Coho Campground Olympic National Park: A Complete Guide

Coho Campground, nestled in the Olympic National Forest, offers a serene camping experience on the shores of Wynoochee Lake. Located about 35 miles north of Montesano, WA, this campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. With its proximity to scenic waterfalls, hiking trails, and the Wynoochee Dam, Coho Campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula.

What Amenities Does Coho Campground Offer?

coho campground olympic national park
Image ‘File:Maple Glade rainforest, Olympic National Park, 2011 (1).jpg’ by DimiTalen, licensed under CC0

Coho Campground provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay:

  • Flush toilets
  • Potable water
  • Fire pits at each campsite
  • Picnic tables
  • Boat ramp for lake access
  • RV dump station (located just outside the campground)
  • Trash collection services
  • Working Forest Nature Trail (1/2-mile interpretive trail)
  • Yurts with heat, electric lights, and basic furnishings

The campground’s facilities cater to various camping preferences, from traditional tent camping to more comfortable yurt accommodations.

How Can I Make Reservations at Coho Campground?

coho campground olympic national park
Image ‘File:Olympic National Park – 53205729916.jpg’ by John Manard, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Booking a stay at Coho Campground is straightforward:

  1. Visit Recreation.gov to make online reservations
  2. Some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis
  3. The campground is open from mid-May to October 1st
  4. Check with Recreation.gov or the Hood Canal Ranger District for current fees and cancellation policies

It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak summer months, to secure your preferred campsite or yurt.

What Are Recent Visitor Experiences at Coho Campground?

Recent reviews highlight several aspects of the campground:

  • Clean and well-maintained bathrooms
  • Adequate campsite sizes with reasonable privacy
  • Well-maintained overall facilities
  • Accessible trails, including the Working Forest Nature Trail

While specific noise levels are not mentioned in available sources, the campground’s natural setting suggests a peaceful environment.

Where Is Coho Campground Located and How Do I Access It?

Coho Campground’s location offers both convenience and natural beauty:

  • Situated on the west shore of Wynoochee Lake in Olympic National Forest
  • Approximately 35 miles north of Montesano, WA

To reach the campground:
1. From Route 12, turn north on Wynoochee Valley Road
2. Follow Forest Road 22
3. Continue onto Forest Road 2294 to reach the campground

Parking is available at campsites, with yurt sites accommodating two vehicles each.

What Nearby Attractions Can I Visit from Coho Campground?

Coho Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area:

  1. Spoon Creek Falls and Wynoochee Falls
  2. Accessible via short trails nearby
  3. Offer scenic waterfall views

  4. Wynoochee Dam

  5. Features exhibits and dramatic river gorge views
  6. Educational opportunity to learn about local hydrology

  7. Wynoochee Lake Shore Trail

  8. 16-mile trail circling the entire lake
  9. Open to mountain bikes
  10. Perfect for day hikes or longer excursions

These attractions provide a mix of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and educational opportunities, enhancing the overall camping experience at Coho Campground.

What Should I Pack for My Stay at Coho Campground?

Essential items for your Coho Campground visit include:

  • Tent or RV (if not staying in a yurt)
  • Sleeping bags and pillows
  • Cooking equipment (portable stove, utensils, cooler)
  • Firewood or camp fuel
  • Warm clothing (even in summer, nights can be cool)
  • Rain gear (the Olympic Peninsula is known for its precipitation)
  • Hiking boots
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • First aid kit
  • Camera for capturing scenic views

Remember to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the area.

Are There Any Specific Rules or Regulations at Coho Campground?

While staying at Coho Campground, be aware of these general rules:

  1. Observe quiet hours (typically from 10 PM to 6 AM)
  2. Keep food stored securely to avoid attracting wildlife
  3. Use designated fire pits only and fully extinguish fires
  4. Respect maximum occupancy limits for campsites and yurts
  5. Leash pets at all times and clean up after them
  6. Adhere to check-in and check-out times

It’s always best to check with the campground office or website for any updated or specific regulations before your visit.

How Does Coho Campground Compare to Other Campgrounds in Olympic National Park?

While Coho Campground is technically in Olympic National Forest, not Olympic National Park, it offers unique features compared to park campgrounds:

Feature Coho Campground Typical Olympic NP Campgrounds
Location On Wynoochee Lake Various (coastal, forest, mountain)
Amenities Flush toilets, yurts Often more primitive
Reservations Available online Some first-come, first-served
Nearby Attractions Lake, waterfalls, dam Varies by location
Season Mid-May to October Some year-round, others seasonal

Coho Campground provides a more developed camping experience with its yurts and flush toilets, while many Olympic National Park campgrounds offer a more rustic, immersive wilderness experience.

By choosing Coho Campground, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula with the added comfort of more modern amenities, making it an excellent choice for families or those new to camping in the area.

References:
1. Recreation.gov – Coho Campground, Olympic National Forest
2. CampScanner – Camping at Coho Campground in WA
3. USDA Forest Service – Coho Campground – Olympic National Forest

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