Best Dispersed Camping in Washington

Planning a dispersed camping trip in Washington? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking and everything in between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Washington camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites in Washington (194)

    kara H.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Hog Lake Campground near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hog Lake Campground near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hog Lake Campground near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hog Lake Campground near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hog Lake Campground near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hog Lake Campground near Sprague, WA

    1. Hog Lake Campground

    26 Reviews
    79 Photos
    303 Saves
    Sprague, Washington

    Entire area is open year round. There are no fees. There are no facilities or services available with the exception of one vault toilet at Folsom Farm. Both lakes have concrete boat launches maintained by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (paid in advance parking permit from WDFW is required.)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Rachel B.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at White River Dispersed Camping near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at White River Dispersed Camping near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at White River Dispersed Camping near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at White River Dispersed Camping near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at White River Dispersed Camping near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at White River Dispersed Camping near Greenwater, WA

    2. White River Dispersed Camping

    19 Reviews
    58 Photos
    737 Saves
    Greenwater, Washington

    The historic Mather Memorial Parkway (State Route 410) is the gateway to a recreational haven. On a clear day, enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Rainier. For more excitement, take a spin in the off-road vehicle area at Evans Creek, or zip down the slopes of Crystal Mountain Ski Area. Or if you prefer solitude, escape into the solace of the forest and leave the world behind.

    Mather Memorial Parkway Created in 1931, this paved two-lane classic Cascades drive along Highway 410 from Enumclaw to the eastern edge of Mount Rainier National Park presents majestic views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks. More than 200 miles of trails accommodate hikers, horses and mountain bikes. Drive, hike or ride to the Suntop Lookout Cabin at the top of Forest Road 7315. Choose a primitive campsite along forest roads east and west of the parkway. In November buy a permit at the Enumclaw office and take the family out to the woods to cut your own Christmas tree. Most forest roads are unpaved and minimally maintained. Cell phones have limited coverage in the mountains.

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

    It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Andi F.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park near Joyce, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park near Joyce, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park near Joyce, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park near Joyce, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park near Joyce, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park near Joyce, WA

    3. Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park

    13 Reviews
    21 Photos
    734 Saves
    Joyce, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    Mario E.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site near Snoqualmie Pass, WA

    4. South Fork Snoqualmie River Dispersed Site

    14 Reviews
    66 Photos
    438 Saves
    Snoqualmie Pass, Washington

    Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Typically, it refers to roadside car camping, but also refers to backpacking in undeveloped sites. Dispersed camping means there are no services like trash removal, and amenities such as toilets, tables and fire pits, are not usually available.

    It is your responsibility to plan ahead and learn the extra skills necessary for dispersed camping. Camping rules and regulations apply to make your experience safe, and to keep the natural resources scenic and unspoiled for other campers.

    Dispersed camping along Forest Service roads is allowed where there is adequate space to safely park completely off the roadway and not on any vegetation. Whether car camping or backpacking, choose an existing campsite on bare or compacted soil. Unless signed as an area where a fee is required, dispersed camping is free. Dispersed camping is prohibited in developed campgrounds and areas posted closed or no camping. Some designated Wilderness areas have additional restrictions. For the best information on dispersed camping opportunities and local restrictions, please contact the nearest ranger district office.

    Rules for Dispersed Camping These rules apply to car camping and backpacking

    You may camp in a dispersed area in an individual Ranger District for up to 14 days within a 30-day period. After 14 days, you must move to another Ranger District or off the National Forest until the 30 days has elapsed. Do not blaze new roads to campsites, create new campsites, clear ground, cut or harm vegetation or construct a trail. Do not drive beyond constructed physical barriers, such as berms or gates.
    Do not drive through streams or wetlands to access a camp. If campfires are legal in your location and you choose to have a campfire, pick a site with an existing fire pit. Do not create new fire pits. Make sure your campfire is always attended and is dead out and cold to the touch before you leave your site. Fires may be restricted or banned based on the fire danger rating. Follow Leave No Trace principles and come prepared to “Pack it in. Pack it out.” Pack all trash home. Dispose of human waste in a sanitary manner. In high use locations, areas above tree line and snow-covered areas it is not possible to bury human waste in a sanitary manner. It will need to be packed out and disposed of at home using a wag bag, blue bag, portable toilet or another Leave No Trace approved method.
    Do not block roads or gates. Keep food and scented items secure from wildlife by keeping a clean camp and store items in your vehicle or use a wildlife resistant storage canister. Failure to follow regulations can lead to legal consequences. Additional Forest rules and links to report crimes can be found on our Law Enforcement page.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Danielle S.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping near Cougar, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping near Cougar, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping near Cougar, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping near Cougar, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping near Cougar, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping near Cougar, WA

