Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

The sound of rushing water from nearby waterfalls masks most road noise at this dispersed camping area along the Old Cascades Highway. Located just east of Skykomish within Snoqualmie National Forest, the site offers multiple camping spots spread across less than a mile on either side of a bridge crossing. The paved road access makes it suitable for various vehicle types, though some spots require higher clearance due to protruding rocks in the roadbed.

Campers find approximately nine distinct sites with varying levels of river access. The most popular spots sit about three-quarters of a mile from the bridge, where Kevin C. notes "both sites can access the river for water (it's a small, steep hill)." Dense tree coverage provides natural screening between sites but may interfere with satellite internet connections. Cell service remains spotty throughout the area, though some reviewers report occasional connectivity.

The dispersed nature means no facilities exist on-site. Campers must pack out all waste and bring their own water, though the nearby river provides a freshwater source after treatment. Fire restrictions may apply during dry periods, as one visitor discovered during a summer stay. For additional camping options in the region, campers can explore campsites near Snoqualmie National Forest or check nearby established campgrounds like Beckler River Campground.

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Map & DirectionsOld Cascades Highway Dispersed is located in Washington near Skykomish

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

47.71843948 N
121.20890682 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 11 users
    Last on 6/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
    Last on 6/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/21/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    Possible Coverage
    Verified by 11 users
    Last on 6/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
    Last on 6/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/21/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Old Cascades Highway Dispersed needs a permit.

Drive Time


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Reviews11 Camper Reviews - Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

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5 Stars

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1 Star

64%
19%
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4.5

out of 5

11 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the beautiful riverside setting and peaceful atmosphere with waterfall sounds masking most traffic noise. Many mentioned varied site options though larger vehicles may struggle with level spots and rocky access areas.

Reviewed Jun. 9, 2026

Hidden gem

This place is the best free camping in Washington. Coming from the Skykomish direction I believe it’s the turnoff to the right, right before the bridge. The old Cascades Highway road is barely travelled at all and there is rushing river right along the campsite. There is service and other pull offs along the highway if this spot is taken. There’s some large rocks that you have to maneuver around but my Subaru Forester got around it just fine.

Siten/a
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed May. 26, 2026

Beautiful, but crowded and noisy

We found a nice spot along the river to camp here, but the etiquette of other campers left something to be desired. Barely got any sleep due to loud music and singing that carried on until 4:30am. It was also very crowded and most of the spots along the river will require a small trek from the parking area. Not fun if you have a lot of gear to unload. We camped in 3 different places over a long weekend trip and this was our least favorite of them all.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2025

Great location, quiet. Beware of rock on entrance.

This was a great place for us to spend a few days. Total tree coverage, so if you are using a starlink you probably get any visibility. We didn't have our starlink when we went to test it out. 

On our way in, there is a big rock right in the turn down to the site. We were in a Sprinter rental (extended) and we made it around it, so it's do able. I would suggest to get out of the van and look before attempting. 

Great spot, will stay again!

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by TaiteTravels T., October 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by TaiteTravels T., October 29, 2025
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by TaiteTravels T., October 29, 2025
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2025

Bigfoot Lives Here

If he doesn't, then he's missing out on the most Idyllic campsite ever! There are no fewer than 9 campsites within less than a mile either side of the bridge. The one directly on the south side of the bridge is 4wd access only because of the big rocks protruding into the road bed. But if you go about 3/4 mile up from the bridge, you'll find the most superb spot ever. There is nothing here for TT or large RV's, for small van-lifers and such, it's a pot of gold. There are two absolutely beautific sites at the 3/4mile area. Both sites can access the river for water (it's a small, steep hill). There are no toilets, cell service was spotty, Starlink worked fine.

Site3/4mile up from the bridge, and at the pullout immediately up from the bridge.
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Play button icon
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  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Kevin C., October 15, 2025
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 6, 2025

Would stay again

You could put 2 rigs down here if you’re friends, but plenty of turn offs for smaller vehicles

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Mar. 17, 2025

Roadside Oasis

Just a couple miles East of Skykomish, up a paved road, the campsite is just before you go over the bridge on your right and had enough room for high clearance vehicles to pull into it and smaller cars have roadside space the road wasn’t too active when we camped overnight even so the sound of the waterfalls drowns it all out. It has Solid fire pit and very lush green forest surroundings.

