Camping at Hoh Rainforest Campground

Overview of Hoh Rainforest Campground

Hoh Rainforest Campground is a popular camping destination located within Olympic National Park in the state of Washington, USA. The campground is situated amidst one of the finest remaining examples of a temperate rainforest in the United States and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a lush, green environment teeming with life.

Campsite Features and Amenities

• The campground has 88 sites available for tent camping or RVs, though there are no hookups for water, sewage, or electricity.
• Each campsite typically includes a fire ring, picnic table, and access to a nearby bathroom with flush toilets.
• Bear-proof food storage lockers are often available, and their use is recommended to prevent wildlife encounters.
• There are no showers at this campground.
• Drinking water is usually accessible from several locations throughout the grounds.

Reservations and Fees

• The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis for most of the year, which means reservations are not accepted, and sites can fill up quickly during peak season.
• A nightly fee is charged for campsite use, and visitors should check the latest fees on the official National Park Service (NPS) website or at the park entrance.
• An entrance fee to Olympic National Park is also required.

Best Times to Visit

• The campground is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the late spring through early fall when the weather is milder and less rainy.
• Summer months are the busiest, and campsites can be harder to come by due to high demand.

Activities and Points of Interest

• Visitors to the campground can enjoy scenic walks and hikes through trails such as the Hall of Mosses Trail and the Spruce Nature Trail.
• The Hoh River Trail is one of the starting points for longer backcountry treks that lead deep into the heart of Olympic National Park.
• The nearby Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center provides educational displays, information about the area, and ranger-led programs.
• Wildlife watching is popular here, with the opportunity to see species like Roosevelt elk, black bears, and a variety of bird species.

Camping Considerations

• Weather: Rain is common in the Hoh Rainforest, so campers should come prepared with waterproof gear and clothing.
• Wildlife: Proper food storage and disposal of garbage are critical to prevent attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Connectivity: Cellular service may be limited or non-existent within the park. Plan accordingly.
• Leave No Trace: Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.
• Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted on certain trails.

Getting There

The Hoh Rainforest Campground is located about a two-hour drive from Port Angeles, WA. From Port Angeles, take US-101 west for about 90 miles. Turn left onto Upper Hoh Road, which leads you to the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center and the campground.

Street Address for GPS: Hoh Valley Road, Forks, WA 98331

Contact Information

For the most current information on the Hoh Rainforest Campground, visitors can contact Olympic National Park directly:

• Phone: +1 (360) 565-3130 (Olympic National Park Visitor Information)
• Website: National Park Service - Hoh Rain Forest

Please note that conditions and regulations can change, so it's always best to check with the National Park Service for the most recent updates before planning your trip.