    5. Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    42 Photos
    659 Saves
    Cougar, Washington

    Forest Road 83 provides access to Mt St Helens campgrounds. There are dispersed sites along this road for camping, and the area provides access to Climber's Bivouac, Ape Cave, and Lava Canyon. Camping near Mt St Helens is open from Memorial Day until snow blocks the roads. Food, lodging, gas, and other services are available in nearby communities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Dana R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Joemma Beach State Park Campground near Lakebay, WA

    6. Joemma Beach State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    39 Photos
    262 Saves
    Lakebay, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $12 / night

    Annie C.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed near Greenwater, WA

    7. Ranger Creek Airstrip Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    33 Photos
    286 Saves
    Greenwater, Washington
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    • Alcohol
    Alyson M.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed near Naselle, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed near Naselle, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed near Naselle, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed near Naselle, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed near Naselle, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed near Naselle, WA

    8. Road to Snag Lake - Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    27 Photos
    305 Saves
    Naselle, Washington

    Unless otherwise posted, you can stay 10 days in a 30-day period at any of DNR's campsites. During your stay, please practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you pack in. Dispersed camping, camping outside of our designated campgrounds, is allowed in some of our forests. Dispersed camping is not allowed at day-use sites. Toilets, picnic tables, trash cans, drinking water, and fire pits are not available in the backcountry. Please follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you pack in. Dispersed fires are prohibited.

    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    Linnea W.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at Fishtrap Recreation Area near Sprague, WA

    9. Fishtrap Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    11 Photos
    49 Saves
    Sprague, Washington

    The Fishtrap Area offers 9,000 acres of beautiful landscapes and an old farmstead, with habitats ranging from forest to shrub-steppe, grassland, and wetlands. Fishtrap is home to two scenic fishing lakes and numerous species of birds and other wildlife. The historic Folsom Farm Recreation Site demonstrates how the landscape was converted into small farms, ranches, and communities beginning in the late 1800’s. Enjoy the chance to explore, view and study nature, picnic, backpack, horseback ride, mountain bike, or hunt throughout the entire Fishtrap area. Fishing for stocked rainbow trout is popular at Fishtrap Lake, and during the winter season at Hog Canyon Lake. Know Before You Go: Fishtrap Recreation Area is open year-round has no developed campsites. The South Loop Trailhead parking lot has substantial space for vehicle and RV parking/camping. Additional minimal space is available at the Folsom Farm, and Hog Lake Loop Trailhead parking lots. See the Fishtrap Area map. vehicle and RV parking/camping is limited to existing parking areas and camping pull-outs. Dispersed (tent) camping is allowed. Please practice the seven Leave No Trace principles when recreating on Public Lands. Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) fishing regulations for fishing seasons at Hog Canyon Lake and Fishtrap Lake. Both lakes have concrete boat launches maintained by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (a paid in advance parking permit from WDFW is required.)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at NF Dispersed Camping near Marblemount, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF Dispersed Camping near Marblemount, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF Dispersed Camping near Marblemount, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF Dispersed Camping near Marblemount, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF Dispersed Camping near Marblemount, WA
    Camper-submitted photo at NF Dispersed Camping near Marblemount, WA

    10. NF Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    473 Saves
    Marblemount, Washington

    Has a fire ring made of stones.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
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Showing results 1-10 of 194 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Washington

405 Reviews of 194 Washington Campgrounds


  • jeremy B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cow Lake
    Jun. 13, 2021

    Cow Lake

    Welcome to the Wild West - Beautiful but Busy

    At first glance, Cow Lake is a beautiful and secluded oasis tucked away in the scablands of Eastern Washington.

    However, the area is a very popular local fishing and recreation spot and gets crowded on the weekends.

    Cow Lake is about 10 miles east of Ritzville and is a free, dispersed camping area.

    The road here is dirt and the last mile or so is pretty rough. But, most vehicles shouldn’t have any problems.

    There are no services, facilities or potable water but cell service was good.

