Olympic National Forest offers numerous primitive camping sites near Wauna, Washington, primarily located along Forest Service Roads. Many of these undeveloped camping areas sit at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet in densely forested terrain. Winter access often requires preparation for snow conditions, with some higher elevation sites like Hilltop Camp experiencing snowfall into spring.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Campgrounds near Tunnel Creek provide access to several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "Great spot to stay for a bit if you're looking to do that OR just stay for a night. There's a trail from this site that leads to a great tint site as well," notes a NF-27 Tunnel Creek visitor.
Beach exploration: Joemma State Park offers beachcombing opportunities just steps from campsites. "Across from our campsite is a trail that leads down to the pier and walk to the beach," explains a camper at Joemma Beach State Park Campground. The park also features "a long dock in the area where you can go fishing."
Wildlife watching: Early mornings at dispersed sites provide wildlife viewing chances. One visitor to Joemma Beach State Park mentioned, "You can walk around if you want, we did spot a bald eagle early in the morning." At another location, a camper reported, "Got to feed 3 Bluejays by hand with my oldest - one of our new favorite memories."
What campers like
Mountain vistas: The elevated locations offer impressive views, particularly at Hilltop Camp. "Gorgeous little spot off a national forest road. Stunning views, no light pollution or car sounds at night," shares one Hilltop Camp on Forest Road 2419 visitor. Another adds, "Fairly large and level site with an amazing view."
Waterside spots: Several campsites feature proximity to water features. "I pitched a tent which was nice and found a spot right by the river," mentions a visitor to NF-2419 Dispersed Site. Another describes it as having "various streams crossing the path of the service road. Truly magical place."
Seclusion options: Despite some busy roads, secluded camping can be found. "This is actually a really secluded, private location with a beautiful view! The road is fairly easy to get up to this spot but really just room for one vehicle," notes a camper at Top of the Hill camping.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest access roads vary significantly in quality. "The drive up to this road is half paved and unpaved, not too bumpy," describes one NF-27 Tunnel Creek visitor. For steeper terrain, "It's December so of course it's a bit cold at night and I'd recommend at least AWD to get up here," suggests a Hilltop Camp camper.
Limited amenities: Facilities at dispersed sites are minimal. "Basic campsites with restrooms within reasonable distance," notes a Joemma Beach camper. Most dispersed sites provide no facilities, so visitors must plan accordingly.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts access and comfort at higher elevations. A visitor to Olympic National Forest Dispersed Camping warns, "There were really huge flies but they did not bite."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established areas with safer terrain. "We camped near Vance Creek trailhead... Since this is a national forest, dispersed camping is allowed. We picked the first spot we got to since it was getting kind of late," explains an Olympic Forest camper.
Campsite size: Check space availability for family setups. At Joemma Beach, a visitor reports, "We were avail to put up 2-2 person tent and 1-4 person tent (only had one vehicle so used extra spot for vehicle as tent site."
Kid-friendly locations: Some areas welcome families but may have mixed experiences. A Large Pull Out Dispersed visitor notes, "Not the most private spot if vehicles were to pass. The road looks like it's used but no one around when we arrived."
Tips from RVers
Pullout options: Several forest roads have adequate pullouts for smaller vehicles. "Great spot on the NF-2419, about a mile before the Mt Elinor lower trailhead. Plenty of space for a large vehicle," states a visitor.
Size limitations: Many sites can't accommodate larger rigs. "Not suitable for anything wider than a class B," warns a camper at Rock Candy Mountain. Another notes, "My friend and I met here and had plenty of room for my truck, 21' trailer... It was so large that we could have added a few more vehicles."
Level sites: Finding flat parking is essential. "Great large flat spot for camping. Could easily fit about 5 cars here," reports a FR27 Landing camper. For those with larger setups, areas near main forest roads typically offer more level options.
