The Olympic Peninsula's west coast receives over 100 inches of rainfall annually, creating a unique ecosystem where coastal forests meet the Pacific shoreline near La Push. Glamping accommodations range from elevated platforms to canvas structures, with varying levels of amenities based on location. Most sites require advance reservations during peak season from June through September.
What to do
Beach exploration at Rialto Beach: One mile from Mora Campground, visitors access coastal features including tide pools and driftwood formations. "On your trip to the Olympic national forest make sure you spend a few days at the beach. We choose Mora because it's proximity to Rialto Beach. Walk the mile and a half down beach to get to hole in the wall and experience beautiful tide pooling," notes camper Bobbi L.
Hot springs soaking: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground offers mineral pools for relaxation after hiking. "The pools are well maintained ($15 to get in), there's locker rooms with showers and there's also a diner. Down the road there's a short 1 mile hike to the falls," explains Lucy, who visited in March 2021.
Winter storm watching: Coastal sites provide front-row views of Pacific storms during off-season months. "I prefer winter camping here because its less crowded, and the storms coming in from the Pacific are nothing less than awe inspiring," shares Toby R. from Kalaloch Campground.
What campers like
River proximity: Many sites offer access to flowing water for fishing or cooling off. At Bogachiel State Park, "Some of the campsites lead right up to the river and were tucked away by the forest. Super small but so close to Forks and La Push," according to Kara C.
Old-growth forest setting: Mossy trees create natural privacy between sites. "Heavily forested, with mossy trees. We also loved that Rialto beach was just a mile or so down the road," explains a camper at Mora Campground.
Off-grid glamping experiences: Platforms elevated above the shoreline create unique accommodations. "From the views, adequately spaced tent sites, steel fire pits, potable water, picnics table, Adirondack chairs and shower access, this was a perfect getaway," shares Karen H. about her experience at Whiskey Creek Beach NW.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Pacific coast conditions change rapidly year-round. "Be prepared for cold and fog. Bonus if you get some sunny days. Very difficult to get a walk-in on the weekends," advises Tricia F. about Kalaloch Campground conditions.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during summer. "This campground fills up fast. The access to the beach is easy, the beach is beautiful. Campsites are kind of small and it is located right off hwy 101 so there is a lot of hwy noise," notes Sheila M.
Free camping options: Several dispersed sites require only a Discovery Pass. At Hoh Oxbow Campground, "Need discovery pass. But free to camp afterwards. Up to 7 days," explains Tee P. This makes glamping in La Push, Washington more affordable for budget-conscious travelers.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety awareness: Coastal currents and tides require vigilance with children. "My children thought they had been brought to a new land. By far one of the best campgrounds we have ever been to. My kids loved the beach!" shares Laura B. about their Kalaloch experience.
Evening ranger programs: Several campgrounds offer educational activities after dinner. "The campground is lovely and they host some evening events at the amphitheater," notes Bobbi L. about Mora Campground.
Proximity to multiple attractions: Base camps allow for varied daily excursions. "Campground is in a good location for lots of exploring. Forks is near by plus Rialto beach, La push and many more beaches and trails. I even made a trip down to the Hoh rain forest from my site," explains Kayla R.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Limited services require planning waste management. "There are no hook ups but water is available with a dump station open only in the summer. Sites are accessible for RVs but the loops wind through large trees and many sites will not accommodate RVs due to an inability to pull far enough forward to back in to the space," advises a camper at Mora Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many forested locations have uneven terrain. "Site B1 is super unlevel. Gravel and dirt in this site is very loose as well," warns Craig S. about Whiskey Creek Beach NW, a popular glamping destination near La Push.
Registration procedures: Check-in varies between campgrounds. "The registration process for this campground is confusing, if you show up without reservations like we did. 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," explains Laura M. about Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground.
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