The Olympic Peninsula's temperate rainforest around Amanda Park, Washington receives over 12 feet of annual rainfall, creating one of the most verdant camping environments in the United States. Tent camping in Amanda Park offers access to old-growth forests with trees exceeding 300 feet in height and up to 60 feet in circumference. Most dispersed camping areas remain open year-round, though winter brings temperatures averaging 35-45°F with near-constant precipitation.
What to do
Swimming in Lake Quinault: Gatton Creek Campground provides direct lake access with "great water for swimming and kayaking" according to visitor Amber B., who appreciated having "our own private beach" at each campsite. The day-use area at Willaby Campground features "a really nice beach for swimming/splashing and it doesn't get too busy" as noted by JeffT.
Hiking rainforest trails: Access the Enchanted Valley trail from Graves Creek Campground, where "the hiking trail head starts just a short walk away" according to Jr And Jade S. Another visitor mentioned that "about .5 mile down the road" from Graves Creek are "some great hikes through the rainforest."
River exploration: At Wolf Bar, located 2.6 miles up the North Fork Quinault River trail, visitors enjoy exceptional swimming opportunities. According to a camper, "There is one [swimming hole] that is directly out from the camp sign and is a slow-moving eddy that is at least 4 feet deep in the middle of summer, perfect to cool off in."
What campers like
Old-growth forest immersion: Upper Clearwater Campground delivers what campers describe as "pretty much what comes to mind when you think of camping in the PNW, good and Sasquatchy looking with old trees, ferns and moss everywhere." Sites are situated among massive trees that create a complete forest canopy.
Private waterfront access: Campers at Dispersed South Shore Road found "the perfect secluded spot next to the Quinault River" with one visitor noting they "drove right into the hidden alcove in our stealth camper van." Some sites feature rope systems for safer river access.
Wildlife encounters: Tent camping in Amanda Park offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. At Graves Creek Campground, one visitor reported "Saw a bear while visiting," while another mentioned the campground is situated "right near a running creek" with ample wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the hiking trails.
What you should know
Facility limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal facilities. At O'Neil Creek Campground, campers must "hang food up on the bear wire" and many noted the site is "typically less crowded" if you continue "down the trail an extra mile or so to Pyrites Creek."
Road conditions: Forest roads require high-clearance vehicles in many cases. The road to Dispersed South Shore has challenges as "The road out there is full of potholes" and one visitor noted "When you get to the turn, the road is closed. This is because the road flooded and they have not been able to repair it due to funding issues."
Site availability strategies: First-come sites fill quickly during peak season. For Willaby Campground, visitors advise to "Get there before noon to secure a spot" while others found luck with overflow areas, noting "We arrived late and the camp host allowed us to set up our tent in the overflow area which ended up working out great!"
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Wolf Bar offers an accessible backcountry experience at just 2.6 miles from the trailhead. A visitor describes it as "only 2.6 miles up the North Fork Quinault River trail and man it is worth it, especially on a hot summer day" with "at least 6-7 established spots along the west bank of the river."
Campground amenities: At Willaby Campground, families appreciate that "The campground doesn't give you a ton of privacy but is better than most in the area" and that spots feature "trees in-between spots so you don't see your neighbors."
Tent site selection: When tent camping at Gatton Creek near Amanda Park, be aware that "the campsites have no grass or dirt and they are solid rock just like the beach - I'm talking large pebbles." One visitor warned to bring "an air mattress or serious pads" because "if we hadn't there would've been no way to sleep on the ground at this site!"
Tips from RVers
Small rigs only: Most forest campgrounds have significant size restrictions. At Upper Clearwater, campers warn "bringing anything bigger than the smallest of trailers would be a challenge" due to narrow forest roads and tight turning radiuses at campsites.
Alternative dispersed options: FS-2292 Dispersed offers free camping for smaller vehicles with visitors reporting "The road was a little rough but my suv made it fine" and noting "We stayed here and heard maybe 1 car the whole day/night" making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Narrow road navigation: When accessing remote campgrounds, be prepared for challenging roads. For Graves Creek Campground, visitors warn the "drive from Quinault is partly paved but mostly dirt road with lots of potholes" and sections may become impassable after heavy rain.
