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Best Dispersed Camping near Washougal, WA

112 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping areas surround Washougal in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, with Little Soda Springs Road offering the most accessible options. These sites feature direct creek access and forest surroundings, requiring Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass for overnight stays. The forest service regularly patrols these areas. Canyon Creek dispersed camping provides additional options but requires navigating approximately 5 miles of rough gravel road.

Reviews indicate varying experiences at different locations. Little Soda Springs Road receives consistent praise for its peaceful setting and creek access. "Absolutely loved the spot. There were about three sites...It's a short hike down to the creek," notes one camper. Canyon Creek sites feature flat tent pads and creek access but receive mixed reviews due to road conditions and weekend crowding. Blue Lake Road near Bridge of the Gods shows less favorable feedback, with reports of permanent residents and restricted areas. Most sites lack amenities beyond basic toilet facilities, and all areas have zero cell service, making offline maps essential.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Washougal, Washington (53)

    1. Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

    17 Reviews
    Carson, WA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 891-5000

    "It looks like there might be two walk-in campsites as well and I believe there might be one if you walk across the Creek. It's very close to trapper Creek trailhead and there is a vault toilet there."

    "Spent a quiet weekend at Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed and loved it. The area is peaceful with a nice mix of forest and open space—felt super remote with hardly anyone else around."

    2. Snag Creek Trailhead Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Stevenson, WA
    20 miles
    Website

    "I wanted to add videos of the river sites to my other review for this site, but the website wouldn't let me - anyway, the hike has 3 river sites about 1 mile in from the trailhead and they are beautiful"

    "We wanted a beginner backpacking trip (10 to 12 miles round trip) close to town - this one is a pretty hike with views at the end (theoretically, we saw fog)."

    3. Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Cougar, WA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (360) 891-5000

    "Found in typical condition. Please pick up after yourself. Many sites out here. Camped on a week day. One other camper out here. No traffic on road. Like others said road getting in sucks."

    "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."

    4. Blue Lake Road by Bridge of the Gods

    4 Reviews
    Stevenson, WA
    21 miles

    "I only spent a night since it was close to a hike I was doing in the morning, but it was a solid spot. A bunch of spots in the woods, lots seem to have privacy."

    5. Panther Creek Creekside Camp

    5 Reviews
    Carson, WA
    29 miles

    "Lots of turnouts along the road with river accesses just steps away ! Definitely recommend!"

    "Man I'm glad I did This is one of the best dispersed camp sites I've ever stayed at!!"

    6. Gee Creek Rest Area I-5

    1 Review
    Ridgefield, WA
    22 miles

    7. White River West Sno-Park

    13 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 668-1700

    "Incredible access to back country hiking at Mt. Hood!"

    "Tucked our trailers up in the far corner with a commanding view of Mt. Hood!  Well, not much view the first smokey day, but it cleared up nicely after a wind shift the following day. "

    8. Mirror Lake

    7 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (503) 622-5622

    "There are several backpacking campsites that are on the water, there is nothing more beautiful than watching the sunrise over the lake with Mt.Hood in the background."

    "It's best to come up with a couple backup plans as this is a popular spot! The hike in off the road isn't difficult, and the tent sites are all situated relatively close to the trail."

    9. Top ‘O the Mountain

    2 Reviews
    Cascade Locks, OR
    28 miles

    10. McNeil Point Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Government Camp, OR
    31 miles
    Website

    "Dispersed camping at McNeil point is a backpackers dream — you get to hike far into the clouds, far away from the people, yet this location is nearly as convenient as car camping. "

    "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)."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Washougal, WA

72 Photos of 53 Washougal Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Washougal, WA

112 Reviews of 53 Washougal Campgrounds

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 29, 2025

    Trillium Lake Airstrip Dispersed

    Win for Memorial Day weekend!

    Surprised we were able to snag a spot here on Memorial Day weekend! Drove in Sunday evening. Quite a few dispersed spots, kinda close to one another- everyone was respectful. The road behind this gets a great view of Mt. Hood!!

    No amenities. Dry camping!

    PACK IT OUT

  • Mark F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Historic Clackamas Ranger Station - Dispersed Camping - Roadside

    Convenient, free roadside site near trails, lakes, & meadow in Mt Hood NF

    I was running in an ultramarathon race in September in the Mt Hood National Forest and all of the local campgrounds managed by PGE around Timothy Lake were closed due to the end of the season.  I was able to use map layers in The Dyrt PRO to identify where I was within National Forest boundaries and was able to confirm with local officials that I was in a free, dispersed camping zone. So, using the map layers and the search function on The Dyrt I looked for an area near the race start at the Historic Clackamas Ranger Station to park my RV for a 2 night off-grid stay.  The location was a wide gravel area on the side of the road that allowed for enough space to park, put out my awning, set up some chairs and a propane fire pit (no live campfires - propane only) while being within a few hundred yards of the Ranger Station.  There was room to walk along the road on the shoulder and you are very close walk to the Historic Clackamas Ranger Cabin with a beautiful meadow view, the Joe Graham Horse Camp, and just a couple of mile drive from Timothy Lake.  Clackamas Lake Campground was nearby as well with many accessible miles of hikable trails, including access to the Pacific Crest Trail, for hikers of all levels. There was some smoke from local wildfires but that went away as the fall rains arrived that weekend.  If you are looking for a place to park your RV near all of these amazing views and experiences this free, dispersed camping site worked great for me and my family for a couple of nights.

  • Kevin W.
    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."

  • Vanessa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

    You may get lost

    The coordinates here were incorrect coming from Hood River Oregon. It sent me down a rough dead end forest service road. I ended up lost on the mountain for 3 hours and finally made it out somewhere near camas. Make sure you have lots of fuel

  • Jason B.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Brendan R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 11, 2025

    Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF

    Great Area to Camp and Relax!

