Best Dispersed Camping near Wenatchee, WA

Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Wenatchee area within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. Several free primitive sites can be found along Derby Road (NF7400), Chumstick Mountain, Old Bluett Pass, and FS Road 7601. These locations offer varying levels of accessibility and solitude. According to reviews, Derby Road sites feature "little to no water sources" with "private property marked in some areas," requiring campers to pack in all necessary water.

Vehicle access varies significantly between locations. Many forest service roads have "heavily washed out areas and rocks" where "higher ground clearance and AWD/4WD would be beneficial," though some sites remain accessible to standard vehicles. Campers report that to reach the best views along Derby Road, you must "go pretty far in" as "the first few miles are private property." Road conditions deteriorate at higher elevations, with several reviewers noting steep sections that require high-clearance vehicles.

Most dispersed sites provide basic amenities only, typically limited to established fire rings. No toilets, picnic tables, or drinking water exist at most locations. Seasonal fire restrictions are common, particularly during summer months. Campers should check current regulations before planning to have a campfire. Cell service varies by location and carrier; Verizon generally performs better than T-Mobile in these areas. Permits may be required at certain sites, with some locations requiring a Northwest Forest Pass or Discover Pass for parking. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with reviewers noting it "gets pretty windy at night" at higher elevations. Wildlife sightings are common, including elk and deer.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Wenatchee, Washington (49)

    1. Swakane Canyon/Creek Campsite - Dispersed

    1 Review
    Cashmere, WA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 548-2550

    "One fireplace - check if fire ban is active!"

    2. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Dispersed Camping on Derby Rd NF7400

    5 Reviews
    Peshastin, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 664-9200

    "As described, little to no water sources. Private property marked in some areas. Camp sites are just off the road so there is some road dust. In May there was plenty of wood for burning."

    "Found a spot with incredible near-360 mountain views! Exposed to the wind though. Have to go pretty far in along Derby road to find campsites."

    3. Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Dryden, WA
    16 miles
    Website

    "Within the almost 4 million acres of the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest, lie countless locations for dispersed camping."

    "The views of the mountains all around are insane!!! Loved watching the sunset and sunrise up here. It is very windy!"

    4. Old Bluett Pass Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 852-1100

    "Was a perfect Weeknd to Disperse camp, really quite, no toilets no water, Verizon coverage good."

    5. FS Road 7601 Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    Leavenworth, WA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 548-2550

    "Felt quite private despite being right off the forest service road. Each of the 3 spots had easy access to the river. It's only 2 miles away from the Stuart and Colchuck Lake TH too!"

    "There are multiple pull off spots along this road, each with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. I camped at two different pull offs. Didn’t worry too much about not finding a vacant spot."

    6. Liberty Town / Williams Creek Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Thorp, WA
    20 miles
    Website

    "Stumbled on this by just exploring the backroads near the BLM campground down the road. Technically this is USDA Forest Service land, but it is RIGHT next to BLM land. "

    "Stayed here for a week, had a great time near the creek with our dogs! Attempted some fly fishing after seeing some others give it a shot with no luck. Tons of dispersed camping up and down the road!"

    7. Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead

    5 Reviews
    Quincy, WA
    24 miles
    Website

    "Avoid summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around. It gets cold at night so come prepared."

    "This place is where I go when I want to disconnect and get away from the stress of school in Ellensburg."

    8. Old Bluett Pass Road Dispersed

    1 Review
    Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, WA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 852-1100

    9. 4th of July Trail Levenworth

    2 Reviews
    Leavenworth, WA
    24 miles
    Website

    "This pull in is nestled behind a HUGE rock."

    10. Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Vantage, WA
    32 miles

    "Best to have high clearance as there are some good size rock outcroppings. Few people rock climbing, tall waterfall across the valley. Very quiet. Can hear birds fly by."

    "There is a pit toilet and there were some people climbing. No accessible water. Only a couple miles from the highway. It was windy, as this whole area is. But well worth it!"

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Showing results 1-10 of 49 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Wenatchee, WA

112 Reviews of 49 Wenatchee Campgrounds



Guide to Wenatchee

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Wenatchee, Washington, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the crowds. This area offers a variety of stunning landscapes, from desert oases to lush forests, perfect for your next outdoor adventure.

Scenic Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead provides access to several established sites just a short hike from the trailhead, making it ideal for beginners looking to explore the great outdoors.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, FS Road 7601 Dispersed offers multiple pull-off spots with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • The 4th of July Trail Levenworth features a drive-in access point, allowing campers to enjoy the tranquil sounds of the river while being just a stone's throw away from hiking opportunities.

Unique Attractions for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Ideal Spots for Family-Friendly Camping

  • Families will appreciate the accessibility of Old Bluett Pass Dispersed Site, which is suitable for both tents and RVs, providing a comfortable base for exploring the area.
  • The Swakane Canyon/Creek Campsite - Dispersed is a great choice for families looking for a quiet spot to unwind, with plenty of space for kids to play and explore.
  • For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Iron Creek Road offers a drive-in experience with various spots to set up camp, making it easy to accommodate families with different camping styles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free camping available in the Wenatchee area?

Yes, free camping is widely available around Wenatchee, primarily on National Forest land. L.T. Murray Wildlife Area offers free dispersed camping with sites that are well-spaced for privacy. Located between Cle Elum and Ellensburg (sometimes called Elk Heights or Joe Watt Canyon), it features rocky dirt roads suitable for trucks and smaller trailers. French Cabin Creek Recreation Area provides numerous free dispersed sites just off the main area. Remember that free camping typically means no amenities—bring your own water, pack out all trash, and be prepared for no toilets, picnic tables, or developed fire rings. Always check current regulations and fire restrictions before your trip.

What regulations should I know about dispersed camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest?

When dispersed camping in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, you must camp at least 100 feet from water sources, trails, and roads. The maximum stay is typically 14 days within a 30-day period. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Dispersed Camping on Derby Rd NF7400 demonstrates the importance of noting burn restrictions—while wood may be plentiful in spring, fire bans are common in summer and fall. Be vigilant about private property boundaries, which are marked in some areas. For vehicle access, many sites like Old Bluett Pass Road Dispersed have varying road conditions—some areas require high clearance vehicles. Always pack out all trash, bury human waste 6-8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, and verify current regulations before your trip.

What are the dispersed camping options at Lake Wenatchee?

At Lake Wenatchee, the primary dispersed camping option is Lake Wenatchee Airstrip SnoPark, located at the junction of Routes 207 and 22 near Lake Wenatchee and Fish Lake. This area offers a large parking lot and several pull-outs along an old forest road that loops around. It's an excellent alternative when Lake Wenatchee State Park campground is full. Dispersed near Salmon la Sac provides additional options in the broader area, with single campsites off forest service roads. These sites are primitive with no facilities—no toilets, water, electricity, or picnic tables. Some areas have user-created fire rings. Come prepared with all necessary supplies and be aware that nearby recreational activities like shooting may occur.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots near Wenatchee?

The Wenatchee area offers several excellent dispersed camping options. Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping provides secluded sites with minimal traffic in the southeast corner of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, situated along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route. For those seeking mountain views, Baldy Mountain Dispersed Camping offers incredible sunset vistas of the valley, though it requires 4x4 access or high-clearance AWD vehicles when approaching from the Chelan side. Other notable options include Derby Road (NF7400) for multiple pullouts, Old Bluett Pass Road for roadside camping with scenic views, and Cooper Mountain Road for those willing to navigate switchbacks to reach higher elevation sites.