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.
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
Round 1 of 5
$40 - $65 / night
"March 23 - October 28, 2018 Located along the Sol Duc River in magnificent Olympic National Park, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is on the “edge of the backcountry in the heart of the Olympic National Park"
"Sol Duc is a great homebase if you want to be near the stinky hot springs. There are some pretty hikes in the area too."
$24 - $48 / night
"Running streams, walking paths, mountain views, wild animals. Olympic National Park has it all. This campground is next to the Hoh rainforest, however, it isn't actually in the forest itself."
"Hoh Campground at Olympic National Park has 78 first-come-first-served campsites located deep within the rainforest on the westernsidof the park."
$24 / night
"These sites are situated right next to Lake Crescent. They are open from May to October and have fairly standard amenities that you would find in other primitive sites."
"While tucked in the trees, sites weren’t very private."
"Another great campground in Olympic National park. This was close to hurricane ridge and port anglers. Great location between city and nature. Got a spot here the same day as camping. We"
"The campground is located close to Olympic National Park access out of Port Angeles, WA."
$45 / night
"Right outside of port angeles. Great stop before or after Vancouver Island or Olympic National park or in our case...both."
"This hidden gem, just west of Port Angeles and North of Olympic National Park has the best tidepooling in PNW. You can easily put in Kayaks and SUP."
"The water access to the lake was a pain in the butt, and the lake is nothing special (no swim access or anything like that)."
"Campsite is not directly on the lake. Has a great view however. Campsites are small and close together so just a note. Has toilet and bear hangs in a central location"
$24 - $48 / night
"Enjoyed easy access to beach and Olympic National Park. Looking forward to going back."
"As we made our way up Highway 101, we were able to get a last minute reservation at Kalaloch for the night (which apparently can be rare). It is about 11 minutes south of Ruby Beach (photos!)"
"This was a campground that we passed during our time in Olympic national park, and as we checked out the sites we decided we want to camp here. Just the drive to the campground was beautiful!"
"We stayed here during our trip to Olympic National Park. The campground was in one of the National Park's rainforest areas and felt quite magical."
$37 - $92 / night
"This campgrounds close to all the special sites in the Olympic national park and to Port Angeles. Everyone in the host family is happy to give you great recommendations."
"The staff genuinely cares about providing a positive experience for their guests."
"This is a nice small campsite right next to a river very close to Olympic national park."
"I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and spent a lot of my childhood out here in the Olympic National Park. Coming back to this scenic area was a real treat!"
ScoutWe actually went and scouted out this place using our jeep before taking our camper-van in. The road to the top is about 7 miles up, very steep with some bumpy spots as it all gravel. 3 miles in there are some smaller pullouts for tents or car camping but the real gem is at the top. Enough space on top for a few truck/camper, campervan, tent etc. This is bare bones, no amenities. Take in/Take out
ScoutGetting to Graves Creek took a little longer than expected. We had to detour onto the North Shore Loop after a section of the South Loop washed out. The final stretch of road is narrow and steep in places, so the drive in was a bit tricky. Once we arrived, we found a lovely site right on the river. We spent the weekend there and were fortunate to have no campers next to us. Sites & Fees: 30 sites total, $20 per night RVs: Not allowed due to road conditions Facilities: Pit toilets only; no running water
Overall a great experience
RangerThis is no highly secret, impossible-to-get-to spot, so it’s definitely worth trying—especially on a weekday. Ideally, you’d want to get there around midday, after people are more likely to have left.
But the real question is: What do you do if you get there and it’s full?
Honestly, there were tons of other pull-offs, little dirt-road spots, and what felt like almost infinite places to park underneath the trees. All of that BLM land along the roadway is available for dispersed camping within 150 feet of the road, so you can pretty much find your own little pull-off somewhere nearby.
We actually got lucky and found a road closure immediately across from the main spot. Since nobody was going to be driving in and out, we were able to tuck back a little farther from the main road. It wasn’t completely secluded, but we weren’t sitting right next to the road either.
And the area itself was beautiful. The trees were great, and it felt really peaceful.
The only downside was connectivity. We could barely get our Starlink working—enough for texting, but the connection was really poor.
RangerThis is no highly secret, impossible-to-get-to spot, so it’s definitely worth trying—especially on a weekday. Ideally, you’d want to get there around midday, after people are more likely to have left.
But the real question is: What do you do if you get there and it’s full?
Honestly, there were tons of other pull-offs, little dirt-road spots, and what felt like almost infinite places to park underneath the trees. All of that BLM land along the roadway is available for dispersed camping within 150 feet of the road, so you can pretty much find your own little pull-off somewhere nearby.
