Tent campsites near Lilliwaup, Washington provide rustic accommodations along the southeastern edge of Olympic National Park at elevations typically between 800-1,500 feet. Winter temperatures drop to the high 20s with summer averages in the upper 70s. Frequent rainfall throughout fall and winter creates lush undergrowth conditions that campers must navigate when setting up at dispersed sites.
What to do
Swimming spots: Visit the swimming hole behind Graves Creek Campground where summer temperatures provide relief from hiking. A camper mentions, "There is a beautiful (and freezing) swimming hole behind the campground, and this time of year its bursting with huckleberries."
Hiking: Trek to Marmot Lake from Enchanted Valley for advanced hikers seeking mountain views. "The hike from Enchanted Valley Chalet to Marmot lake is about 12 miles. We decided that we would hike to the end of the Valley the night before to cut some of the miles down. From our campsite at the mouth of the mountain to Marmot lake was 9 miles," shares one backpacker.
Wildlife viewing: Look for mountain goats along the trail to Lena Lake Campground. A hiker reports, "We were pleased to be greeted by a couple of somewhat overly friendly mountain goats on the way, and saw fish surface for bugs on the lake as the sun went down."
What campers like
Ridgeline views: Camp at elevation on FS-2292 Dispersed for panoramic vistas. One reviewer notes, "East of the campsite there is a walking trail that takes you to an overlook, perfect for watching the sunrise."
Private island camping: Find unique sites at Camp Pleasant located on small islands within the river. A camper explains, "The neatest feature is that there are several sites located on a little island in the river itself. I came here on a Monday in early August and had the place to myself so chose the best site which is at the northern tip of the island right next to the river."
Winter-to-spring transitions: Experience seasonal variations at different elevations. As one hiker discovered at Lena Lake, "It was incredible really, because while lower Lena was in full on spring upper Lena was still locked in the grip of winter."
What you should know
Road noise: Consider site selection carefully at dispersed camping areas. A camper at NF-2419 Dispersed Site reports, "Nice spots, but most are right near the road so it's busy. Most spots are only good for an overnight. Unless you have one of the ones with space I wouldn't stay here for a long period of time."
Off-season conditions: Roads and facilities deteriorate during winter months. At Graves Creek Campground, a visitor observed, "The drive from Quinault is partly paved but mostly dirt road with lots of potholes. I love how secluded it is, and i'm sure it's well kept in the summer but this was too early."
Water availability: Bring sufficient water supplies to dispersed camping locations. A camper at Graves Creek noted, "There is no potable water, so make sure to bring what you need or filter from the Quinault River."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Start with shorter distances for younger hikers. One parent recommends, "I recommend this hike for beginner and intermediate hikers as a potential introduction to the Olympic peninsula."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible bear sightings. A camper at Upper Lena Lake advises, "Provides bear wire to hang your food at night."
Feeding wildlife: Create memorable nature experiences with caution. One family camper at NF-2419 shared, "Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Check road conditions before attempting to reach remote campgrounds. A reviewer cautions about Graves Creek, "No trailers and RVs are allowed out here due to the narrow gravel roads and small spaces."
Tent alternatives: Consider popup setups for areas with rocky ground. One camper at Graves Creek noted, "The paving made staking a tent impossible."
Vehicle clearance: Standard SUVs can access many forest roads. A visitor to NF-2419 shared, "My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem. We saw people driving various types of vehicles so most will make it up."
