Within Washington State Department of Natural Resources management, Lyre River Campground operates as a free riverside retreat requiring only a Discover Pass for access. This 11-site campground follows the Lyre River's edge, with most spots positioned directly along the water where campers fall asleep to the sound of flowing water.
The forested setting creates natural shade throughout most sites, though some areas retain moisture longer due to dense vegetation overhead. Sites vary considerably in size and privacy—while some accommodate multiple tents, others work best for single families. Zach A. notes "all spots are usually occupied around 11 AM and people are constantly driving through looking for openings" during summer months. The campground operates on first-come, first-serve basis, making early arrival essential during peak season.
Three water access points serve the campground, along with vault toilets and a covered pavilion area with fire rings. A fishing platform sits at the southern end, and Arden C. mentions "fell asleep to the sound of the river" while camping here. Steelhead and salmon runs draw anglers throughout the season. A short boardwalk leads through the trees, and nearby Salt Creek Recreation Area provides additional hiking opportunities.
The winding access road limits RVs to 20 feet maximum, with a challenging turnaround featuring a large tree in the center. Cell service remains spotty throughout the campground. DNR wardens check for Discover Passes daily, and the Joyce General Store provides supplies and local character. The campground works well for tent campers and smaller RVs seeking river access without reservation requirements, though summer visitors should plan for competition for sites.
Description
Free camping - but you MUST have a Discovery Pass first. $11.50/day pass or $35 for a year
This campground is located near Lyre River in a mature riparian forest, about a half-mile upstream from where the river empties into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. A popular camp for anglers, Lyre offers good salmon fishing during fish migrations. The site has 11 campsites, shelter, two toilets and potable water. View our map for more information. Campsites can accommodate up to a 20-foot RV, though size may vary by site.
A Discover Pass is required for access to this campground and free camping.
Fee Info
Campsites are available first-come, first-served at no additional cost with the purchase of a Discover Pass
$11.50 for a day pass $35/yearly pass
Info on Passes: https://store.discoverpass.wa.gov/
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLyre River Campground is located in Washington
Directions
Directions: Start on SR-112 between mileposts 46-47. Go north on paved road .4 mi. Turn left to the site.
Coordinates
48.150224035929426 N
123.83292002718255 W
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 76 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 4/3/26
Connectivity
- T-MobilePossible CoverageVerified by 76 usersLast on 4/3/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 4/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Lyre River Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 3 min from Bremerton, WA
- 2 hrs 24 min from Seattle, WA
- 2 hrs 32 min from Mount Vernon, WA
- 2 hrs 49 min from Bellingham, WA














































