Free Camping in the Cascades Forest Road 29 Dispersed Camping Olympic National Forest Write a Review NF-29 Sappho, WA 98305 360-374-6522 360-956-2402 Official Website GPS: 48.0489, -124.1113 Add Photos View 15 Photos Overview Q&A Cell Service Reviews (17) Amenities Overview of Forest Road 29 Dispersed Camping Last Price Paid: $0 Reported by bfabel on 9/17/2021 United States government. It is perhaps one of the best lakeside campsites in the park. connected to the .gov website. ~ 1 hour, 25 minute drive time. Finally, if you choose to stay, obey all posted rules and follow leave no trace principles. Fromvan lifetoRV living, my goal is to help you live a more adventurous life. Heres a link for each of them: No fees or permits are required for dispersed camping in Olympic National Forest. Your email address will not be published. Campers talk about large sites (specifically site 3) and state that overcrowding doesnt seem to be an issue. The forest allows camping just about anywhere and everywhere within its boundaries, though certain areas come with certain restrictions. It is possible to reserve otherwise unreserved campsites during peak season at the Mora Ranger Station. There are no camping fees; its completely free, but subject to Olympic National Forests rules for developed campgrounds (14-day stay). Seven Cedars Casino in Sequim offers free overnight RV parking (just make sure to register inside). Required fields are marked *, Hi, I'm Kate! Six are open year-round, and several can easily accommodate larger recreational vehicles. If loud and busy isnt your scene, you may want to consider when you plan to be there. The campground may open on a first-come, first serve basis during the spring depending on weather before the reservation season. There is no potable water or garbage service. Some of these are the type of camping setup and the area youd like to explore. The campsites are much more private and also a lot more spacious. As an Amazon associate we earn from qualifying purchases. There are 64 camping spots here, all of which can accommodate RVs (up to 36 ft. in length), trailers, and tents. Its located at the far southwest end of the Olympic Peninsula near Ocean Shores. . The Olympic Peninsula is home to great free camping if you know where to look (and now you do!). If you dont want to stay in the park, there are multiple free dispersed camping sites located in the Olympic National Forest. You will, however, be rewarded for your hike with breathtaking views of pristine wilderness. 3 The Best Dispersed Camping Areas in Olympic National Forest 3.1 Elkhorn Dispersed Camping Area 3.2 Hoh Oxbow Campsite 3.3 Quinault Ridge Road Dispersed Camping Area 3.4 Beaver Lake 3.5 Hamma Hamma River 3.6 Forest Road 29 4 The Takeaway When Should I Camp in the Olympic National Forest? Reservations are not available and instead, it is a first-come, first-serve location. Although Upper Clearwater Campground does fill up most nights in the summer, its generally a little less busy than other nearby free campgrounds. There are no reservations necessary here as it is a first-come, first-served location. This small, walk-in only campground is free to spend the night, but getting there can be a challenge. The lodge consists of regular hotel rooms and separate cabins. The atmosphere is peaceful and heavily forested. The road in is Dirt and less than 10 miles from a paved road. A Discover Pass costs just $30 per year (or $10 for a single day). Seal Rock Campground along Hood Canal offers boating and fishing access and nearby Mt. To get there, you must drive up 9 miles of steep gravel road which is only open from June through October. There are no amenities or trash bins. For those who get to the campsite early enough, there are some riverside campsites available just along the Hoh River. The Best Established Campsites in Olympic National Forest, The Best Dispersed Camping Areas in Olympic National Forest, Quinault Ridge Road Dispersed Camping Area, dispersed camping areas in Washington state, List of Dispersed Camping and Campsites in Great Locations, Free Dispersed Camping Near Denver The Ultimate Guide, Ultimate Guide to Free Dispersed Camping in Big Sur, Complete Guide to Free Dispersed Camping near Joshua Tree National Park, Free Dispersed Campsites Near Grand Teton National Park, RV hookups, showers, flush toilets, drinking water. At the campground, youll find flush toilets, but no potable water. At a Glance General Information Directions: From Olympia, WA from I-5, follow US Highway 101 North for 61 miles to Dosewallips Road in Brinnon, WA. I regularly see a mix of vans, RVs, trailers, and tents camping here. What about Reservations, Fees, and Permits? There are beach access trails here which will take visitors right down to the water. The next camping area in Olympic National Forest is located in its northwestern corner and it features two superb campsites Klahowya and Klahanie. Located just off the water, during the winter or heavy rains it can flood out some of the campsites and make accessibility difficult. This place is an excellent option if youre road-tripping around the Olympic Peninsula. Management: National Forest Service. Dispell the myths of boondocking and arm yourself with the laws and truths. It sits near the Hoh River along a peaceful creek at the edge of the Hoh Rain Forest in the Olympic Experimental State Forest. Lets check out a few of the camping sites available to you so you know where to set up camp while in the area. Best Review: Full-service campgrounds can fill up quickly in the area, making these free camping experiences perfect for those not wanting to book far in advance. Although free, they do require a Discover Pass. