Tinkham Road Dispersed Camping

First off, don't ignore the comments about pot holes. Its the entire 5 miles stretch of Tinkham Rd, unavoidable potholes all the way. As a solo-female car camper, I'm always extra precautious. I just didn't feel comfortable in this area. I pulled in and parked around 7pm but as soon as i was settling in to sleep (10ish) a large group pulled to the open site across the road, they were more of the partying campers and too rowdy for my liking. Thats the chance you take with public land... I ended up headed west up I-90 to a TA travel center for the night. This was a Friday night. I suspect the weekdays would be much more peaceful. And they did have some awesome sites.

Best for those who like lots of greenery, rustic camping, rivers and creeks, and privacy. The campground and dispersed camping along the road are just beautiful! At the end of Tinkham Rd is a busy trailhead to Annette Lake. The hike is a challenge as it’s uphill nearly the whole way (3.5 miles) but the lake is breathtaking and the hike back is quick (all downhill). Dispersed camp spots are Well cared for (clean) and can fit 1 to 4 tents. You will have to be okay with hilly, uneven ground. The only completely flat tent spots are in the actual campground. The big river has lots of creeks running into it or away from it. The sound of running water is everywhere, which I love. Go early (Thursday morning) to get a spot. For the most part, spots outside the campground are quite private. There all have one or more fire rings and no other improvements outside the campground. Bring water. Dogs are allowed and love it!

Camped here May 1st and 2nd. I just happened by Tinkham Road as I saw a few cars go that way and Rec area signs.
The road in is not maintained. Be aware of a dangerous drop from the pavement to the gravel and an unavoidable series of deep pot holes as you turn right onto the forestry road and take note of the signs advising trash removal.
As noted by other users, there are plenty of various sized wild campsites and turnouts to park at, but be cautious of all terrain traffic and sometimes inconsiderate trucks and S.U.Vs.
I had a "soccer mom" in an S.U.V ride my bumper and swerve behind me impatiently and mouth insults at me rather than take multiple opportunity to pass me by as I desperately avoided potholes. Overall, people are friendly and considerate though.

The major ups to this site are the multiple photo opportunities. Oddly enough, I didn't actually see much wildlife here. There were the usual birds and some sign of a recent Elk herd, but no sign of fish in the pools and side flows along the river or forest rodents.
I put out a microphone overnight and caught some distant owls, but nothing much else.

A major negative was all the trash. Water bottles, camps that chose to burn glass and plastic or just leave it.
Roadside sites were littered with condoms, tampon applicators and used tampons, and uncovered feces so use caution. I tried my best to clean my site, but couldn't get all that's necessary. I would be very interested in organizing a volunteer day if anyone else is interested.
This site is in desperate need of maintenance, but could be resolved quickly.

Do expect some freeway noise here, but it fades quickly the farther you venture down Tinkham Rd.

My Sprint coverage was spotty, but LTE was strong when it held out.

All along the road were spots to pull in, some great for large groups, but minimal parking. Best for tent camping. No bathroom facilities, but the host welcomed us to use the bathrooms (outhouses) at tinkham campground closeby. River access and high tree canopy made this a beautiful place to spend some time. Faint highway noise could be heard, but the babble of the near by river helped to mask it.