Dispersed Camping

Camping vehicle seen through the trees

Dispersed camping is the term used for camping outside of a developed campground. If you enjoy selecting your own campsite, providing your own amenities, creating your own experience, and camping for FREE, then dispersed camping is for you!

Campsite

Choose a campsite screened from roads and trails, and at least 200 feet from water
Use a campsite that’s already been established, if possible.
If you choose a new site, return the site to its natural condition when you leave

Pets

Your animal friends are welcome to accompany you on your dispersed camping adventure!

Fires

Only burn wood that is already dead and down
Always make sure your fire is DEAD OUT and cold to the touch before you leave it
Campfires are allowed below 3,500 feet when not otherwise prohibited by fire restrictions

Trash

Store your food & trash properly to keep bears and other wildlife out of your camp
Whatever you pack in, PACK IT OUT!

Human Waste

Bury your poo & paper at least 6” deep and at least 200 feet away from any water source

Regulations

Your dispersed campsite must be at least ¼ mile away from any developed recreation site
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within any 30-day period
Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest System lands

ENJOY YOUR OLYMPIC NATIONAL FOREST!

View recreation sites on the Olympic National Forest online recreation map.

Dispersed Camping Areas

Dosewallips area
Explore the range of ecosystems within the Dosewallips River Basin as this low elevation area gradually climbs to the ridges of the Olympics. Beginning in the low, wet temperate forest that meets the open Hood Canal, this area transitions to subalpine forests of fir and western white pine and eventually gives way to alpine meadows at its highest elevations. Seal Rock Campground along Hood Canal offers boating and fishing access and nearby Mt. Walker provides accessible views of the Olympic and Cascade peaks.
Hamma Hamma area
The Hamma Hamma drainage is well-loved by locals and visitors alike. This area encompasses an array of recreation opportunities including the challenging trails ascending into Mount Skokomish and The Brothers Wilderness, as well as family friendly trails, two developed campgrounds, and one historic cabin. The area surrounding the Hamma Hamma drainage is comprised of several bioregions including alpine lakes, meadows, old growth forest, rocky mountain outcrops, and post-fire regenerative forests.

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Select an Activity

https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/olympic/recreation/camping-cabins/?actid=34&recid=47687