Camping sites near Sol Duc Hot Springs, Washington are situated within a moderate elevation zone of 1,640 feet in Olympic National Park's western section. Winter temperatures typically range from 35°F to 45°F, while summer averages 60°F to 75°F with relatively low humidity compared to coastal areas. The camping season generally runs from late March through October, with limited winter camping options available.
What to do
River swimming and wading: During summer months, the Sol Duc River offers numerous swimming spots with clear, cool water. Some sections near Klahowya Campground provide riverside access for tubing or wading. "What could be better than spending the entire day on a lazy river with direct access from your camp site? Bring tubes during the summer to float!" notes camper Melody P.
Hiking at lower elevations: The area offers numerous short trails accessible to most ability levels. Several paths near Hoh Campground showcase massive moss-covered trees and understory vegetation. "The trails aren't stroller friendly but easily walkable with toddlers and a backpack. Feels safe. Busy but not like a mall," explains Kirsten about the area trails.
Tidepooling: Approximately 45 minutes from Sol Duc Hot Springs, Salt Creek Recreation Area provides access to extensive intertidal zones. "There is a passage way through a rocky outcropping that you can crawl through to the other beach and plenty of tide pools to keep you busy exploring throughout the day," shares Tarah S.
What campers like
Ancient forest immersion: The dense, moss-covered forests create a distinctive camping environment. At Heart O' the Hills Campground, visitors enjoy the old-growth setting. "This place is REALLY pretty and well maintained. There are a BUNCH of hiking trails nearby and the rangers have classes on certain days at the amphitheater," reports Michell C.
Riverside camping spots: Several campgrounds offer direct river access from individual sites. Lyre River Campground features sites alongside the water. "Awesome camping right on the river! It was so relaxing to be in the forest and wake to the river. The sites are well maintained and while there are pit toilets they were clean," notes Nicole from her April visit.
Winter accessibility: For off-season campers, some areas maintain limited winter access. As Tj V. describes of Lyre River: "Very quiet the time of year we went (Dec 30th, 2020 - Jan 2nd, 2021). We had our pick of sites and decided to live in the lap of luxury in the camp host's spot... close to water and vault toilet."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: While some campgrounds take advance bookings, others operate strictly first-come, first-served. As Laura M. experienced at Heart O' the Hills Campground: "Cell service is spotty here so you have to rely on the boards with info about open sites. Hosts were gone by the time we visited in mid September and the ranger station was something like 7 miles away."
Wildlife encounters: Proper food storage is essential in this area known for active wildlife. Marcus K. notes at Sol Duc Campground: "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. All have cement picnic tables so the bears can't walk off with them."
Limited services: Many campgrounds lack amenities common in more developed areas. At dispersed sites like FS-2918, campers need to be self-sufficient. "No services. Pack in, pack out. Verizon service was slow," reports Noah E. about the area.
Tips for camping with families
Lake-based activities: Lake Crescent offers swimming options preferred by many families with children. Fairholme Campground provides direct lake access. "The campground is right by the lake and offers walk-in sites that are literally on the lake shore. All sites have a fire pit, tent pad, and picnic table. There are very clean bathrooms close to all sites and clean running water," reports Beatriz S.
Evening wildlife viewing: Dusk provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation around most campgrounds. At Hoh Campground, "Rainforest... lush green moss hanging from the trees.. elk.. fog settling on the ground... Fishing is amazing.... campground is clean and spacious. Hiking trails everywhere," shares Tonya T.
Site selection for kids: When camping with children, carefully consider site locations and terrain. At Fairholme, "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. The campsites are very close together and can be next to RVs. Walk-in sites are less likely to be next to RVs."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Many Olympic Peninsula campgrounds were constructed before large RVs became common. At Crescent Beach & RV Park, "My rig fit in the spot, but once I put out both slides I was occupying the site next to mine and the other side I was about as small. Ocean is gorgeous and short trail takes you there," cautions Greg B.
Dispersed options for larger rigs: For RVs needing more space, several forest service roads provide dispersed camping. On FS-2918, "To the immediate right there was a rough uphill road, no good for a trailer. Straight was a nice road with a few spots if you're in a single car or tent. 1/4 mile up, take a right and there is a massive gravel open area where 2 people were parked with bus sized rigs," explains Andrew S.
Dump station availability: RV owners should note limited dump facilities in the area. Laura M. advises: "There's a dump station and water fill near the boat ramp" at Fairholme Campground, one of the few facilities with these services in the immediate Sol Duc area.
