Campgrounds by Olympic National Park Washington: A Comprehensive Guide

Olympic National Park in Washington offers diverse camping experiences, from coastal beaches to lush rainforests and alpine meadows. With over 14 campgrounds, visitors can choose from various amenities and locations. Popular options include Heart O’ the Hills, Hoh, Mora, and Kalaloch campgrounds, each offering unique features and access to different park attractions. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities like toilets, potable water, and fire rings, with some offering RV accommodations.

What Are the Best Campgrounds in Olympic National Park?

Olympic National Park boasts several exceptional campgrounds, each offering unique experiences and access to different park features. Here are some of the top choices:

1. Heart O’ the Hills Campground
2. Location: Near Port Angeles, Northern Olympic Peninsula
3. Capacity: 105 sites
4. Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings
5. Cost: $24 per night

6. Unique features: Year-round accessibility, proximity to Hurricane Ridge

7. Hoh Campground

8. Location: Near the Hoh River, Northwest Olympic Peninsula
9. Capacity: 88 sites
10. Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings
11. Cost: $20 per night

12. Unique features: Access to Hoh Rainforest trails, including Hall of Mosses

13. Kalaloch Campground

14. Location: West Olympic Peninsula, overlooking the Pacific Ocean
15. Capacity: 170 sites
16. Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings
17. Cost: $22 per night (seasonal rates)

18. Unique features: Ocean views, beach access, whale watching opportunities

19. Mora Campground

20. Location: Near Rialto Beach, West Olympic Peninsula
21. Capacity: 94 sites
22. Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings
23. Cost: $20 per night
24. Unique features: Proximity to Rialto Beach, tide pooling opportunities

What Amenities Are Available at Olympic National Park Campgrounds?

Most campgrounds in Olympic National Park offer basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Here’s a general overview:

• Toilets: Most campgrounds have flush toilets during peak season, with some switching to pit toilets in winter.
• Water: Potable water is available at most campgrounds during summer months.
• Picnic tables and fire rings: Standard at all campsites.
• Showers: Limited availability; Log Cabin Resort RV and Campground offers shower facilities.
• RV hookups: Available at select campgrounds like Log Cabin Resort RV and Campground.

Campground	Toilets	Water	Picnic Tables	Fire Rings	Showers	RV Hookups
Heart O’ the Hills	Flush	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Hoh	Flush	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Kalaloch	Flush	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Mora	Flush	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No
Log Cabin Resort	Flush	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

How Can I Reserve a Campsite in Olympic National Park?

Reservation policies vary among campgrounds in Olympic National Park:

1. First-come, first-served campgrounds:
2. Heart O’ the Hills
3. Mora

4. Deer Park

5. Reservable campgrounds (summer season):

6. Kalaloch
7. Hoh (partial)

8. Fairholme

9. Year-round reservations required:

10. Log Cabin Resort RV and Campground

To make reservations for eligible campgrounds, visit recreation.gov or call the park’s reservation line. It’s advisable to book well in advance, especially for peak summer months.

What Are the RV Accommodations in Olympic National Park?

While many campgrounds in Olympic National Park can accommodate RVs, options for full hookups are limited. Here’s an overview of RV-friendly campgrounds:

1. Log Cabin Resort RV and Campground
2. Full RV hookups available
3. Sites for RVs up to 35 feet

4. Amenities include showers and laundry facilities

5. Kalaloch Campground

6. No hookups, but can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet

7. Ocean views and beach access

8. Heart O’ the Hills Campground

9. No hookups, but can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet

10. Year-round accessibility

11. Fairholme Campground

12. No hookups, sites for RVs up to 21 feet
13. Located near Lake Crescent

When planning an RV trip, always check specific site lengths and any restrictions or recommendations for your vehicle size.

What Unique Experiences Can I Expect at Olympic National Park Campgrounds?

Each campground in Olympic National Park offers distinct experiences based on its location and surrounding attractions:

1. Coastal Camping:
2. Kalaloch and Mora campgrounds offer beach access and ocean views.

3. Activities include beachcombing, tide pooling, and whale watching.

4. Rainforest Immersion:

5. Hoh Campground provides easy access to the Hoh Rainforest.

6. Explore moss-draped trees and lush fern undergrowth on nearby trails.

7. Alpine Adventures:

8. Deer Park Campground, situated in a high-alpine area, offers stargazing opportunities and access to subalpine meadows.

9. Lake Activities:

10. Fairholme and Log Cabin Resort campgrounds near Lake Crescent offer swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.

11. Hot Springs Relaxation:

12. Sol Duc Hot Springs RV Park and Campground provides access to mineral hot springs for a unique relaxation experience.

What Wildlife Might I Encounter at Olympic National Park Campgrounds?

Olympic National Park is home to diverse wildlife. While camping, you might encounter:

• Roosevelt Elk
• Black Bears
• Mountain Goats
• Deer
• Various bird species

Remember to practice proper food storage and follow park guidelines to ensure both your safety and the protection of wildlife.

How Should I Prepare for Camping in Olympic National Park?

To ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience in Olympic National Park:

1. Make reservations or arrive early for first-come, first-served sites.
2. Check weather forecasts and pack appropriate gear.
3. Bring essential supplies including food, water, and first-aid kits.
4. Familiarize yourself with park regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles.
5. Be prepared for limited cell service in many areas of the park.
6. Carry bear-resistant food containers or use provided food storage lockers.
7. Bring insect repellent and sun protection.

By following these guidelines and choosing a campground that suits your preferences, you can create unforgettable memories in the diverse and beautiful landscapes of Olympic National Park.

References:

1. Travellers Autobarn RV – Olympic National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks You Must Visit
2. Parks Expert – Olympic National Park Camping Guide: Everything You Need to Know
3. My Olympic Park – Where Should I Camp in Olympic National Park?