SiteOld Cascade Hwy- Roadisde Oasis
Month of VisitMarch
Reviewed Jun. 22, 2024

Beautiful Area with Small Campsites

It's a lovely area right by a beautiful river. However, it was hard to find a large enough spot that was also level to park our van. There was some traffic on the road, and a great bonus is that the road is paved, so no worries about destroying a tire. We did have phone service, and it's close to a small deli and other conveniences.

Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2023

Beautiful/ Dirty and noisy

Some of you never learned proper etiquette and it shows! Beautiful spot. Toilet paper everywhere. Peaceful… except for the trucks air braking on Highway 2; and the train… which made me question if I was being visited by some alien beings for half a second. Beautiful spot, great access to the river, whose noise washes out the majority of the ambiance killers. Secluded, sadly too dry for a fire.

SiteTent site, not car accessible.
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Philip D., August 8, 2023
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Philip D., August 8, 2023
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Philip D., August 8, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jun. 29, 2023

Quiet, easy spot!

We were planning to stay in Leavenworth, but that got sketchy, so we came up here to this dispersed spot, and it's beautiful, quiet, and easy. Enjoyed the sounds of the waterfall/river all night, never heard a single car.

SiteWest of the bridge
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Bryan J., June 29, 2023
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Bryan J., June 29, 2023
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Bryan J., June 29, 2023
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Aug. 12, 2020

Easily Accessible Dispersed Spot

We really enjoyed our spot off of Old Cascades Highway. There are a few good tent spots that are pretty tucked away. We took a spot with a good pull out for our car but didn’t really have a great tent spot. We have a sleeping platform in our car so it worked really well for us. We could walk to the river and sit by it for the evening before heading back to the car to sleep. We’ll probably be back here!

  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Lillie P., August 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Lillie P., August 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Old Cascades Highway Dispersed by Lillie P., August 12, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping on the Old Cascades Highway?

No specific permit is required for dispersed camping along the Old Cascades Highway. This area follows standard National Forest dispersed camping regulations, which typically allow free camping for up to 14 days in a 30-day period. However, it's always recommended to check with the local ranger district for any seasonal restrictions or fire bans before your trip. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, as some visitors have noted improper waste disposal in the area.

Where is dispersed camping allowed along the Old Cascades Highway?

Dispersed camping is allowed at several pull-off spots along the Old Cascades Highway, which is located a few miles east of Skykomish. The area features multiple riverside spots with various sizes - some suitable for high-clearance vehicles while others offer roadside parking for smaller cars. Most sites are found before crossing the bridge on the right side. There are tucked-away tent spots as well as larger areas where you could potentially fit two rigs if traveling with friends. The highway is paved, making access easier than many dispersed areas, and the camping spots offer beautiful views and sounds of the nearby river and waterfalls.

Is there a map available for dispersed camping areas on the Old Cascades Highway?

While there isn't a dedicated map specifically marking all dispersed camping sites along Old Cascades Highway, the locations are relatively easy to find. The main camping areas are visible from the paved road, particularly just before the bridge. For the most current information, contact the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest office or stop by a ranger station in Skykomish for guidance. Forest Service motor vehicle use maps (MVUMs) may show general areas where dispersed camping is permitted but won't mark specific sites.

What is the best time of year for dispersed camping along the Old Cascades Highway?

Summer and early fall are the ideal times for camping along the Old Cascades Highway, when weather conditions are most favorable and access is reliable. The area offers a peaceful experience during these months with beautiful riverside settings. Spring can be wet but brings lush surroundings and fewer visitors. Winter camping is generally not recommended due to potential snow accumulation and cold temperatures. The proximity to Highway 2 means noise from trucks and trains might be present year-round, though this varies by specific camping spot, with sites further from the main road offering more tranquility.