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Dispersed Camping

Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping

Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping, near Amboy, Washington, is a rugged spot for those who crave a bit of wilderness. This area offers a chance to pitch your tent in a beautiful setting, with flat pads for camping and the soothing sounds of a nearby river.

Visitors have enjoyed the remote feel of the location, although it can get busy on weekends. One camper mentioned, “You felt like you were deep in it,” which speaks to the immersive experience here. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride on the gravel road to get there.

While there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, the natural beauty makes up for it. Campers have noted the breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to enjoy campfires under the stars. Just remember to bring your own firewood and be ready for a bit of a hike to find it.

If you're looking for a peaceful escape, this area is a solid choice. Just keep in mind that it’s best to visit during the week if you want to avoid the crowds. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just soaking in the views, Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek offers a true back-to-nature experience.

Description

National Forest

This small, lightly used campground is tucked into dense forest adjacent to Canyon Creek. Eight campsites are available for tent camping only.

Nine small campsites. Smaller RVs can camp here. There is a newer, accessible vault toilet. Each site has a table and fire ring. The campground is sort of hidden away in the dense forest. Canyon Creek is nearby. If pulling a trailer, it is best to leave it at a pullout on the 54 road and find the campground first. There is no chance to turn around if the entrance is missed.

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Location

Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping is located in Washington

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Chelatchie on Highway 503, travel east on Road 54, right on Road 53, left on 3701, about 1/4 mile turn down the next road to the left. There is no site sign marking the campground entrance. Do not continue up road 3701. It is not maintained. It is narrow and brushy.

Coordinates

45.91600044 N
122.20200055 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • 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 Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping needs a permit.


Reviews

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3.5

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 29, 2024

Trail of Turds…

The site was great honestly, nice flat pads for tents, plenty of room for a trailer if you’re brave enough to bring it down about 5 miles of rough rough gravel road. For being such a remote location it was very busy this weekend lots of cars, foot traffic, and fishermen. It’s beautiful u can’t blame anyone for wanting to come but i was surprised by the volume. Maybe try a weekday for less crowds.

We had a private trail (about a country block in length), we quickly realized it was a “shitty” trail, a trail of Turds😭😭💩🧻

Other then that water and surrounding scenery was breath taking..

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Melissa B., July 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Melissa B., July 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Melissa B., July 29, 2024
  • (18) View All
Reviewed Jun. 22, 2024

Pretty good!

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. Really relaxing next to the sound of the river. Would definitely recommend sleeping mats if you’re in a tent as the grounds rather hard. The spot we went didn’t really have anywhere for hammocks but saw a couple on the way out. “Spaces” were far enough apart that you couldn’t even tell anyone else was out there. Wood was kinda sparse in the spot we were in too but you’re close enough to your car that you can just bring some. Would definitely recommend for a quick and convenient spot.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Jeffrey P., June 22, 2024
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  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Jeffrey P., June 22, 2024
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Reviewed Oct. 14, 2020

quiet little campground

my father, my dog, and I chose this campground for its small crowds. we had no neighbors in the nearby sites, but it was forecasted to rain, which could explain the low numbers. It drizzled on us, but that wasn’t anything our rain tarps couldn’t handle.

  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Ethan H., October 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Ethan H., October 14, 2020
  • Review photo of Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping by Ethan H., October 14, 2020
  • (4) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the max vehicle length at Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping?

    Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping allows vehicles up to 22 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Gifford Pinchot National Forest-Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping does not have wifi.