Washington
Learn about camping and boondocking in Washington
Map of Washington Rest Areas
The Washington State rest area map presented below was compiled from data published by the Washington State Department of Transportation on September 30, 2023. These are all of the official WSDOT “safety rest areas”. Washington State Rest Area Map Click on a blue map marker to see more information about that rest area… Washington State Rest Area Rules The State of Washington has rest area rules codified into law (RCW) and in administrative code (WAC). The follow rules are current as of this writing (September 30, 2023). These rules were edited for easier reading. For the full (word for word) ... Read more
Rules for Using Rest Areas in Washington
Synopsis: This is the set of laws regarding the public use of rest areas.
Washington Camping Laws and Regulations
All the laws and regulations within the State of Washington that pertain to camping, campfires, and other activities associated with camping, including overnight parking.
Vernita Bridge Water Access Site
Vernita Bridge, Mattawa, WA Dispersed camping close to Tri-Cities, WA can be found on the north side of Vernita Bridge, about 20 miles west of Richland. The bridge crosses the Columbia River just outside of Hanford Reach National Monument. As such, this unique campground and boat launch offers close proximity to the famed nuclear power visitor center, as well as beach-side camping along some of Washington State’s best salmon fishing. The town of Mattawa lies only 10 miles to the north, and offers a small grocery store and gas station. Otherwise, the City of Richland is located about 25 miles to the ... Read more
A Guide to Boondocking in Washington
Boondocking in Washington! Boondocking in Washington is found mostly on BLM lands in the eastern half of the state as well as in the state’s seven national forests. There are also free camping opportunities along the Columbia Gorge and within many of the state’s wildlife management areas and fishing access sites. Washington Boondocking Map This Washington Boondocking Map contains locations of free boondocking and free campgrounds where bloggers and YouTubers have produced detailed reviews. Click on a map marker to access their reviews… [AK] [AL] [AR] [AZ] [CA] [CO] [CT] [DE] [FL] [GA] [HI] [IA] [ID] [IL] [IN] [KS] [KY] ... Read more
Is Nude Camping Illegal in Washington?
No, in general terms, nude camping is not illegal in Washington State. In fact, it is not illegal to be naked at all in public places. Washington State has some of the more liberal laws when it comes to public nudity. However, there...
Camping on Washington State Trust Lands
The State of Washington allows camping on its state trust lands, but only on areas that they have designated specifically for such use. The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages these lands, and are in charge of operating these specific areas.
Washington State Rest Area Rules
Is overnight parking permitted at a Washington State Rest Area? How many hours can you stay at a Washington State Rest Area? Is camping permitted at a Washington State Rest Area?