Established Camping
Hoh Campground
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
From late September - early May, the Hoh Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Some campsites or loops will close for winter or during inclement weather. We recommend that visitors visit www.nps.gov/olym or call 360-565-3131 / 360-565-3130 for the latest information on campground status during the winter season.
Valid park pass required. Possession of a valid pass for Olympic National Park is required if you are camping, using the day use facilities, or will be recreating on the beaches/trails in this campground. To find out more information, visit Olympic National Park's Fees & Passes webpage . The Washington State Park Discover Pass is not accepted at this location.
Hoh Campground, near Forks, Washington, is a fantastic base for exploring the stunning Hoh Rainforest and its lush surroundings. With designated sites nestled among towering moss-covered trees, it offers a unique camping experience right in the heart of Olympic National Park.
This campground is known for its proximity to numerous hiking trails, making it a favorite for those eager to dive into the rainforest's beauty. Visitors have highlighted the clean facilities, including well-maintained bathrooms and easy access to drinking water. One camper noted, “Loved this campground! Steps away from the rainforest trailhead, so a great one-night stay to hike the trails.”
Wildlife sightings are a common delight here, with elk often wandering through the area, adding to the natural charm. While some campers mentioned the lack of privacy due to foot traffic, many appreciated the vibrant atmosphere, especially families enjoying the great outdoors together.
For those planning to stay, be sure to bring your own firewood and food, as amenities are limited. The nearest grocery store is a bit of a drive, so stock up before you arrive. Whether you're here for a quick hike or a longer stay, Hoh Campground offers a memorable experience surrounded by nature's wonders.
Description
National Park Service
Olympic National Park
Overview
The reservation season for the 2024 summer season for the Hoh campground is May 23, 2024 - September 23, 2024. Important changes to booking windows: To better serve visitors, Hoh Campground will be releasing campsites in a series of three staggered block releases by loop. These block releases will be 6 months in advance, two weeks in advance, and 4 days in advance. A loop campsites will be available for reservation 6 months in advance. C loop campsites will be available for reservations two weeks in advance. B loop campsites will be available for reservations 4 days in advance. Outside the reservation season, Hoh Campground is open for camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Some campsites may be closed during winter. The Hoh Rain Forest, pronounced "Hoe", earns its name from the ever-flowing Hoh River that carves its way from Mount Olympus towards the Pacific Coast. However, where the name originates, is up for debate. The word "Hoh" undoubtedly comes from Native American languages; possibly the Quileute word "Ohalet" which means "fast moving water" or "snow water." Since the river itself forms from glacial runoff, that origin seems straightforward. Other explanations state that the Quinault word "Qu," meaning "boundary," could be the root of the name as a river as massive as the Hoh certainly forms a formidable boundary across the landscape. A third consideration claims that the word "Hoh" translates to "man with quarreling wives." What the actual history behind the name is, appears to be lost to time. Regardless of the name, there's no question as to the allure that draws visitors back to the rainforest year after year. Throughout the winter season, rain falls frequently in the Hoh Rain Forest, contributing to the yearly average of 140 inches (3.55 meters) of precipitation each year. The result is a lush, green canopy of both coniferous and deciduous species. Mosses and ferns that blanket the surfaces add another dimension to the enchantment of the rainforest.
Recreation
The trailhead for this area is located next to the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, which is a great place for more information. The staff there can give you ideas for your visit and exhibits will help explain what makes this area so special. The visitor center is open daily during the summer, closed January through early March, and generally open Friday through Sunday during the spring and fall seasons (hours may vary according to season). The area offers two short loop trails as well as an out-and-back trail through the forest near the Visitor Center. The Hall of Mosses Trail (.8 miles/ 1.2 km) is an iconic loop that takes you through old growth forest and features a grove of maples trees draped with abundant club moss. The Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 miles/ 1.9 km) is a diverse trail that loops through both old and new growth forest as you walk alongside Taft Creek and the Hoh River. The Hoh River trail is the area's main hiking trail. This out-and-back trail can be taken as far as one desires. Taken all the way, it leads past multiple camping areas, the last being Glacier Meadows at 17.3 miles (27.8 km), and ultimately ends 18.5 miles/ 30 km out at the Blue Glacier moraine looking up at Mt. Olympus. The Hoh Lake trail branches off from the Hoh River trail just after the ranger station and ascends to Bogachiel Peak between the Hoh and the Sol Duc Valley. For those wanting to explore this area as a day hike, there are additional popular turn-around points along the trail. First River access (0.9 miles/ 2.9 km one way) Mineral Creek Falls (2.7 miles/ 4.3 one way) Cedar Grove (4.0 miles/ 6.4 km one way) 5 mile Island (5.0 miles/ 8.0 km one way) All backcountry permits must be reserved online. To get permits and more information on backpacking along the Hoh River Trail and throughout Olympic National Park, visit the Wilderness (Backcountry) Reservations page: https://www.recreation.gov/permits/4098362\_ Pets are not allowed on trails in the Hoh Rain Forest. Pets are allowed on leash in developed areas such as the campground, picnic areas, and parking lots. Visit our Pets page for more information on where you can take your pet in the park: https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/pets.htm
Natural Features
The Hoh Rain Forest is located in the stretch of the Pacific Northwest rainforest which once spanned the Pacific coast from southeastern Alaska to the central coast of California. The Hoh is one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the United States and is one of the park's most popular destinations.
Nearby Attractions
Olympic National Park has much to explore, including temperate rain forests, ocean shores, sub-alpine mountains, lakes and more. Kalaloch, Quinault, and Forks are within a 45 minute to a 90 minute drive.
Fee Info
For entry at Hoh Rainforest, a pass is required for Olympic National Park. You can purchase these passes at Hoh Entrance Station on the way into the Hoh area or you can purchase your pass ahead of time (recommended) on recreation.gov. Please visit Olympic National Park's website for more details about entrance fees and pricing. https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm\_ Entrance Fees must be paid in addition to the nightly campsite fees.
Location
Hoh Campground is located in Washington
Directions
Access the Upper Hoh Road from Highway 101.
Coordinates
47.87552729 N
123.93484582 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TGood
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Pull-Through Sites