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Map showing campground location near Malone, Washington
Camper submitted image from Porter CreekView 15 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Malone, Washington

Porter Creek

7 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Hikers, anglers, and creek explorers have good reason to make Porter Creek a destination. Set within Capital Forest and managed by Washington State Department of Natural Resources, this drive-in campground sits alongside a creek that runs directly beside several of the sites, giving campers easy water access without any technical approach. The surrounding forested terrain connects to a network of multi-use trails that accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, ATV riders, and equestrians, so trail research before arrival pays off.

The campground runs on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations, and sites closer to the water tend to draw the most interest. Crowd levels vary noticeably by day of week, with mid-week visits offering more room. Cleanliness has been inconsistent based on recent reports, with some sites showing litter and sanitation issues, particularly around sites 15 and 16. There is no camp host on site, and raccoons raiding campsites have been reported. Bring extra trash bags.

Amenities are minimal. A latrine is available, but there are no water hookups. Picnic tables are provided, campfires are permitted, and the site is ADA accessible. Pets are welcome. Campers exploring campgrounds around Malone will find Porter Creek among the more rustic options in the area, with Straddleline Park available roughly six miles northeast for those wanting a comparison. Check the DNR website directly before heading out, as closure information is not always reflected in third-party apps. If you go mid-week with low expectations for facilities, the creek access alone makes the trip worthwhile.

Reservation Info

First come, first serve.

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Map & DirectionsPorter Creek is located in Washington near Malone

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Start at the junction of SR-12 and Porter Creek Road. Go northeast on Porter Creek Road for 3.4 miles. At the intersection, go straight on B-line Road for .6 miles. The site is on left. Get directions.

Coordinates

46.97664003 N
123.258901 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time

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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Porter Creek

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

43%
43%
0%
14%
0%

4.0

out of 5

7 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the primitive, creek-side setting and nearby trails, though maintenance concerns have emerged. Visitors often highlighted the beautiful natural surroundings but noted crowding issues when full.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2023

It’s ok

There were several campsites near the river where you could smell human excrement,see large piles of used toilet paper (specifically 16 being the worst), along with garbage littered around almost every campsite and a ton of broken glass. I don’t believe there was a camp host. Several people came by to let us know there were raccoons raiding campsites. It’s such a bummer because the trail and creek are beautiful. (although plenty of litter). Also lots of random hikers/walkers coming through and walking through the campsites themselves to get to the creek and tossing more garbage onto the creek bed. I didn’t expect it to be so dirty, I would’ve brought more trash bags.

Site15
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed May. 21, 2021

Opens only on May 27

We were looking forward to a quiet and simple night camping in our little rented self-contained camper van on the last day of a 12-day road trip. We arrived at the end of the road to find the campground closed, so we ended up abandoning our final night and driving home. The campground is pretty, the creek is clean, the 16 (?) sites are fairly well maintained and could be really lovely mid-week when not full. DNR would do well to post closure information so that apps like The Dyrt can more easily pick it up.

SiteN/A
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2019

Decent place to camp.

Campground is okay when its not overly full with people. There is a bunch of awesome trails with beautiful surroundings for every level of hikers and if you can find your way to Porter Falls, you definitely wont be disappointed with the view!

Reviewed Jul. 11, 2018

Primitive camping at its finest!

Porter Creek Campground is primitive camping with over 12 sites available. Located in Capital Forest and upkept by DNR. It’s first come no reservations. The river is gorgeous and fun to explore!

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2018

Great outdoor experience

This Campsite is in the woods and does not have basic amenities. It's a very rustic outdoor experience, Frequented by ATV and motorcycle and mountain biking people. There is a latrine here but no water hookups. There is a large creek running alongside some of the campsites. There are hiking trails close by but be sure to do your homework because there are many trails that allow ATV, horses, bikes, and people on them. Over all this is a great place to go if you want to get away.

Site11
Month of VisitJune
Showing results 1-7 of 7 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Porter Creek Campground?

Porter Creek Campground is a primitive, rustic camping experience with minimal amenities. The campground offers over 12 sites on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations available. There are basic latrines/vault toilets but no water hookups or modern facilities. A large creek runs alongside some of the campsites, providing a natural feature for campers to enjoy. The campground is maintained by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and is located within Capital Forest.

What do reviews say about Porter Creek Campground?

Porter Creek Campground receives mixed feedback. Many appreciate its rustic, wooded setting and the beautiful creek running alongside some sites. Campers highlight the secluded sites (particularly #15 and #16) and the gorgeous river views. The surrounding trails and natural beauty receive positive mentions. However, some visitors note issues with cleanliness, including trash and improper waste disposal at certain sites. The campground can get busy, affecting the peaceful atmosphere, and occasional closures have been reported. Overall, it's described as a simple, primitive camping experience popular with ATV riders, motorcyclists, and mountain bikers.

Are there photos available of Porter Creek Campground?

Yes, photos of Porter Creek Campground are available online through various camping websites and platforms, including The Dyrt. These images typically showcase the wooded setting, campsite layouts, the creek that runs through the property, and the surrounding forest environment. Photos help potential visitors understand the rustic nature of the campground and the natural beauty of the area before planning their trip.

How close is Porter Creek Campground to Olympia and Yelm, WA?

Porter Creek Campground is located in Capitol Forest, making it relatively accessible from both Olympia and Yelm, WA. While exact distances aren't specified, the campground serves as a convenient outdoor getaway for residents of these areas. Being within the Capitol Forest recreation area, it's likely within a 30-45 minute drive from Olympia, with Yelm potentially closer depending on the access route. For precise driving directions and current road conditions, check with the DNR or use a mapping service before your trip.

Are there waterfall hikes near Porter Creek Campground?

Yes, there are waterfall hikes near Porter Creek Campground. Porter Falls is specifically mentioned as a highlight in the area, offering beautiful views that won't disappoint hikers who make the journey. The campground is surrounded by numerous trails suitable for various hiking abilities, making it easy to explore the natural beauty of the area. The trails wind through beautiful surroundings and accommodate every level of hiking experience, from beginners to more advanced outdoor enthusiasts.

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