadpoles which meant no bugs! beautiful area
samuel C.RangerNF-52 Dispersed Camping
One of my favorites!
One of my favorite dispersed sites of all time, now let me say , there can be a lot of bugs, but there are lots of sites , and the view of rainier is amazing. !!!! There is a lot of traffic but I love it everytime.
Mario E.TravelerSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great dispersed camping near Seattle
This is near the Tinkham Campground. Plenty of dispersed sites with fire pits. Some sites are close together however if you keep going down the road you'll find plenty of quiet and private places. They also are redoing the roads as I'm here so little to no potholes.
- SSpencer L.Traveler
NF-2419 Dispersed Site
It’s was ok
NF-2419 is a very busy road at all hours. 2 or 3 cars drive by all day and all through the night. As far as we could find there aren’t many spots that are more secluded they are mostly just turn outs.
- KKim K.Traveler
Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419
The view!!!!!
Fantastic secluded spot at the top of the mtn with amazing views! First night we camped next to the creek pull off site and the second night we scored the top of the mountain. Please be aware it’s at the snow line and very cold in March! Cell phone service for Cricket was great. Not so much for Verizon!
Trevor M.GuideNF-2419 Dispersed Site
Forest Road camping
Had a blast coming up the mountain with the family , found a few great spots that we pinned for later that are unmarked with fire rings. Not many other campers' sites are well dispersed . Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories. Definitely recommend going , we saw people driving various types of vehicles so most will make it up. My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem . Bring in water and plenty of fire wood. Happy camping!
- HHannah G.Traveler
NF-2510 Dispersed Site - CLOSED
ROAD IS BLOCKED AND CANNOT ENTER
The road to this campsite is blocked and you are unable to get to it anymore. Someone dropped a dirt pile in the road and now there’s a trench.
- LLoren O.Guide
Tatoosh Wilderness WA FS52 - Dispersed Camping
Littered roadside pull-off
This was a large pull-off right off of NF-52, so there was no privacy from the hwy but at least the area was big enough to be a little distanced from traffic. The spots on the river were already occupied when I was looking late on a Sat afternoon, this is a popular dispersed area. The entire area was littered with toilet paper and discarded furniture. There was also a memorial hidden in some trees just out of sight of 52. Wouldn't have been a bad spot if people had picked up after themselves, but the trash situation was over the top. Thankful to have in a pinch but def wouldn't camp there again. (The pull off is right off the highway from what the coordinates show).
- Danielle S.Guide
FS-2292 Dispersed
Epic views
Very far off the beaten path, every time I camp here I don’t run into anyone. You’re camping on the Ridgeline so it can be a bit windy. East of the campsite there is a walking trail that takes you to an overlook, perfect for watching the sunrise.
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!
- KKahli C.Scout
Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24
Good spot for a night
Not the most private spot if vehicles were to pass. the road looks like it’s used but no one around when we arrived. the road itself is a gorgeous drive and since it’s free it’s worth it!
- GGarrett B.Guide
Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed
Great spot, plenty of room for Big Rigs
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. Close enough to Mt. Rainier NP and nearby towns for supplies. Vault toilets if needed, and the airstrip was only used twice in the 4 nights we stayed, i think (heard one mid-day, and saw another late morning).
There is a single-lane bridge when turning in that could be tricky for a motorhome that is towing, but not enough traffic to cause us any issues getting in. For larger rigs - take the second left (at a Y-intersection, and then keep to the left and you won't have any trouble getting in. Going to the right at the Y takes you to an area that big rigs might have trouble finding spots or turning around, but still doable.
Abrianna M.TravelerSouth 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.
- 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
- Danielle C.Traveler
Carbon River
Great camping spot but the people....
So first off, this location is beautiful. It is so relaxing! We were so excited when we found a spot with a fire pit. We set up camp and started enjoying ourselves. Here where it gets weird. People were harassing us about camping. We spoke to a ranger and verified that we were at the right spot. She said yes. One person drove past and yelled that you don't belong here. It was super uncomfortable specially considering I had a four year old with me. We ended up packing up camp and hiking into a further remote camp site. It was great after that.
Austin R.GuideSouth Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site
Great Spot
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, it is very close to the interstate so you’ll hear a constant hum of cars but it’s very nice to feel like you have your own slice of the mossy old growth forest.
Guide to University Place
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near University Place, Washington, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while soaking in the stunning landscapes.
Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers
- The Joemma Beach State Park Campground offers picturesque views of the water, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate natural beauty.
- For a more secluded experience, the Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 provides breathtaking vistas at the top of the mountain, ideal for capturing stunning sunrises and sunsets.
- If you prefer a riverside setting, the Ipsut Creek Camp features sites along the Carbon River, allowing for peaceful moments by the water.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near University Place, Washington
- When visiting the Carbon River, be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, as it can attract larger groups and families.
- The NF-2419 Dispersed Site is a great option for those seeking a no-cost camping experience, but be aware that it can be busy with passing vehicles.
- For a quieter stay, consider the Large Pull Out (Dispersed) on FR 24, where you can find several pull-out spots that are free and accessible.
Activities While Free Camping Near University Place
- Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the long dock at Joemma Beach State Park Campground, which provides excellent opportunities for catching local fish.
- Hiking trails abound near the Ipsut Creek Camp, offering access to beautiful scenery and wildlife, making it a great base for outdoor adventures.
- The Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead is perfect for those looking to explore the woods, with trails that lead to stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near University Place, WA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near University Place, WA is Joemma Beach State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near University Place, WA?
TheDyrt.com has all 22 dispersed camping locations near University Place, WA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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