RV-Jims

 

Diving straight into the heart of the matter, the Olympic Peninsula presents a plethora of cost-free camping options that cater to every outdoor enthusiast.

While a considerable number of campers opt for the convenience of paid accommodations within the Olympic National Park, it’s essential to recognize the abundance of complimentary campgrounds, dispersed campsites, and even the enticing prospect of free casino boondocking situated just beyond the park’s perimeters.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you on a journey through these no-cost camping havens, shedding light on a diverse array of options and highlighting some of my personal favorites along the way. Get ready to explore the world of free camping on the Olympic Peninsula in all its splendid variations.

Top Picks for Free Camping on the Olympic Peninsula

Campground Name
Bear Creek Campground
Coppermine Bottom Campground
Cottonwood Campground
Hoh Oxbow Campground
Lyre River Campground
Minnie Peterson Campground
Sadie Creek Campground
South Fork Hoh Campground
Upper Clearwater Campground
Yahoo Lake Campground
Campbell Tree Grove Campground
Lena Lake Campground
Quinault Beach Resort & Casino

Cost-Free Campsites Across the Olympic Peninsula

The destination I hold dear for cost-free camping on the Olympic Peninsula is within the realm of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources’ collection of 10 free campgrounds.

Nestled strategically across the expanse of the Olympic Peninsula, these petite and rustic camping sites offer a seamless experience, with several situated mere minutes away from the boundaries of Olympic National Park.

• Each site adheres to a first-come, first-served policy, granting you the opportunity to relish your stay for up to 7 consecutive days;
• Operating year-round, the majority remain accessible even during the winter months. While there is no fee for camping, a Discover Pass is a prerequisite for access;
• Acquiring a Discover Pass is economical, costing merely $30 annually or $10 for a single day’s use.

Bear Creek Campground

Nestled beside the serene Sol Duc River, Bear Creek Campground finds its tranquil abode. Its landscape is graced by 16 well-placed campsites, offering a retreat into nature’s embrace.

Welcoming RVs up to 30 feet in length, there’s a chance that slightly larger vehicles could also find a cozy corner. The camping community here is an eclectic mix, including vans, RVs, trailers, and tents.

Enveloped in a serene, densely wooded atmosphere, Bear Creek Campground offers a peaceful sanctuary. However, the thick canopy of trees that lends this spot its charm might not be ideal for boondockers relying on solar energy. The proximity of the river, just a stone’s throw away, is a compelling draw for angling enthusiasts who frequent the area.

• Located around an hour away from Port Angeles and a mere 15 minutes from Forks, Bear Creek Campground enjoys a prime spot for expeditions;
• It serves as a strategic base for exploring renowned attractions like Lake Crescent, Cape Flattery, and Shi Shi Beach, along with other beloved landmarks within Olympic National Park.

Essential amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings cater to camper needs. However, it’s worth noting that there’s no running water or garbage service available on-site.

Coppermine Bottom Campground

If your camping preferences lean toward a more secluded experience, Coppermine Bottom Campground beckons you off the well-trodden paths.

Positioned alongside the Clearwater River and accessible with a Discover Pass, this free haven on the Olympic Peninsula awaits travelers along the midway point of Hoh Mainline Road.

A dozen generously spaced campsites grace this site, though they tend to fill quickly, particularly during summer weekends. This campground extends its welcome to both tents and RVs of up to approximately 30 feet. To access this retreat, a journey of 1.5 miles down a single-lane gravel road is in order.

• Coppermine Bottom stands as the embodiment of free camping within Olympic National Park—a realm that exudes seclusion, tranquility, and picturesque beauty;
• However, it’s important to note its limited exposure to sunlight (a consideration for RVs reliant on solar energy) and its scant cell reception;
• Additionally, summertime can bring a fair share of bugs, while heavy rains might render the grounds muddy.

Vault toilets cater to essential needs while picnic tables and fire rings grace each campsite. Yet, it’s prudent to be aware that potable water and garbage service are not available on-site.

Cottonwood Campground

Cottonwood Campground stands as one of the pair of cost-free DNR camping sites, with the other being Hoh Oxbow, conveniently located adjacent to Highway 101 in close proximity to the Hoh River.

