Old growth trees tower above this backcountry campground accessed by hiking trail through the Hoh rainforest. Sites sit approximately half a mile below the actual lake, positioned along the trail route that continues toward Blue Glacier. The National Park Service manages this walk-in camping area with bear wire strung centrally for food storage.
Campers find level, cleared sites beneath massive conifers, though some areas show damage from past storms. A waterfall flowing from Elk Lake provides the primary water source, with additional stream access available along the trail before and after the camping area. Trevor H. notes the sites are "small and close together" with a central toilet facility. The lake itself requires a separate walk and offers limited access for activities.
Morning conditions tend toward dampness and cooler temperatures due to the dense canopy and nearby water features. Some sites experience flooding during moderate rainfall, particularly affecting lower-lying areas. Fire pits exist at sites, though regulations may restrict their use. Campers often use this location as a staging point for glacier access or as part of longer backcountry trips through the region.
For those exploring beyond this remote location, campgrounds around Olympic National Park provide additional options throughout the peninsula.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundElk Lake — Olympic National Park is located in Washington
Coordinates
47.85745284 N
123.69267575 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Alcohol
- Fires
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 4 min from Olympia, WA
- 3 hrs 18 min from Bremerton, WA
- 3 hrs 59 min from Seattle, WA
- 4 hrs 9 min from Mount Vernon, WA