    We arrived early Friday afternoon and there were just 2 other vehicles here. But, by evening there were over a dozen boisterous people fishing along the shore. Sound travels well over water and it was very noisy.

    Luckily, the people fishing left and we basically had the area to ourselves until Saturday morning when family groups arrived for a day of fishing and fun.

    By far the worst of it was the yahoos who came in later that evening to drink and shoot their guns. It was like we were camping in the middle of a shooting range.

    We would not camp here again. Too crowded, too noisy & too many guns.

  • Kayln H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hog Lake Campground
    Mar. 28, 2022

    Hog Lake Campground

    Great spot right off 90

    BLM land was easy to find right off the highway. Rough gravel road easily traveled in a truck, low clearance vehicle may have trouble. There were a few people with campers at the end of the road. A lot of dispersed sites, some close to the road, a few very private. Two nice lakes.. at the end of the road you cross to state park land which does not allow camping but is very well marked with a gate and signs. There was a fe portapottys scatter along the road. Light freeway noise, did hear one night train, but for free and a beautiful landscape not too bad.

  • Quinn Z.
    Camper-submitted photo from Liberty Town / Williams Creek Dispersed Camping
    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.

  • Jessica The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hog Lake Campground
    Aug. 21, 2021

    Hog Lake Campground

    Location wrong

    The fishing area is closed for the season and there are no camping signs everywhere around it. Before you come there is a sign for the BLM land and you will follow that down. When you get to the end there’s a porta potty but the vault toilet is closed. There are no fire rings or tables but flat grass you can see used for camping. ATT service is limited.

  • Brian L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area
    Mar. 4, 2022

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Beautiful spot in the scablands

    Rock creek runs through this lovely BLM land with 2 sets of falls. It's a great spot in late winter or early spring if you're looking for solitude. We visited in February and saw 4 or 5 people, but no one stayed the night except us. Towell falls is beautiful, but we have yet to visit Breeden falls. The ranch has an interesting history and it's fun to poke around the old structures.

  • Meghan The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Mar. 28, 2021

    Chumstick Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Great area to camp along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route

    Within the almost 4 million acres of the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest, lie countless locations for dispersed camping. This area of the southeast corner of the NF has very little traffic compared to others, we saw only one ATV for the whole time we were there. This area lies along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route between the Cashmere and Chelan sections along NF-7400. Obviously, this is a 4X4 road and I wouldn't suggest it in anything less. Incredible sunset views of the valley in front of Chumstick Mountain, it gets pretty windy at night but there are treelines you can position against. This particular spot photographed is just up the hill off the roadside in a nice grassy clearing. More spots were just up the hill around the bend as well.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek
    Oct. 27, 2021

    Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek

    Dispersed camping along Beckler Creek

    Found this sweet spot a little bit ago. Various dispersed camping spots along the road and up the forest service roads. There are some really sweet spots along the road with water access.

  • Gary M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Escure Ranch / Rock Creek Recreation Area

    Primitive but magnificent

    The campground itself is on BLM land and is primitive.  There is a pit toilet, picnic tables, fire rings, corrals and horse water.  The camping itself is on the primitive side, but the scenery it magnificent!  The last two miles driving in is a rough dirt road, and a vehicle with ground clearance is highly desirable. A three mile hike/horseback ride takes you through Washington's Channeled Scablands to Towell Falls through spectacular buttes and meadows along the creek.  The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom and before the RATTLESNAKES get populous.  The night skies are particularly dark because you're a long way from any civilization.  It's also interesting exploring the old ranch building that remain on the site. The area is popular with horsemen and trail groups up to a bit of "roughing it." It also can be a great day trip from the Spokane Washington area.

  • william T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead
    Feb. 18, 2025

    Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead

    The first spot when you turn in on the right

    It's ok just a spot to pull over and camp really. There is a trail next to it I don't know how far but, it's cool. The road up the Montana is dirt but some parts are very rocky. Not many dispersed camping spots just pullover spots really

  • Sam S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 6, 2024

    Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Olympic National Forest - Dispersed Camping

    We camped near Vance Creek trailhead to do the Olympic Bridges bike ride the next morning. Since this is a national forest, dispersed camping is allowed. We picked the first spot we got to since it was getting kind of late. It wasn't the most ideal spot and I think further down the road has prettier and more remote options, but it made do. There were really huge flies but they did not bite. The only complaint was that there was more car traffic than I wanted very late at night into the early morning. One car even slowed down and yelled at our tent around 2am. We never felt unsafe but it was annoying. A lot of trash was left behind from previous camper. I would suggest finding alternative spots if you're looking for a more enjoyable night but if you are just there for an overnight, it is fine.

