Mora Campground in Olympic National Park offers a unique camping experience with its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and lush coastal forests. Located near Rialto Beach, this campground provides easy access to stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. With 94 campsites spread across five loops, Mora Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, offering a range of amenities and reservation options for visitors.
What Are the Reservation Procedures for Mora Campground?
Securing a spot at Mora Campground requires understanding the reservation system:
- Reservations are made through Recreation.gov
- Different loops have varying reservation windows:
- A, B, and E loops: 6 months in advance
- C loop: 2 weeks in advance
- D loop: 4 days in advance
The peak season runs from May 25 to September 20, during which reservations are essential. Outside this period, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
How Does the Cancellation Policy Work?
When plans change, it’s important to know the cancellation policy:
- Cancellations more than 3 days before arrival: Full refund of camping fee
- Cancellations within 7 days of arrival: Charged for one night’s stay plus tax
- General cancellation/change fee: $25 (for cancellations more than 7 days prior)
Always check the most current policy when making reservations, as terms may change.
What Amenities Does Mora Campground Offer?
Mora Campground provides a range of amenities to enhance your camping experience:
- Restroom Facilities: Flush toilets with running water
- Water Sources: Potable water available throughout
- Fire Pits: Each site includes a fire ring with grate
- Picnic Areas: Individual picnic tables at each site
- Dump Station: Available for RVs during summer ($10 fee, $5 for pass holders)
- Cell Service: Limited, depending on provider (no WiFi)
- Additional Features:
- Outdoor amphitheater for ranger presentations
- Nearby ranger station
- Close access to Rialto Beach and Quillayute River
Which Hiking Trails Are Accessible from Mora Campground?
Mora Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby trails:
- Rialto Beach Trail:
- Not a traditional trail, but beach access
- 2 miles from campground
-
Walk to Hole-in-the-Wall during low tide (1.5 miles from parking)
-
James Pond Loop Trail:
- Easy 0.3-mile forest trail
- Trailhead near Mora Ranger Station
-
Ends near a small pond, great for wildlife viewing
-
Third and Second Beach Trailheads:
- Within 10-minute drive from campground
- Access to wilderness coastline
How Can I Check Site Availability and Costs?
To plan your stay at Mora Campground:
- Visit Recreation.gov to check site availability
- Remember different loops open for reservations at different times
- Peak season (May 25 – September 20) requires advance booking
- Nightly fees vary based on site and season
- Additional costs may include:
- $10 RV dump station fee
- Pet fees (if applicable)
| Loop | Reservation Window | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| A, B, E | 6 months in advance | Long-term planners |
| C | 2 weeks in advance | Spontaneous trips |
| D | 4 days in advance | Last-minute decisions |
What Makes Mora Campground Unique in Olympic National Park?
Mora Campground stands out for several reasons:
- Coastal Location: Proximity to the Pacific Ocean and Rialto Beach
- Diverse Ecosystems: Access to both coastal and forest environments
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to see marine and forest animals
- Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of sea stacks and rugged coastline
- Ranger Programs: Educational presentations at the amphitheater
- Variety of Camping Options: Suitable for both tent and RV campers
How Should I Prepare for My Stay at Mora Campground?
To make the most of your Mora Campground experience:
- Pack for variable weather conditions (rain gear is essential)
- Bring layers for cool coastal temperatures
- Check tide tables for beach exploration
- Prepare for limited cell service
- Bring firewood or plan to purchase locally (don’t transport from outside)
- Consider bringing bicycles for easy campground navigation
- Pack bear-resistant food containers for proper food storage
Remember, Olympic National Park is a diverse and sometimes challenging environment. Proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable camping experience at Mora Campground.