Near Lake Cushman and not far out of Hoodsport off Highway 101, this easily accessible campground is away from the summer craziness that afflicts so many campgrounds in the Olympics. That said, it's still very close to the big boat-friendly lake (just a few miles to the south) and Staircase, which is an amazing entry point into Olympic National Park.

The surrounding forest is lush and gorgeous, the campsites fairly spread out (there are 23 sites for tents, trailers and RVs, with the usual amenities) and as an entry point to outstanding hiking it's first rate. My crew hit the short trail that circumnavigates the campground and then hooked up to the Upper Big Creek Loop Trail, which climbs into the forest, features some nice bridge crossings and affords views of Mount Ellinor (you can connect to the Mount Ellinor Trail, too, if you're super ambitious and ready to go big!). Big Creek roars steeply down through part of the trail (under a few bridges, that is!) and then skirts its namesake campground.

Big Creek Campground is definitely a stellar basecamp for exploring the south Olympics area, which abounds with trails, climbs and fishing spots, and I'd highly recommend you giving it a shot.