Lewis Meadow Campground in Olympic National Park offers a true wilderness experience for backpackers and nature enthusiasts. Located along the Hoh River Trail, this remote campground serves as a crucial stopover for hikers exploring the park’s lush rainforest and rugged mountains. With basic amenities and stunning natural surroundings, Lewis Meadow provides a serene base for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the Olympic wilderness.
What Amenities Are Available at Lewis Meadow Campground?

Lewis Meadow Campground offers basic amenities suitable for wilderness camping:
- Pit toilets for sanitation
- Fire pits for controlled campfires
- Camping sites, some along the Hoh River
It’s important to note that there are no potable water sources at the campground itself. Visitors must:
- Bring their own water
- Use water filtration methods for river water
- Plan accordingly for their water needs during their stay
How Can You Make Reservations for Lewis Meadow Campground?

Securing a spot at Lewis Meadow Campground requires careful planning:
- Obtain a Wilderness Camping Permit:
- All overnight stays in Olympic National Park wilderness areas require a permit
- Permits are available from the Port Angeles Wilderness Information Centre (WIC)
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Reservations may be necessary, especially for areas with quotas
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Pay the Required Fees:
- Wilderness Camping Permit fee: $8 per night per person
- Persons 15 years or younger: Free
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Olympic Annual Wilderness Pass option: $45 per person (permits and reservations still required)
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Check Cancellation Policies:
- Contact the park service or permit issuing authority for specific refund or cancellation rules
What Hiking Trails Are Accessible from Lewis Meadow Campground?
Lewis Meadow Campground serves as a gateway to several scenic hiking trails:
- Hoh River Trail to Glacier Meadows:
- Distance: 4.7 miles one-way from Olympus Guard Station (about 9 miles from Lewis Meadow)
- Difficulty: Flat until Olympus Guard Station, then steep ascent
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Highlights: Glacier Meadows, Blue Glacier, mountain views
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Hoh River Trail to Elk Lake:
- Distance: 3.9 miles beyond Lewis Meadow
- Difficulty: Moderate with creek crossings
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Highlights: Elk Lake, forest scenery, snow-peaked mountains
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Day Hike to Olympus Guard Station:
- Distance: 9 miles round trip from Lewis Meadow
- Difficulty: Moderate with minimal elevation gain
- Features: River crossings, rainforest environment
What Wildlife Can You Expect to See Near Lewis Meadow Campground?
The area around Lewis Meadow Campground offers diverse wildlife viewing opportunities:
Species | Best Viewing Times | Viewing Tips |
---|---|---|
Black bears | Early morning, late afternoon | Store food properly, maintain safe distance |
Cougars | Dawn, dusk | Stay alert, travel in groups |
Elk | Early morning, evening | Look for clearings and meadows |
Black-tailed deer | Throughout the day | Quiet observation in forested areas |
Hummingbirds | Daylight hours | Near flowering plants |
Safety Guidelines for Wildlife Observation:
– Use bear wires for food storage
– Keep a safe distance from all wildlife
– Avoid disturbing animals in their natural habitat
– Be aware of your surroundings at all times
What Should You Pack for a Stay at Lewis Meadow Campground?
Essential items for your Lewis Meadow Campground adventure:
- Camping Gear:
- Lightweight tent
- Sleeping bag rated for low temperatures
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Sleeping pad for insulation
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Water and Food:
- Water filtration system or purification tablets
- Sufficient food for your entire stay plus extra
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Bear-resistant food container
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Clothing:
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Insulating mid-layers
- Waterproof outer layer
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Sturdy hiking boots
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Navigation and Safety:
- Topographic map and compass
- First-aid kit
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Emergency communication device
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Miscellaneous:
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Insect repellent
- Biodegradable soap
- Trash bags for packing out waste
How Can You Minimize Your Environmental Impact at Lewis Meadow Campground?
Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the wilderness:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare:
- Know regulations and special concerns for the area
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Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies
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Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:
- Use established trails and campsites
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Camp at least 200 feet from lakes and streams
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Dispose of Waste Properly:
- Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter
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Use pit toilets or catholes for human waste
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Leave What You Find:
- Preserve the past: observe, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts
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Leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them
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Minimize Campfire Impacts:
- Use established fire rings
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Keep fires small and burn all wood to ash
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Respect Wildlife:
- Observe wildlife from a distance
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Do not feed animals
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Be Considerate of Other Visitors:
- Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience
- Be courteous and yield to other users on the trail
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that Lewis Meadow Campground in Olympic National Park remains a pristine wilderness for future generations to enjoy.
References:
1. Wandering with a Dromomaniac – Trail Guide: Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park
2. The Wild Compiled – How to Plan the Perfect Backpacking Trip through the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park
3. MB Guiding – Hoh River Trail – Olympic National Park