Olympic National Park's diverse climate creates varied camping conditions across the region. Glamping close to Port Angeles, Washington offers visitors ready access to both mountain terrain and coastal environments with elevations from sea level to 7,965 feet. Weather patterns shift rapidly in this area, particularly in the mountain regions where afternoon thunderstorms occur even during summer months when temperatures typically range from 65-75°F during the day.
What to do
Hiking near hot springs: Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground provides easy access to numerous trails including Sol Duc Falls. "We absolutely loved the Sol Duc Falls hike which passes through the campgrounds. It is a very easy hike (we took a two year old and he walked 50% of it) and very rewarding," notes camper Brendan A.
Stargazing at high elevations: Deer Park Campground sits at a higher elevation with minimal light pollution. "That night it got so dark we were blanketed in stars and it was simply amazing," reports Meghan S. The campground's elevation provides exceptional night sky viewing conditions away from city lights.
Beach exploration: Multiple trails lead to beaches from camping areas. One camper at Lyre River State Forest mentions, "There is an easy, 1.25-mile (2.5-mile round trip) walk to the beach—trailhead at the entrance to the campground—that is really nice."
What campers like
Ocean views and natural surroundings: Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highly. At Whiskey Creek Beach NW, visitors appreciate the oceanfront platforms: "Our site had shade, an amazing ocean view but was off the beach. The next site (T2) was very close, but thankfully was only occupied one night of our stay," shares Jess S.
Military history exploration: Fort Worden State Park combines historical elements with natural beauty. "If you like bunkers, canons, and barracks, with a view, then come here. There is a lighthouse that still functions and plenty of beach access," explains Ryan L.
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting attracts diverse wildlife. Marcus K. at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground advises, "Note that site 14 does not come with the 6:30 am automatic Stellar Jay alarm clock. All the others do."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Port Angeles require advance booking. "The registration process for this campground is confusing, if you show up without reservations like we did... Ultimately, there wasn't room for us at the non-hookup campground, and the RV sites were all booked. Recommend reservations for this place!" warns Laura M. about Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. A Deer Park Campground visitor cautions, "Scariest road I've ever driven on. Very narrow steep cliffs on the side. Please be careful of oncoming traffic when turning corners! Views at the top make it all worth it."
Varied tent platforms: Sites differ significantly between campgrounds. At Whiskey Creek Beach NW, Karen H. describes, "One of the amazing features for those camping at the shorefront sites (T9, T10, T12) are the elevated, 12×14 decks that serve as your tent pad; No need to worry about a tarp placement beneath the tent."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly hikes: Several campgrounds feature trails suitable for young children. At Fort Worden State Park, families find "Fun and safe campground. Near the beach with a small aquarium open on the weekend. The family had a blast," according to Nicholos J.
Weather preparedness: The climate can change quickly. Brendan A. advises about Sol Duc, "Just a note: it is WA so plan on getting wet and muddy. Everything was constantly wet around Sol Duc. Plan and pack accordingly!"
Beach activities for kids: Coastal access provides natural entertainment. "We spend the entire weekend here camping, $50 per night for an electric & water site, the bathrooms are clean and there's always one close. We could spend so many more hours exploring the buildings and beaches! Also saw so much wildlife: otters, deer, crab (lots of baby crabs everywhere!!) and starfish," shares KayLynn D. about Fort Worden State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different levels of service across campgrounds. At Salish Trails Campground, Patrick J. notes, "Utilities worked well though I needed a sewer hose extension. The freeway is about a hundred yards away from the 50 amp pull through sites we were in. This section is the closest, hence all the noise day and at night."
Levelness of sites: Many RVers mention the importance of site grading. Chad K. reports about Deer Park: "Deep park is located on a 7 mile long gravel road. The drive up is tight and not suitable for any type of trailer. The campground has level tent sights that offer a fantastic 360 degree view."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. Jericho D. warns about one location's dispersed camping: "There are basically no trees in the way— it's less dispersed and more 'camping on the shoulder of a highway'."