Within this campground, you’ll discover nine well-defined campsites, each boasting a considerable degree of seclusion. While the Washington DNR website indicates a maximum recommended RV length of 30 feet, numerous sites can comfortably accommodate larger vehicles without causing any disruptions to fellow campers.

• To access the campground, embark on an eastward journey along Oil City Road from Highway 101 until you intersect with H-4060 Road, where a left turn is required;
• Although a portion of the access road remains unpaved, it generally maintains a relatively smooth and even surface.

While some might argue that the Hoh Oxbow Campground offers a more picturesque setting, I personally hold a preference for Cottonwood. The individual campsites here grant a heightened sense of seclusion and a more spacious layout. It’s an ideal location for those who wish to enjoy a camping experience with their canine companions.

Regrettably, no additional amenities are on offer, except for vault toilets. Nevertheless, each campsite is equipped with both picnic tables and fire rings to enhance the camping experience. It’s important to note that running water, waste disposal facilities, and RV hookups are unavailable at this site.

Hoh Oxbow Campground

Hoh Oxbow Campground holds a special place among my preferred camping destinations on the Olympic Peninsula, whether free or otherwise.

Encompassing a total of 8 campsites, this sanctuary is cocooned within a lush, moss-draped forest, embraced by the serene, sapphire waters of the Hoh River. Nestled just 15 miles south of Forks and conveniently accessible from Highway 101, this haven offers an idyllic retreat.

• A selection of campsites enjoys a prime location along the riverbank, a haven best suited for tent camping, as the sites are nestled beneath the parking area;
• For those with RVs and trailers, a few non-river sites provide accommodations for vehicles up to 30 feet in length.

Hoh Oxbow Campground has earned its reputation as one of the most sought-after free camping spots on the Olympic Peninsula. The allure of its proximity to the national park ensures rapid occupancy, particularly during the summer season. To ensure your camping aspirations are met, consider having nearby Cottonwood Campground as a fallback option in case Hoh Oxbow reaches full capacity.

Essential amenities cater to camper needs, with each campsite boasting a picnic table and fire ring. The presence of a vault toilet enhances convenience. However, it’s important to note that there are no provisions for running water or garbage disposal. While Highway 101’s proximity may introduce some road noise, the soothing symphony of the nearby river often muffles the sounds of passing traffic.

Lyre River Campground

One more of my cherished complimentary camping spots found on the Olympic Peninsula is Lyre River Campground, situated to the north of Lake Crescent along the shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

What captivates me about this quaint and peaceful campground is its prime positioning right beside the Lyre River, just prior to its convergence with the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The river itself boasts a picturesque allure, featuring a designated fishing platform. Moreover, a brief hiking trail commences within the campground premises, and the opportunity to stroll down to the scenic Murdock Beach further enhances the appeal.

Despite being a mere 30-minute drive from Port Angeles, Lyre River Campground remains refreshingly less crowded compared to the majority of other camping sites on the Olympic Peninsula. The Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway (Highway 112), while not particularly favored by tourists, boasts exceptional beauty.

• Comprising a total of 11 camping sites, the campground ensures generous spacing between sites, and the majority offer a notable degree of seclusion;
• Most of these sites are nestled alongside the river;
• Accommodations are designed to welcome RVs and trailers of up to 20 feet in length (with the potential for slightly longer options at the largest site).

For the convenience of visitors, the campground provides two vault toilets, potable water, and a day-use shelter. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. However, it’s important to note that waste disposal services are not available on-site.

Minnie Peterson Campground

Minnie Peterson Campground is situated within the general vicinity of Hoh Oxbow and Cottonwood campgrounds, sharing its location near the tranquil Hoh River and a serene creek at the periphery of the Hoh Rain Forest in the Olympic Experimental State Forest. A conveniently placed small general store can be found in the vicinity.

The standout feature of Minnie Peterson Campground is its close proximity to the Hoh Rain Forest sector of Olympic National Park. This advantageous positioning results in swift occupancy, often filling up by early afternoon, especially during the bustling summer season.

• The campground boasts a serene and restful ambiance;
• Despite the proximity of Upper Hoh Road, vehicular activity generally subsides by the evening hours;
• A total of nine camping sites are available, with approximately half of them capable of accommodating RVs measuring up to 30 feet in length.

Minnie Peterson Campground offers facilities including a vault toilet, as well as individual picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite. It’s important to note that running water and garbage services are unavailable at this location.

