Backpackers heading into Olympic National Park's temperate rainforest will find Mount Tom Creek campground positioned just two miles from the Hoh Visitor Center along the popular Hoh River Trail. The National Park Service manages this backcountry site with six to eight scattered camping spots across both sides of the creek, ensuring water access from multiple sources. Day hikers frequently pass through during daylight hours, though overnight visitors remain relatively few as many backpackers continue to more distant destinations like [Five Mile Island — Olympic National Park](https://thedyrt.com/camping/five-mile-island) or Olympus Guard Station.

Sites sit far enough apart that campers may not see neighboring tents, and bear wires eliminate the need for personal bear canisters. The level terrain accommodates groups, with one larger site fitting six to seven tents. Rangers may check permits given the campground's proximity to the main trail. No pets are permitted, following standard National Park Service backcountry regulations.

Mount Tom Creek — Olympic National Park

In Northwest Washington, you’ll find one of the most popular parks in the US, Olympic National Park. Located near Port Angeles, WA, this expansive park embodies the best of the PNW. If you want to enjoy camping in some of the best greenery in the country, this is the place you want to hike.

There are a number of developed campgrounds in the park, with just a few (Kalaloch, Sol Duc, Hoh, and Mora) offering summer reservations. With a variety of campsites throughout the park, you can find a spot that best fits your schedule and interests. Nine of these campgrounds are RV-capable, though Olympic has some rough roads that RV’s may struggle on. The best camping near Olympic is in the park itself though there are some dispersed options surrounding the park and a few small cities to stay in.

Olympic National Park

Join the fun near Olympic National Park. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Olympic National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near Olympic National Park, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Olympic National Park, Washington

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!

Great easy backcountry 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. 


Photos of Mount Tom Creek — Olympic National Park

Real photos from real campers