We actually got lucky and found a road closure immediately across from the main spot. Since nobody was going to be driving in and out, we were able to tuck back a little farther from the main road. It wasn’t completely secluded, but we weren’t sitting right next to the road either.
And the area itself was beautiful. The trees were great, and it felt really peaceful.
The only downside was connectivity. We could barely get our Starlink working—enough for texting, but the connection was really poor.
ScoutStayed 3 nights in B loop, site 67. The site is split level with a parallel parking spot and then a couple of steps up to the picnic bench and tent area. We have a roof top tent and it made placement a bit harder. The site had some privacy at the tent level, but of course the parking spot is right on the road. Overall, we enjoyed our stay as there is good hiking right from the campground.
General notes on the camp ground
- Bathrooms
- Clean and well stocked.
- Water faucets for potable water were clean.
- Noise
- Some road noise from the road above the campground, but mostly in the morning as people are going up the Sol Duc Falls trailhead.
- Some loud people a bit past the quiet time, but that can happen anywhere.
- Camp host
- The camp host was very friendly and helpful.
GuideOne of the best beaches to swim at lake quinalt, and yet you’re in the middle of a rainforest with seclusion, hiking trails, creative camping spots… this place is a hidden gem!
TravelerWent here because the rest of the sites were passed were full, slept on a Riverbed and messed up my shoulder. Its a nice quiet spot but not very scenic. Perfect for seclusion.
TravelerVery cozy and quiet campground surrounded by the rain forest. What a dream! Super clean restrooms. If there were showers it will be 10/10
ScoutGreat location if you need a base camp near the ferry. Host was nice and accommodating. Very private.
Olympic National Park camping ranges from temperate rainforest sites with 140+ inches of annual rainfall to drier coastal campgrounds with frequent fog. The park spans nearly one million acres across three distinct ecosystems, with campground elevations varying from sea level to 3,500 feet. Temperatures can drop below 45°F even in summer months at higher elevation campgrounds, making proper gear essential regardless of season.
Tidepooling at low tide: Beach access from Salt Creek Recreation Area provides excellent tidepooling opportunities. "There are several ways to access a beach and tide pools during low tide!" notes Kier S. The campground offers spacious tent sites with "great views" according to Brandon J., who adds that "this place has incredible views but also offers plenty of trails and access to viewpoints and tidal areas."
Winter storm watching: Many coastal campgrounds remain open year-round for storm viewing. "I prefer winter camping here because it's less crowded, and the storms coming in from the Pacific are nothing less than awe inspiring," writes Toby R. about Kalaloch Campground.
Rainforest hikes: Trails near Hoh Campground offer immersive rainforest experiences. Kirsten notes, "The trails aren't stroller friendly but easily walkable with toddlers and a backpack. Feels safe. Busy but not like a mall." For serious backpackers, Alison C. recommends the High Divide Loop, saying "The hike itself was beautiful with several waterfalls along the way."
Riverside sites: Campsites along waterways are consistently rated highest. "While all the campsites were a bit close on Loop A, we hardly even heard or noticed anyone. It was amazing to fall asleep with the Sol Duc river close by," writes Suzie L. about Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground.
Hot springs access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to natural hot springs. Lucy notes, "The pools are well maintained ($15 to get in), there's locker rooms with showers and there's also a diner. Down the road there's a short 1 mile hike to the falls!" The soaking pools provide welcome relief after hiking, as Marcus K. adds: "Feels especially good after that incredibly long hike I imagined during my afternoon nap."
Wildlife encounters: Elk sightings are common in certain campgrounds. "Lush Green Everywhere! Woke up surrounded by a herd of Red Elk," reports C.A. about Hoh Campground. Bear sightings are also frequent during summer months - Alison C. recounts, "We did see 12 black bears total on our hike, 3 of which were at our campsite. They were busy eating berries and didn't bother us."
Weather variability: Olympic camping requires preparation for rapid weather changes. "We were swarmed during the evening while cooking, but they [mosquitoes] died down later at night," notes Graham C. about summer insect activity at higher elevations. At Fairholme Campground, Asuka S. observes: "First night said lowest was 45 but it definitely felt colder. We had our winter sleeping bag but our friends said it was pretty cold."
Campground accessibility: Many campgrounds have limited access for larger vehicles. Laura M. notes about Heart O' the Hills Campground, "Sites were all beautiful but in our RV we were glad to be able to drive around and pick one, rather than reserve one in advance sight unseen, because we need a level spot with at least some sun for our solar."