    There are several places along FR 2730 where you can pull off and camp. The road was very accessible, high clearance not required. We found a large pull off with several established fire pits. It's absolutely perfect for a group campsite. I imagine it will be a busier spot in the summer, but we couldn't find a single other person within miles of us in early May. To get up to the group camp site, you may need higher clearance (most SUVs should be fine) and 4wd/AWD, as there is a short rocky section that might cause some issues for FWD/RWD.

    Got a little chilly at night with winds whipping down through the area we were in, but overall very peaceful. You can see Mt Hood from the campsite through the trees, albeit it is decently far away and is subject to the visibility at the time you visit. We were able to see Mt Hood just before sunset, but couldn't see her at all the following morning.

  • Vanessa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2025

    Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

    Amazing spot!

    Absolutely loved the spot. There were about three sites. I believe from what I saw. I stayed at the first site when you first get there back there on the right hand side. It's a short hike down to the creek. It looks like there might be two walk-in campsites as well and I believe there might be one if you walk across the Creek. It's very close to trapper Creek trailhead and there is a vault toilet there. Minimal bugs didn't get any bug bites and it was in the '90s while I was there. Very little traffic. Not far from the highway just in case of emergencies. Absolutely no cell service. You must have a Northwest Forest pass or America the beautiful pass. Forest service does drive through there frequently to check

  • Johny B.
    Jun. 19, 2025

    Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed

    Peaceful and Scenic Getaway

    Spent a quiet weekend at Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed and loved it. The area is peaceful with a nice mix of forest and open space—felt super remote with hardly anyone else around. We found a great shady spot not far from a small creek, and it was perfect for relaxing. Heads up: there’s absolutely no cell service, so make sure to download any maps or trail guides(we used an offline hiking APK) before you get there. It’s close to Mount St. Helens and Columbia River Gorge, so we got in a great day hike. Nights were cool, days were warm and bug-free. Forest service came by once, which was nice to see. You’ll need a Forest Pass.

  • Kevin L.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Aug. 9, 2020

    Kevin's Mt Hood OG

    Dispersed Camping - Get away from it all

    This is a dispersed camping spot in the Mt.Hood National Forest that is free --- from both campground payment and people. It's an old forest road off the main gravel road that has been blockaded and closed down, giving you a wide open area that gets sun, mixed with good tree coverage from the wind. 

    The spot is flat and great for an RV, van or trailer. It's just a 100 meters off the main gravel road where the old forest road is dug out/blockaded from cars getting through. 

    We parked and camped right there. Or, if you want even more solitude, park at the blockade and walk 3/4 of a mile to the end of the forest road strip for some tent camping. Not sure if that is needed as I think we only heard/saw a few car drive by the entire time (on a beautiful August weekend). 

    Love this place. Happy to share it with others. If you are looking for some dispersed camping in the summer that's not a far drive from Portland, this spot is for you. If it's full, there are a half dozen to a dozen other dispersed camping spots along this gravel road between Frog Lake Campground and Clear Creek Crossing Campground. Enjoy.

Guide to Washougal

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Washougal, Washington, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to enjoy the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

  • Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping features flat pads for tents, making it a comfortable choice for those looking to set up camp.
  • The scenic surroundings and proximity to a river provide a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and fishing.
  • Keep in mind that access involves a rough gravel road, so be prepared for an adventurous drive.

Top activities while free camping near Washougal

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the nearby trails, with options for both beginner and experienced hikers.
  • The sound of the river enhances the camping experience, making it ideal for those who appreciate nature's music.
  • Bring your own firewood, as fires are allowed, creating a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings. Discover more about this spot here.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The Panther Creek Creekside Camp offers stunning river access just steps away from your campsite, perfect for cooling off on hot days.
  • With plenty of privacy and secluded spots, this area is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
  • The rushing water of the creek creates a tranquil backdrop, making it a great choice for relaxation and reflection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Washougal and Vancouver, WA?

The Washougal area offers several dispersed camping options within driving distance of Vancouver. Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping provides sites relatively close to the Vancouver area, though navigation can be tricky on forest service roads. Little Soda Springs Rd Dispersed is another excellent option with multiple sites and creek access. For most dispersed camping in the region, bring everything you need including water, and be prepared for primitive conditions with no facilities. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for accessing many sites, especially during wet weather. Always check current forest service regulations before heading out, as some areas require Northwest Forest Passes for parking.

Is there free camping available in the Washougal area?

Yes, free camping is available in the Washougal area within the surrounding national forests. Forest Rd 2730 - Mt Hood NF offers several pull-off spots with established fire pits, perfect for group camping and accessible without high clearance vehicles. Pinnacle Ridge dispersed camping is another free option with incredible Mount Hood views, well-suited for vans and rooftop tent camping. These dispersed sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system or fees. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and check for seasonal fire restrictions. Most sites have no amenities, so bring your own water, toilet supplies, and be prepared for truly self-sufficient camping.

What secluded dispersed camping spots can I find around Washougal?

For truly secluded camping near Washougal, Bonney Meadows offers exceptional isolation but requires 4WD and high clearance vehicles to navigate the challenging last four miles of road. The reward is beautiful meadow views, Mount Hood vistas, and nearby hiking trails. McBride Lake NF-81 Dispersed provides seclusion with only a few spots that can accommodate small trailers. For maximum solitude, visit during weekdays or shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall). Many secluded spots fill quickly during summer weekends. Be fully self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and supplies, as these remote locations offer no facilities. Cell service is typically limited or non-existent, so download offline maps before your trip.

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