Olympic National Park's coastal camping areas near La Push offer primitive wilderness experiences on the rugged Pacific shore. Campers must carry proper gear for changeable weather, with frequent fog and rain throughout the year. High tide movements require careful tent placement with many sites having limited features beyond their stunning ocean settings.
What to do
Beach exploration during low tide: At Second Beach, the dramatic coastline reveals extensive tide pools when the water recedes. "You have to hike about a mile and have a permit from the Rangers station, but it's all worth it for the unbelievable low tides," explains Rebecca P. The best beaches provide opportunities to examine marine life in the shallow pools.
Wildlife viewing: Marine mammals frequent the coastal waters. Lauren E. notes an exceptional experience at Second Beach: "We saw a pod of orca!!! And lots of cool tidepools." Bald eagles and blue herons are common sights along the shoreline according to multiple camper reports.
Hiking the beach trails: The Ozette Triangle offers a 9.4-mile loop connecting Cape Alava and Sand Point. Kelly G. advises, "Take a picture of the current tide chart posted at the trailhead and know how to use it." Hikers should plan carefully around tide schedules when traversing coastal sections between campsites.
What campers like
Natural driftwood shelters: Campers at Strawberry Point appreciate the built-in protection from coastal elements. "The best spots are located immediately south of the point on the beach and tucked into the giant piles of driftwood," explains Kyle M.
Relative privacy: Despite popularity, campers can find solitude with some effort. At Shi Shi Beach, Jessica M. reports, "Camp sites are far enough apart that you feel like you have the place practically to yourself. No amenities but if you are looking for secluded beauty this place is for you!"
Reliable freshwater access: Finding drinking water sources proves essential for extended stays. Kyle M. notes about Strawberry Point: "There is a freshwater creek about 1/4 mile south of Strawberry Point. There are also other fresh water sources on the way if you access the beach trail from the La Push area."
What you should know
Multiple permits required: Most coastal camping requires wilderness permits. For Shi Shi Beach, Lucy L. explains, "You don't need an Olympic wilderness permit, but you do need a reservation permit from the local tribe. You can get this at most stores and restaurants in town."
Bear canisters mandatory: Wildlife protection extends beyond bears. Shay F. at Second Beach warns, "Bring your bear cans. Just like every other beach around here, if you don't store your smelly goods in the can the ranger will make you trek it to your car."
Weather preparedness essential: Coastal conditions change rapidly. Claire S. from Third Beach Camping cautions, "The rainy conditions all evening and in the morning made us change our plans. Soaking camp gear in the sand is no picnic."
Tips for camping with families
Evaluate trail difficulty honestly: Parents report mixed experiences with children on coastal trails. At Sand Point, campers observed, "While walking the beach we talked to a few parents who promised to go home and burn the books that told them the trails were easy for children, as they carried their tired children off the rocky beach."
Plan around tides for safety: Awareness of tide schedules prevents dangerous situations. Claire S. notes from Third Beach, "The high tide line goes pretty high up which can be a bit spooky if you wake up to it in the middle of the night, so stay close to the hill!"
Choose appropriate access points: Some trailheads provide easier family access. For Third Beach, Claire S. reports, "You could almost bring a wagon on wheels to the campsite the 1.5 mile entry way is so flat and well maintained thru a beautiful high forest.. except the last 15 min descent."
Tips from RVers
Secure overnight parking: Most of the best tent camping near La Push requires leaving vehicles at trailheads. Lucy L. explains about Shi Shi Beach, "You will then need to park in one of the secure lots for an additional $10 and walk about a mile down to the trailhead. You cannot park at the trailhead itself overnight."
Alternative campgrounds for larger vehicles: For those seeking drive-up sites, Dawleys Sol Duc River Campground offers more accessible options. Timothy G. notes, "Found this gem in the forest that recently opened with gorgeous tent campsites. I arrived with a travel trailer and was taken to an area that was still a work in progress, but offered dry camping in a private clearing amongst an incredibly dense forest."
