If you’re looking for a place to get away from the daily grind, camping in Port Angeles, Washington, might be just what you need. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, the city has many camping choices for all types of campers. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, there is a campground that will meet your needs.
One of the best things about the area is the proximity to the great outdoors. You can easily explore Olympic National Park’s nature trails, lakes, and waterfalls whenever you want. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there are plenty of beaches and scenic drives to enjoy. When you’re ready to unwind at your campsite, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Olympic Mountains.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the camping scene, Port Angeles camping has something to offer. With many campgrounds to choose from, you can easily find the perfect place to camp and enjoy all that the area offers. So pack your bags, grab your tent or RV, and get ready to experience the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.
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Overview of Camping in Port Angeles
Located on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington, Port Angeles offers a range of camping options for all types of travelers.
One of the best things about camping here is the convenient location. Surrounded by Olympic National Park, the town offers access to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. From snow-capped mountains to pristine lakes, there’s no shortage of natural beauty in this area.
When it comes to options, there is something for everyone. There are traditional campgrounds with tent sites and RV hookups, as well as more rustic options like backcountry camping. Some campgrounds even offer amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi.
If you’re looking for a campground with plenty of activities, you’ll find plenty of options. Many campgrounds offer hiking trails, fishing, swimming, and other outdoor activities. There are also plenty of nearby attractions, like the Olympic Game Farm and the Dungeness Spit.
Popular Campgrounds and RV Parks
If you’re planning a trip to the Olympic Peninsula, there are several popular campgrounds and RV parks to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:
Elwha Dam RV Park
Located just west of Port Angeles, Elwha Dam RV Park is a popular choice for those looking for a quiet and peaceful place to camp. The park offers full hook-ups, including water, sewer, and electricity. There are also picnic tables, and fire rings at each site, making it easy to enjoy a meal or roast marshmallows over the fire. The park is located near several hiking trails, including the Elwha River Trail, which offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
Salt Creek Recreation Area
Salt Creek Recreation Area is another popular option near Port Angeles. The park is located on the coast, offering stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The park offers several campsites, including RV sites with full hook-ups and tent sites. There are also several hiking trails in the park, including the Striped Peak Trail, which offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Other Campgrounds and RV Parks
In addition to Elwha Dam RV Park and Salt Creek Recreation Area, there are several other campgrounds and RV parks in the area. Some of the other popular options include:
- Olympic Peninsula / Port Angeles KOA Journey
- Heart O’ The Hills Campground
- Olympic Pines RV Park
Camping in Olympic National Park
If you’re looking for a memorable experience, Olympic National Park is the perfect destination. With its stunning scenery and diverse range of options, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the best ways to experience Olympic National Park is by hiking. The park has over 600 miles of trails that range from easy strolls to challenging multi-day hikes. No matter what your skill level is, there’s a trail for you. Some of the most popular hikes include the Hoh River Trail, Hurricane Ridge, and the Sol Duc Falls Trail.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of tent camping options available throughout the park. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Fairholme, Hoh Rain Forest, Kalaloch, Mora, Sol Duc, and Staircase. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms.
For those who prefer RV camping, there are several options available as well. Vista Park RV Park is a small RV park that offers electric, water, and sewer hookups, as well as a storage area for your boat. Other popular RV parks include Salt Creek Recreation Area and Elwha Dam RV Park.
No matter what your style is, Olympic National Park has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery, a diverse range of options, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular destination for camping enthusiasts.
Keep in mind that camping in Olympic National Park requires advanced reservations, so be sure to plan ahead and book your spot early.
Amenities and Facilities
When it comes to camping near Port Angeles, you will find a variety of amenities and facilities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you are traveling in an RV or staying in a cabin, you will find everything you need to make your experience a success.
Many of the campgrounds offer full hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity, to make your stay more convenient. If you prefer a more rustic experience, you can also find campgrounds with tent sites and primitive camping options.
In addition to hookups, many campgrounds offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay. Some campgrounds have swimming pools, playgrounds, and picnic areas for you to enjoy. Others have laundry facilities, showers, and restrooms to make your stay more comfortable.
If you are looking for a campground with additional facilities, you will find that many of the campgrounds offer cabins for rent. These cabins often come equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, making them a great option for families or groups.
Cost and Rates
There are a variety of options available to fit your budget. From free camping to low-cost campgrounds, you can find a camping experience that suits your needs.
Free Camping
You can find several options for free camping experiences in the Port Angeles area. The Olympic National Forest offers dispersed camping, which means you can camp for free in designated areas. However, keep in mind that there are no amenities, so you’ll need to bring your own water, food, and supplies. Additionally, there are no reservations, so campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Low-Cost Camping
Several campgrounds offer affordable rates for a budget-friendly camping experience. Olympic National Park has several campgrounds that offer rates ranging from $15 to $25 per night. These campgrounds offer amenities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire pits.
Rates for Private Campgrounds
Private campgrounds in the Port Angeles area offer a range of rates depending on the amenities provided. For example, the Olympic Pines RV Park offers rates ranging from $35 to $55 per night, while the Elwha Dam RV Park offers rates ranging from $38 to $55 per night. These campgrounds offer amenities such as full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
The Olympic Peninsula is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities and recreation opportunities. From hiking to biking to exploring the mountains, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular activities is hiking. The city is surrounded by the Olympic Mountains, which offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Some of the most popular hikes include Hurricane Ridge, Sol Duc Falls, and Lake Crescent. These hikes offer stunning views of the mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you can rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings. There are several bike rental shops in town, and you can choose from a variety of bikes, including mountain bikes, e-bikes, road bikes, and cruisers. The Olympic Discovery Trail is a popular bike route that takes you through the city and along the coast.
