Lunch Lake, nestled within Olympic National Park’s Sol Duc/Seven Lakes Basin, offers a pristine wilderness camping experience. This designated camping area requires a Wilderness Camping Permit for overnight stays. Located along the High Divide Loop trail, Lunch Lake provides stunning views of Mount Olympus and surrounding peaks. Campers must adhere to strict regulations, including fire restrictions and group size limits. The area is accessible via a challenging 18.2-mile loop trail, featuring diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.
What Are the Specific Camping Regulations for Lunch Lake?

Camping at Lunch Lake comes with a set of regulations designed to preserve the natural environment:
- Permit Requirements:
- A Wilderness Camping Permit is mandatory for all overnight stays
- Permits are available through Recreation.gov
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Reservations can be made in advance
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Group Size Restrictions:
- Maximum group size typically ranges from 6 to 12 people
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Specific limits may vary based on current park policies
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Fire Regulations:
- Campfires are strictly prohibited above 3,500 feet elevation
- Lunch Lake falls within this elevation range, so no campfires are allowed
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Use of camp stoves for cooking is permitted
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Leave No Trace Principles:
- Pack out all trash
- Use established campsites to minimize impact
- Properly store food to avoid wildlife encounters
How Can I Access Lunch Lake Camping Area?

Reaching Lunch Lake involves a challenging but rewarding hike:
- Trail Details:
- Part of the High Divide Loop trail
- Total loop length: approximately 18.2 miles
- Elevation gain: 3,050 feet
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Difficulty: Moderate to steep
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Access Points:
- Main trailhead: Sol Duc Falls parking area
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Lunch Lake spur trail: 0.5-mile detour from the main loop
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Trail Highlights:
- Panoramic views of Mount Olympus
- Diverse ecosystems: from old-growth forests to alpine meadows
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Wildlife sightings: elk, deer, and potentially bears
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Recommended Itinerary:
- Day 1: Hike to Heart Lake or Lunch Lake (7-8 miles)
- Day 2: Complete the loop or explore the basin
- Day 3: Return to trailhead
What Amenities Are Available at Lunch Lake Camping Area?
Lunch Lake offers a true wilderness experience with minimal amenities:
Amenity | Availability |
---|---|
Drinking Water | Natural sources, filtration required |
Toilets | Primitive pit toilets may be available |
Food Storage | Bear canisters required (not provided) |
Campsite Facilities | Designated tent sites, no platforms |
Trash Disposal | Pack-in, pack-out policy |
Ranger Presence | Intermittent patrols, no permanent staff |
What Are the Fishing Opportunities at Lunch Lake?
Fishing at Lunch Lake can be an enjoyable activity, but comes with regulations:
- Fishing Licenses:
- Washington state fishing license required
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Available online or at local vendors before entering the park
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Fish Species:
- Specific species in Lunch Lake not detailed
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Seven Lakes Basin known for trout fishing
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Fishing Regulations:
- Catch and release encouraged
- Use of artificial lures recommended
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Check current park regulations for any seasonal restrictions
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Best Fishing Times:
- Early morning or late evening typically most productive
- Summer months offer best access and conditions
How Do I Make Campsite Reservations for Lunch Lake?
Securing a campsite at Lunch Lake requires advance planning:
- Reservation Process:
- Use Recreation.gov website
- Select ‘Olympic National Park Wilderness Permits’
- Choose Sol Duc/Seven Lakes Basin area
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Specify Lunch Lake as your desired campsite
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Reservation Details:
- Non-refundable fee: $6.00 per overnight permit
- Reservations open up to 6 months in advance
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Popular dates fill quickly, book early
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Cancellation Policy:
- Changes or cancellations allowed up to 3 days before start date
- $6 reservation fee non-refundable
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Modifications to permit details possible if space available
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Walk-up Permits:
- Limited walk-up permits may be available
- Check with park rangers for last-minute availability
What Should I Pack for Camping at Lunch Lake?
Essential gear for a comfortable and safe stay at Lunch Lake includes:
- Lightweight tent suitable for alpine conditions
- Sleeping bag rated for low temperatures (even in summer)
- Backpacking stove and fuel (no campfires allowed)
- Water filtration system or purification tablets
- Bear canister for food storage (required)
- Warm, layered clothing including rain gear
- First aid kit and emergency communication device
- Map and compass (or GPS device)
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Biodegradable soap and hand sanitizer
Remember to pack light but prepared for changing mountain weather conditions.
By following these guidelines and regulations, visitors can enjoy a memorable wilderness experience at the Lunch Lake designated camping area in Olympic National Park while helping to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.
References:
1. Wilderness Regulations – Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
2. Wilderness Backpacking Reservations – Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
3. High Divide Loop (7 Lakes Basin) – Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service)