Glamping in Lilliwaup, Washington offers overnight accommodations in a densely forested region of the Olympic Peninsula's eastern slope where elevations range from sea level to 2,000 feet. The area receives approximately 80 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush, mossy forests and seasonal waterfalls. Winter temperatures typically range from 35-45°F while summer temperatures average 60-75°F with occasional heatwaves.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Lena Creek Campground provides access to nearby waterfalls and hiking trails. A camper noted, "We had a cool campsite where a giant tree uprooted and access to the creek, which we played on all day."
Salmon viewing: Visit Upper Lena Lake between September and November to witness salmon runs. "Amazing place to visit. Be prepared for a difficult climb. Well worth the effort however!" according to one visitor who made the trek to this backcountry site.
Shellfish harvesting: Mike's Beach Resort offers direct beach access for collecting oysters and clams. As one visitor mentioned, "If you like oysters and clams, this place is perfect. It's not fancy, tent sites don't have privacy between them. However, we had a blast here."
What campers like
Secluded river sites: Staircase Campground features riverside campsites with natural sound barriers. "Spacious secluded campsites along the gorgeous green glacial waters. We had a fantastic time this weekend and will definitely be back again and again!" reports one camper.
Fall colors: The off-season offers unique visual experiences. "Well, it's fall and the evergreen state has more than green on its color wheel! The campground can be quite busy in the summer but the fall has its quite moments," notes a Staircase visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Dosewallips State Park Campground provides regular elk sightings. "Campground has elk that walk through it and is right on the river. There are several hiking trails that start from the campground," says one camper who recommends visiting a nearby oyster farm.
What you should know
Reservations recommended: Most glamping accommodations book quickly, especially at Olympic Wilderness Basecamp which offers unique dome structures. "Ashley here from The Dyrt! It was great to work with Marc and get this beautiful property on our platform. There are several lodging types to choose from, including domes!"
Seasonal facilities: Facilities change throughout the year at many campgrounds. "The campground is seasonal with its amenities. There are pit toilets and no water available during the off season. Flush toilets and potable water are available in the on season," explains a Staircase visitor.
Water quality: The rivers in this area can be discolored from natural minerals. "Spacious secluded campsites along the gorgeous green glacial waters," notes one camper, referencing the distinctive coloration of waterways in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: Belfair State Park Campground offers family-friendly water access. "Tent camped here mid week last August. There's a beach loop for RVs and a woods loop for tents & smaller RVs. Overall pretty quiet, close to town, close to ATV trails & dog friendly. The kids loved the park! The beach was great, water is rather warm for in the sound, it's also pretty shallow which is great for the kids to play in."
Wildlife education: Dosewallips State Park provides opportunities for children to observe elk in their natural habitat. "I've been coming to this state park for as long as I can remember. There's so many activities to do; clamming, shrimping, hiking, hunting for oysters, and there's even places to rent kayaks. No shortage of bald eagles here either."
Glamping with convenience: Hamma Hamma Campground offers a compromise between wilderness and comfort. "Leave early on Friday and get a spot at the Hamma Hamma Campground! You can take a day hike to Lena Lake, or just explore the river from your campsite. It's such a great campground, we try to go several times each year."
Tips from RVers
Beach loops fill quickly: Waterfront RV sites at Lena Creek Campground require early arrival. "Nice little campground with most sites fairly private. Water pump was not in order for our visit but not a big deal. Good hiking in the area and road in was in good shape."
Road conditions: Access roads to some glamping sites require appropriate vehicles. "Dirt road, lots of potholes, lots of fun," reports a visitor to Tahuya River Campground, suggesting high-clearance vehicles may be advantageous.
Hookup options: Tahuya River Campground provides water and sewer hookups despite its remote setting. The basic facilities make it suitable for self-contained RVs with onboard power, as there are no electrical connections available.