Camping near Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington offers diverse camping landscapes, from coastal beaches to alpine meadows and temperate rainforest settings. Established campgrounds like Hoh Campground provide access to the park's famous rainforest ecosystem, while sites at Kalaloch Campground feature proximity to Pacific Ocean beaches. Camping options range from primitive backcountry sites accessible only by hiking trails to developed RV-friendly campgrounds with hookups. Several campgrounds like Sol Duc, Heart O' the Hills, and Fairholme operate seasonally within the national park boundaries, while others like Salt Creek Recreation Area and Elwha Dam RV Park offer year-round alternatives nearby.
Many campgrounds in Olympic National Park operate seasonally, with most facilities open from late spring through early fall. The park's western side receives significant rainfall, particularly during winter months, making camping challenging during the off-season. Reservations are essential for popular campgrounds, especially during summer months when visitation peaks. Both developed and backcountry camping require permits, with backcountry permits available from visitor centers. Weather conditions vary dramatically based on location within the park, from coastal fog to mountain snow even in summer months. Bear-resistant food storage is required throughout the park's camping areas. A visitor to the Hoh Campground noted that "Being on the river was amazing...It was also a great place to view stars. Another thing to be aware of is not only can it rain (in a rainforest!), it can get pretty cold at Hoh. Our first night was 46 degrees."
The park's backcountry areas receive consistently high ratings from experienced hikers who appreciate the solitude and natural settings. Campsites along the Hoh River Trail provide access to old-growth forest environments with several primitive camping areas available at different distances from the trailhead. One hiker described Olympus Guard Station, approximately 10 miles into the backcountry, as "by far the nicest of all backcountry campsites along the Hoh River trail." Visitors frequently mention wildlife encounters in reviews, with black bear sightings common in some areas. Campgrounds near water features tend to be most popular, but reviews indicate these sites often fill quickly during peak season. The combination of diverse ecosystems and varied terrain makes Olympic National Park a destination with camping options suited to many preferences, from family-friendly developed campgrounds to remote wilderness experiences.