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping outside of a developed campground. If you are interested in other beautiful camping areas in the US, check our post on dispersed camping in Sadona. Some campsites will accommodate small RVs and trailers (up to around 24 feet). Fortunately for a big campground, the campsites are somewhat private which is perfect for a family vacation. Official websites use .gov A .gov It transitions from Brothers Peak (which rises to 6,842 feet) down to the scenic coast of the Hood Canal mentioned above. Olympic National Forest offers a wide variety of camping experiences and settings. Please always follow the 7 Leave No Trace principles when dispersed camping, especially packing out all of your trash, including human waste. While it is dry camping, a pit toilet is useful for those not wanting to fill their black tank or are tent camping. Road wash-outs prevent you from driving straight to the campsites. The location is first-come, first-served, and has 20 total campsites, which are best used for tent camping. Any site large enough for your rig is free and legal for camping. The trek is 6.5 miles long so its not for the faint at heart. Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers that love to score the best site! Its very secluded and a bit harder to get to, but it can provide some excellent experiences for those looking for a remote destination. You will be immediately into Olympic National Forest land. Then you can drive further along the road to find a site and/or determine how far along the road you can go. LockA locked padlock The Klahanie Campsite, on the other hand, is surrounded by an old-growth forest and provides easy access to the town of Forks. Queets Campground is located near the Queets River. 8. It has 7 campsites that are spread apart for privacy. 5 Dispersed Camping Sites in Olympic National Forest. Several places on the Olympic Peninsula welcome backcountry beach camping. Olympic National Forest offers diverse recreation opportunities for everyone. I dont think he paid for a campsite in his life. Lets help you get started with a few must-do activities. Personally, Ive had a lot of luck dispersed camping on Quinault Ridge Road near Lake Quinault, Forest Road 29 just outside of Forks, Forest Road 2419 near Lake Cushman, and along Forest Road 2312 on the east side of Wynoochee Lake. Campers will find that the rest of the year, sites are more readily available and are available on a first-time, first-serve basis. Dosewallips Campground is a walk-in campground without a fee (unfortunately, due to a road wash out, the current walk in is over 6 miles each way). Its another 13.9 miles to the campground. Shady Lane trail is flat, and less than a mile to Lake Cushman. About half accommodate RVs up to 30 feet. As long as you follow the United States Forest Service regulations, youll be able to camp anywhere in this forest. (165) No Service. The campground is quiet and peaceful. Still, its never wrong to do quick online research and get the most up-to-date information on staying in these areas. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/olympic/recreation/camping-cabins, Olympic National Forest online recreation map, Herbicide applications to occur on Olympic National Forest, Alcohol Ban along Lake Cushman Corridor (FS-24) remains in effect. This is a moderately sized campground, so there are not too many people and the environment is quiet. The Duckabush Area of Olympic National Forest is located further inland from one of Washington States most famous fjords Hood Canal. Finding a free camping spot allows you to save some money while still enjoying the nature you came for. Evergreen conifers and hardwoods provide a beautiful wooded setting. The river is also a desirable location for fishing. Its a little different than other DNR campgrounds on the Olympic Peninsula. The only thing better than visiting a beautiful National Park is scoring a great camping spot nearby. A small general store is located nearby. This oceanside campground is large, with 170 campsites available. Offices are now open at limited hours. My favorite place for free camping on the Olympic Peninsula is one of the 10 free campgrounds operated by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Casino boondocking is another option for RVers. Because most of the National Park campgrounds do not have electric hookups, showers, or other amenities, campers may prefer to stay in a private campground nearby. To find out where you can participate in dispersed camping, it is best to contact the land manager directly. Camping in the National Forest requires that you follow leave no trace principles such as packing out all of your trash. Dispersed Camping; Group Camping; RV Camping . Today, Im going to tell you all about these free campsites (including my personal favorites). Out of the three campsites listed below, the Lena Lake one is probably the most beautiful (and also the only one thats free!). Once here, youre greeted with 2 absolutely gorgeous campsites with very few other campers around. This free Olympic Peninsula campground (with Discover Pass) is located next to the Clearwater River about halfway down Hoh Mainline Road. Several of the campsites are nestled alongside the river. Olympic National Park is a great area to explore, guaranteeing unforgettable memories waiting for you. RVs up to 30 feet are welcome, although you can probably squeeze in something slightly larger. Its a great place for camping with dogs. About half of the campgrounds in the park have minimal amenities such as pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. But staying overnight at one of these sites requires a wilderness permit. Route 101. He would be surprised now to hear of wild camping for him living in Scotland he just pitched up and camped. To be honest with you,we hate paying for camping. South of the park, in the Olympic National Forest, the secluded Campbell Tree Grove Campground offers excellent access to hiking trails. However, do know there are countless Olympic National Forest dispersed campsites beyond my above recommendations. There is only one established campsite here Brown Creek Campsite. Elkhorn Campground near Brinnon Washington is a former front-country US Forest Service Campground (Olympic National Forest) now listed as "dispersed" having been cut off by a wash out on the access road and abandoned. The Quinault region of the Olympic National Forest is well-known for its ice-carved peaks, jeweled lakes, and alpine meadows. The 10 Best Dispersed Camping Areas in Washington Olympic Peninsula - Forest Road 29 Mt. This is one of the best ways to camp for free on the Olympic Peninsula, especially if you prefer primitive camping outside of a developed campground. The Fairholme campground is located near Lake Crescent in Olympic National Park. Ruby Beach and Beach Trail are also nearby and provide excellent views of the water. The Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway (Highway 112) isnt very popular with tourists, but its incredibly beautiful. Head to the PNW's best kept secret: Big Creek Campground. Please check our offices page, call, or email, before visiting. View recreation sites on theOlympic National Forest online recreation map. It has 16 total campsites. Its technically a developed campground because of the picnic tables, however you wont find it mentioned on the Forests website. In fact, Sadie Creek is much like a large gravel parking lot (although it is surrounded by quiet woods). It is near the Quillayute River and offers some excellent views a few steps away from just about every campsite. This can make a camping trip quite arduous. The beach is just a short walk away from the overnight RV parking lot. From hiking a mountain for 360-degree views, to exploring the only temperate rainforest in the lower 48, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Permits cost $8 per person plus a $6 reservation fee. Well send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Those reliant on solar may struggle to power their rig, but generators are allowed. Below are five of the most popular places for dispersed camping and free camping However, this road ascends elevation, becomes more narrow and rocky, and more treacherous for larger RVs and trailers. Free Dispersed Camping -> No Reservations. Jump to the free campsite you want to learn more about: Or, use our Olympic Peninsula dispersed camping map to browse the areas best free campsites. Its popular with campers and those interested in recreational activities on the reservoir. The Olympic National Forest surrounds the Olympic Mountains, making it uniquely placed for adventure. Picnic tables and fire rings are available at both campsites. Is Overnight Parking Allowed in National Forests? However, youll have to arrive there early in the morning to secure a good spot its a bustling place during the summer. The other three campsites vary in size and available amenities. There are 9 sites available, all of which are back-in with a fire pit and table. Located just outside the parks boundaries, its an ideal basecamp for exploring the western section of the park. That creates a quiet, serene experience for campers. 94% Recommended +46 Official website (360) 956-2300 Park hours: Mon to Sun: Open 24 hours Camping types: First come, first served campites and reservable campsites. Stay responsible and minimize environmental impact by leaving your camping spot in a better state than you found it! There are 14 campgrounds managed by the National Park Service. Beaver Lake also like in the Pacific Ranger District, in the extreme north-west portion of the Forest. National Forest campgrounds are more economical, less crowded and dispersed or backcountry camping is usually free. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping outside of a developed campground. Although Upper Hoh Road is close, traffic generally dies down by evening. TIP: If you are towing a trailer, you may want to find a place within the first mile of the road to unhitch. Be careful! As far as activities go, there are several trails nearby; although not directly from the campground. Campers have reported plenty of trees providing privacy between neighbors. Campsite Choose a campsite screened from roads and trails, and at least 200 feet from water Sadie Creek Campground is located along the Juan De Fuca Highway, just west of Lyre River Campground. In the winter months, its considered a primitive campsite with pit toilets only. Starting GPS (47.2672, -123.9182) At the intersection of US-101 and Donkey Creek Road, head north-west on Donkey Creek Road. website belongs to an official government organization in the The north portion of Forest Road 29 is often considered to be more friendly for larger RVs with pavement for a good portion until it turns to hard packed gravel. Instead, visitors will need to backpack their gear into one of 30 campsites. While its a long, bumpy drive in, this campground still remains as one of the most popular choices for free-camping inside the Forest. Sitting on the Duckabush River, the Collins Campsite is one of the best options for campers wishing to immerse themselves in this regions sights, smells, and sounds in solitude. Lets get right to the point theres a ton of free camping on the Olympic Peninsula. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. There is no garbage service. The reservation season for the 2023 summer season for the Hoh campground is May 25, 2023 - September 20, 2023. There are many trailheads that stem from the area, and its close to Lake Quinault, which is a popular fishing and boating spot. Every time you pay federal taxes, youre contributing to these lands. Garbage service is not always available. Permits must be booked in advance, there are no walk-up permits that can be obtained. Dispersed camping is allowed for up to 14 days at a time. The campground is well-shaded and may provide challenges for those looking to charge their solar. Another one of my favorite free campgrounds on the Olympic Peninsula, Lyre River Campground is located north of Lake Crescent along the Strait of Juan de Fuca. These sites are best for tent camping as the campsites are set below the parking area. Is it Legal to Camp Anywhere in a National Forest? Its also the least shady of all the DNR campgrounds on the Olympic Peninsula, making it ideal for boondockers with solar power. While Hoh Oxbow Campsite has no restrooms or access to water, it easily accommodates recreational vehicles up to 30 feet in length. The Hoh Campground is located in a temperate rain forest surrounded by old-growth trees and moss. Nearby. Youll need wilderness camping permits. Campbell Tree Grove Campground is found along Forest Road 2204, about 26 miles (nearly an hours drive) from the town of Humptulips. 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