Old Cascades Highway Dispersed

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.

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.

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.

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.