  • Sarah S.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls
    Jun. 27, 2022

    Dispersed Camping above Panther Creek Falls

    Beautiful dispersed camping near Panther Creek Falls

    This area of Gifford Pinchot National Forest has lots of dispersed camping spots but this area was a gem. To access it, as you are driving on NF 65 you will see a small road to the right just a bit before you see the parking for Panther Creek Falls also on the right. If you are at the parking area for Panther Creek Falls and look up you will see a huge wall of rock…the area is up there and you need to turn on the road before the parking area to access it. There are actually 3 areas where you could camp: As you drive up the small road, you will notice the first, pretty large area for camping straight ahead. It looks like a road continues up toward the right but that is actually blocked. If you go to the left you will see the road continues (and you might not think there is anything up there) and you will see one more spot straight ahead and then if you continue up toward the right (hitting some branches along the way) you will come up to a large, wide open area with tons of space for camping. We were pretty excited when we saw it!

    We spent one night in that huge open area and it was beautiful - the stars were amazing. During the day we would go peek over the edge and could see people parking to go to the falls. You could hear a tiny bit of road noise from up there but it was very light. You can also hear the noise of the waterfall from up on the ridge. The only downfall about this spot is that there is no shade and it was very hot, so hot that we couldn't have a fire. The second night we spent in the spot just down a tad so that we could have some shade and a fire.

    The hike down to Panther Creek Falls is literally right across the road and I think these falls may be the most beautiful falls I've seen in OR or WA. It's a short mile or so hike but really pretty scenery.

  • Madison D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    May. 11, 2020

    Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping

    Free and Secluded

    This dispersed camping is free, huge bonus in my book. While searching for our perfect spot we did come across a few large parties, making us apprehensive that we would experience our ideal peaceful experience, but we were wrong to be. There were dozens of open sites that we had our pick of. A handful of cars drove by throughout the evening and night, but not an outrageous amount. Pretty dang good for very accessible NF camping spots. There are a good deal of trailheads near by, meaning you're never too far from a pit toilet or a bulletin board with information.

    We visited in early September and found the weather to be very pleasant. Our view of Mt. St Helen's was obscured by the tall trees that offered our site seclusion and privacy, but we relished the view of the active volcano while driving to and from our site.

  • Megan C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from French Cabin Creek Recreation Area
    Jun. 12, 2019

    French Cabin Creek Recreation Area

    Ranger Review: GCI Waterside Pod Rocker with Sunshade at French Cabin Creek

    Ranger Review: GCI Waterside Pod Rocker with Sunshade at French Cabin Creek Dispersed Camping

    Camping Review: 5 stars

    We have nothing but love for French Cabin Creek (F.C.C.) dispersed camping zone!

    From our home (Seattle area) to the camp zone typically takes less than 2 hours to arrive, horrific I-90 weekend traffic not included.

    The F.C.C. dispersed camping zone can be found by crossing the first bridge off the Salmon la Sac Road, located between the Cle Elum River and Red Mountain Campgrounds. 

    Once you arrive in the zone most of the camps are located along either Howson Creek, Little Salmon la Sac River or the backside of Lake Cle Elum.  They are available for camping from May to mid-November. Each camp we’ve stayed in offers waterfront camping, at least 2 parking spots, 2+ cleared spots for tents, trees for hammocks, usually 1 fire ring or more, and a honey-bucket somewhere nearby. 

    We really enjoy camping here because it’s off the main road so it’s much quieter than the campgrounds right off Salmon la Sac Road, plus the river drowns out most of the noise from any loud camp neighbors.

    The F.C.C. dispersed camping zone is located nearby the local Salmon la Sac swimming hole and Lake Cle Elum, so you have plenty of water activity options close at hand. We typically see folks’ kayak, raft, even SUP-board by our camp on their way down to the lake. Kayak and SUP rentals are available in the towns of Cle Elum and Roslyn for $50 daily.

    Did I mention there are several hiking trails located close to the F.C.C. camp zone as well; Pete Lake trail, Salmon la Sac trail, Domerie Peak trail, French Cabin Creek trail and Thorp Creek/Little Joe Lake trail, just to name a few.

