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Established Camping

Porter Creek

7 Reviews

Porter Creek, near Elma, Washington, is a rustic campground that offers a straightforward outdoor experience for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. With a handful of sites right by the river, it’s a beautiful spot for tent and RV camping, though you should be prepared for a more primitive setup.

Visitors often highlight the stunning scenery, especially the nearby creek, which is perfect for exploring. The area is surrounded by nature, making it a great base for hiking and fishing. One camper noted, “The river is gorgeous and fun to explore!”

While the campground doesn’t have many amenities—like drinking water or electric hookups—it's a favorite for those who appreciate a back-to-basics vibe. Just keep in mind that it’s first-come, first-served, so arriving early is a good idea. Some campers have mentioned that the sites can get crowded, but if you find a quieter time, you might just enjoy the peace and beauty of the surroundings.

If you’re up for an adventure, the trails nearby cater to all levels of hikers, and you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as keeping this lovely spot clean is a shared responsibility. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or simply unwind by the water, Porter Creek has a lot to offer for those willing to embrace its rustic charm.

Description

Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR)

Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WADNR) State Resource Management Area

Porter Creek Campground is a popular area for motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and picnicking in the day-use area. This 16-campsite campground is near Porter Creek and surrounded by large Douglas-fir trees. Campers are required to register on-site. Download a map of the area. After Labor Day, the campground will remain open on a first-come, first-serve basis until Nov. 2.

Reservation Info

First come, first serve.

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Location

Porter Creek is located in Washington

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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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Stay Connected

WiFi
Unknown
Verizon
Unknown
AT&T
Unknown
T-Mobile
Good

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Picnic Table
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

48 min from Olympia
1 hr 26 min from Longview
1 hr 34 min from Bremerton
1 hr 43 min from Seattle

E V.

Scout

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

Camille

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 17, 2021

Easy, pretty, right on the river

Easy to find, fairly secluded sites available (15 and 16) and right on the river which is so beautiful.

Site15

Month of VisitJune

Phoebe B.

Guide

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

SIMPLEGRINN A.

Guide

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2020

Great fishing and hiking

This is a family favorite and enjoy the time we spend camping here.

(10) View All

Brittany E.

Scout

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!

Jessica A.

Scout

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!

VIKKY S.

Traveler

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