Primitive camping near Olympia, Washington offers several options within an hour's drive from the city. The surrounding Olympic National Forest sits on the eastern slope of the Olympic Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from April through October, though higher elevation sites can remain snowbound until late June.
What to do
Fishing access: Joemma Beach State Park offers a long dock where anglers can fish in Case Inlet. One visitor noted, "Across from our campsite is a trail that leads down to the pier and walk to the beach."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Joemma Beach State Park, a camper reported, "We did spot a bald eagle early in the morning."
Hiking options: Many dispersed sites connect to trail systems. Near NF-2419 Dispersed Pullout, hikers can access the Mt. Elinor trail. As one reviewer mentioned, "Great spot on the NF-2419, about a mile before the Mt Elinor lower trailhead."
Beach exploration: Several camping areas offer beach access. A Joemma Beach visitor mentioned, "Beach is walking distance. And you can walk around if you want."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Secluded spots can be found by venturing deeper into forest roads. At FS-2292 Dispersed, a camper shared, "Very far off the beaten path, every time I camp here I don't run into anyone."
Mountain views: Higher elevation sites provide scenic outlooks. A visitor to FS-2292 mentioned, "East of the campsite there is a walking trail that takes you to an overlook, perfect for watching the sunrise."
Foraging opportunities: Some areas offer seasonal berry picking. At Carbon River, campers noted finding "blackberry plants all over the place."
Open availability: Many dispersed sites remain accessible midweek when developed campgrounds fill up. One camper at Joemma Beach State Park reported, "Mid week after Labor Day, I had my choice of sites arriving in late afternoon."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations as they change seasonally. At Carbon River, camping is permitted but one visitor warned, "The only bridge to gain access to camping is closed until further notice."
Road conditions: Forest roads often require appropriate vehicles. A NF-2419 visitor cautioned, "My 2011 Ford Flex made it up no problem," while another noted that "most spots are right near the road so it's busy."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for various critters. At Carbon River, a camper reported, "We were set up by the river, mostly quiet and can hear traffic now and then but nothing obnoxious."
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes quickly. A visitor to Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 advised, "Please be aware it's at the snow line and very cold in March!"
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose areas with enough space for children. At Joemma Beach State Park, one camper explained, "Size of the sites varies but one we got we were avail to put up 2-2 person tent and 1- 4 person tent."
Campground atmosphere: Some areas are more suitable for families than others. A Joemma visitor noted, "Great local spot for FAMILIES and a party," though they warned about occasionally difficult neighbors.
Safety considerations: Be aware of terrain hazards with children. At Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead, a visitor cautioned about the approach road: "There is a long drop if you lose control and fail off road. I feel if you did and survived the fall it would be expensive to recover your vehicle."
Pet policies: Most dispersed sites are pet-friendly. A Joemma Beach camper mentioned, "Dog friendly and they recommend 6ft or shorter leash."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many dispersed sites can't accommodate larger rigs. At Large Pull Out Dispersed, a visitor shared, "There was a handful of large pull out spots along this road. Nothing fancy and not secluded but got the job done."
Parking logistics: Some areas offer more room than others for larger vehicles. A NF-2419 Dispersed Pullout camper noted, "My friend and I met here and had plenty of room for my truck, 21' trailer, and a lost woman who we let pull in and sleep."
Road access: Forest roads can challenge RVs. A Rock Candy Mountain visitor warned, "Definitely not road you want to be intoxicated to drive on," and that it's "Not suitable for anything wider than a class B."