    No forest passes are needed to stay in the F.C.C. dispersed camping zone so camping is truly free (unless you find yourself at a trailhead, then you will need a Northwest Forest Pass for the Wenatchee-Okanogan National Forest, be warned)!

    Now just a few last-minute gentle reminders (since this is a dispersed camping zone) that there will be NO: running water, RV hookups or dump stations, no trash bins (pack it in/pack it out), picnic tables, fire pit grills, and on occasion a few more campfire restrictions than in the local campgrounds.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/okawen/recarea/?recid=57515

    Gear Review: 4.5 stars

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, I occasionally get to test out products to review – I recently tested the GCI Pod Rocker with Sunshade and boy am I in love with this chair!

    The chair is as described, a beachside rocking chair with a positional SPF sun blocking shade but GCI did a really great job designing this chair! 

    The chair has a large comfortable seat holding up to a 250 lb. adult. The rocking mechanism is fantastic, rocking smoothly and quietly all weekend long on my first trip out. I was even able to set the chair up on uneven ground and continue rocking away while watching the river and kayakers float past our camp. 

    I am super fair skinned and tend to burn through clothing and sunscreen, so having an extra layer of protection from the sun in the form of the SPF UV blocking sunshade is a real-life saver for me! My husband laughed all weekend at me, as I happily readjusted my sunshade time and again to stay safe and sunburn-free. 

    Another little plus I love about the GCI Pod Rocker with Sunshade is the cool side pouch made to hold your phone and a beverage, which is super convenient for all-day lounging.  

    When you are done using your Pod Rocker for the day, the chair easily folds up and fits into a travel bag with shoulder strap for opportune travel capability. 

    Now the only complaint I have with the chair is the color.  After a weekend camping, leaving it out overnight, I awoke to the seat covered in sticky pine needles that left slight stains on the light aqua colored fabric.  Then there was the wild incident when our ketchup bottle lid flew off and sprayed me and the chair in ketchup, that also left its mark on the light-colored chair fabric.

    My husband’s complaint with the chair is that he feels too hunched over when sitting in it for long periods of time. He said he feels like the chair won’t allow him to sit up straight. Now I don’t know if that is because he is so tall, at 6’4” or just how he fit in the chair but I am 5’6” and didn’t experience this problem. So, I’m guessing it’s more him and his height or long skinny frame?

  • Meghan The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Baldy Mountain Dispersed Camping
    Mar. 28, 2021

    Baldy Mountain Dispersed Camping

    Stellar views of Lake Chelan yet worlds away

    This campsite is along the Washington Backcountry Discovery Route between the Cashmere and Chelan sections along NF-8410. Obviously, this is a 4X4 road but if you approach from the Chelan side you could maybe get away with a high clearance AWD vehicle. Incredible sunset views of the valley overlooking Lake Chelan to one side and a vast forested mountain range to the other. This particular spot photographed is on the south side of the road to the north of the Baldy Mountain crest. This area seemed to have a good number of sites in the immediate vicinity, not that we saw anything in them. This particular site was clearly well used as it was flat, had log stump seats, and a stone fire pit (even if you aren't supposed to have fires most of the year in this forest). Someone even built a rustic camp toilet in the woods just away from the campsite.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam
    Apr. 6, 2021

    Campbell Park at Box Canyon Dam

    Rad free campground!!

    This place is absolutely charming. If you need to stop on a long journey and don't want to find a spot to dispersed camp, you can find vault toilets here as well as a small swimming lagoon. Traffic noise is consistent but not loud or close enough to keep you up at night. Close to 6 camping spots we saw, and in early April, there is nobody here but us to enjoy it. If you don't mind the chilly breeze, the spot by the creek close to the vault toilet is superb. The water is loud enough to stifle most of the traffic noise. Overall 4/5 stars were given because of mild traffic noise, little wildlife besides geese to watch, and no hiking trails we could find. Otherwise this is a great rest stop for a night or two! Also trash is pack in pack out please.

