Third Beach Camping — Olympic National Park

Summer months (late June through early September) offer the best conditions for camping at Third Beach with milder temperatures and typically less rainfall. This is also when the trail access is most reliable and beach conditions are optimal for camping. The site becomes quite popular during this peak season due to the beautiful weather and stunning coastal scenery. For a quieter experience with fewer fellow campers, consider late spring or early fall, but be prepared for potential rain and cooler temperatures.

Yes, camping is definitely allowed at Third Beach in Olympic National Park. It's a popular beach camping destination along the Olympic Peninsula coastline. The camping area is located directly on the beach, and you'll typically find multiple tents set up along the shoreline. The site offers a beautiful, peaceful setting for overnight stays, though you should be prepared for other campers to be present, especially during peak seasons.

For overnight camping at Third Beach, you need to obtain a Wilderness Camping Permit from Olympic National Park. These permits are required for all overnight stays within the park's wilderness areas, including coastal camping. You'll also need to pay the appropriate wilderness use fee. Permits can be obtained at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles or at certain ranger stations. During peak summer season, it's advisable to reserve permits in advance through the Olympic National Park reservation system to ensure availability, as this is a popular camping destination.

To reach Third Beach campsite, take a well-maintained 1.5-mile trail through a beautiful high forest. The trail is remarkably flat for most of the route, making it relatively accessible compared to other coastal hikes in the area. The final 15 minutes involves a descent to the beach. The path is wide and well-maintained enough that some visitors note you could almost bring a wheeled wagon for gear, though that's not recommended for the final descent. The trailhead is located off La Push Road (Highway 110) in the western section of Olympic National Park.