Salt Creek Recreation Area provides tent and RV camping options on Washington's northern coast where the Strait of Juan de Fuca meets the Olympic Peninsula. Most campgrounds in the Port Angeles region sit at elevations between 200-600 feet, creating mild camping conditions even during summer when temperatures rarely exceed 75°F. Winter camping remains possible at several year-round facilities despite increased rainfall from November through March.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: Dungeness Recreation Area connects to a wildlife refuge with access to a 5-mile spit leading to a lighthouse. "You can take a short walk down to the spit to explore the sandy beaches. You are a short drive from the Olympic Game Farm, well worth a visit. Check it out online, the kids will love feeding the buffalo and elk," notes Melissa J. about Dungeness Recreation Area.
Hot springs soaking: Mineral pools located near campgrounds provide relaxation after hiking. "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!" says Lucy about Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Rivers in the region support trout and seasonal salmon runs. "There's a fishing platform at the southern end of the campground and a number of beaches with deeper pools that trout and salmon like to hang around in. One crusty old-timer said that during runs the river is overflowing with fish, including the highly coveted Steelhead," explains Zach A. about Lyre River Campground.
What campers like
Community gardens: Some campgrounds offer access to fresh produce. "They have a veggie garden to share, lots of outdoor activity areas and places to explore within walking distance. It's a great base camp for exploring the peninsula," says Ms H. about Elwha Dam RV Park.
Waterfront camping platforms: Elevated tent sites provide unique camping experiences. "The campground is withjn walking distance to the hot pools at the resort. From the views, adequately spaced tent sites, steel fire pits, potable water, picnics table, Adirondack chairs and shower access, this was a perfect getaway," Karen H. writes about Whiskey Creek Beach NW.
Olympic Discovery Trail access: Bike-friendly options connect to regional trail systems. "The Olympic Discovery Trail runs through the park making this an ideal spot for people wanting a protected and scenic bike trail cycling experience. Some hike-bike-in only sites as well," reports Emma A. about Sequim Bay State Park Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Some parks fill quickly, especially in peak season. "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," advises Blaine B. about Fairholme Campground.
Traffic noise: Highway proximity affects some camping areas. "Clean facilities, well spaced sites, and a stunning lake - all ruined by incessant truck traffic noise," Kurt S. cautions about Fairholme Campground.
Site spacing differences: Privacy varies significantly between campgrounds and site types. "Those are nice and private for the most part. Water nearby. There are porta jobns by the tent sites. Full facilities a long walk. Showers are coin operated there," explains Marcus K. about tent sites at Elwha Dam RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This campground is great for families and people with kids. There are playgrounds near the bathrooms. The bathrooms have showers, and are clean and accessible," shares Melissa J. about Dungeness Recreation Area.
Coin-operated showers: Budget for shower usage when staying multiple days. "Located in walking distance to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge ($3 family admission/day or with National Parks Pass), we found this campground to be just what we were looking for! A family campground with cheap and clean showers (50 cents/2 minutes)," reports Charlotte H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early mornings for best sightings. "Note that site 14 does not come with the 6:30 am automatic Stellar Jay alarm clock. All the others do," Marcus K. mentions about Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant adjustment. "Site B1 is super unlevel. Gravel and dirt in this site is very loose as well," Craig S. notes about Whiskey Creek Beach NW.
RV-friendly pet accommodations: Pet areas are available at several campgrounds. "I'd change my review when it's fully completed. But park is not complete. Dog run not completed (no good place to take dogs as it's covered in think gravel)," Matthew G. observes about RV@Olympic.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste management. "There is a dumpsite on the way out of the park convenient for RVers who dry camped," notes Alex S. about Dungeness Recreation Area.