Sadie Creek Campground

Positioned along the Juan De Fuca Highway, slightly to the west of Lyre River Campground, lies Sadie Creek Campground, presenting a distinct character compared to other DNR campgrounds scattered across the Olympic Peninsula.

While many of its counterparts boast relatively secluded campsites, Sadie Creek’s arrangement differs, with its six campsites situated in closer proximity to each other, affording less privacy. In essence, Sadie Creek resembles a substantial gravel parking area, although it finds itself enveloped by serene woods. This setup, coupled with convenient access to an extensive network of 4×4 trails open to hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, ATVers, and more, typically attracts a more sociable community of campers when compared to other complimentary campgrounds.

• The campground has also gained popularity as a destination for RV boondocking, courtesy of its generously sized campsites, all capable of accommodating RVs and trailers of up to 30 feet;
• Furthermore, it distinguishes itself by being the most sunlit among all the DNR campgrounds on the Olympic Peninsula, a characteristic that particularly caters to boondockers reliant on solar power.

Sadie Creek Campground offers essential amenities, including a vault toilet, an ATV loading ramp, and a horse hitching post, alongside the standard features of picnic tables and fire rings. However, it’s crucial to note that no potable water or garbage services are provided on-site.

South Fork Hoh Campground

The South Fork Hoh Campground stands out as an excellent option for cost-free camping in close proximity to Olympic National Park. Situated right beyond the park’s borders, this spot serves as an optimal hub for venturing into the park’s western expanse. Particularly favored by those embarking on the South Fork Hoh Trail, it offers a prime location.

Enveloped in natural beauty, the campground boasts a rustic charm that’s both tranquil and captivating. With seven well-shaded and secluded campsites, it provides an intimate setting. The gentle flow of the Hoh River is only a few steps away, enhancing the serene ambiance.

• Several of the campsites can comfortably accommodate RVs measuring up to 30 feet in length;
• Access to the campground is via a gravel forest service road, which is generally well-maintained and suitable for vehicles of all types.

Amenities at the South Fork Hoh Campground include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings at each campsite. Notably, there is no garbage service or potable water available on-site.

Upper Clearwater Campground

Nestled in tranquility, the Upper Clearwater Campground offers a serene camping experience in close proximity to Olympic National Park.

• Featuring a total of seven well-spaced campsites, privacy is paramount here;
• The campground follows the typical pattern of most WA DNR campgrounds, characterized by ample shade, making it less suitable for RV enthusiasts seeking solar exposure.

Enveloped by the secluded woodland scenery, this campground is nestled within the Clearwater Corridor Natural Resources Conservation Area. A selection of campsites enjoys picturesque positions along the Clearwater River’s banks, with a delightful swimming spot located conveniently nearby for those warm summer days.

While the Upper Clearwater Campground does experience high occupancy during most summer nights, it tends to be relatively less bustling compared to neighboring free camping areas. Some campsites can accommodate smaller RVs and trailers, with a length limit of around 24 feet.

Facilities at this campground include a single vault toilet, and each campsite is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Additionally, a day-use shelter is available within the campground. However, it’s important to note that there is no potable water or garbage service provided on-site.

Yahoo Lake Campground

Certainly, few free campgrounds in the vicinity of Olympic National Park can rival the tranquility of Yahoo Lake Campground.

• The primary contributor to this serenity is its remote location, requiring a considerable journey along gravel roads to access (approximately 7 miles beyond the already remote Upper Clearwater Campground).

However, the true differentiator that sets Yahoo Lake apart from busier neighboring campgrounds is its exclusive focus on walk-in camping. To reach the lakeside campsites, you must embark on a hike of around 500 feet from the parking area.

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by two exquisitely beautiful campsites, providing a sense of seclusion with minimal fellow campers around. The location is a haven for fishing, with canoe or kayak fishing being more productive than shore fishing.

Basic amenities comprise a straightforward vault toilet, while both campsites are furnished with picnic tables and fire rings. It’s worth remembering to explore the loop trail encircling the lake during your stay.

Cost-Free Scattered Camping in Olympic National Forest

• Olympic National Forest is divided into various separate districts encircling Olympic National Park;
• The key districts encompass the Hood Canal Ranger District and the Pacific Ranger District, which is further subdivided into Pacific North (close to Forks) and Pacific South (near Quinault).