For those who love the mountains, there are plenty of opportunities for exploration. The Olympic Mountains offer some of the best mountaineering and climbing in the country. You can also explore the mountains by horseback or on foot.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed outdoor activity, you can enjoy a picnic in one of the city’s many parks or take a stroll along the beach. The city has several parks and beaches that offer beautiful views of the water and the mountains.
Family-Friendly Camping
If you’re planning a family camping, there are plenty of options available to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. From RV parks to tent camping, there are campgrounds that cater to families of all sizes and preferences.
One of the best family-friendly campgrounds in the area is the Salt Creek Recreation Area. This campground can accommodate RVs and tent options and is located on the waterfront, providing stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The park also features hiking trails, tide pools, and a playground for kids.
Another great option for families is the Elwha Dam RV Park. This park provides full hookups for RVs and is situated near the Elwha River, making it an excellent location for fishing and kayaking. The park also includes a playground for children and is conveniently located near hiking trails within Olympic National Park.
If you’re looking for a more unique experience, consider glamping at Sequim Glamping. This campground provides luxurious tents that come fully furnished and equipped with amenities like electricity, heating, and air conditioning. The campsite features a shared fire pit and offers convenient access to hiking trails and lavender farms.
No matter where you choose to camp, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a successful family trip. First, make sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep everyone fueled and hydrated. Second, bring games and activities to keep kids entertained during downtime. Finally, don’t forget to pack warm clothing and rain gear, as the weather can change without warning.
Port Angeles Camping Options
Beach Camping
If you love the sound of waves crashing on the shore, then beach camping is for you. Salt Creek Recreation Area is a popular spot for beach camping, with 73 of the 92 campsites overlooking the water from a rocky bluff. Take a stroll along the beach at sunset and capture stunning photos of the colorful sky reflecting off the water.
Mountain Camping
For those who prefer the rugged beauty of the mountains, Deer Park Campground is a must-visit. The campground sits at an elevation of 5,400 feet, offering breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. Wake up early and capture photos of the sunrise over the mountains, or stay up late to capture the stars twinkling in the night sky.
Forest Camping
If you love the peace and quiet of the forest, then consider camping in the Olympic National Forest. With over 600 miles of trails, there are endless opportunities to capture stunning photos of the lush greenery and wildlife. Make sure to bring a tripod and capture long exposure shots of the rushing rivers and waterfalls.
Map of Campgrounds
To help plan your trip, check out this map of Port Angeles campgrounds. This map shows the location of all the best campgrounds in the area, along with photos and reviews from other campers.
Listings of Campgrounds
In addition to the map, here are some listings of the best Port Angeles campgrounds, complete with descriptions and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a rustic experience or a more luxurious RV park, there’s something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good coastal camping spots near Port Angeles?
If you’re looking for coastal camping near Port Angeles, there are several great options to choose from. View Vista RV Park is a small RV park that sits above Morse Creek and overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Another possibility is Elwha Dam RV Park, situated near the Elwha River, providing convenient access to Olympic National Park and the amenities of Port Angeles.
Where can I find beach camping on the Olympic Peninsula?
If you’re looking for beach camping on the Olympic Peninsula, there are several options available. Kalaloch Campground is a popular option that offers beach camping, as well as easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. Consider Mora Campground as another choice, situated near Rialto Beach and offering convenient access to tide pools, sea stacks, and other coastal attractions.
Are there any long-term RV parks near Port Angeles?
Yes, there are several long-term RV parks near Port Angeles. One option is Salt Creek Recreation Area, which offers both short and long-term RV camping options. Another option to consider is Sequim Bay State Park, which provides both RV and tent options and is conveniently located just a short drive from Port Angeles.
What are the best RV parks in the Port Angeles area?
There are several great RV parks in the Port Angeles area. Klahowya Campground is a popular option that offers both RV and tent camping, as well as easy access to hiking trails and other outdoor activities. Another choice is Heart O’ The Hills Campground, situated near Hurricane Ridge, and it provides breathtaking vistas of the Olympic Mountains.
How much does it cost to camp at Lake Crescent?
The cost to camp at Lake Crescent varies depending on the time of year and the type of camping you’re interested in. Tent camping rates start at $20 per night, while RV camping rates start at $35 per night. There are also several group campsites available for larger groups.
How does camping on BLM land work?
Camping on BLM land is a great way to experience the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. However, it’s essential to note that you must adhere to specific restrictions and regulations. Some BLM land may require a permit or reservation, while others may have restrictions on campfires and other activities. Be sure to check with the local BLM office before camping on BLM land.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve always felt at home in the outdoors. We created Evergreen Adventures PNW to share our love of hiking, camping, and exploring, and to help others discover the best adventures this region has to offer. Along with trip guides and tips, we also enjoy diving into the science behind the landscapes—thanks to a background in Environmental Science—because understanding nature makes every adventure even more meaningful.