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Best Dispersed Camping near Yakima, WA

60 Reviews

The landscape surrounding Yakima, Washington features diverse dispersed camping opportunities across multiple ecosystems. Areas like L.T. Murray Wildlife Area and Rimrock Lake provide primitive sites with minimal amenities, while locations such as Frenchman Coulee offer unique geological features popular with rock climbers. Most sites are managed by state agencies or the U.S. Forest Service, requiring a Washington Discover Pass for access. The region's camping options range from riverside spots along the Tieton River to higher elevation forest settings, with many sites accessible via forest service roads.

Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles to navigate rough, rocky access roads. As one camper noted about L.T. Murray Wildlife Area, "The road is steep and rutted with water wash out spots. The rocks are sharp, large, and loose." Weather conditions vary dramatically by season and elevation, with hot, dry summers in lower elevations and potential snow at higher elevations into June. Fire restrictions are common during summer months due to wildfire risk. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with some areas offering surprising connectivity while others remain completely off-grid. The Washington Discover Pass is required at most sites, with additional permits needed for specific activities.

Visitor experiences highlight the region's natural beauty and solitude as primary attractions. Campers frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, with elk, deer, and wild turkeys commonly spotted at L.T. Murray Wildlife Area. Weekday visits typically offer quieter experiences, as noted by one Clear Lake visitor: "If you come during the week, you'll enjoy quiet, gorgeous dispersed camping. But if you come during the weekend, be prepared for inconsiderate, noisy neighbors." Water access is a valued feature at many sites, though some lakes contain agricultural runoff and aren't suitable for drinking even when filtered. Most dispersed sites follow leave-no-trace principles, with visitors expected to pack out all waste and bring their own water, as facilities are minimal or nonexistent at most locations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Yakima, Washington (23)

    1. Rimrock - South Fork Bay Dispersed Camp

    4 Reviews
    Tieton, WA
    27 miles
    Website

    "Totally off grid. No amenities but worth the stay."

    "No toilets or water, but you can get s spot right next to the river! right in the forest so lots of shade, and great for dogs as well!"

    2. Tieton River spot

    1 Review
    Tieton, WA
    23 miles

    "Four or five spots with fire circles, next to hwy 12 but the river drowns out the highway noise. Gorgeous spot on the river"

    3. Peninsula / Rimrock Boat Launch

    4 Reviews
    Goose Prairie, WA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 653-1401

    "The sites on the peninsula are pretty great, great distance between each other, fire pits, the basics.. the trash is rampant. Some shady looking individuals, too."

    4. L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

    6 Reviews
    Thorp, WA
    34 miles
    Website

    "**Ranger Review: Camp Fare Premium Meals at LT Murray Wildlife Area **

    Camping Review: The LT Murray Wildlife Area is located in Thorp, between Cle Elum and Ellensburg."

    "After figuring out which gate to go through (make sure and shut the gate behind you), I took a road to the right with my truck and 19 ft. epro."

    5. Fish Creek Dispersed

    1 Review
    Tieton, WA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 653-1401

    $8 / night

    "There is great fishing here, however you can’t fish in the river, you have to fish either in the lake/reservoir or further upstream because the camping area is a breading zone for an endangered fish."

    6. Clear Lake Campgrounds

    4 Reviews
    Goose Prairie, WA
    34 miles

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

    "Has toilets around area, didnt check them as my rig is self sufficient. No other service though but out here it doesnt matter. Pack in pack out. Has fire rings all over!"

    7. Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Vantage, WA
    41 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!"

    8. South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    White Pass, WA
    31 miles
    Website

    ". #1 rule is to leave no trace. Extremely grateful we get to explore and camp on land that is free. We should all do our part and take care of it. "

    9. Vernita Bridge

    6 Reviews
    Mattawa, WA
    39 miles
    Website

    "I just love this spot, no amenities, isolation, river front view, and a boat ramp. Bring your own everything!!"

