Camping at La Wis Wis Campground

La Wis Wis Campground Overview

La Wis Wis Campground is a popular camping destination located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, near Packwood, Washington. This lush campground is situated at the confluence of the Ohanapecosh River, Clear Fork of the Cowlitz River, and Butterfly Creek. Because of its scenic beauty and proximity to various natural attractions, it tends to attract both casual campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Access and Location

• Address: Located off U.S. Highway 12, near Packwood, in the state of Washington.
• GPS Coordinates: It's wise to have the exact GPS coordinates for La Wis Wis Campground, especially since cell reception can be spotty.
• Access Roads: The campground is accessible by paved roads, making it relatively easy to reach even with larger RVs or trailers.

Camping Facilities

• Campsites: La Wis Wis features a number of individual campsites suitable for tents, RVs, and trailers. These may include a combination of standard nonelectric sites and more secluded walk-in tent sites.
• Amenities: Campsites typically include amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits with grills, and access to restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water.
• ADA Accessibility: Select campsites and facilities may be ADA-accessible. Please check with the campground for specific information.
• Capacity: There are usually limits on the number of vehicles and people per site.

Recreational Activities

• Hiking: Nearby trails offer a variety of hiking experiences, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks into the surrounding wilderness areas.
• Water Activities: The rivers offer opportunities for fishing, swimming, and possibly even tubing or rafting depending on conditions.
• Wildlife: The area is home to rich wildlife including elk, deer, and a variety of bird species, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Sightseeing: Natural wonders such as Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and the numerous other peaks of the Cascade Range are within a drivable distance.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservation System: Campsites can be reserved through a centralized reservation system, typically Recreation.gov, and some sites may also be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Fees: There's a nightly fee for camping, which varies based on the type of site chosen. Additional fees may be charged for extra vehicles or services.
• Season: La Wis Wis Campground operates seasonally, usually from May to October, but exact dates can vary. It's essential to check current operational dates before planning a trip.

Considerations

• Weather: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so campers should come prepared for a range of conditions, including rain and cold nights, even in summer.
• Bears and Wildlife: Bear-safe practices are necessary. Store food and attractants securely, and be aware of wildlife regulations.
• Leave No Trace: To preserve the beauty of the national forest, practice Leave No Trace principles including packing out all your trash.
• Fire Safety: Be aware of fire restrictions, especially during dry or high-risk periods. Always fully extinguish campfires.

Contact Information

• Gifford Pinchot National Forest: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contacting the Gifford Pinchot National Forest directly is recommended. They can provide details on conditions, closures, and restrictions.

It's always essential to plan ahead and ensure that you have the most current information when camping at La Wis Wis Campground to enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience.