Free Camping in Washington State (or No Reservations)

Camping in the glorious Pacific Northwest is one of the premier outdoor experiences you can have. It seems that when planning a trip that includes the best tent camping in Washington State, there are various things you should consider. The time of year, the location, and yes even the climate! You have your pick of ocean view, dense old-growth forest, wide-open valleys and then some.  One has to plan far, far ahead and scour all camping reservation sites for the best deals and locations. 

Luckily, there is plenty opportunity for dispersed camping in Washington State.

But who has time for that?!?

Many people fly into Portland to start their Washington State camping adventure, as it’s just past the southern border of the state. Many people look into RV rentals in the northwest. They will rent an RV in Oregon, then cross the border to begin their adventure. I highly recommend RV traveling.

It’s a great way to find an inexpensive RV for no-hassle traveling during your camping adventure. If you are old school and would rather feel the crinkle of a map in your hands, here’s a good one.

Free Camping in Washington State

Camping should be no-hassle and stress-free. And what about spontaneity? Who says you have to be at this particular campsite on this particular day? To me, that’s just stressful. This is where RV rentals in Oregon are so handy. Part of the reason I’m spending the night out under the stars is so that I have the freedom to pitch my tent when I want, where I want. It’s the best camping in Wahsington.

Luckily, the great state of Washington has you covered. There are a plethora of great campsites all around the state which don’t take reservations. And many of them are FREE. The following list is by no means exhaustive but is a pretty thorough collection of sites to help you plan where you might want to pitch your tent when exploring Washington State.

Keep in mind that these campsites are generally a litter rougher around the edges than those with water, flush toilets and showers, where you normally need to have reservations and pay a small fee. But hey, how can you beat free accommodation underneath the canopy that is the great Pacific Northwest?

I have gathered a pretty good list of free campsites in Washington state, grouped by area. But first, here’s a map of the campsites mentioned from the great folks at Wanderlog.

Southwest, Washington

Oak Creek Unit – In Natchez along the Tieton River. A Discover Pass is required for some viewing areas, and reservations for campsites are recommended 24 hours in advance.

Cowlitz Wildlife Area – near Randle, there are 16 – 28 campsites here with many more RV sites available.

Dillacort Canyon Unit – near Goldendale. The best camping area is near Milepost 5 on the west side of Hwy 142. And water access along the Klickitat River.

Council Lake – Cle Elum. With 6 – 15 free campsites available, it is accessed by a gravel road with an outhouse and a good fishing spot.

Twentynine Pines – First come, first served here, with designated fire pits and some toilet access.

Central Washington

Liberty – located just outside the old mining town of the same name, there are picnic tables and restrooms. A small stream is nearby where people have actually panned for gold!

Crawfish Lake Campground – Tonasket, WA . Free campground with 19 dirt campsites, open seasonally.  It’s located on the national forest side of Crawfish Lake.  Most campsites are near the water and there are vault toilets.  Enjoy dinner around the fire ring or at one of the picnic tables.

Evergreen East – Quincy WA. this is a nicely rated, quiet campground that’s popular for fishing. The campsites are free for a maximum of two weeks. There are vault restrooms and access to water.

Godman Campground – Umatilla National Forest. Free for tent campers, there are recreational activities like fishing, bicycling and hiking. With picnic tables, toilets and parking, this is one of the more popular sites. 

Northwest Washington

Gorge Lake Campground – Diablo. There is no water or other services, but there is a vault toilet. Six sites that are first come, first served.

Old Cascades Highway Dispersed – Skykomish. Located just off of the Old Cascades Highway, this dispersed camping area is a gorgeous spot hidden from view from the main road, with room for a couple of cars and a few tents. It’s a perfect site for families or smaller groups, and offers easy access to the river as well as local waterfall trails. There is a fire ring at this campsite, and although it’s best camped in the warmer months, this spectacular site is open year-round to all outdoor enthusiasts willing to brave the cooler temps.

Middle Waddel Campground – Olympia. You need a Discover Pass for this one. But you can camp for up to 10 days and they offer vault restrooms and a recreational trail.

Eastern Washington

Rocky Lake – Colville. Seven campsites with a fire ring, picnic table, a vault bathroom and water! 

Wickiup Campground – Umatilla National Forest. With picnic tables, toilets. It offers great hiking and views! 

Big Meadow Lake – Colville National Forest. 17 free campsites with fire pits and tentpads. There are interpretive trails. a nice fishing docs and a boat launch. There are also campsites with a private lake view! Toilets are available.

Forest Boundary Campground – Umatilla National Forest. Tent camping is free, with picnic tables, toilets and parking. The best part about this camp is the view overlooking Scoggin’s Ridge for a great sunset!

Other Resources for Finding Free Campgrounds

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. An official state resources with more information about areas for camping.

Compendium. A great site for finding free camping across the country.

Here’s a great blog post for finding campsites around Puget Sound. 

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