Camping sites near Beaver, Washington sit within the dense evergreen forests of the Olympic Peninsula at elevations between 500-800 feet. The region receives over 100 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush, mossy environments around campgrounds. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-45°F, while summer brings milder 65-75°F days with cool evenings that often require warmer sleeping bags even in July and August.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground offers access to the Sol Duc Falls trail. "The Sol Duc Falls hike which passes through the campgrounds... is a very easy hike (we took a two year old and he walked 50% of it) and very rewarding. The coolest part was how much you felt like you were in a different world," notes one camper.
Hot springs soaking: Schedule time at the Sol Duc hot springs during your stay. "The pools are well maintained ($15 to get in), there's locker rooms with showers and there's also a diner," reports a visitor. Most campers recommend booking a 60-90 minute soaking session.
Beach exploring: From Mora Campground, visitors can access spectacular coastal areas. "Very close to Rialto beach with more privacy... Also a great choice is you have pups since dogs are not allowed at the Rialto beach area," explains one camper. Another adds, "Walk the mile and a half down beach to get to hole in the wall and experience beautiful tide pooling."
River activities: Several campgrounds offer river access for fishing, swimming, and tubing. "What could be better than spending the entire day on a lazy river with direct access from your camp site?... Bring tubes during the summer to float!" recommends a Klahowya camper.
What campers like
River proximity: Hoh Oxbow Campground features sites directly adjacent to water. "If you're a fisherman this is it!... It's beautiful the sites are nothing fancy but that is not what this is about," notes a visitor. Another camper shared, "I felt mostly secluded at the spot I got right on the river, in the best of ways."
Spacious, private sites: Klahowya Campground receives praise for its layout. "The sites a nicely sized, private, and offer opportunities to wade in the river. Walking trails run through the campground that show you a variety of impressive tree growth," explains one visitor. Another adds, "We got one of the last campsites available for the weekend. It was a nice campground and very well maintained."
Forest setting: Campers consistently highlight the dense forest environments. "Huge, beautiful old growth trees surround campsites. Lots of great spots to choose from," writes a Sol Duc visitor. Another camper describes, "Mossy green trees, ferns, and lots of other vegetation all over the area."
Lake views: At Fairholme Campground, lakeside camping provides a different experience. "We stayed at a beautiful drive-up spot that overlooked the lake. Neighbors seemed closer than if we were in a spot on the interior and away from the water... but the view is definitely worth it," shares a recent visitor.
What you should know
Accessibility varies: Many campgrounds have limited suitable sites for larger vehicles. At Bear Creek - State Forest, "There are about 3 sites that will accommodate trailers up to 32 feet. There are 2 pull through sites."
Toilet conditions: Facilities at more primitive sites may be challenging. "Bathrooms here are only for those with strong stomachs and lungs to hold your breath," notes a Bear Creek Campground visitor. Another camper mentioned, "Copious amounts of toilet paper in the bushes."
Road noise: Several campgrounds sit near Highway 101, creating variable noise levels. "Clean facilities, well spaced sites, and a stunning lake - all ruined by incessant truck traffic noise," reports a Fairholme camper. Another visitor notes, "There is a bit of road noise being this close to the highway, but as a cheap spot to overnight close to Olympic NP it's super convenient."
Seasonal availability: Check opening dates for specific locations. "Range of site types, friendly staff, good water, good electricity! Not too expensive!" notes a visitor to Forks 101 RV Park, which remains open year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Beach day planning: When visiting coastal sites from Mora Campground, timing matters. "Important to get a tide schedule before heading to Hole in the Rock on Rialto Beach... If you don't pay attention to the tides, you could get in real trouble trying to get back."
River safety: Monitor water conditions and depths. "The river is beautiful with deeper spots for swimming," notes a Klahowya visitor, but water temperatures remain cold even in summer.
Wildlife awareness: Bogachiel State Park Campground and surrounding areas have active wildlife. "Each site has picnic table and fire ring. Hiking trails close by," reports one camper, who also noted proper food storage is essential.
Temperature preparation: Pack for temperature swings. "First night said lowest was 45 but it definitely felt colder. We had our winter sleeping bag but our friends said it was pretty cold," shared a Fairholme visitor about spring camping.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to specific campgrounds. "Hookups, lots of trails all around, plus the beach, and a coffee kiosk. What more could you ask for?" notes a Bogachiel visitor.
Site selection strategies: For larger rigs, arrive early for suitable spots. At Fairholme, "I would say loop D is most accessible for RVs. The entrance to B was steep and we didn't even want to risk it."
Self-contained recommendations: At more primitive sites like Bear Creek, come prepared. "Great camp to camp distance and foliage cover. Dense forest, river near by... great DNR spot. Need a discover pass but free past that."
Registration processes: Check specific procedures before arrival. "The registration process for this campground is confusing, if you show up without reservations... There's a board with info on it, but ultimately you need to drive back to the lodge where people go for hot springs soaks and register with them there."