Throughout Olympic National Forest, opportunities for dispersed camping abound. This method presents one of the finest ways to engage in cost-free camping on the Olympic Peninsula, particularly if you favor unrefined camping away from established campgrounds.

It’s worth noting that defining the precise boundaries of Olympic National Forest can be slightly more intricate compared to other national forests. Moreover, it’s essential to recognize that legal dispersed camping can only take place within the forest’s confines, as it’s prohibited within the national park.

To gain clarity, you can acquire an Olympic National Forest map from a ranger station or utilize map applications displaying national forest boundaries. In my view, the FreeRoam app and Gaia GPS provide the clearest depiction of USFS boundaries.

From personal experience, I’ve found success in dispersed camping near Lake Quinault along Quinault Ridge Road, outside Forks on Forest Road 29, in proximity to Lake Cushman along Forest Road 2419, and along Forest Road 2312 on the eastern side of Wynoochee Lake.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that my recommendations are just a fraction of the numerous dispersed campsites within Olympic National Forest. By employing a dispersed camping app, dedicating time for on-site exploration, or seeking advice from a ranger, you can undoubtedly uncover the ideal personal haven for cost-free camping.

If dispersed camping doesn’t align with your preferences, rest assured that options for free camping still exist within Olympic National Forest. Both Campbell Tree Grove Campground along the Humptulips River and Lena Lake Campground near Hamma Hamma offer complimentary basic amenities within a primitive camping setting.

Alternative Free Camping Options on the Olympic Peninsula

Exploring Beyond Olympic National Forest and DNR Lands for Free Camping on the Olympic Peninsula While the Olympic National Forest and DNR-managed areas provide free camping, there are additional alternatives across the Olympic Peninsula.

• Consider the Hoh River Trust, an excellent albeit somewhat remote choice. Despite the journey, this area offers remarkable beauty and is often pleasantly uncrowded, even during summer. It’s most suitable for tent camping due to the rugged nature of the unpaved road leading to the campsites;

• For those seeking RV boondocking spots, both the Port Angeles and Sequim Walmart locations offer possibilities. As of my last knowledge update, overnight parking is typically permitted, but it’s always prudent to call ahead and verify, as regulations can change abruptly;

• Another avenue for RVers is casino boondocking. Seven Cedars Casino in Sequim often provides free overnight RV parking, though registration inside may be required;

• While not entirely cost-free, Quinault Beach Resort & Casino offers a budget-friendly option. The fee is only $10 from Sunday to Thursday and $20 on Fridays and Saturdays. Situated at the southwestern tip of the Olympic Peninsula near Ocean Shores, this location grants easy access to the beach from the overnight RV parking area.

Exploring the Adventure of Camping in Olympic National Park

Undoubtedly, camping within Olympic National Park offers an exceptional experience. While it comes with a cost, spending a night or two within the park’s bounds is truly rewarding, especially if you’re venturing to the Olympic Peninsula for the first time.

Managed by the National Park Service, the park features a total of 14 campgrounds. Among these, Kalaloch Campground is my personal favorite. Not only is it one of the rare three campgrounds allowing reservations during the summer (alongside Sol Duc Campground and Mora Campground), but it’s also positioned mere steps away from the shoreline. Some of its campsites even boast ocean views, although these are usually booked well in advance.

Fees for developed campgrounds within Olympic National Park range from $14 to $24 per night. Interestingly, there’s one exception to the fee rule.

Dosewallips Campground, accessed via a hike (which currently involves over 6 miles each way due to a road washout), is a fee-free walk-in campground. Despite the challenging trek, the Dosewallips River Road presents an exceptional hiking opportunity.

Additionally, beach camping is an option worth considering. Numerous spots on the Olympic Peninsula permit backcountry beach camping, necessitating a hike to reach the shores for camping. These experiences don’t take place within developed campgrounds. Wilderness camping permits are essential, and bear-proof canisters are mandatory.

Shi Shi Beach and Second Beach stand out as two of the most sought-after locations for beach camping within Olympic National Park.

Conclusion

Within the Olympic Peninsula lies excellent opportunities for free camping, and now you’re in the know!

Should you have intentions of camping at any of the 10 free DNR campgrounds, do keep in mind the importance of obtaining a Discover Pass before embarking on your journey.