Staircase Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the southeastern corner of Olympic National Park. It’s a one-hour drive from Olympia and two hours south of Port Angeles, making it an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers.
The campground has 49 sites. Many of them are located along the North Fork Skokomish River.
Staircase Campground is an excellent choice for those who love nature and outdoor activities. The campground is set in an old-growth forest, providing plenty of shade and a peaceful atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming in the river, making it a great spot for families and groups of friends.
Key Takeaways
- Staircase Campground is a hidden gem in the southeastern corner of Olympic National Park, making it an ideal weekend getaway for city dwellers.
- The campground has 49 sites, with many of them located along the North Fork Skokomish River, providing plenty of shade and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming in the river, making it a great spot for families and groups of friends.
Table of Contents
Overview of Staircase Campground
If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque camping experience, Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park is the perfect destination.
Nestled in the old-growth forest along the North Fork Skokomish River, this campground has 49 sites that offer a serene and secluded stay.
Location and Access
Staircase Campground is situated in the southeastern corner of Olympic National Park, which is about a one-hour drive from Olympia and two hours south of Port Angeles.
The access road to the Staircase area is unpaved and periodically closes due to unfavorable weather conditions such as snow.
The Staircase Ranger Station is open in summer when staffing allows. They offer information, exhibits, wilderness permits, bear canisters, map sales, and a wheelchair available for checkout.
Campground Features
The campsites at Staircase Campground are spacious and can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 35 feet in length.
Some riverside campsites are available. Each campsite has a table, fire ring, and grill.
The campsites have tons of shade, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Restrooms and potable water are only available during the summer months.
Camping Details
At Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park, there are a variety of camping options for visitors looking to experience the great outdoors. From tents to RVs, there is something for everyone. Here are some details to help you plan your trip.
Making Reservations
Reservations for Staircase Campground can be made through recreation.gov. We recommend making reservations well in advance, especially during the summer and fall months when campsites fill up quickly.
If you prefer to camp first-come, first-served, there are a limited number of campsites available.
Campsites Information
Campsites are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, and there are vault toilets and potable water throughout the campground.
Each campsite can accommodate up to eight people, two tents, and two vehicles.
There are a total of 47 campsites available, with some sites able to accommodate RVs and trailers up to 21 feet in length.
RV and Trailer Guidelines
If you plan to bring an RV or trailer, please note that there are specific guidelines in place.
RVs and trailers must fit within designated campsites and cannot exceed 21 feet in length.
Also, please note that the campground does not have hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. However, it does have a dump station available for use.
Recreational Activities
At Staircase Campground, there are plenty of recreational activities to keep your family entertained during your stay. Whether you want to hike, swim, or explore the wildlife, there is something for everyone.
Hiking and Trails
One of the main attractions of Staircase Campground is its hiking trails.
You can explore the old-growth forests and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Some of the most popular trails include Flapjack Lakes, North Fork Skokomish River Trail, and Shady Lane Trail.
These trails range from easy to difficult, so you can choose the one that best suits your abilities.
Water Activities
When the weather is warm, you can cool off by taking a dip in the North Fork Skokomish River or the Staircase Rapids.
The river is also a great place for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. You can even rent equipment nearby or bring your own.
Wildlife and Nature Exploration
Staircase Campground is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, elk, and deer.
You can explore the forests and try to spot these animals in their natural habitats. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the flora and fauna of the area.
Amenities and Facilities
When planning a camping trip to Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park, it is important to know what amenities and facilities are available to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. In this section, we will discuss the facilities, regulations, and other important information that you should be aware of before embarking on your adventure.
Food and Storage
It is important to store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife. The campground provides bear-resistant food lockers for campers to store their food and other scented items.
These lockers are located at each campsite and are designed to keep wildlife out. We recommend that you store all food and scented items in these lockers to avoid attracting wildlife.
Safety and Regulations
When camping at Staircase Campground, it is important to follow all safety regulations.
The campground has regulations in place to ensure the safety of campers and wildlife. Some of these regulations include:
- No feeding wildlife
- No littering
- No cutting live trees
- No fireworks
Additionally, the campground has a strict quiet hours policy from 10 pm to 6 am. This policy is in place to ensure that all campers can enjoy a peaceful and restful night’s sleep.
