A planning guide, not a campsite directory. We have not verified individual campsites. This page summarizes what land managers publish; your exact location and dates decide what is allowed. Last checked October 15, 2026.
📋 Rules at a glance
| Topic | What the agency says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| DNR campsites | Free, first come, first served for vehicles with a valid Discover Pass. Stay 10 days in a 30-day period unless otherwise posted. | Washington DNR |
| Dispersed camping | Allowed only in some forests. Camp at least 200 feet from streams and water, on durable surfaces, and not within 500 feet of a developed recreation facility. | Washington DNR |
| Campfires | Only in approved fire pits in designated campgrounds. Dispersed fires are prohibited. | Washington DNR |
| Quiet hours | 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. | Washington DNR |
🗺️ Land you will run into
DNR land
Backcountry sites have no toilets, tables, trash cans, drinking water or fire pits. Not allowed where camping is limited to designated sites, at day-use sites or where posted closed.
BLM and forests
Check each national forest and the BLM Spokane District.
Burn bans
DNR has banned dispersed campfires on state lands in some regions.
✅ Also plan around
- Firewood: Buy near your campsite. Collection is by permit only.
Hazards: Fire bans, wet roads and limited dispersed options in the west. Check the National Weather Service for current forecasts.
➡️ Next steps
- First boondocking trip: beginner guide
- Resource calculator: what runs out first?
- BLM RV camping guide and national forest RV camping guide
- Overnight RV parking guide for travel nights
- Washington RV parks and campgrounds in our directory for a paid, serviced stay
❓ Common questions
Can I have a campfire while dispersed camping in Washington?
No on DNR land: dispersed fires are prohibited, and campfires are allowed only in approved fire pits in designated campgrounds.
📚 Official sources
Checked October 15, 2026. Rules, closures and local orders change; confirm with the land manager before you travel.