Reservation windows: Most developed campgrounds in Olympic National Forest fill quickly during summer. Blaine B. advises, "It's one of 3 campgrounds in ONP that you can get a reservation, so be sure to get one unless you're arriving on a weekday." For popular sites, Laura M. recommends: "Cell service is spotty here so you have to rely on the boards with info about open sites."
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated family amenities. At Elwha Dam RV Park, Jackie S. reports, "Super nice people with allot of amenities. Play equipment for the kids along with family outside & inside games. They offer free produce to the campers from their garden & free movie rentals."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Specific campgrounds offer reliable wildlife sightings. At Hoh Campground, Shari G. describes: "Imagine wandering down the trail in the middle of this mass of life and observe a herd of Elk browsing on this herbivore salad bar. It's exceptional."
Swimming access: Several campgrounds feature lakes safe for children. Beatriz S. notes about Fairholme Campground: "The campground is right by the lake and offers walk-in sites that are literally on the lake shore. The best site in my opinion is 72, which is not directly on the lake shore but has a great view and good tree coverage."
Dump station locations: Limited dump stations make planning essential. Laura M. notes, "There's a dump station and water fill near the boat ramp" at Fairholme Campground, while also advising about access challenges: "This is a beautiful campground with 4 loops- I would say loop D is most accessible for RVs. The entrance to B was steep and we didn't even want to risk it."
Site selection strategy: Developed campgrounds have varied site configurations. Sol Duc campground reviewer Marcus K. notes: "Has three sections among the big trees. We had the joy of moving from campsite to campsite while we spent 3 nights. Sites vary in size. Some are tiny and cramped up to your neighbor and some are large and private. Some back ins and some have pull throughs."
Road conditions: Access roads to remote campgrounds can be challenging. Sarah S. warns about Graves Creek: "The road getting there is a bit narrow and bumpy which was made even more exciting by the fact that it was dark and rainy." For camping in Olympic National Forest, preliminary scouting of access routes is recommended during daylight hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find private campgrounds near Olympic National Park?
Several private campgrounds provide comfortable options near Olympic National Park. Olympic Peninsula-Port Angeles KOA offers family-friendly amenities including a pool, hot showers, and cabins, with fantastic owners and well-maintained facilities. It's conveniently located for day trips to the park and the Strait. For RV travelers, Gilgal Oasis RV Park provides full 50-amp hookups and helpful on-site management, though sites are closely positioned. It's a clean, small RV resort with easy access to Olympic National Park. Other private options include Elwha Dam RV Park near Port Angeles. Most private campgrounds offer amenities not found in the national park such as electrical hookups, showers, and laundry facilities.
What are the best campgrounds in Olympic National Park?
Heart O' the Hills Campground ranks among the best in Olympic National Park, offering a prime location for accessing Hurricane Ridge and Port Angeles. Surrounded by magnificent old-growth trees, it provides a true wilderness experience while remaining accessible. Another top option is Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground, which operates seasonally from March to October. It offers unique amenities with access to hot spring pools and numerous hiking trails along the Sol Duc River. Kalaloch Campground is highly rated for its easy beach access. For the best camping experience, consider the season (summer is busiest), your preferred ecosystem (rainforest, mountains, or coastal), and whether you need reservations, as many sites fill quickly during peak season.
What tent camping options are available in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park offers diverse tent camping experiences across different ecosystems. Fairholme Campground provides tent sites situated along beautiful Lake Crescent with picnic tables and fire rings at each site. It's open seasonally from May to October. Upper Hoh Road Campsite offers a more secluded experience about 20 minutes outside the Hoh Rainforest section, providing rare solitude close to the park. For backcountry enthusiasts, numerous hike-in tent camping options exist throughout the park, requiring wilderness permits. The park's tent camping areas typically provide basic amenities like vault toilets and potable water, though facilities vary by location. Most campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended, especially during peak summer months.
What camping options are available throughout the Olympic Peninsula?
The Olympic Peninsula offers diverse camping options beyond the national park boundaries. Willaby Campground provides a quiet, first-come-first-served experience with easy access to trails and the option to shower at the nearby lodge for a small fee. Dosewallips State Park Campground offers another excellent option outside the national park. For those seeking backcountry experiences, numerous wilderness camping areas exist throughout the peninsula's national forest lands. The peninsula features a range of camping environments from coastal sites with beach access to mountain settings with alpine views. Camping options include primitive sites with basic facilities, fully-developed campgrounds with showers and electrical hookups, and remote backcountry areas requiring permits. Each area offers unique proximity to different peninsula attractions, from rainforests to beaches to mountain vistas.
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