Free Camping Washington

You might think that camping in Washington comes with a hefty price tag, especially considering the number of awesome attractions and activities the State has to offer. But this isn’t necessarily true, and there are some excellent free camping options scattered throughout public lands that allow you to experience the magic of Washington’s forests, mountains, and rivers without breaking the bank.

But where are they? To make planning your road trip easier (and keep more money in your pocket in the process), we’ve listed the best free camping spots Washington has to offer. You’ll find all the details you need to know about each, including rules, amenities, and what you can do in the surrounding areas.

Are you ready? Let’s see what’s out there!

Washington Free Camping Spots

• Liberty Recreation Site
• The Helipad Dispersed Camping
• Silkameen Recreation Site
• Miners Flat Recreation Site

Before we get going, it’s important to note that each of these campgrounds is best visited by campervan as they’re pretty remote, and some also don’t allow tent camping. To make sure you’ve got a comfortable and safe place to call home throughout your Washington vacation, contact the expert team to learn more about hiring a campervan out of San Francisco, and we’ll get you on the road to adventure in no time.

Liberty Recreation Site

Cle Elum, Washington

Located 30 minutes from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Liberty Recreation Site is owned by the BLM and was once a busy mining area that now serves as a fantastic dispersed camping destination. It’s also open all year round, but it’s important to note that if there has been heavy snowfall during the winter months, the roads allowing you access to the site may be closed.

In terms of amenities, you’ll find two vault toilets here, but that’s all. However, don’t let this put you off camping at this free spot, as it really does give you the opportunity to reconnect with nature, and you’ll be surrounded by trees and have some awesome mountain views. You’ll also get a good amount of privacy, as there are only 15 sites on offer, but keep in mind that it can fill up fast during the summer, so it’s a good idea to arrive early.

If you are able to grab a space here, you’ll find yourself 1 hour from the hike to Lion Rock Lookout, where you’ll get views of the Wenatchee Valley and Stuart Range from an elevation of 6,360 feet. You’ve also got some excellent opportunities for exploration practically on your doorstep, with Liberty Ghost Town and its preserved 19th-century mining cabins and artifacts just a 3-minute drive away.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Vault Toilets

The Helipad Dispersed Camping Area

Cle Elum-Roslyn School District, Washington

If you’re looking for both solitude and amazing views, The Helipad Dispersed Camping Area is the place to go. This site is 30 minutes from the Okanangon-Wenatchee National Forest and is one of the best places in Washington for sunrise and sunset photography, with its 2,526ft elevation offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

There are group sites available here, but all sites are offered on a first-come-first-served basis, so make sure you plan to arrive as early as possible to grab a space. You won’t find any toilets, showers, or picnic tables, but there are fire rings, so you can still get that authentic campfire experience at night. This dispersed camping site is also pet-friendly, which is ideal if you’ve brought your canine companions along for your adventure.

When you’re ready to head out on a hike, a 45-minute drive will take you to the Haney Meadow Trail, which is one of the most popular in the area and leads you through wildflower meadows in the summer and trees ablaze with golden foliage in the fall. For a slightly longer trek, the Mount Lillian Loop is 55 minutes from camp and will take you to 360-degree views of the Cascades, along with the chance to spot native wildlife like elk and marmots along the way.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Fire Rings

Similkameen Recreation Site

Tonasket, Washington

Set right by the beautiful Similkameen River, Similkameen Recreation Site is the perfect place to set up camp if you want to be close to the water but not spend a whole load of cash for the privilege! Not only will you get a relaxing atmosphere here, but you’re also perfectly positioned to spend a peaceful afternoon fishing, dipping your toes in the river, or kicking back with a good book and enjoying the sound of the water rushing by.

This free camping spot is really easy to access from Loomis-Oroville Road, and while there are no hookups, the sites are spacious enough to accommodate most campervans, including big rigs. Don’t expect to find any amenities here, as it’s a dispersed camping site, but it is pet-friendly. Also, since you’re so close to the river, you’ll have access to non-drinking water.

When you’re ready to leave this tranquil setting and explore a little further, an 11-minute drive will take you to the Similkameen River Trail, a relatively easy hike that follows an old railroad track along the river and leads to the Enloe Dam. If this sparks your interest in learning more about the history of the area, you’re also only 15 minutes from The Old Depot Museum, where you’ll find artifacts showcasing Washington’s early settlers and Native American history. Or, if that hasn’t quite fully scratched that learning itch, take the 40-minute drive to Molson Ghost Town, where you’ll find a fascinating preserved town with abandoned buildings and farming equipment, giving you a glimpse into the life of the early 1900s.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Non-Drinking Water

Miners Flat Recreation Site

Oroville, Washington

Just over an hour from the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Miners Flat Recreation Site is the perfect place to camp if you want to experience a slice of Washington’s gold rush history. Not only is it feet away from the Similkameen River, but the entire area still has an active and friendly gold-panning community, and if you connect with them, you might just strike it rich!

This campsite is set 220 meters away from Loomis-Oroville Road, giving you easy access to the sites while being far away enough not to have to worry too much about traffic noise. As it’s a dispersed camping site, you won’t find much in the way of amenities, but there are fire rings, and the close proximity to the river gives you access to non-drinking water. It’s a pet-friendly camp, too, and the spaces are large enough to accommodate big rigs.

If you’re keen to take some amazing photos or simply admire an incredible sight, head out on the trek to the Spotted Lake Viewpoint, which is 26 minutes from camp. This is an otherworldly lake famous for its mineral-rich pools that form circular patterns, all with different colors. Or, if you’re happy to head a bit further out, an 80-minute drive will take you to the Iron Gate Trailhead, where you can access the beautiful Pasaytan Wilderness – one of Washington’s most remote areas that is packed with alpine meadows, glacial-fed streams, and breathtaking views at every turn.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Fire Rings
• Non-Drinking Water

With the free camping spots detailed above, you’ve got the perfect way of exploring Washington’s natural beauty without spending a dime. And, since there’s such a mix, from high-elevation views to peaceful riverside retreats, there’s something for everyone. However, to remain safe and comfortable, it’s essential that you hire a campervan for your road trip, and at Travellers Autobarn, we have a huge selection of RVs and campervans for hire, from vehicles for solo travels to family vacations. Our campervan rentals even include free unlimited miles as standard, so you can explore as much of the Pacific Northwest as you want without worrying about racking up extra fees. All you need to do now is pack your bags, hit the road, and experience the best campervan campgrounds WA has to offer.

Looking for some other awesome free camping sites in the United States? Here are some others you should check out:

• Free Camping San Diego
• Free Camping Colorado
• Free Camping Oregon
• Free Camping Arizona

DISCLAIMER: All information provided, including prices, availability, and site details, is correct at the time of publishing. We recommend contacting campsites or caravan parks directly to confirm the latest details before planning your visit. Please review our Terms and Conditions for additional information.