Camping in Olympic National Park, WA
50 campgrounds · 3 areas · Best June through September
Olympic National Park is three parks in one — temperate rainforest, rugged Pacific coastline, and glacier-capped alpine peaks. Camping here means waking up to the sound of ocean waves at Kalaloch, exploring cathedral-like old-growth forests in the Hoh, or gazing at wildflower meadows beneath the Olympic summits. With 16 campgrounds across these diverse ecosystems, Olympic is a Pacific Northwest treasure.
Why Camp in Olympic National Park
- ✓Camp in three distinct ecosystems: rainforest, coast, and mountains
- ✓Beach camping along wild Pacific coastline with tidepools and sea stacks
- ✓Hoh Rain Forest — one of the largest temperate rainforests in the US
- ✓16 campgrounds plus wilderness beach camping opportunities
Where to Camp in Olympic National Park
Kalaloch & Beach Camping
Coastal bluff, sandy beachOceanfront camping on bluffs above the Pacific. Kalaloch Campground sits right on the coast with some sites offering direct ocean views. The most accessible coastal camping in the park with flush toilets and accessible trails.
Hoh Rain Forest
Temperate rainforest, riversideCamp beneath towering Sitka spruce and moss-draped maples in one of the wettest places in the continental US. The small campground (78 sites) fills early. Trailheads for the Hoh River Trail and Hall of Mosses start here.
Hurricane Ridge Area
Mountain forest, subalpine meadowsHeart O' the Hills Campground provides access to the alpine zone at Hurricane Ridge, with sweeping views of the Olympic peaks and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Wildflower meadows explode in July and August.
Top Campgrounds
Satsop Campground
Washington · 30.1 mi
Fairholme Campground
Washington · 23.5 mi
Coho Campground
Washington · 28.4 mi
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort Campground
Washington · 16.3 mi
Hoh Rainforest Campground
Washington · 15.8 mi
Louella Cabin
Washington · 27.5 mi
Hamma Hamma Cabin
Washington · 27.0 mi
Interrorem Cabin
Washington · 29.6 mi
Local Tips for Olympic National Park
- 1.The park has no central road system — each area requires a separate drive. Plan your itinerary to avoid hours of backtracking.
- 2.Rain is constant from October through May. Bring waterproof everything — tent, gear, and clothing.
- 3.Kalaloch and Hoh campgrounds are the most popular. Reserve early or arrive before noon for first-come, first-served sites.
- 4.Beach camping at Shi Shi Beach and along the coastal strip requires a wilderness permit and bear canister.
- 5.The Sol Duc Hot Springs near the campground offer a perfect post-hike soak.
Activities
Experience Levels
Gear for Olympic National Park
Make sure you have the right equipment for camping in Olympic National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp on the beach at Olympic?
Yes. Several wilderness beach areas allow camping, including Shi Shi Beach, Second and Third Beach, and the longer coastal strips. A wilderness permit is required, and food must be stored in bear canisters due to raccoon and bear activity.
How much rain does Olympic get?
The Hoh Rain Forest averages 140 inches annually. The coast gets about 80 inches. Summer (July-September) is the driest season with many sunny days, but rain is always possible.
Do I need reservations for Olympic campgrounds?
Some campgrounds are reservable (Kalaloch, Sol Duc, Hoh) while others are first-come, first-served. Summer weekends fill quickly at all campgrounds. Check Recreation.gov for reservable sites.
Is Olympic far from Seattle?
The park is about 2-3 hours from Seattle depending on your destination within the park. Take the Bainbridge or Edmonds ferry to the Olympic Peninsula.