Map showing campground location near Olympic National Park, Washington

Camper submitted image from Mount Tom Creek — Olympic National Park

Mount Tom Creek — Olympic National Park

Mount Tom Creek sits along the Hoh River Trail, roughly two miles from the Hoh Visitor Center in Olympic National Park. This National Park Service campground requires permits and offers 6-8 sites scattered across both sides of Mount Tom Creek and the Hoh River, keeping campers close to water sources. A larger group site accommodates 6-7 tents for parties needing more space.

The walk-in sites provide bear wires, eliminating the need for bear canisters. Day hikers frequently pass through on the popular trail, creating steady foot traffic during daylight hours, though overnight visitors remain relatively few as many backpackers continue to more distant camps. Sites sit far enough apart that neighbors may remain out of sight, despite the constant trail presence. Rangers occasionally check permits at this accessible location along one of the park's busiest hiking corridors.

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Location

Public Campground

Mount Tom Creek — Olympic National Park is located in Washington

Coordinates

47.86699854 N
123.88118136 W

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Access

Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

Toilets
Fires

Contact

General Info

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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

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2 Reviews

Cassie C.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2025

Good beginner backpacking spot

As the other reviewer says, it’s only 3 miles from the hoh visitor center. So many day hikers come through. But for first backpacking trip with little kids, a good option. The site is very leveled, well spaced apart, super close to a beautiful river, and easy to find shade and sun. There is also a bear wire.

Month of VisitAugust

Zach A.

Ranger

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2020

Great easy backcountry spot!

As easy as it is to get to this campground along the Hoh River Trail there are surprisingly few people here, most opt to go a little further up the trail to Five Mile Island or even further to Olympus Guard Station. With that being said the trail is still incredibly crowded this far up with day hikers/large groups/birdwatchers/instagrammers so if you are looking for total solitude you are better off pushing further. With that being said once the day hikers leave there are few people that opt to stay here overnight.

Set only about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Hoh Visitor Center Mt. Tom Creek has about 6-8 sites scattered across the creek and river, meaning you're always close to a water source. There's a large group site that can probably fit 6-7 tents for big groups (reserve at the WIC in Port Angeles or the Hoh Visitor Center). Make sure you have your permit ready as a ranger may be likely to come by and check on you here. Like all spots along the Hoh River trail there are bear wires here so no need to bring a bear canister!

As this campground is really close to the trail it's pretty easy to get in and out although it makes for a constant human presence. The sites are set far enough apart that you may not see your neighbor (although you may hear them). Mineral Falls is a nice spot to walk up to (only a half-mile back) and the spots along the river make a great place to stop and have a snack!

Sitenone

Month of VisitSeptember

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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Mt Tom Creek Campsite?

Mount Tom Creek Campsite offers basic backcountry amenities including level, well-spaced campsites that accommodate small tents. The area provides access to water from the nearby river (which should be filtered or treated). There are no electrical hookups, running water, or flush toilets. Campers should be prepared to follow Leave No Trace principles, including proper food storage and waste disposal in this wilderness setting.

What activities can I do around Mt Tom Creek Campsite?

Activities around Mount Tom Creek Campsite include hiking the scenic Hoh River Trail, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and photography in the lush rainforest environment. The nearby river offers opportunities for relaxation, wading (when conditions permit), and fishing (with proper permits). Visitors can explore the surrounding temperate rainforest with its moss-draped trees and diverse ecosystem. For more ambitious hikers, the trail continues further into the backcountry toward Five Mile Island and Olympus Guard Station.

Where is Mt Tom Creek Campsite located near the Hoh Rainforest?

Mount Tom Creek Campsite is located approximately 3 miles from the Hoh Visitor Center along the Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park. The campsite sits beside the beautiful Hoh River, making it an accessible backpacking destination that doesn't require a strenuous hike to reach. The trail to the campsite follows the scenic Hoh River through the iconic temperate rainforest ecosystem that makes this area famous.

Is Mt Tom Creek Campsite a good alternative to camping in Hoh Rainforest?

Yes, Mount Tom Creek Campsite is an excellent alternative to the often crowded main Hoh Rainforest campground. Despite being only 3 miles from the visitor center, it typically sees fewer overnight visitors as many hikers continue further to Five Mile Island or Olympus Guard Station. The site is particularly good for families with young children on their first backpacking trip due to the relatively short hike in, level campsites, and beautiful riverside location that offers both sun and shade. You'll still experience the magic of the Hoh Rainforest with more solitude than the main campground.

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