Backpacking opportunities surround Sol Duc Hot Springs in Olympic National Park, with multiple wilderness campsites accessible via hiking trails. The area sits at an elevation around 2,000 feet, creating a temperate rainforest environment with annual rainfall exceeding 140 inches. Winter camping can be challenging due to road closures and snow accumulation at higher elevations, typically from November through May.
What to do
Explore alpine lakes: The Seven Lakes Basin loop trail connects multiple high-elevation lakes. At Lunch Lake, "This hike has it all: old growth forests, alpine lakes, wildlife, year-round snow. There are about a dozen sites around the lake, an outhouse, plus a ranger cabin," according to Harry H.
Tackle challenging hikes: For experienced backpackers, the trek to Blue Glacier offers rewarding views. A camper at Elk Lake noted, "We stopped here for the night before making the final push to Blue Glacier. It was a nice site. The water access to the lake was a pain in the butt, and the lake is nothing special."
Visit waterfalls: Several cascades dot the trails near Sol Duc. On the Hoh River Trail near Mount Tom Creek, Zach A. mentions, "Mineral Falls is a nice spot to walk up to (only a half-mile back) and the spots along the river make a great place to stop and have a snack!"
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The backcountry offers numerous animal sighting opportunities. At Olympus Guard Station, campers appreciate the solitude 10 miles into the wilderness. Carly O. shared, "We did a 2 night backpacking trip along the Hoh River Trail. We decided stay 2 nights at Olympus since there was still snow pack up the mountain. We hiked in 10 miles the first day and the next day we left our stuff at our campsite and hiked up to Elk Lake and back."
First-come spots: When official campgrounds fill up, secondary options provide alternatives. Charlotte L. found Littleton Horse Camp to be "Quiet, clean close to Olympic NP. We had a great stay, we stayed in the lower campsite #2 and it did not have the horse requirement so we nabbed it before 6pm. The vault toilets were spotless, the campsite was quiet, and there are nearby hiking and biking trails that are wonderful!"
River proximity: Many sites offer streamside camping. At Hoh River Dispersed Camping, Julia F. reported, "Trying to find an open camping site next to the river was proving very difficult, but this semi-hidden pull off was perfect. There's a fire ring and some extra firewood collected to the side. Beautiful river access that feels secluded."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Backcountry camping permits must be secured before heading out. For Deer Lake, Danielle S. explains, "Back country permit required. The lake is accessible by a couple of routes. There is a short but steep hike in from the Sol Duc area, so you could potentially do this as a day hike. I saw some families doing this."
Limited facilities: Most backcountry sites offer minimal amenities. Kate I. notes about Five Mile Island: "This campground has 'ample' facilities, depending on your level of backpacking. There is not a problem finding a level tent pad, there are bear wires, and a pit toilet."
Weather considerations: The area receives significant precipitation year-round. Joshua W. reported about Elk Lake: "After we returned from the glacier, we found that our site had mostly flooded from moderate rain. We looked at the few open spots left and found the same issue. Settled for a partially sloped spot just next to a site."
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate distances: For tent camping near Sol Duc Hot Springs with children, select sites based on hiking capability. At Mount Tom Creek, Cassie C. suggests, "For first backpacking trip with little kids, a good option. The site is very leveled, well spaced apart, super close to a beautiful river, and easy to find shade and sun."
Pack for insects: Bug protection is essential during summer months. Danielle notes about Deer Lake, "My only complaint was that it was pretty buggy. I would definitely go back."
Consider day hikes: Some sites can be visited without overnight gear. Spencer J. mentions about Littleton Horse Camp, "Like others we ended up here after checking a number of other campsites that were full. The camp is usually for horse people but unoccupied spots are up for grabs after six."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed camping may challenge some vehicles. At Hoh River Dispersed Camping, Cassie C. warns, "Need to drive over very bumpy dirt road to get to sites near river. Then need to drive over rocky road to get into sites near river. The sites were well tucked away and cozy. Just make sure your tires can handle the bumps and rocks."
Alternative options: When formal campgrounds fill up, consider horse camps. Heartworn H. discovered Littleton Horse Camp "out of necessity. I dont usually make reservations when I camp which proved quite difficult when journeying through the Olympic Peninsula during peak season. Most campgrounds I planned to go to were not only completely full, but has so many cars and campers on a frantic hunt for a place to stay for the night."
Limited hookups: No electric or water hookups are available at most sites near Sol Duc Hot Springs. Christian M. noted about Hoh River Dispersed Camping: "Had a spot right next to the river with a fire pit. Logs provided just down the road for $5. My 03 Honda Accord made it there just fine."