    10. Granite Lake Dispersed Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Goose Prairie, WA
    40 miles
    Website

    "I made it up to the lake in July.  There were too many ppl for the small campground on this weekend. "

    "Plenty of campsites around the small lake that are right up next to the water, but to get the good spots, It's first come first serve."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Yakima, WA

78 Photos of 23 Yakima Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Yakima, WA

60 Reviews of 23 Yakima Campgrounds

  • Shay F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2020

    L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

    Beautiful Solitude for Boondocking

    **Ranger Review: Camp Fare Premium Meals at LT Murray Wildlife Area **

    Camping Review: The LT Murray Wildlife Area is located in Thorp, between Cle Elum and Ellensburg. It is often referred to as Elk Heights or Joe Watt Canyon. This is primarily an ORV and horseback riding area in the summer. Hunting and elk feeding/wintering grounds area in the winter. This is also a great area to find elk sheds once wintering season is over. There are plenty of dispersed camping sites along the Forest Service roads. All you need is a Discover Pass and a high clearance, capable vehicle. 

    We were looking for a close by, no reservation, free place to camp for a weekend. I remember riding horses up here as a kid but have not been up to this area for many years. Once you arrive to the Wildlife Area, you must let yourself in the gate and close it after you pass through. From the gate we drove down a rough, rocky road and passed a wide-open meadow where there we a couple other trailers camping, maybe living, along the road. We passed through some very narrow, brush lined roads. It was also steep and rutted with water wash out spots. The rocks that made the road are sharp, large, and loose. We did not go too far as we were not sure what shape the road would be in and did not want to get in a situation with our trailer that we could not get out of. Plug for our Airstream Basecamp. It's advertised as being "built for adventure and tough enough to go anywhere." I think I really believe it now. 

    The spot we chose turned out to be beautiful. We had a view of the Thorp valley and the forested gully and ridge across from us. The stars were out and the comet NEOWISE was visible. We saw large elk, deer, many birds, and were visited by some wild turkeys in the night. It can get very windy in this area. Fires are not allowed due to red flag conditions. There is nothing out here. You must bring everything you need. Food, water, TP, lights. The best part was we saw two other cars, a couple ORV's, and a couple horseback riders total for the 2 days we were there. You can't get any quieter and more unplugged than that! 

    Product Review: Camp Fare Beef Burgundy with Field Vegetables and Chicken Tikka Masala with French Green Lentils

     I ordered these meals a bit short of our last trip and was unable to make them. I was happy I had them saved for our trip up to LT Murray given we traveled quick and light. Camp Fare https://campfare.com/ advertises their food as high quality, delicious, chef-crafted, and ready to eat- no refrigeration required. All you have to do is submerge in hot water for 2-3 minutes, tear open the pouch, and enjoy. Selection is limited but covers all the bases. Beef Burgundy, Chicken Tikka Masala, Wild Alaskan Salmon, and Brown Rice and Red Quinoa with Pink Beans. They all sound great! We had our camp stove and a pot of water but you could probably stuff the pouch into a larger Jet Boil for backpacking too. I chose the Beef and had my partner eat the Chicken. 

    Preparation was as quick and easy as promised. The meals may not look amazing, especially on a plate instead of the pouch or in a bowl, but they really are delicious. The Beef Burgundy was flavorful and tender. The Chicken Tikka Masala was Indian restaurant good, seriously. I would way rather eat these meals than something dehydrated ever again. Looking forward to trying the Salmon and maybe getting the Chicken again for future trips.

  • Pamela R.
    Jun. 19, 2021

    L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

    Gorgeous!

    After figuring out which gate to go through (make sure and shut the gate behind you), I took a road to the right with my truck and 19 ft. epro. We drove up a rocky dirt road, single lane with pull outs, for about 20 mins. Passing only a few other campers along the way. Sites are very spread out and private. Wildflowers were amazing!

  • Jess G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2019

    South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping

    We stayed here 2 nights and will definitely be coming back. Tons of open sites to choose from right along the river. Designated fire rings but currently there's a burn ban. No vault toilets or picnic tables. Pack it in, pack it out! When we first arrived we spent about 20 minutes cleaning the site we chose after the people whom were here before us. Not such a big deal just a little saddening. #1 rule is to leave no trace. Extremely grateful we get to explore and camp on land that is free. We should all do our part and take care of it. 

    A little surprising that we had cell phone reception with sprint! 

    Near this area there are a lot or activities. Biking, hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking.. to name a few!

  • Mandi W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2023

    Rimrock - South Fork Bay Dispersed Camp

    Nice spot on the creek, coordinates are off

    This is a really cool spot right on the creek and close to Mt rainier. The coordinates given here do not take you to this campground. Keep going north of these coordinates and very soon you will see a sign that says Rimrock recreation area on the right if you’re headed north (side of the road closest to the creek) turn down there and go a ways until you come to a forest road on your right. It will be pretty obvious it’s a campground when you turn in by the signage (that I have included in my pictures) and there are lots of spots if you go through. The road is very rocky and high clearance does best but we did get our minivan in there fine with some maneuvering.

