Tent camping near Shelton, Washington offers several secluded forest experiences at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,500 feet. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with July and August providing the driest conditions. Most dispersed camping areas in Olympic National Forest require high-clearance vehicles to access the more remote sites, though some pullouts along forest service roads accommodate standard vehicles.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Lena Lake trail system offers varying difficulty levels with a 3.5-mile hike to Lower Lena Lake Campground. According to Lance R., "Lena Lake campground offers a rewarding view after a steady climb up meandering switchbacks... We were pleased to be greeted by a couple of somewhat overly friendly mountain goats on the way."
Birdwatching opportunities: Forest camping areas provide excellent wildlife viewing, particularly for bird enthusiasts. At Malaney Creek Farm, one camper shared their experience: "Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories."
Water activities: Kayaking to Hope Island Marine State Park Campground provides access to unique beaches and hiking. Rich M. notes, "It has 2 miles of hiking trails and 8 primitive campsites. If you plan on camping it is important to note that there are no fires allowed and no potable water."
Ridgeline views: Several dispersed camping locations along forest roads provide scenic vistas. A camper at FS-2292 commented: "East of the campsite there is a walking trail that takes you to an overlook, perfect for watching the sunrise."
What campers like
Primitive seclusion: Camping along forest service roads provides genuine solitude. A camper at FS-2292 Dispersed shared, "Very far off the beaten path, every time I camp here I don't run into anyone. You're camping on the Ridgeline so it can be a bit windy."
Island isolation: Boat-in camping offers a unique experience away from crowds. Emma A. described Hope Island: "We kayaked here from Boston Harbor on a beautiful summer week-end. Boat-in sites are first-come, first serve so we did not arrive early enough to snatch the few that are right on the water but nonetheless the ones tucked in the forest were still beautiful."
Private campsites: Several locations feature secluded individual camping spots with significant separation between sites. At Malaney Creek Farm, campers appreciate the private setting where "our spot was the Trillium site which has a few hundred foot hike from where you park your car and the portable toilet."
Well-maintained trails: The Olympic National Forest offers accessible hiking routes near camping areas. Art S. described Lena Lake: "Lena Lake is quiet and serene and the perfect place to sit on a log and journal. Other people walked around the edge of the lake but care must be taken as it's a bit rugged."
What you should know
Water planning required: Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water. At Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping, you'll need to bring your own water supply as there are no facilities.
Road conditions: Forest service roads can be challenging and require appropriate vehicles. Nicholas G. reported about FS-2292: "The road was a little rough but my SUV made it fine. No signal and got a little snow on the roof in the morning but it was a good spot with a great view."
Campsite availability: Some locations fill quickly during peak season. For Lena Lake, Lance R. advised: "The only downside is that this lake can attract a lot of campers on weekends, so if you go on a Friday night bring enough trail mix to share!"
Seasonal closures: Winter access to higher elevation sites is limited. One camper noted about Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead: "In my opinion this area is not suitable for winter camping... There is a long drop if you lose control and fail off road."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: Some areas offer easier access for families with children. At Rock Candy Mountain Trailhead, a camper shared: "The first spot when you turn in on the right... There is a trail next to it I don't know how far but, it's cool."
Wildlife viewing: Many sites offer kid-friendly nature experiences. Trevor M. reported from NF-2419: "Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest one of our new favorite memories. Definitely recommend going."
Toilet facilities: Know which sites have bathroom access. For Rock Candy Mountain, one camper noted: "The bathrooms are located in the trailhead parking lot. They could use cleaning, but they are open 24 hours."
Camp activities: Some sites offer built-in recreation options. At Camp Thunderbird, Rich M. mentioned: "There is a great big field and lots of trails," making it ideal for active children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping sites near Shelton accommodate smaller vehicles only. A camper at Camp Thunderbird noted its suitability for smaller RVs but mentioned it's "not big-rig friendly."
Road clearance: Forest roads require careful navigation with RVs. For Rock Candy Mountain, Margaret G. warned: "Not suitable for anything wider than a class B. In my opinion this area is not suitable for winter camping."
Pull-out options: Several forest roads offer basic pull-offs for overnight camping. One RVer mentioned about Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping: "This is a gravel road through the National Forest with a bunch of pull-offs where you can camp."