Facilities
Staircase Campground has a variety of facilities to make your stay comfortable.
The campground has potable water available for campers to use, and there are restrooms with flush toilets.
Picnic areas are also available for campers to use, and there are fire rings and picnic tables at each campsite.
Please note that there is limited parking available at the campground, so we recommend carpooling or arriving early to secure a parking spot.
Firewood is not provided at the campground, so campers must bring their own or purchase it from a nearby store. Pit toilets are also available for campers to use.
Seasonal Considerations
As with any outdoor activity, it’s important to consider the season when planning a trip to Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park. Here, we’ll take a look at the seasonal considerations you should keep in mind when planning your visit.
Summer and Fall
Summer and fall are the most popular times to visit Staircase Campground, thanks to the warm, dry weather and the stunning fall foliage.
During these months, the campground is open and fully operational, with all amenities available to visitors.
If you’re planning a summer or fall trip, be sure to book your campsite well in advance, as the campground can fill up quickly during peak season.
Additionally, be prepared for crowds and long wait times at popular trails and attractions.
Winter and Spring
While winter and spring are less popular times to visit Staircase Campground, they can offer a unique and rewarding experience for those who don’t mind a little cold weather.
During these months, the campground is open on a first-come, first-served basis, and many of the amenities are closed or limited.
If you’re planning a winter or spring trip, be sure to check the weather and road conditions before you go.
The access road to Staircase Campground can be closed due to snow or other hazardous conditions, so it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of limited access.
In addition to the potential for snow, visitors should also be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours during the winter months.
However, winter can also offer a unique opportunity to see the park in a different light, with fewer crowds and stunning winter landscapes.
Beyond Staircase Campground: Exploring Olympic National Park
When visiting Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park, there are plenty of nearby attractions and alternatives to explore during your stay. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Other Campgrounds in Olympic National Park
If Staircase Campground is full or you’re looking for a change of scenery, there are several other campgrounds in Olympic National Park to choose from.
Mora Campground is located near Rialto Beach and offers easy access to the ocean.
South Beach Campground is another option for beach lovers, located near Kalaloch.
Queets Campground is situated in the heart of Olympic National Forest and offers a more secluded camping experience.
Fairholme Campground is located on the shores of Lake Crescent and is a great spot for water activities.
Local Towns and Services
If you need to stock up on supplies or want to explore local towns during your stay, there are several options nearby.
Port Angeles is the largest town on the Olympic Peninsula and offers a variety of services, including grocery stores, restaurants, and outdoor gear shops.
Forks is another nearby town that is known for its connection to the Twilight series and offers a unique shopping and dining experience.
The North Fork of the Skokomish River is also nearby and offers opportunities for fishing and hiking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make a reservation for Staircase Campground in Olympic National Park?
Making a reservation for Staircase Campground is easy. You can visit Recreation.gov to book your spot online or call 1-877-444-6777.
The campground is open year-round, but you must make reservations from May 1 to September 30.
What are the must-do hikes near Staircase Campground?
There are several must-do hikes near Staircase Campground. One of the most popular is the Staircase Rapids Loop Trail, which is an easy 2.2-mile hike that takes you along the North Fork Skokomish River.
Another great hike is the Mount Ellinor Trail, which is a challenging 6.2-mile hike that offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
Can you tell me if Staircase Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis?
No, Staircase Campground does not operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
You must make reservations from May 1 to September 30, and you can book sites up to six months in advance.
What facilities are available at Staircase Campground for overnight stays?
Staircase Campground offers a variety of facilities for overnight stays, including picnic tables, fire rings, and flush toilets.
There are no showers or hookups available, but potable water is available throughout the campground.
Are there any seasonal closures for Staircase Campground I should be aware of?
Staircase Campground is open year-round, but weather conditions may cause seasonal closures.
If there is snow on the ground, the road to the campground may be gated at the park boundary, which is about one mile from the end of the road.
You can call (360) 565-3131 for the latest road and campground status information.
What are some of the top-rated activities at the Staircase entrance to Olympic National Park?
There are many activities to enjoy at the Staircase entrance to Olympic National Park. Some of the top-rated activities include hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
The area is also great for birdwatching, with a variety of species to be seen throughout the year. If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, you can take a scenic drive through the park or have a picnic at one of the many picnic areas.
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.