  • Quinn Z.
    Sep. 29, 2020

    Liberty Town / Williams Creek Dispersed Camping

    Hidden little nooks of great creekside dispersed camping.

    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. 

    Being dispersed, they are primitive sites. You're going to find man-made stone fire pits but that's about it. There are a handful of dispersed sites in this area. We found one nestled right next to the creek. It was great, very peaceful for the most part, except for when you can hear people on their ATVs or dirt bikes tearing around the area. Since this is so close to a BLM recreation site, expect to hear those activities.

    Some of these sites can be tricky to get to unless you have a good vehicle for it. I was renting a 4Runner at the time so no issues, but I don't think I would have been able to get to the further in dispersed sites if I was driving a Civic.

    All in all, really great spots right next to the old town of Liberty, and worth the $0 you'll spend to camp here. Hell, maybe even worth more, not that you'll have to worry about that.

  • Emma A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2021

    Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead

    Great dispersed camping on the East side of the Cascades

    Camped here in February and November and in generally recommend it for fall and spring. Avoid summer when it gets too hot and ticks and rattlesnakes are around. It gets cold at night so come prepared.

    There are several established sites near Ancient Lakes and Dusty Lakes that can be accessed from the lower trailhead hiking or biking in.

    Ancient Lakes sites are only 2 miles from the trailhead on flat terrain which makes it for an ideal first backpacking experience.

    Only catch is that the lakes are polluted with agricultural runoff so that water should not be used for drinking not even if filtered. Pack all the water you will need.

    No facilities at the lakes. Port-a-potty at the trailhead.

    Need Discover Pass to park here.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 21, 2025

    Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping

    Quiet, great views

    Very nice and quiet spot (at least while I was here mid march). 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. Best to show up during daylight hours unless you have lots of Baja lights. Many sharp rock outcroppings and difficult terrain to drive over to find a spot.

  • Jennifer J.
    Jul. 29, 2025

    L.T. Murray Wildlife Area

    Good overnight spot when passing through

    Not beautiful but wide open and I am the only person here. There are no camp fire rings just an open space. Tried to drive further in up a single steep and rocky road. It was very overgrown with tree branches scratching my van. Turned back to open field. See houses in distance. There are very few trees for shade so can get hot. I wouldn’t “camp” here. Just overnight and move on.

Guide to Yakima

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Yakima, Washington, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of stunning locations, you can enjoy the great outdoors while escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Yakima, Washington

Top activities while free camping near Yakima

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free camping near Yakima, WA?

Several excellent free camping options exist near Yakima. L.T. Murray Wildlife Area offers spacious dispersed camping about an hour from Yakima, with sites accessed via a bumpy gravel road. The area features wide-open spaces and multiple campsites ranging from 2-3 miles up the road from the entrance gate. Another great option is South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping, which provides riverside sites with designated fire rings. Both locations operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early, especially during peak seasons, is recommended. These areas require self-sufficiency as they don't offer amenities, following the pack-it-in, pack-it-out principle.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Yakima?

Dispersed camping sites near Yakima typically offer minimal amenities, focusing on primitive camping experiences. At Frenchman Coulee Dispersed Camping, you'll find a peaceful setting with natural attractions like waterfalls and climbing areas, but no developed facilities. Similarly, Liberty Town / Williams Creek Dispersed Camping features basic stone fire pits but no other facilities. Most dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency - bring your own water, pack out all trash, and prepare for no restrooms, tables, or other conveniences. Some locations do have established fire rings, though seasonal fire restrictions often apply. Cell service is generally limited or non-existent, so plan accordingly for off-grid camping.

Is a permit required for free camping in the Yakima area?

Most dispersed camping areas around Yakima don't require specific camping permits, but some recreation areas may require general access passes. For camping at Rimrock - South Fork Bay Dispersed Camp, no permit is needed for the off-grid sites, though stay limits typically apply. When camping at Ancient & Dusty Lake Trailhead, you'll need a Discover Pass for parking, which serves as your access permit. Always check current regulations before your trip, as requirements can change seasonally. Wildlife management areas may have specific rules or seasonal closures. Standard dispersed camping guidelines apply: camp in established sites where possible, stay within length-of-stay limits (typically 14 days), and follow fire restriction notices.

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