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Mountain Loop Hway Dispersed Camp

    Coordinates off

    The directions had me believing that the dispersed camping was just various pull offs on the highway loop and that’s where I stayed. It was loud and it felt like the traffic was coming through my tent at times. After driving to North Cascades I discovered that there was real dispersed camping on that road but probably 45 minutes to an hour past where the coordinates took you. Once the highway turned into a gravel road is when I started seeing nice dispersed campsites

  • John T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sullivan Pond Camp
    Jul. 25, 2023

    Sullivan Pond Camp

    Sullivan Pond, Winthrop WA

    Nice, quiet dispersed camping next to Sullivan Pond near Winthrop Washington. Recommend 4wd with good clearance. Washington Discover Pass required.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from French Cabin Creek Recreation Area
    Oct. 27, 2021

    French Cabin Creek Recreation Area

    Great hideaway

    For dispersed camping you gotta get out of the main "campground". Tons of options just off the beaten path. This is another gateway location which holds entrances to dozens of roads each with their own selection of dry camp sites.

  • Vanessa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Creek Creekside Camp
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Panther Creek Creekside Camp

    Best spot ever!

    I was headed down 14 looking for somewhere to camp between the Dalles and camas. I got stuck in road construction and decided to open up the dyrt app. I clicked on one that looked closish lol I decided to take the chance and go check it out. Man I'm glad I did This is one of the best dispersed camp sites I've ever stayed at!!

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park
    Jul. 31, 2022

    Dispersed Camping NF 2918 — Olympic National Park

    Plenty of great spots

    Great dispersed camping. We arrived about 3/4pm during the week and got a spot up the FS-2918, right on the river down a short track. There was a burnt up car up on the road but well away from our spot. There were plenty of places further up the road, felt like a great result for dispersed camping!

  • Maui F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trail Lake Dispersed
    May. 20, 2023

    Trail Lake Dispersed

    Great spot

    Great spot to disperse camp, no toilets , great for swimming fishing kayaking paddle boarding and disperse camping, sunken boat at edge of water cool feature. Lots of bugs and spiders. Also close the cow gate.

  • Phoebe H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FS Road 7601 Dispersed
    Jul. 29, 2024

    FS Road 7601 Dispersed

    Great place to camp!

    Beautiful scenery, not hard to find, and lots of spaces open along the road. The road did get quite bumpy and rocky at points, but I assume this is normal for dispersed camping (this was my first dispersed camping experience). The only concern my friend and I had was an old RV near the entrance. That being said, the spot we chose was much higher and farther up the road from where the RV was, and we were not bothered. We actually didn’t see anyone else up there when we went in late July.

  • Theresa K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek
    Aug. 18, 2023

    Dispersed Camping Beckler Creek

    Repulsive

    Every dispersed campground we checked along this road (maybe five or so) was littered with human feces and toilet paper everywhere. We found a literal bucket of human waste beside the river with a soiled pool noodle nearby I can only assume was being used as a toilet seat. Please, if you care about keeping nature wild, carry out your toilet paper and dig a cathole or use the outhouse in the campground. If you don’t know what a cathole is, you should probably should not being using dispersed camping and try the campground down the road. We ended up staying at the campground because we couldn’t find dispersed camping where there wasn’t poop and had a positive experience there. Leave no trace!! 

    https://www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm

  • Adam K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clear Lake Campgrounds
    Jul. 21, 2024

    Clear Lake Campgrounds

    Depends on the day of the week

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

    But if you come during the weekend, be prepared for the most inconsiderate, noisy, rude neighbors you've ever found. They leave trash everywhere, play music and shoot guns late into the night, and don't respect boundaries whatsoever. I had multiple people drive right into my campsite and park 10 feet from my rig, walk through camp yelling and playing music, you name it.

    So, four stars because the place is amazing - but choose your timing wisely.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 26, 2020

    Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping

    Busy on weekends

    There are a lot of places for dispersed camping along FS-83, but they do get pretty full on nice weekends. Overall enjoyable camping, just expect neighbors and some trash from previous occupants.


Guide to Washington

Washington offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the freedom and adventure of dispersed camping. With stunning landscapes and a variety of amenities, campers can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the comforts of well-reviewed sites.

Top Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience the serene beauty of the Hog Lake Campground, where you can enjoy quiet surroundings and the chance to spot wildlife like deer and coyotes.
  • The White River Dispersed Camping area offers breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails, making it a perfect base for outdoor exploration.
  • For those looking for a unique experience, Mount St. Helens Dispersed Camping provides a chance to camp near the iconic volcano, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich history.

Top Activities While Free Camping in Washington

Features Dispersed Campers Should Check Out